Sometimes our highest, holiest word is just two letters. “N-O.”
Although it is not a positive word, “No” is a word of power.
It is a word that helps bring clarity, set boundaries and produces freedom.
Recently in a class I taught on Prosperity, we explored the idea that the language we use regarding our prosperity determines our experience of it. We discussed that instead of saying that we “can’t afford” something which tells Universal Mind that we believe in limitation, we could say, I “choose not to spend my money that way.” That seemed like an honest and spiritually healthy way to answer the question. One of my students decided to say “I have other plans for my money.”
I thought that was ingenious.
A true story…
Recently this student shared with me that her sister asked her for some money and she answered, “I have other plans for my money.” Her sister said, “What plans?” “Are you planning a big vacation?” “What other plans do you have?” Evidently her sister persisted in trying to discover what my student’s plans actually were.
I could not believe the audacity of the sister.
The whole episode reminds me of the importance of setting limitations, telling the truth and keeping your word.
Importance of setting boundaries
Even if there are people in your life who think your life and theirs are completely intertwined, you have a right to limit what you reveal to these people. You have a right to say, “No.”
Years ago when I was involved with Wise Women Workshops, my beloved friend Dr. Jane Claypool often did a workshop on Setting Limits. She would have us practice saying “no.”
I noticed that many younger women were great at it. Some of us older women had to practice.
What I remember is that any explanation that I would offer simply diminished the effectiveness of saying “no.” Yet it was very difficult to just say “no.” An explanation felt “nicer.” I think that was the reason it wasn’t as effective.
The Universe always says “YES”
I often say that the Universe always says “yes.” The question arises that if we are made in the image of the Divine, then it must be our nature to say “yes” to life. We are also made of infinite intelligence, we have a responsibility to choose what is for our highest and best good. Saying “yes” to everything would be leading a choiceless life.
I began this blog by stating that saying “no” brings clarity, sets boundaries and effects freedom. By stating what I will not do, I have given myself the space to determine what I really do want. By being willing to directly say, “I do not want to.” Or “it is none of your business.” I have set boundaries and limitations. “No” is a word of power.