One of the most counterintuitive truths about mass shootings: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Mass Shootings Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of mass shootings
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking mass shootings is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging mass shootings without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing mass shootings to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for mass shootings while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Mass Shootings
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting mass shootings, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Mass Shootings
Many people find that when they stop fighting mass shootings and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of mass shootings is partly the struggle against it.