Radical Acceptance

When we are caught in the trance of unworthiness, we do not clearly recognize what is happening inside us, nor do we feel kind. Our view of who we are is contorted and narrowed and our heart feels hardened against life. As we lean into the experience of the moment—releasing our stories and gently holding our pain or desire—Radical Acceptance begins

Our enjoyment is tainted by anxiety about keeping what we have and our compulsion to reach out and get more.

for the aspiring bodhisattva, suffering is the trusted gateway to awakening the heart.

Mother Teresa’s surprising insight was: “The biggest disease today is not leprosy or tuberculosis but rather the feeling of not belonging.”

We practice Radical Acceptance by pausing and then meeting whatever is happening inside us with this kind of unconditional friendliness.

Set your intention. As a basic spiritual practice establish your intention to be present, honest and kind in relating to others in any circumstance. Remind yourself of your resolution at the start of each day, at the beginning of an interpersonal meditation or before any interaction with others.

The two wings of clear seeing and compassion are inseparable; both are essential in liberating us from the trance.

While the bodies of young children are usually relaxed and flexible, if experiences of fear are continuous over the years, chronic tightening happens. Our shoulders may become permanently knotted and raised, our head thrust forward, our back hunched, our chest sunken. Rather than a temporary reaction to danger, we develop a permanent suit of armor.

“I’m skimming over life and racing to the finish line—death.”