No matter what, you believe that there is good in everyone. Whether it is barely enough to fit on the head of a pin or enough to cover the world a million times. And with being good comes disappointment. You have learned from experience that you won't always be thanked for what you do or given a second thought after it is done. And this is why, even though it may be hard, you have to learn how to say 'no' every now and then.
Growing up, you were always a caring child. You never liked to see anyone sad, you never liked to put anyone down, and you definitely didn't like to watch others being put down. You don't know how many friends you had throughout school that you continuously let walk all over you. 'Oh, you want to date my ex-boyfriend? Sure... Who is stopping you?' 'You want to copy my homework even though the teacher is going to find out? Okay.' 'You want me to buy that for you because you're a little short on money today? No big deal, I got you.'
This never really seemed to be a problem until the deeds became regular. And once the deeds they wanted started to become too much for you to give, then for some reason your 'friends' weren't your 'friends' anymore. But it doesn't just stop at your friends. Oh, no. This goes for anyone.
Being suckered into doing something by someone who knows how big your heart is will get you every time. It could be a teacher, a parent, a friend, partner, a coach. You name it, they will take advantage of you. The moment someone who wants something knows that you have any ounce of heart is the moment you're doomed.
You know what I am talking about. Because there are way too many examples to give. Like when your boyfriend cheated on you and may have been for Lord knows how long. Upon you finding out, you are upset. Not just with him, but with yourself. Because what all have you done for him in the past that has permitted him to think this is okay to do to you? After you gather yourself, you find the courage to break up with him. Shortly after, you take him back. He said he was going to change and he was going to do better. And once again, you can't say 'no.' Because you believe that everyone should be given a second chance right? Even if that is the millionth second chance that you have given them.
Saying 'no' is such an important skill you need to have in your life. Not only will it save your feelings, later on, it can also save the feelings of another person too. Some guy that you're really good friends with ends up liking you, but you don't feel the same way? You can't fake feelings that you don't have. You can't fake want something just because you don't want to hurt someone who is close to you. It will hurt you, it will hurt them, and it will hurt your friendship. Spare all the hurt and be honest.
So do it. Say 'no' to that cute boy who wants you to come over when you're studying for finals. Say 'no' to the coach that asks if you're OK after you hardly got to play and you know you deserved to. Say 'no' to the drugs your friends offer you when you really don't want to take them. Say 'no' because it is your right to. Say 'no' because you have said 'yes' way too much. Say 'no' because you love yourself. Say it and mean it and be proud you said it. Because one 'no' makes room for another million 'yeses' that you won't regret.
