Say Yes to No: Using the Power of No to Create the Best in Life, Work, and Love

Why is it so hard to say “no”? Pastor, writer and ex-New Yorker Cootsona explores the bevy of reasons why we say “yes” too often, and then delves into the virtues of “no.” Overworked and in bad health, the author describes how he had to embrace “no” in order to save his marriage, his career and his very life. Saying “no,” however, does not involve being negative or mean toward others. Technology, noise and too much entertainment are the primary culprits responsible for pulling us away from the important goals of our lives. These deserve our most emphatic “no!” The author does not recommend a radical restructuring of life, but suggests a helpful balance between being in the world and carving out time for silence, contemplation, family life and relaxation. Utilizing his gifts as a jazz drummer to drum up a helpful analogy, Cootsona describes how practice, listening and even improvisation can lead to making better choices in life. While much of the spiritual advice is not novel, the author’s personal experience, unique presentation and eagerness serve to animate tried and true ideas. (Jan. 6)