Word Power

Using The Magic Words

I bet you thought I was going to be talking about the words “please” and “thank you” in this post. Wrong. There’s a 3rd magic word. It’s the word “no”.

It’s not a word I have used much in the past. I usually am quite verbose at explaining my way out of things so that I don’t have to use the word “no”. Today, however, I used it. I used the word “no” without guilt, remorse, or even a sigh.

In saying “no”, I acknowledged the fact that it is okay to take some time for myself, that it is okay to stay home and focus on housekeeping responsibilities, and that it is okay to allow my husband the opportunity of caring for seven of our eight children at the park without me nearby, even on a holiday. I did keep the baby. 

I think I will use that word more often. I have lots of friends who do. I know lots of volunteers at my children’s schools who do. My husband even does. And we all know that the kids love that word.  I’m shocked that I am just now rediscovering it’s power. I know I used it a lot when I was a teen.

Fibromyalgia has given me a good reason to say “no”, without excuse or description, because it limits me. It makes me realize that I cannot do everything. I must have need for that in my life right now. So, today, I am thankful for the ability and the need to say “no”.