Affirmation for Acceptance

There is a prayer that says, 'God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change.' Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, there are circumstances or realities that we can’t alter. Illnesses, broken relationships, lost jobs...there are, unfortunately, plenty of things in our lives we can’t fix. It can be difficult not to keep fighting, but sometimes battling the unchangeable just uses up time and energy that would be better used in more productive ways. Sometimes what we really need is simply the serenity to accept those things we cannot change and the wisdom to know when it is time to do so.

For a practical exercise, make a list. On one side, list the things that you don’t like about your life that you have some control over and make some concrete plans for how to change them. On the other side, list the things about your life that make you unhappy and that you have no control over whatsoever. Give some thought to how much of your energy is going toward being angry and frustrated about those things and how much time you spend fighting the impossible or just plain complaining. Once you've contemplated it for a while, take that half of the list and rip it into shreds. Then let the tiny pieces of paper go the next time there is a strong wind.

This card is probably trying to tell you that there is something you need to simply accept. You almost certainly know what it is already. You just needed a nudge to let go and let goddess. Whatever it is, be kind to yourself and stop fighting. Take a deep breath, admit that there are some battles you can’t win, and move on.

Sometimes it can be tough to accept that fate or the gods might have plans that are different than the ones you had. It’s okay to ask for help. Here is a simple prayer for acceptance and peace. Dab a little lavender essential oil on a white candle or rub some of the herb (dried or fresh) between your palms. Let the power of Air carry the healing, calming scent inside you, and breath slowly and deeply. Light the candle and say, 'God and goddess, please give me the strength to accept the things I cannot change. Help me to be strong enough to let go and wise enough to know when it is time to do so. Let me make peace with the parts of my life that are outside of my control and guide me so I might use my energy wisely. Give me peace and serenity. So mote it be.' Then sit and breath for a while. If you are struggling with acceptance, carry a small lavender sachet or dab a bit of essential oil on your clothing or a tissue tucked into your pocket, so the aroma will remind you of this spell.