The first time I saw that phrase, I must have been 6 or 7. A teacher had written it in the comments section of my report card. I remember seeing her blue ballpoint cursive on the paper, and I had asked my mother what it meant.
My mother said,
"It means you like to please people.
You're always ready to do what she says."
Throughout my childhood and adolescence, that phrase defined me. I went above and beyond with my school work so teachers and my parents wouldn't be disappointed. I was quick to apologize to friends for any slight, real or imagined, for fear of losing their companionship.
Most of all, I said yes. Too many times.
Brewing the courage to refuse was physically painful, and I couldn't bear to see the damage of my "no" splattering all over someone's face.
So I committed myself to causes that my heart was not in,bending over backwards so a person could smile and have an easier day.
As God so gently told me today,
Sometimes wisdom means saying no.
1 comment:
Preach my beautiful brown sister preach.
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