Tough Love

They call it tough love

Because in the best interest of the person

I have to say “No!”

To tell you the truth

I think it’s harder on me to say no

Than the person on the receiving end

Another desperate phone call

What is it this time? 

How long before I hear another anxious plea?

Intentional or not, there’s manipulation

It’s a no win situation

Feeling a lot like a puppet these days

I don’t even pick up the phone anymore

Just let it go to voicemail

I’ll listen later and ask, “Lord, what should I do?”

Everyone needs a little help now and again

But when you don’t learn to make better choices

It’s time you hear the answer “No!”

As an adult

You need to be responsible and independent

Not always expecting a handout

If I give in to your latest request

All I’m doing is shielding you

From reaping the consequences of bad decisions

So my friend

The answer is “No!”

But I will bring you before the throne of grace in prayer

Susan Wachtel

February 6, 2012

This poem is not about the person going through truly desperate times right now, through no fault of their own.  This is about the person whose made receiving a handout a lifestyle.  The person who never heard or respected the word no.  

When talking with a family member tonight and asking for advice, she reminded me that at times God says no to our pleas for help.  He does it for our good and sometimes the best and most responsible thing we can do is say "No!" and faithfully pray for the person.