Say No Sometimes

Children get away with disrespect and other negative behaviors.  A spouse is celebrated even when he or she consistently hurts a partner.  Mean-spirited relatives and friends continue to receive annual invites to homes and other places even though they are undeserving of one's time.  What gives, Mom?  How long do you keep taking people using and abusing you?

Some mothers crack under pressure because like a pressure cooker they are tested beyond limits.  They are expected to be all things to their family, friends, co-workers and more and when they push back they are met with shocking looks, angry glares and comments about, "She is off...crazy...What the h@ll got into her?" 

Much of the stress can be prevented by saying no sometimes.  A simple no is empowering.  It makes you feel less used and stops abuse in its tracks.  You can also find resources to help with situations you no longer want to manage or help with from everything like senior citizen home care to summer programs for toddlers and other youth for those who income qualify. 

List all that is burdening you right now.  Is it a partner, children, in-laws, etc.?  Break down the issues, one by one, and come up with ways to do things differently.  Sometimes we fall into routines and we don't know or forget how to do some things to preserve our sanity.  If you are a believer, pray for assistance from your heavenly God as well as the resources to lighten your burdens.

Nicholl McGuire