Acceptance is not for the Weak of Heart
It takes courage to speak and live from one’s integrity and to listen openheartedly to someone else’s integrity. It’s vulnerable. One who comes mainly from narcissism, a false persona and worthiness seeking patterns, will find that kind of vulnerability impossible to access. The neuro pathways aren’t there. True empathy comes from self compassion and there needs to be a true self for which to have compassion. Listening without defense or blame is usually the most a person with narcissistic tendencies can do and that can even be highly challenging. Validation may not only be sought for the effort, taking priority over any additional understanding of your needs, but the listening may come with a certain emotional distance or arrogance.