I gave a presentation yesterday to a group at Ohio State University. While it wasn’t about this topic, I touched on the concept of Acceptance. Its not a word we use often; it might bring up for you competing ideas, such as: action is better than non-action, never give up, be pro-active, its not the American way. This may be a bit of what comes to mind when I mention acceptance. \
Here is what I’m saying. Acceptance is a moment of being present, of being conscious. It is stopping long enough to be aware of what is happening. Right now. Without reaction, without charging, forging, or stampeding ahead. Acceptance is being aware of me in this moment. Its about also being aware of my surroundings, able to sense the mood or environment that I’m in. Acceptance means my blinders are off, the filters are tuned to low. Acceptance is a momentary ability to see things Just As They Are. 
Acceptance that I’m speaking about comes with a little work on me. So that I’m aware of my habits of thinking and doing and my own conditioned responses. It means being aware of my own reactivity, and most importantly, learning to let it go.
Emotional Intelligence factors of Self Awareness and Social Awareness are at play here. The good news is, they can be cultivated. Maturation is part of it, but we don’t have to wait for all life’s lessons. Mindful awareness is a simple approach with enormous benefits.
Acceptance is Clear Vison, Clarity, Awareness. In the moment. Then, with fresh eyes, its time to act.
Hi Patricia!
What a wonderful article. Yes mindfulness… It’s magic. There seems to be so little time to sit down and be quiet for a minute. But how much clearer things would appear if we did take the time!
I did not know you worked for OSU and American Institute of Alternative medicine and directed a meditation organization! HOW COOL! I am still yet to learn how to meditate or go on a retreat. it seems I read and think about it more than actually do it :-)
Dina