As I was coming up in the world, I have often been told that I don’t know the meaning of the word, “no”. I suppose I have always been an optimist. My father always told me he doesn’t want me to ever say no. Meaning anything is possible. Everyone is always saying “no” to me. No, don’t do that. No, you can’t do it. No, No, No. I hate that word.

When I use that word I always seem to be the bad guy. Can I use your car? No! Can I borrow some money? No! Can you do this or that for me? No! Oh, I am such a bad guy if I use the work “no”.

My wife has told me “someday you’re going to have to learn the meaning of the word “no”. But she means when she uses it. Sometimes No means Yes. As in the case of young lovers on their first or second date. Now I really think I have a clear understanding of the word “no”. And I don’t like it. I much prefer the word “yes”. But that is at the risk of being called a yes man.

~ Mitch Kane