Reply #14: Sure it is--

[bliss_eternal]

ok to say no. Unfortunately I'm dealing w/someone that isn't "hearing it."

While I appreciate your input and advice, I won't be talking to this person by phone. I don't mean to sound rude, insensitive or uncaring, but I really don't owe him anything. He is putting himself in this position. Calling would be counter productive.

As for his paper, I only have that because he insisted I take it--another example of his desperation, and my inability to maintain my boundary with him.

I see it all as I'm typing this--I was saying no, I'm sorry. He was saying, "...well what about tomorrow?" :banghead:

I offered him options of how I could return it. He has not responded to that, so now he doesn't get a choice. He probably doesn't want it returned, because he wants to keep me engaged. So, I will return it through overnight mail, with a note letting him know (again) that I'm not available and reiterate he needs to seek the help of his advisors. It's ridiculous him saying he needs me to do anything. It's just a ploy to talk to me, because he knows I'm too nice to say No, go to hell, do your own work, ask your advisor, etc. etc.

I agree with cassie, that dropping a note in the mail answers his request, while not giving him an opportunity to bully me (or me to feel badly and let him). It also allows me to detach from this, physically and mentally. Maybe symbolically it will show him I'm done (I hope).

I can't be asked questions about something I no longer have in my possession can I? ;)