The word 'no', for some undeniable reason, is powerful. When you want something you have to ask permission for, the worst thing that could happen is being told no. But why? It doesn't physically hurt you in any way, yet it has an impact. Especially if it's being told to someone who's used to getting what they want. The word 'no' can mean 'to reject' or 'to deny' something. The word 'no' is seen as a negative word and is often associated with bad feelings. But how can such a 'negative' word cause such a positive mark that changed history? I think you know where I'm going with this. The one who used the word 'no' stood her ground, and made her name known throughout history - Rosa Parks. Ah yes, you probably thinking "How unoriginal", but let me explain! Words are a powerful thing, that we can't deny. This is one of the few lessons I've learned as I grew up. It's crazy how words can hit deeper than any blade could ever hope to achieve. How sometimes, saying just a few words can change someone's entire life whether it be in a good or bad way. But I also believe it depends on who's saying it, how they're saying it, and whom it's being said to. In Rosa Parks's case, she's a 42-year-old black woman. She's using it in a way that says, "Challenge me" or "I will stand my ground". Finally, she's saying it to a racist white man who certainly doesn't like being told no by a black person. Even though she didn't know what consequences she would face afterward or the danger it would put her in, she still did it. I will always admire her for that. I acknowledge other civil rights activists who also stood their ground and created the necessary change that led us to how we are now, but Rosa Parks will always have a special place in my mind. She inspired me to have the confidence to do what I believe is right for me. No matter what anyone has said or will say, at the end of the day, it's up to me to make the final decision. That no matter how much 'power' someone has, it all depends on how much power you give them. My nickname in my high school marching band was Rosa Parks. The nickname was given to me because the head band director wanted me on cymbals. I didn't want to be on cymbals. I wanted to be on the snare drum. Even though I knew I would be the only girl on the snare line. That I would be the only freshman on a line full of juniors. I was willing to do it because not only would I be proving my doubters wrong, but I would have the self-satisfaction of telling them "I did it!". And I did. Not only did I achieve what at the time seemed impossible, but I exceeded the bar that was set. I not only held my own in the snare line, but I also became the leader of it. I became the snare section leader and the drum captain. Leader of the entire drumline. I did it! Despite all the opposition. Despite the doubters. I did it. I made history by being the first female drum captain. And it was all because I held my ground and said no. If I hadn't said no to that simple request. If I had just settled. I don't know where I'd be right now. Thank you, Rosa Parks.