Whenever we take on a new commitment, we need to let go of another.  If we don't, our lives become frazzled and frenetic and not very fun. We cheat ourselves of our self-care time and end up over-stressed and unhappy in what is supposed to be the hap-happiest season of all!

     To avoid this, there are times we need to just say, "No."  This is hard for many of us since we are certain we need to be all things to all people all the time.  Dear Abby gave me great advice on that once, long ago.  I was relieved to read that I didn't have to give a reason for why I couldn't help whenever asked.  (I thought I had to explain that I was already chairing the church bazaar and collecting money for the cancer drive and managing thirty kids and 100 horses as a 4H leader and [sigh] I didn't have time to bake cookies for the Girl Scout Christmas party!) Abby told me I didn't have to give a reason. All I had to do was say, "I'm sorry I can't this time, I have another commitment."  What a relief!  That commitment can be taking care of yourself, (there's a concept!) your family, your priorities...

     It's hard to say no, though, when others are pleading and counting on you, isn't it?  In those situations, consider this. It's only when you step back that others can step forward. Every time you say, "Yes," it deprives another person an opportunity to serve, to learn, to grow.