this time ~ this space

“If you are having difficulty with self acceptance, then there may be other networked agreements in the belief system of the mind. No need to panic. This is common in just about every human. They can be found and dissolved so that self acceptance and unconditional love become your way of life. If others can do it then you can do it too. What will be required is awareness. Some clear effective action steps will help as well.” — Toltec Spirit: Wisdom of the Four Agreements

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz provides a new paradigm through which to view life and its difficulties, and supplies four ‘rules to live by’ that can reduce the level of stress and ‘drama’ you experience as you go through life. Because of its simplicity and depth, it’s received quite a bit of attention since its publication in 1997.

Working with the premise that we have accepted as true many perceptions about life that really aren’t true, and these misperceptions are causing us unnecessary pain and ‘drama’ in our lives, this book shares ancient Toltec wisdom that can help you to live more responsibly, create less pain for yourself, and feel better about your life, among other things.

The recommended ‘agreements’, or rules to live by, are as follows:

• Be Impeccable With Your Word - speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or others.
• Don’t Take Anything Personally - Nothing others do is because of you. Be immune to the opinions and actions of others.
• Don’t Make Assumptions - Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate clearly.
• Always Do Your Best - Under any circumstances do your best - avoid self judgment, self abuse and regret.

If our goal is to be happy, then it will involve having unconditional love and acceptance for ourselves. This is in alignment with impeccability. It is also common sense. Practice the attitude of self acceptance towards ourselves until it becomes our natural way of being. We can go intently and quickly towards changing our false beliefs while at the same time practicing self acceptance.

If we choose to challenge the Belief System and live our life in emotional integrity then we can go for it slowly or go for it quickly. What is most important is that we go for it effectively.

The first part is to make your primary intent about Self Acceptance instead of self improvement. Self acceptance is the opposite of judgment and rejection. Self Acceptance will lead you to love and happiness. The second part is to dismantle the limiting fear based beliefs in your mind. This can be challenging. Depending on how serious you are, you may want to consider guidance for this undertaking.