I don’t know if you’ve had this experience, but sometimes, when I crave chocolate, don’t understand something or am waiting to hear back about a decision, there’s a two-year-old part of me that screams, “now! I want it now!” If I am not aware of it, I make hasty decisions, act irrationally and react in impatience instead of empathy.

At the heart of all impatience is fear. When we react from that place, what comes out is desperation and anxiety that our needs will not get met. The empty milk carton or the tank of gas that hasn’t been filled up may cause you to yell at your partner, for example, because the emptiness is symbolic of what you want and still do not have.

Often we grasp immediately for things we desire. We search for it online. We read books, attend workshops, listen to lectures to wash away what feels uncomfortable, not right. Yet sometimes the path of healing asks us to be patient, listen and wait. Not all situations require our immediate attention (like Tropical Storm Isaac discussed in our post below). Maybe it’s being able to identify the difference that can generate the most peace and happiness.

This week our posts are all about learning to accept yourself. Maybe you’re impatient, or you have difficulty recognizing your emotions or maybe you’re infamous procrastinator. As you’ll read below, true acceptance and awareness of all your so-called flaws will give you the ability to heal and help others and yourself. 

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