Reply #13: Hi Bliss, I also think it is certainly ok to say no.

[rumpel]

I also have a problem with saying no and most of the time go out of my way to accomodate. However, this often times ends up in the result of having neglected my own responsibilities.
I have a friend who always tells my daughter: "You have to be cruel to be kind." :dilemma:
Maybe you are doing him a favor by turning him down, and he will have to come to terms with his own responsibilties.
How about directly telling him, though? He surely must be waiting... with false hopes. A very neutral "No" commonly used is "no time", and if this is someone who does not recognize hints, it may well be that you have to add, "I truely believe, in the long run, it is best for you to take full control over your project."
I think phone is easier, and give him a choice to pick up his papers or receive them by mail.

:hi: