We have choices in how we cope with the curve balls life throws our way. The options are accepting or taking. Acceptance is the ability to be grateful for what you receive, whether you like it or not. You can take what you are given in life as though it’s a burden, or you can open yourself to the notion that life unfolds precisely as it should. Gratitude is the difference between the two. Being grateful doesn’t prevent heartache or sadness, but it does minimize the bitterness that accompanies disappointment when you accept what life gives you.
Little reasons to be thankful are right in front of us at all times. These are the things that soften the blows. Reminders that it could always be worse if a slight ripple in a situation had been different. Acceptance helps in keeping the “poor me’s” at bay. Crumby things happen. We might as well look on the bright side for tidbits of positivity. There will still be cloudy days with a chance of torrential tears. That’s okay! We are, after all, only human. Realizing how blessed you are isn’t a remedy that makes all of life’s hardships disappear. Life will stink at times; that’s a given. But when you can accept instead of take, life is slightly more manageable.
When life gets too heavy, acceptance allows you to set some of the negativity aside and replace it with positivity, thus lightening your load. Call me a chronic optimist, but I will trade as much negativity for morsels of comfort as I can. These reasons to be grateful help soothe my emotions and dry my tears when life is hard. Given the choice between accepting or taking, I will graciously accept what comes my way. I might not like it, but I will receive it.
