Facing the fear means that we end the running, cringing, and hiding from the scary voice within us, the voice that will always find us no matter where we run or where we hide. Exploring it means that we turn and walk toward the big scary Bully. If you think that doesn't take some courage, just wait. Accepting it, contrary to popular misconception, does not mean we agree with the fear or that we like it. To accept is simply to realize there are some things we cannot change. . . . Responding to our neurotic fears is what it is all about, but the ability to change our responses can only be built on the foundation of the first three steps.
— Thom Rutledge, Embracing Fear