When Accepting Love is Difficult

An interesting quote popped up on my phone earlier from a motivation app:

"One of the most peaceful moments you'll ever have, Shannon,

is when you realize that you aren't holding on to anyone.

Everyone around you is there because they've chosen to be."

Now, there are various ways to interpret this, and we could offer several qualified responses. However, I was reminded that:

Oftentimes, we hear the word “acceptance” and our focus gravitates towards things that are painful or dire. Yet, another difficulty that some experience is accepting good things in their lives. Take “love,” for example.

For various reasons, this may be an area of struggle. This is especially true if we’ve been wounded, are used to operating from a posture of defensiveness or guardedness, or are overly critical of ourselves. There are moments, indeed, when we can be our harshest critic; to the point where we may feel “unlovable.”

Love, however, is uncontrolling, present and universal in scope (for all persons); both guiding and empowering the journey towards wholeness. It’s the “end” and the “means.” It radiates, permeates and transforms. And love is relational, with a dancelike reciprocity… an ebb and flow, that (in my opinion) brings true contentment and deep down satiates our longings. 

A little grace, mercy or forgiveness may go a long way in the healing process. Not just for others but for yourself too. We each have areas of our lives in which we have missed it (maybe “hugely” or “by just a bit”… or anywhere in between).

Take a moment to consider those who choose to be in your life and genuinely care about your well-being. Whether by a quick text, phone call or grabbing a meal together, spend some time with them to treasure the gift that they are.

They may see the beauty in you that, for whatever reason, may be difficult to see for yourself.