Why no is also okay

Before we roll into the new year, I need to get something off my chest. And now I could tell it with a very long detour, but let me get straight to the point. Why is it not okay to say no? You all know that I effortlessly jump out of bed every morning at six o'clock and in one leap I am in my sports outfit. Even in other situations, my ironclad discipline wins over my weak self, and I am completely okay with that.

Yes, I love a good glass of wine, you heard that right. One of the Bernardus kind from sunny California, or a heavy Petite Sirah from Chile. One that leaves you tipsy after three refill sessions. But I value a good night's sleep and a fresh start to my day just as much. Then the choice is made quickly. I love cake, but I am spoiled. My mother used to spend hours kneading cookie dough with buttered fingers, peeling apples for an old-fashioned apple pie or melting chocolate au bain marie for real chocolate eclairs. I can say no to a bowl of Christmas cookies, but I go for the axe when I have a warm piece of apple pie in front of me. A towering burger with fries on the side or a mountain of salad with buttery avocado, grilled chicken, fresh parmesan shavings, and salty anchovies? Three guesses...

But what I don't understand is why you often feel pressured in such a situation. Why is it not okay if you're having a good time with a drink in your hand? Why are you suddenly unfriendly if you don't take that Christmas cookie at your equally cozy cappuccino? And why is a salad boring (by the way, I also fish out the bacon bits from my salad and ask for the dressing on the side)?

Let's turn it around. Are you an alcoholic if you let your glass be filled for the sixth time? Are you a glutton if you finish that bowl of Christmas cookies to the last crumb? Or do I say that you might as well go to the gym tomorrow after taking your last fry with greasy fingers? No.

Good intentions, I don't do that. But maybe we can let each other value a bit more. Because no is also okay.