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Self-Acceptance - is to a total self appreciate yourself as-is, including the wrinkles, junk, and all.
It comes when we learn to to relish what is, recognizing that the less "pleasant" aspects are for us to see as tools for making more of the situation, life or of ourselves than first seen as possible. It is what we arrive at when we have become and are as a result of our inquisitive, learning natures as well as loving oneself- body, what one has done, heart and mind. - and loving others and the world in the same way - each "ingredient" a means for becoming and for going beyond.
Ultimately this self-acceptance grows, even blossoms when we see ourselves as a necessary, important part of the corner of the universe we are in. This relationship with the universe ( God, all God has created, called good, and seen good-when no one else would (seen in the life of Jesus) is to be treasured.
I have Traumatic Brain Injuries - but because I have had it so long, I have culled gifts from the pain, with no wishes for otherwise than what I am and have become. And the rest? it shall pass. And when I pass, that will be okay too - because I have experienced so much pain and suffering, and still come out relatively whole and still useful within the world - even at age 75.
Replies to "Self-Acceptance - is to a total self appreciate yourself as-is, including the wrinkles, junk, and all...."
Hello @caroleeuits and welcome to Mayo Connect! I see that this is your first post on Connect and what a great picture!
It sounds as if you have developed some healthy thinking and that your traumatic brain injuries have not stopped you from developing a healthy sense of yourself. You've had a remarkable journey and I'm so glad that you are sharing yourself here on Connect!
Could you share with Connect, as you are comfortable doing so, what you have done to develop this strong sense of self?
@caroleeuits- Good morning and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. You are a brave lady who has also learned how to make the most of your incredible journey. You are correct in distinguishing between acceptance and appreciation for oneself. Appreciation happens before acceptance because you have to know who you are (knowing your full worth, good and bad) before you can accept it! Boy was this a tough one for me. Self-worth is placing a value on yourself- are you a good person? Are you a bad person? Self-esteem is based on comparing yourself to others, do you feel inferior or superior. These are all factors that we need to include in our maturing years of hopefully accepting ourselves. Through all of my years, I have learned that this is my journey and I can continue in self-loathing and depression and anger or have a hell of a time with myself. What gifts have come about after your traumatic brain injury?
@caroleeuits, Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect but more importantly -- Thank you so much for sharing such a great post. I especially appreciate your artwork and what self acceptance means to you.
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@caroleeuits I am so proud of you! You said what self acceptance is and what it means. What kind of brain injury did you have? There are times I can't think right and feel confused, maybe being 68 is the answer. Also being in pain and being on Tymlos can do it too. I'm on Tymlos to increase my bone mass. I loved what you said and it makes me be more accepting of myself.