Needles and No’s. 

Highly sensitized to its needs, the needles of a cactus protect from herbivores as well as provide for its host. So says the internet.

The prick of needle. The warning of a sharp spine extending to bodies too close. 

I think of the word No. The feeling of disappointment that my declines imbue. The protection they offer my soft center.

The needles and no’s entwine in my head. While they might prick, they are needed to preserve the life they protect. 

The needles and no’s. 

I start to teach tongue—permission granted to release the word I have held back. And I find that some no’s actually allow for other yes’s.