acknowledge vs. disparage
acknowledge (verb) – to admit to be real or true; recognize the existence, truth, or fact of; to show or express appreciation or gratitude for
disparage (verb) – to speak of or treat slightingly; depreciate; belittle; to bring reproach or discredit upon; lower the estimation of
Which do you do more of: do you acknowledge the current state of things, or do you disparage it all? Or: how often do you compassionately accept your own shortcomings,
or do you tend to disparage yourself and your actions? Is the latter helping? Doubtful.
I used to disparage a lot. I am not proud to admit it; I am proud to acknowledge and accept more of everything these days, though. I had what I consider to be a fascinating insight this past Monday. At a meeting, when I began to get distracted by others due to disruptive behavior, instead of singularly-focusing on that rude interjection and internally disparaging it, I randomly and spontaneously challenged myself to observe even more. I created a game of sorts to see what all I can see, hear, feel, smell, and maybe taste. In a way, I chose to consciously distract myself joyously instead of being distracted by others annoyingly. I like the difference; it is a subtle shift from a negative mindset to a positive one; it feels powerful. I was happy to accept that feeling, acknowledging and enjoying it.
The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.
-Thích Nhất Hanh
The random talking in the crowd had either stopped or drifted off to a point out of focus. I now look forward to more meetings and moments to mimic this method of mindfulness. Focus can be grabbed, or I can accept to maintain control of it. Even if I want to disparage, I do not have to. I can accept to control my actions, acknowledging that many other things lie well outside my lane. If I accept to control my actions, then I can continue to entertain this enthusiastic empathy in complete contrast to the dispirited disparagement. Ya dig?
Anew more; diss less
Accept more; discount less
Acknowledge more; disparage less
Fear keeps us focused on the past or worried about the future. If we can acknowledge our fear, we can realize that right now we are OK.
-Thích Nhất Hanh
Right now, today, we are still alive, and our bodies are working marvelously. Our eyes can still see the beautiful sky. Our ears can still hear the voices of our loved ones.
Is something bothering you right now that you may want to disparage?
Can you simply acknowledge it before noticing other things?
Will you accept to control your actions?
We are OK.
You are loved.
Maybe it is wise. Maybe it is dumb. Time will tell.