Can You Accept it Again?

"Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart." ~ Marcus Aelius Aurelius

Acceptance, especially self acceptance, is one of the most profound ways to unshackle old, destructive thinking that holds you back from a life of peace and prosperity. When you are critical or resentful, your muscles and emotions become tight and gripping. Through the act of acceptance, there is a release of tension which allows flow and movement back into your life. However, dams of judgment creep back in, and acceptance must be practiced again.

There are tons of programs out there, from AA to Zig Ziglar, that have led millions (if not billions) of people through an experience of immense acceptance, which is a really wonderful experience to have, but it is not meant to be a singular occurrence. In fact, it is dangerous to think of it that way. That kind of thinking can get you stuck and hold you back.

We all know someone who states proudly “I accepted myself a long time ago,” as if they are now done with it. As if it’s something you do once and then check off a list. I’m sure that was a great experience of acceptance back then, but what about now? Putting it in the past, acceptance is just a word. Bringing acceptance into the present moment, situation, or thinking, it becomes action; action that can move you forward.

There is no magic button on personal development you can push and then sit back and relax. There is no “there” to get to. Inspirational acts like acceptance are things you must actively choose again and again. Hearing this can be a bit overwhelming and seem like so much work. I’m not here to sugar coat it (but I will try my best since I think life is pretty darn sweet).

Yes, committing to practicing acceptance does take energy on your part. Yes, it takes awareness and persistence and courage and honesty. And, you have to give up things. You have to give up things like anger or resentment or shame or guilt. But, …

THIS IS THE BEST PART:

You get to experience acceptance again and again. How awesome is that!?! Just think back to a moment of immense acceptance-what a weight lifted! The yummy joy of finally getting and giving the unconditional love you crave. The release of tightening emotions. The peace and flow that follow. You can experience that every day! You can experience it ten times a day. Believe me, it’s worth it.

Try it right now. Ask yourself, where am I tense? What am I not accepting? (Pay attention to feelings of anger, guilt, frustration) What if I quiet my mind and allow what is to be? Deep breath in and out…ahhh. Feel your shoulders relax. Now, let a smile of pride come over you face, because you are willing to work with what is true in your world, not fight it. So, from this new place, is there any action you can take that is in flow with the way things truly are?

As long as you stay in the game and keep implementing what you know is best for you, you can be a powerful being. So, practice acceptance each day and watch as ease and joy filter in from all around.