This year was the first year that I had trick or treaters come to my house for Halloween. I’m very happy that I was ready for them with two candy classics, Reese’s peanut butter cups and Snickers.
As I was handing out candy to a group of youngsters, one little boy after seeing what candy I had in the bowl immediately yells out “Snickers please.” I quickly thought to myself, “Wow he’s bold. Why can’t he just be happy with what I give him?” But then later I realized this little boy had it right. He was asking for what he wanted rather than waiting and hoping that I would give him what he wanted. He asked for what he wanted. What a novel concept!
As kids many of us had that boldness as well. We knew what we wanted and we said it. As we get older, many of us have focused more on being polite, not wanting to come off aggressive, wanting to be considerate of others. While doing this, we often end up taking what is handed to us (and not always liking it). And you can say what you want without being impolite, aggressive or inconsiderate.
So why not ask for what you want? The worst that someone can say is no, right? And what if they don’t say no? You would get what you want! That certainly isn’t a bad thing. When the little boy asked for a Snickers, I gave him a Snickers. He left happy. And I’m left thinking I need to say what I want more often.
If I want treats, I need to say I want a treat, rather than just hoping I’ll get one instead of a trick.