This is a biggy.
We could discuss acceptance in several different contexts. Firstly, in terms of our lives, our past, our relationships and the things that we can not change in them. When a relationship ends....perhaps through release or abandonment...or when someone dies. When we find ourselves alone.....when things happen in our lives that we have no control over. When we have done things we regret, or others have done things to us....that leave us scarred or unable to trust. Choices and events from our past that we can not change but that we just don't seem to be able to let go.....
At these times...acceptance might seem an impossible expectation of ourselves....
“Before you can live a part of you has to die. You have to let go of what could have been, how you should have acted and what you wish you would have said differently. You have to accept that you can’t change the past experiences, opinions of others at that moment in time or outcomes from their choices or yours. When you finally recognize that truth then you will understand the true meaning of forgiveness of yourself and others. From this point you will finally be free.”
― Shannon L. Alder
In another context, acceptance could be framed around that very essence of who we are....and our own individual need for acceptance from others - how does the acceptance of others affect the way you feel in terms of your lifestyle choices, your sexuality, your beliefs or simply the way you look? And when people do not accept us for what we are...or what we do...how do we learn to accept that? If we do learn to accept that others may not ever accept us as individuals...does this truth ease the pain?
Of course...sometimes....the hardest person to gain acceptance from.....is our self.
“Happiness can exist only in acceptance”
― George Orwell
Another direction to look at acceptance could be about recognizing what we have and not chasing the things we don't. We often hear people say "Don't settle for second best" or "Don't compromise where the heart is concerned". But does having unrealistic or high reaching expectations limit one's ability to experience happiness?
“My happiness grows in direct proportion to my acceptance, and in inverse proportion to my expectations.”
― Michael J. Fox
What do you seek in the perfect Dominant? the perfect submissive? the perfect relationship? What are you prepared to compromise on and "accept" in your expectations and what could you never accept or compromise on?
“Wisdom. . .is knowing what you have to accept.”
― Wallace Stegner
What have you had to learn to accept on your journey into D/s (or simply your journey through life)? Perhaps being in a D/s based relationship or community has helped (or challenged) you to accept certain things about yourself or your life.
“For after all, the best thing one can do when it is raining is let it rain.”
― Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
If we have time we may also ponder a "thought for the day".
Everyone welcome. Please do join us on Monday (11th Feb) at 12pm SLT at the Temple of Discussion on Respect sim. Discussion is voice led but text also very welcome.
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