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The content provided is an excerpt from a mindfulness program that discusses the concept of acceptance and its importance in coping with difficulties. The excerpt begins with a personal story about a woman who experienced a recurrence of cancer and the challenges she faced in accepting her situation. It highlights the struggle between wanting to fight and not wanting to interrupt her life.

The passage goes on to explain that acceptance is often difficult because of our tendency to push away or ignore difficulties. The author emphasizes that acceptance does not mean resignation or detachment, but rather acknowledging and embracing the reality of a situation. The author believes that acceptance allows for a clearer understanding of ourselves and the world, and gives us more choices in how we respond to difficulties.

The excerpt introduces the concept of acceptance in two steps. The first step involves noticing the temptation to suppress or drive away unsettling thoughts and emotions. The second step involves actively meeting these difficulties with acceptance and compassion. The author describes acceptance as a form of receptiveness, understanding, and clear seeing. It is not about giving up or detaching oneself, but rather about befriending and embracing difficulties.

The excerpt then discusses a story about a king and his son to illustrate the importance of living with difficulties rather than battling and suppressing them. It suggests that accepting difficulties can be more effective and less draining in the long run.

Next, the excerpt provides instructions for meditations that can help cultivate acceptance. These meditations involve focusing on the breath, sounds, and bodily sensations, and exploring the physical reactions to difficult situations. The goal is to bring awareness and compassion to these reactions, without trying to solve or fix the difficulties. The author emphasizes the importance of taking small steps and being gentle and compassionate with oneself during this process.

The passage concludes by encouraging readers to practice acceptance and explore difficulties with a sense of curiosity and openness. It acknowledges that acceptance can be challenging, but suggests that it is a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. It also assures readers that they can take breaks from the meditation if it becomes too difficult, and that there is no pressure for progress or success.

Overall, the excerpt highlights the significance of acceptance in dealing with difficulties and offers practical guidance and meditations to cultivate this mindset. The author emphasizes the importance of compassion, curiosity, and gentle awareness in the process of acceptance.

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