I was taught so young, to just agree,

To smile and nod and go along so easily

To keep the peace and don’t offend,

To smile so sweetly and just pretend.

Then one day I found a word so short, but very strong,

A shield to use when things were wrong,

A simple sound so firm and free,

This word is there to rescue me.

No, I will not dim my light,

No, I will not give up my right,

No, I will not play along,

When in my heart I know it’s wrong.

Neither will I bear the weight,

Of decisions that weren’t mine to make,

No, I won’t just go along especially when I know you’re wrong,

My resolve is firm, and my voice is strong.

No is not unkind or cruel,

It’s a guide, not a sacred rule,

A boundary drawn, a line defined,

A weapon strong in both heart and mind.

So, I will say this bold and true,

For all the times I wish I knew,

That no can be a word that’s right,

To help me win a lifelong fight.

Also no can be a light, a steady glow,

To close a door so that I can grow,

Young person who hears this little ditty,

Learn to say no, but do have some pity.