Know How to Say No

“Do you know how to say the word NO?” asked my Mom one day.  I can’t remember the exact circumstance, but I was doing too much as usual and I was listing my busyness to my Mom.  Out of compassion for my stress level and love for my life, Mom put it in perspective for me and asked that question - one I will never forget.  It’s just like a mom to see the burn-out in their child and wisdom in things.  It’s just like a mom to love so deeply she actually says something rather than remaining silent. 
 
A simple “No,” is necessary sometimes.  It’s a boundary.  A lifeline to sanity.  These days are busier than ever before.  Football games and ballet, school projects and bake sales, weddings and funerals, church events and good deeds, taking care of children and parents, and work and work and work.  Carving out a sacred space around worship, family time, rest time, and fun time is therapeutic and healing.  Without it we might even go a little crazy.  And I think I have before – stretched so thin that I felt broken down and too weary to function healthily.  Sometimes it takes that moment in time to realize a boundary of “no” is the only way out.  Back to a healthy lifestyle.  Back to a place where we can inspire and encourage and be strong for those we serve every day.  For the times we must say “no”… know that it’s not always a negative word, but a way back to health, wellness, and peace.   
 
Resting in Christ,
Celeste
“…for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.” Hebrews 4:10
 
 
Happy birthday to the woman who taught me about the maker of my soul, my beautiful Mom!    
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