They call it tough love
Because in the best interest of the person
I have to say “No!”
To tell you the truth
I think it’s harder on me to say no
Than the person on the receiving end
Another desperate phone call
What is it this time?
How long before I hear another anxious plea?
Intentional or not, there’s manipulation
It’s a no win situation
Feeling a lot like a puppet these days
I don’t even pick up the phone anymore
Just let it go to voicemail
I’ll listen later and ask, “Lord, what should I do?”
Everyone needs a little help now and again
But when you don’t learn to make better choices
It’s time you hear the answer “No!”
As an adult
You need to be responsible and independent
Not always expecting a handout
If I give in to your latest request
All I’m doing is shielding you
From reaping the consequences of bad decisions
So my friend
The answer is “No!”
But I will bring you before the throne of grace in prayer
Susan Wachtel
February 6, 2012
This poem is not about the person going through truly desperate times right now, through no fault of their own. This is about the person whose made receiving a handout a lifestyle. The person who never heard or respected the word no.
When talking with a family member tonight and asking for advice, she reminded me that at times God says no to our pleas for help. He does it for our good and sometimes the best and most responsible thing we can do is say "No!" and faithfully pray for the person.
