Distinction # 8

Closed Surrender  vs  Open Surrender 

To surrender passively to a situation simply because we assume we are powerless in dealing with it implies defeat and lethargy. It is a mind decision to give up and shut down which makes us feel stuck somewhere with no exit in sight. It is a form of passive inner resistance. It is not true surrender. It is resignation. In this way of handling a situation, we are left with no choice.

To surrender to what is in the moment so we can move on and take action is an inner surrender whereby we let go of inner resistance.  It comes from the wisdom of knowing how to yield rather than opposing the flow of life. Thus, we can keep our options open for the next moment and take action towards a better situation if we so choose. In this way of handling a situation, we still have choices.