Two Examples of the Power of Saying “No”

Example 1: About 18 months ago Neil was courted by a big Wall Street firm to go and work for them. They flew him up to Manhattan twice for interviews. Living in Manhattan is my ultimate dream. However, something just didn’t seem right to Neil about the whole thing. So he said thanks, but no. The company who courted him: Bear Stearn’s. After their debacle last week, we are grateful he said no.
Example 2: About two weeks into the current school year, the principal of the elementary school where I occasionally substitute teach called and offered me a full time position teaching fourth grade gifted social studies. I was beyond elated. I have always said that I only want to teach at that particular school for that particular principal.
After talking it over with Neil and the girls, it was strongly apparent that I should say no. I am so glad that I did! Our family would be in complete shambles if I worked full time. The first year of high school and the first year of middle school have got to be the absolute worst as far as adjustments go. I am so glad that I have been able to focus on my babies and that I have been able to help them adjust.
Whenever I go to a new doctor and I have to fill out all the forms, on the line where is says “OCCUPATION” I always put “MOTHER.” On the line where it says “EMPLOYER” I always put “MY CHILDREN.”
Now I just need to learn to say no to my girls!!!!