The meaning we give to words have the ability to limit us, or expand us. The dictionary defines “acceptance” as receiving, believing, assenting or approving. But it completely forgets another, very important meaning of the word, which is “acknowledgment”.
Acknowledgement, or recognition of what is happening, or has happened, is a much more empowering word, because it doesn’t keep us stuck in a reality where we necessarily have to believe something, or are assenting to and approving what is happening, but it gives us a choice of how to respond to what is happening or has happened. It has nothing to do with whether we like the event or not.
Acceptance can have all those meanings, and it is up to every individual to choose the meaning they wish to assign to the word. For me, the widest meaning possible is the best, because regardless of the event or circumstance that is happening, I can simply see what is happening without having to attach my like or dislike to it.
In other words, I let go of my judgment of it, which changes my perception of it to one that I would rather have, which changes my experience of it to one that I can like, or at least, see the usefulness of.
Acceptance, in the dictionary sense, leaves me in the position of: “I accept/believe this is happening, and so, there is nothing I can do about it.” While expanding the meaning a little gives me a choice: “I recognize/acknowledge this is happening, and if I don’t like it, I can set about changing that reality for me!”
Choice is one of the greatest gifts human beings have been given. Using it with discernment is our privilege.
