Acceptance

I just got off the phone with a girlfriend, and we spent our time talking about family and friends. I’ve struggled with communicating my needs to those around me. My whole life, I’ve searched for acceptance and learned very early on to chameleon myself, to adapt and change, in order to find love and approval, especially during conflict.

As a child, it was frightening to feel rejection from my family. Having a voice and acknowledging my own feelings was seen as rude. This kind of acceptance was very shallow and never led me to feel truly authentic or connected to a community. Over time, I lost sight of who I really was and what I wanted from my relationships, especially after years of that conditioning.

Even now, as an adult, I still find myself shifting my identity in moments of conflict, afraid of losing the love and approval of those I care about deeply. It’s not an easy habit to break, but I’m working on it. When I notice myself slipping into this pattern, I want to slow down and recognize that I’m in distress. I want to be able to acknowledge my feelings honestly, saying things like, “I’m feeling hurt. I want to be heard and for my feelings to matter.”

At the same time, I recognize that the other person is also seeking acceptance. Perhaps in the conflict, I’m unintentionally signaling that they are not acceptable. While I may not be able to change them, allowing myself to be true to who I am while accepting them as they are will help me grow. It will help me become more accepting of myself and my own gifts.

By embracing this balance, honoring my own truth while extending grace to others, I’m learning that acceptance isn’t about perfection or complete agreement. It’s about creating space for authentic connection and growth. I’m still evolving, still learning to navigate these relationships and my own feelings with compassion and courage. And in that ongoing process, I find the freedom to be myself, fully and unapologetically.

If something in my story has stirred a spark within you, perhaps it’s your own energy calling to be heard. Reiki is a gentle way to reconnect with yourself, awaken your unique energy flow, and discover the balance that’s been waiting for you. I invite you to book a session or reach out to me at northstarreikienergy@gmail.com—let’s explore the beautiful ways your energy can guide you forward.