It was a simple word, but it saved me from unnecessary confusion.
Last semester, I had an examination scheduled for 12 noon. I arrived at the examination venue much earlier because I wanted to revise my notes and calm my nerves before the paper.
While I was reading, I noticed students from other departments, like Geophysics, Statistics, and Mathematics, already lining up to enter the examination hall. Their exams were scheduled much earlier than ours.
A few minutes later, one of the exam supervisors walked up to me and asked why I wasn't on the line. He told me to join the queue immediately.
For a second, I was confused, but then I remembered that I was a Geology student. My department wasn't writing at that time.
I politely smiled and replied, "No, sir. I'm from the Geology Department. Our exam is by 12 o'clock."
He paused, checked the timetable, and realized I was right.
If I had followed instructions without thinking, I would have joined the wrong line and created unnecessary confusion for myself.
That experience reminded me that saying "no" isn't always an act of disobedience. Sometimes, it's a sign that you're paying attention and standing by what you know is correct.
We often feel pressured to agree with everyone around us, especially when an authority figure is involved. But there are moments when respectfully saying "no" is the right decision.
That day, one small word made all the difference.
THIS PICTURE WAS TAKEN THAT DAY. HAPPY NEW MONTH DEAR READER 💋✨🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉