Radical Acceptance by Tara Brachby Parker on TwosOur imperfect parents had imperfect parents of their own. Fears, insecurities and desires get passed along for generationsWe do whatever we can to avoid the raw pain of feeling unworthy. Each time our deficiencies are exposed, we react, anxiously trying to cover our nakednessRather than relaxing and enjoying who we are and what we're doing, we are comparing ourselves with an ideal and trying to make up for the differenceWe hold back and play it safe rather than risking failureWe keep busy. Staying occupied is a socially sanctioned way of remaining distant from our painIf we make war on ourselves or each other, we generate more fear, reactivity and sufferingFreeing ourselves from this trance of fear and alienation becomes possible only as we respond to our vulnerability with a wise heartGoing to the root of our suffering and seeing it clearly was the beginning of freedomSuffering or discontent is universal, and fully recognizing its existence is the first step on the path of awakeningAll suffering or dissatisfaction arises from a mistaken understanding that we are a separate and distinct self. This perception of “selfness” imprisons us in endless rounds of craving and aversion. When our sense of being is confined in this way, we have forgotten the loving awareness that is our essence and that connects us with all of life"True freedom is being without anxiety about imperfection." - Seng-tsanWe free ourselves from the prison of trance as we stop the war against ourselves and, instead, learn to relate to our lives with a wise and compassionate heart