The Deepest Yes: How Radical Acceptance Gives Rise to Transformation

“Authentic spiritual awakening is not about getting to a place where we’re above all the pains and tragedies of life. The transformation I’m pointing to is one where we’re able to stay rooted in the direct knowledge of the sacred essence of reality that is the truth of every moment. It’s the fundamental truth that is immutable in every moment. It never changes, even when our own life may be difficult. The goal is to get to a place where your relative experience of the ups and downs of life never obscures your ability to see the essential radiance shining through everything.” —Craig Hamilton

What if the path to a better world doesn’t begin with striving… but with accepting things as they are?

As we deepen on the spiritual path, many of us come to sense a profound truth: that real freedom begins when we can meet this moment wholeheartedly—without resistance or judgment. We discover the strength that comes from saying an unconditional “yes” to life, just as it is.

But even as we rest in that yes, another current moves through us—a longing to heal, to uplift, to shape a world that more fully reflects the deeper goodness we’ve touched.

Is that longing in conflict with true acceptance? Or could it be what happens when acceptance runs so deep, it naturally gives rise to transformation?

In this episode, Craig responds to three questions from course participants about the surprising relationship between unconditional acceptance and the impulse to change the world. He explores how awakening to the sacredness of life doesn't end our desire for change—it transforms it.

To access the full transcript of this episode and discover more resources, visit the episode page on MeditationChangesEverything.com. You can also sign up here for Craig’s weekly newsletter.

For a deeper experience of Craig’s approach to meditation, consider joining our Awakened Life membership program which offers in-depth guidance, a meditation workshop, and a live online retreat with Craig. Register today to receive your first month for 50% off at AwakenedLifeMembership.com.

If you’re interested in exploring more of Craig’s meditation experiments, you’re invited to tune in to a 90-minute online workshop Craig will be hosting called Meditation 2.0 – The Miracle of Direct Awakening. Register for free at FreeMeditationWorkshop.com.

If you would like to share your experience of the podcast or have questions about Craig's teachings, please feel free to email us at [e-mail].