I walked in on a conversation.

To be discreet, I’ll say not where it was, or who was there – but really, it could have been most anywhere, most anyone.

Two people.  They were talking about a future mother-in-law wanting to buy one of the conversationalists an item for Christmas that they really didn’t want but didn’t know how to turn down.  After much to-ing and fro-ing, I intervened (I know her well, so felt I could):

Them: But she just keeps saying she wants to buy me X for Christmas.  But I really don’t want that, and I don’t know what to say, how to tell her.  I can’t tell her.

Me:  What might it take for you to tell them?  How might you find the words to say what’s on your mind?

Them: Well … oh yes, I suppose I could.  What a great idea.

Problem solved.  Words are pretty incredible aren’t they when they’re part of a well thought-out, honest, adult conversation.