Saying No with Passion
From Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Joy of Less
By Jill Haymaker

Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.
~Oprah Winfrey

I have always believed in giving back. As a single mom for most of my adult life, I didn’t have the option of doing that by writing a check; instead, I volunteered for every worthwhile cause that crossed my path. When my son got to school age I signed up to be a room mother, a classroom volunteer, a Cub Scout leader, and a Sunday school and Bible school teacher. Some of these activities I enjoyed, some not so much. Then my two daughters came along and the activities tripled. As a lawyer, I was deluged with requests to serve on boards and participate in charitable activities. And there was my church — with various committees asking for help.

How could I say no, if it was for a worthy cause? I found myself overcommitted and resenting the time that all of my charitable work took away from my alone time and my time with my kids. Still, I continued to volunteer for everyone who asked. There were so many people who needed help. Then one day at lunch I shared my dilemma with a good friend. (Keep reading)