The word “No”

I know that the word “no” has saved me a lot in this world. I think that knowledge of “no” is very important and its application is most important. “No” has many meanings as refusal or denial or something else. “No” may give the next opportunity. But I think that ‘n’ of word “no” is more considerate and useful. ‘N’ of “no” is the instrument while ‘O’ of “no” is the operating part. Both together become more effective and result oriented.

It is a responsible word. It is an alarming word. It is a warning word to check, stop and inspect before taking any action or decision. It is like a pause to be ready for the next. It has psychological importance. It shows the attitude and behaviour of the user.

Though this word expresses negativity, it should be used with utmost precautions analysing the situation and evaluating repercussions. Sometimes, “no” becomes naughty. It brings a knot in relationships. It may not give way to the next opportunity or leave scope for redressal. Positional utilisation of this escaping word may bring havoc in any field of growth or improvement or may affect the future of individuals, communities, or policymakers.

The continuous use of the word “no” by an individual may get the tag of psychological negativity or habitual practice. But cumulative use of this word has the effect of denial with respect to differences affecting life or national interests. When the system uses the word “no” to impose restrictions related to traditions, rituals or religious orthodox or thinking of hardliners to curb the progressive nature of society, a revolution takes birth and mass protests start and spread like wildfire. We may trace the role of “no” as a catalyst in many revolutions in the world’s history. In many wars between countries, the word “no” has an igniting impact. Lobbying among countries, in the world, is the outcome of “no” at any point in time because of vested interests and want of supremacy to dictate terms and conditions of survival and slavery.

Every “no” has some purpose, but it should be evaluated judiciously before any conclusion because it has hidden intentions. I think only “No” of a child may not fall in any category except expressing acceptance, satisfaction, dislike, or refusal. Mother nature, a gift of God for our survival, also expresses her “no” in many ways to warn us that we may recklessly not change her. Even animals express their “no” by using horns and legs or anything else that appealed suitable for the occasion. Insects or other organisms play for “no” in their styles. “No” is effectively used against any kind of suppression.

There may be written at length about the proper, wise and thoughtful use of the word “no,” but I think that humans should think twice before saying no. We may use the word “no” without any hesitation whenever we have to leave bad habits and addictions dragging away from God. The beauty or role of “no” always changes controlled by the ecological disturbance in the conditions, situations and attitudes or behaviours of living things. Sometimes, mischievous habits ignite the fire of the silent “no.” Only “no” leading towards God may be acceptable in any case. In fact, “no” requires wise use.

Advertisement