I had a roommate/landlord that raved about his Landmark experience and repeatedly invited me. I politely declined his invitation. He, of course, questioned why I wasn't interested in at least trying it. I honestly explained that I had just left a cult-like religious group, so I wasn't interested in joining anything. He seemed to understand and stopped asking me.

Later, my best friend joined Landmark. He already knew my history and that I was unlikely to try it, but I listened to his experiences and told him that I appreciated that he got something out of Landmark. I also told him some of the history of Landmark that he wasn't aware of -- that it originated from 1970's era seminar "est training" and was known for brutal, high pressure gimmicks. He continued to share his experiences, but never tried to invite me.

Hm, had to look that one up. It's just Werner Erhard's "Est", retreaded for a new generation. You're right not to be interested, but I can't help but wonder what part of "no" you are unable to say, and why. There's nothing ungracious about saying no. Do you want to go out for dinner tonight? No. Do you think Trump makes a good president? No.

Or if you want to be "gracious", "no, thank you" works.

Is she gracious about pushing it on you? I would say no thanks as often as it takes to get the point across. If that doesn't work, I would tell her that if she doesn't stop pushing it on me, we would not be able to be friends.

No is a complete sentence.

Come on Howard. Be direct, look them in the eye and say no!! A cult. Really??

Sorry not interested. Tell it like it is.

No thanks! If she's a friend, she should respect your answer.