The case for non acceptance

The Oxford dictionary defines acceptance as “the act of consenting to receive or undertake something offered” so what does it mean when you say you have accepted your vitiligo?

There is flood of Vitiligo content online talking about acceptance when it comes to vitiligo. While this seems well intentioned, closer inspection suggests the concept is “half baked” at best or coming from a position of “fake spirituality” at worst.

The thing is that when we are in a state of fear, trauma or denial we will obviously not be able to think straight and make rational, calm , and well thought out decisions and as a result the outcome will always be something that “sounds” good but is invariably flawed.

Sadly the psychological and physical aspects of Vitiligo make it an ideal condition for putting you in a state not conducive to correct action and the increasing “acceptance” content is a prime example of this.

Additionally the act of accepting also makes it very difficult to stay curious and open to new ideas and investigation avenues regarding your vitiligo which doesn’t help anyone.

Vitiligo is not cancer. Vitiligo is not a bullet in your head. Vitiligo is not a snake bite in the amazon with no antivenom. So what exactly are you accepting? That you are not responsible for your body? That a condition that does not kill you has killed you? That you are unable to understand how your body works?

The need to not accept vitiligo has never been more obvious than today if there is going to be progress in this space which is why it is foundational for the people on our IVIA program. When you accept it you also accept that you will not do anything to try and solve the problem for future generations. On the IVIA program we say:

1.      When you want to "accept" vitiligo you are thinking about yourself.

2.      When you want to not accept you are thinking about other people

3.      When you “accept” its because it’s the easy option

4.      When you “don’t accept” it’s the correct option

5.      One option is easy and comfortable

6.      One option is difficult and uncomfortable

7.      Which option presents more possibilities for growth?

So instead of accepting your vitiligo. We invite you to accept the challenge of investigating your vitiligo for others.