Over the past six years or so, I’ve been learning what a beautiful gift acceptance really is.
A Real-Life Reminder
One morning not too long ago, I had one of those moments that could’ve derailed my whole day.
I was up early, fasting, foggy-brained, and following the doctor’s instructions for some routine bloodwork. I thought I had it all figured out—head back to the same lab as before, check it off the list, and move on with my day.
So I drove all the way across town—no coffee in my system, mind you—feeling proud of myself for being responsible and timely.
But when I arrived and handed the receptionist my paperwork, she looked at me kindly and said:
“Oh, we don’t do that kind of bloodwork here.”
Y’all… there was a facility just seven minutes from my house. 😅
Old Me Would’ve Lost It
A few years ago, I would’ve spiraled into a tizzy. I would’ve gotten flustered and frustrated. Blamed myself. Blamed the office. Maybe even sat in the car stewing over the “wasted” morning.
But this time?
I didn’t.
I could’ve—but I didn’t.
Why? One Word: Acceptance
Over the past six years or so, I’ve been learning what a beautiful gift acceptance really is.
Accepting things as they are—mistakes, misunderstandings, delays, and detours—has brought such peace to my life.
It doesn’t mean I’m perfect at it. Goodness, no.
I wish I had a little chime that went off in my brain every time I started to spiral when plans change. 😅
I still get triggered. But that morning? I felt peace.
And it was sweet.
A Quote That Grounds Me
There’s a powerful quote from the Big Book of AA that has stayed with me through this journey:
“And acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing or situation — some fact of my life — unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing or situation as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment.”
Isn’t that beautiful?
Peace in the Pause
Acceptance doesn’t mean we approve of everything.
It means we stop fighting reality. We stop wasting precious emotional energy trying to rewrite a moment that’s already happened.
That morning, instead of spiraling, I simply whispered,
“Well, okay then. I guess I’ll head back.”
I sipped my coffee (finally!) on the drive home with a calm heart, grateful for the gentle reminder that God is still teaching me.
For You, Friend
We only get so much time in this life. Let’s not spend it being upset over what we can’t change.
Instead, let’s take the lesson, take a breath, and move forward with grace—one peaceful moment at a time.
With grace always,
Kathy 🤍
#theredeemedmess