I reclaim my ability,
my power to say “No,”

my “no-ness, without which
I am all “Yes.”

That way leads to destruction,
inevitably falling off

the sharpest, highest precipice.
However deserving the cause,

however much I would like to,
a time comes when I must

say “No,” out of love
and appreciation for myself.

From taking care of my precious self
all else comes.

As important as magnificent doing
is transcendent, resplendent rest.

Margaret Dubay Mikus
© 1998

From As Easy as Breathing
and my CD, Full Blooming