I Can't (and Why Not?)

Often we say things such as: "I'd like to but I can't ....." as in

>>> I'd like to travel to Europe this summer but I can't afford it.

Looking carefully at these statements there can be varying explanations of what we say and feel.

1.) Is it simply a "lie"?

*** I can't go to the store today because I have too many other things to do.

2.) Is it a rationalization for what we want to do, but we don't want to admit it?.

*** I'd like to go out to dinner with you sometime but it wouldn't be fair to my family.

3.) Is it next to impossible or impossible?

*** I can't afford a large screen television because my low income (under $30,000/year) and substantial debts make it not viable.

4.) Or, is it difficult to do but we're not willing to explore How to Make it Happen or are Unwilling to make the sacrifices necessary for it?

Many things in life are hard for us to do. Sometimes it is Not Worth it - too much to give up or it really would hurt others to get it. Sometimes it will break promises we don't want to break. Sometimes it takes a lot of courage.

Should we go there? Sometimes yes and of course sometimes no. Should we seriously explore IF we should try to go there? More frequently!

Thanks!