Saturday, February 25, 2012

Accepting all aspects of ourself

Captured moments of grooming, sunbathing and napping.

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We all have what is called "a dark side". Below is a brief explanation from Debbie Ford's book
 "The Dark Side of the Light Chasers".

What are you hiding from yourself?
Why do we find ourselves disproportionately angry with the selfishness of a friend, the laziness of a coworker, the arrogance of a family member - or even the rudeness of a stranger? Why do the same old things get to us so easily, and so intensely? Our “same old things,” Debbie Ford explains, are clues to our dark sides - and to the emotions and traits that we fear most in ourselves.

 ...she explains how - consciously or unconsciously - we hide and deny our dark sides, rejecting these aspects of our true natures rather than giving ourselves the freedom to live authentically...she shows that it is possible to acknowledge and accept our so-called weaknesses - and that in fact, these qualities may prove to be important, hidden strengths. Perhaps a touch of “laziness” is just what the workaholic needs; perhaps some judicious “selfishness” can save us from exhaustion and resentment. .. Debbie Ford shows us how to reconcile our darker impulses, find the gifts they offer - and reclaim our wholeness once again.
For more information, go to www.Debbieford.com.

The benefits of doing what is called "shadow work" is freedom; freedom from judging ourselves and others. The freedom to take off our mask. And the freedom from shame; it longer has a place to hide. We come to accept all aspects of ourself. What I call "the good, the bad, and the beautiful".

Are there things you deny about yourself, but find yourself judging in others?
Ready to face your shadow/dark side? It's not scary; it's wonderfully life changing!

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And the day came
when the risk to remain tight in a bud
became more painful
than the risk it took to blossom.
~ Anais Nin ~


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"I accept everything about myself"