Acceptance is acknowledging how things are in the present moment with kindness and non-judgment. Acceptance does not mean that we forevermore allow ourselves to remain stuck in unproductive patterns. Mindfulness and acceptance involve a willingness to turn toward what is unfolding in the present moment without clinging to it, trying to push it away or escape it or wanting it to be other than it is.
We cannot change anything until we accept it. Condemnation does not liberate, it oppresses. –Carl Jung
Meeting whatever arises in the present moment with equanimity and loving kindness leads to the inner resilience, strength and clarity needed to move forward toward creating desired changes in our internal and external lives. What in your inner or outer world are you clinging to, turning away from, trying to escape or wanting to be otherwise? This week in your practice, notice what happens when you practice acceptance and self-compassion. Notice if anything in your life begins to subtly change simply from accepting it and meeting it with compassion.
Because inspiration is my word for the year, and I’ve been getting all inspired, I’ve added a page called Inspiration Room that is accessible only to people who sign up for my email list. The page is password protected and only accessible to folks on my list, so if you want in on the inspiration, sign up for my list in the blue box in the right column. On this page you’ll find a few new meditation recordings, some of my most popular articles about mindfulness, well-being and creativity, a few links to people who are inspiring me lately and a few of my favorite TED talks. I hope you enjoy the Inspiration Room! Be sure to stop in occasionally, because I’ll continue to add more to it over time. I’ve also added several photo galleries on the website and will be adding a few more, so check those out too if you need a peace out break during your day!