The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

Truth is—I barely ever say no. It’s mad, innit? I know full well what it costs me. The hours I lose, the sleep I sacrifice, the goals that stay parked while I’m out here fixing someone else’s mess. But I still do it. Always have.

It’s just how I’m wired. I see someone struggling—even if they don’t ask—I feel it. And something in me can’t walk away. Whether it’s sorting out paperwork for someone who didn’t think it through, guiding someone through a stressful situation, or just being that voice of reason when everything around them’s falling apart… I’ll show up. Even when I’m running on fumes. Even when my own health isn’t fully in order.

And it’s not because I’m some saint or want people to praise me—nah, I hate that. I just know what it feels like to be left to figure things out on your own. So I never want to be that person who turns away when I could’ve helped.

But I’d be lying if I said it doesn’t take its toll. There’ve been days I’ve sat there thinking, “I should’ve said no.” Days I’ve felt like I’m moving further away from my own path because I keep rerouting for everyone else. I’ve had to cancel plans, delay things I need to get done, even let my own health suffer—just to be there for others.

And still, I do it. Not because I don’t have goals. But somewhere along the line, I convinced myself that if I help enough people get through their storm, maybe I’ll find peace in mine.

Maybe one day I’ll learn to say no when it matters. Maybe I’ll choose myself a little more. But for now, this is who I am. It’s not perfect. But it’s me.

And I can live with that. Actually I prefer it this way.