
I can say “no”
as I smile
as I speak politely
as my voice remains
quiet and calm
the refusal is still immutable
solid
a boundary line
not to be crossed
I can speak refusal
without being the villain
without becoming the victim
holding steady against pressure
I can silence your voice
as it drones against refusal
a simple task
of my mind turning away
I can speak my “no”
with a smile
and my armor is just as strong – Caroline A. Slee