The Power of 'No'

No is a word of power that makes women uncomfortable. You may reject your own truths in many ways just to avoid saying, “No!” Let me remind you that saying no does not have to be harsh, cruel or a punishment. Saying no is setting a boundary with another person who is trying to know you. It can be as simple as:

“I can’t do this right now.”

“I’m not ready!”

“I’m not interested.”

“ This is not a good time for me.”

“I’m not prepared for…”

No is your truth. It means that you are a woman close enough to herself to be comfortable with who you are. It means that you are involved enough in the relationship to be emotionally present to yourself, as you love another.

You are not a robot! You are a person who checks in with who you are so you can be with another person completely and authentically.

From: Kiss Your Life... 365 Reasons to Love Who You Are

Reason: 224  Page: 242

By: Ann Mody Lewis Ph.D.

Commentary:

During your childhood, No was considered rebellion. As an adult, No can be a sign of power! The true meaning of No, which must include appreciating its power, is a hard lesson to learn.

Both men and women are emotionally depleted without invoking the power of No.  Men must be insightful enough to reject the kind of masculinity that polarizes their personality into dominance without kindness. Women must reject the shame of No to embrace the fullness of personhood.

In Praise of No

No, is just a word that expresses a power that can't be seen or heard,
It comes from deep within revealing an identity that is willing to take life on the chin,
Hurrah for the rebel in you that kicked up a storm every time your ideas were born,
The power of your No gives the world a new voice making creation an accomplishment of your choice!  (aml)

So, No can be your Yes to life!

For that April is a month we explore the controversial word that puts us on guard with ourselves and others. Topics will include:

Why NO is controversial.
Why we fear the power of NO.
The many ways NO can be misunderstood.
How is NO, YES to life?

No doubt about it...

We need to talk!
Ann