The Keys to Life

Being a People-Pleaser

If you are new to Bella Vista, I post bits of life-changing wisdom, taught to me by a long time friend, on most Sundays. Faye not only taught me but she walked the walk. She lived the life she talked about and, for the most part, was a very happy and contented woman. Truthfully, watching her live her life day-to-day in such grace and peace spoke to me more than her words ever could. She was a living example of God’s divine peace and I do believe that is the primary reason, I daily seek God’s peace in my life.

When I met Faye, I was a definite people pleaser.  I did anything and everything for everyone who asked. I was literally driving myself into the ground without knowing it. Faye quietly sat me down one day and explained that I had the right to say ‘no’…..even though I was a Christian. What a revelation! I thought being a good Christian meant I had to do, do, do all the time. Looking back, I was unbelievably naive but the end result would have been the same….I would have burned myself and my health completely out if it had not been for this wonderful woman.

I will be honest and tell you that it did not happen overnight….it was a process. It took  a long time before I was comfortable enough to say…..”I can’t do that.” But, I did learn. I also learned it did not make me less than or a bad person to say no. If we don’t protect ourselves…..and our strength, our very health….we certainly will  not be there for anyone….including our families, our friends or ourselves.

Now, amazingly, I rarely have trouble saying no. It doesn’t bother me in the least. But, I am truly grateful for my dear friend that put me on the ‘right path’ so many years ago. It made all the difference in the world in the quality of my life.

Hoping your Sunday is blessed.

Barb