You Could At Least Try First...

            “I can't,” an especially popular phrase among kids and teenagers today. I become especially annoyed when hearing “I can't! in response to simple requests such as taking out the trash. Of course you can take the trash out! You just don't want to! The phrase “I can't” should be used at a time when the task requested cannot physically be performed, and it shouldn't be an alternative for “I'm too lazy to get my butt off the couch and do something for a change.” The focus of this post is to steer you away from the use of "I can't" in your life because I truly believe that you can do anything with the right amount of effort.

             My dislike for this misused phrase stems from an old coach of mine, Kelly Behlmann, who still runs the sports group for kids with physical disabilities that I used to be a part of. You see, Kelly has a no-tolerance policy on “I can'ts.” She has worked with kids who have disabilities for long enough to know that even for them, little is impossible. If I was ever to whine the word “can't” around Kelly, my punishment would be five push-ups. From her, I have learned to limit my usage of the remark, and I think we could all benefit from using a less-negative response once in a while.

             I've been trying to take a look at the other side of this argument, just to be fair, where the use of “I can't” is believed to be acceptable, but unless you are asked to sprout wings or breathe underwater, “I can't” just isn't necessary. If told to go climb Mount Everest, “I won't” would be the more proper answer because, while the endeavor itself would be extremely difficult, it would not be impossible. You could make it to the top if you tried. Therefore, in my opinion, there is seldom an opportunity where “I can't” is completely acceptable.

             To me, “I can't” is ruining our generation. The phrase inspires laziness and negativity that should not exist. Honestly, I have cerebral palsy, and if I can perform the chore that's been asked, I'm pretty sure you can too. Try and effort are the key words here. You have to try and even expend effort (gasp!) before you can truly know whether you can or cannot. Instead of "I can't," choose a new phrase. "I can't" portrays hopelessness and a lack of general competence even when hope and competence are in abundance. For example, "I'll try" is a perfect alternative. It portrays willingness and determination that I think is much needed in today's society. So, I promise you if I hear “I can't!” anymore among the whines and complaints of these American Literature classes, someone is going to be doing push-ups.