David G. Benner

Only after we genuinely know and accept everything we find within our self can we begin to develop the discernment to know what should be crucified and what should be embraced as an important part of self.

things about ourselves that we refuse to acknowledge are given increased power and influence by our failure to accept them.

It is that which we avoid,

will most tyrannize us.

it robs them of the power that they develop when they operate outside of awareness and outside the embrace of self-acceptance.

Self-acceptance does not increase the power of things that ultimately need to be eliminated. Rather, it weakens them.

Before we can surrender ourselves we must become ourselves,

for no one can give up what he or she does not first possess

“If you’re content with simply being yourself, you will become more than yourself”

Self-acceptance always precedes genuine self-surrender and self-transformation.