*no*

One of the shortest, and the most powerful words in the English language is ‘no’. So, it is not unreasonable that parents are told to not use that word with their little ones as they would weaponize that word against them for the rest of their lives! Yet, when the same children are ready to venture out into the world and become independent, they are told to say ‘no’ if they are uncomfortable with anything.

I have challenges with using the word ‘no’. Recently though, I have been using it a lot in my classroom. I even wrote about it here. In fact, earlier this week, I said ‘no’ to extra help in a meeting with my principal. I was being offered a 2^nd CYW for 6-8 weeks. I am already dealing with one and I refused to deal with another for a brief amount of time. This person could be fantastic, and I would miss them when they are gone. Then again, this person could be another Michael, and I would lose my mind for those few weeks. So, I put my foot down … I did not ask for help, so why am I being offered it? My principal was surprised. She said that I sounded confident, and I responded in the affirmative.

If I have learned one thing in the last 3+ years, it is that I don’t *need* anyone. And I am okay to say ‘no’ if things don’t feel right. I have come a long way. I used to worry about hurting other people’s feelings. Now I know that I want to protect my own.

I felt like writing this post because I don’t want anyone worrying about me. I got this!