As clichéd as it sounds, acceptance is really the only way to get through difficult situations we may not like. At first, I had no idea how to approach this concept – how was I supposed to sit idly by and just be okay with things that were happening that made me angry or upset or uncomfortable? The solution; Seek acceptance and kindness in my heart.
Acceptance does not mean liking something. It means understanding that I do not have control over everything that happens, and that things are what they are. Whether or not there is a reason, if I am caused distress by what happens, I have to accept the simple fact that it happened.
Acceptance doesn’t mean sitting and wallowing in my contempt. It means I see clearly that I have to take further action to work through my own feelings.
The simple reality rings true that I do not have a say in what other people do. I am simply responsible for my own reactions and the things I do to seek support to work through my feelings. I pray every morning for acceptance of what the day holds – this does not mean I do not get angry or upset. This means I take a step back and look at things through a lens not clouded by my own selfish needs and wants. I look at things and think to myself, “Okay, it is what it is,” and I move forward accordingly.
Acceptance is hard and truly means surrendering to the natural flow of life’s occurrences. It is daunting and scary, but it also provides a sense of relief when I realize how truly blessed I am to be able to seek support from my loved ones, my fellowship, and my higher power in times where I feel out of control and scared. It is not always easy, but it feels more natural over time with practice.
Today, I will accept things that happen, without taking them personally, without trying to manipulate or change things. I will feel my feelings and let things come up if they need to, but I will not dwell on them and I will reach out for support if I need it. I will accept things that are out of my control and move on from there.