Saying No

When is it okay to say no? How do you know if you are being selfish or unkind? When is it okay to put your needs in front of others? As women, we continuously give of ourselves to our families, friends, careers, volunteer organizations, church, etc. But there are times when we just have to draw the line, right? Are people pleasers the only ones who deal with these type of questions?

Today, my case manager for the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program called today to both set up my three month evaluation and to make sure I was putting together a team for the bowlathon. First of all, I abhor bowling. I love recreation and sporting activities, but I just do not find bowling enjoyable. I would also have to recruit four other people who would be willing to raise a bunch of money (another of my least favorite activities). I have a conference coming up that is very important to me as well as a business to run and all of my other personal obligations to meet. Excuses, I know. But do all of those go on the back burner to meet someone elses needs? What does God want me to do?

Am I a bad person if I don't put together a team? Probably. Should I put together a team? Probably. Am I letting others down if I don't? Probably. But I can't make everyone happy. For once, I think this people pleaser is going to have to say no.