Our very desire for self-improvement has sharpened severely our sense of criticism, and it now stands in the way of the very improvement we want for ourselves and for others. It is time we broaden our outlook, and make accptance, instead of criticim, the basis of our behaviour with others… and with ourselves.

Acceptance is not inertia, it is joyful recognition of all that is, in order to make the best of things as they are and of life as it is. This may imply initiative and action to influence decisions and change circumstances. If I recognize a seed as a seed, I am getting ready to water it: if I recognize injustice as injustice, I bestir myself to fight oppression and establish justice. Recognition of reality, acceptance and awareness are no invitation to complacency, but the best invitation to personal growth and social change.（Unencummbered by Baggage by Tony DeMello, ｐ２５）