It is kindness immediately to refuse what you intend to deny.”
—Publilius Syrus, writer of maxims (c. 1st century BCE)
This is interesting because out of our own discomfort in refusing a request, we tend to hem and haw, hesitate—and say things like “I’ll think about,” or “maybe another time,” which leaves the person hanging and hopeful and in fact is unfair and even hurtful. So indeed, being forthcoming is difficult as it is, is a kinder way to go.