The Power of Acceptance

It took me years to learn the difference between acceptance and resignation.

That’s because it can be easy to misunderstand acceptance as a form of surrender or resignation.

However, I eventually learned that true acceptance is the opposite.

Acceptance is a powerful acknowledgment of reality. It is a recognition of the present moment as it is. And for those living with a spinal cord injury, or any type of severe hindrance, I believe it is a necessary and transformative step in the healing process.

When faced with life-altering events, the initial response is often resistance.

I spent countless days and nights asking, “Why me?” I tried to convince myself that what happened to me wasn’t fair and I would wake up from this newfound nightmare at any point. To a certain extent, I think that type of thinking is a natural reaction. However, as time passed, I discovered that holding onto those thoughts hindered my progress and prolonged my suffering.

It’s okay to feel anger and sadness, but there comes a point when acceptance is the key to moving forward.

Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up hope for improvement or dismissing the possibility of recovery. It means acknowledging where you are today and working from that point. It’s about shifting focus from what was lost to what can still be gained. That mindset allowed me to be open to new possibilities, experiences, goals, and ultimately, an entirely new outlook on life.

For me, faith played a significant role in my ability to find acceptance. It provided me with an incredible source of comfort and strength. Additionally, the support of my family and friends, as well as the inspiration I found in others who had faced similar challenges, further added to my strength.

I realize that for some, faith may not come so easy, and it can be difficult to find the strength needed to allow acceptance to take hold. If you find yourself in this camp, I strongly encourage you to find something to believe in. Find something that allows you to get out of your own head and focus on something bigger than yourself.

Embracing reality can certainly be a courageous act. However, it allows you to see things clearly, make informed decisions, and take proactive steps toward a fulfilling life. It’s a foundation for building resilience, nurturing hope, and finding peace amidst adversity.

Acceptance isn’t the end. It’s the exact opposite.

Stand Strong!

Scott