surrender

When we surrender, we allow the universe to work its magic; we say yes to infinite possibilities; we trust that things will work out as they are meant to; and we give ourselves permission to let go of the outcome. The act of surrendering can be liberating, intimidating, blissful, scary, and a swirl of so many other emotions. But in the end, we accept that life will work its magic.

In practicing non-attachment, and trusting that the universe will work out the details, sometimes it's difficult to accept what the universe has provided-especially if the circumstances delivered weren't exactly what you had in mind. The experience is intensely personal. Once you have truly experienced the act of surrender in your body and mind, the feelings are instantly recognizable: calm, present moment awareness, and in many cases, relief. Though surrender leaves us—at least by Western standards—somewhat vulnerable, we can be comforted and sense a certain familiarity in our knowing that some power beyond our comprehension is orchestrating the most minute aspect of our existence.

Free mind from body with a keen-edged knife of stillness. Cut loose your consciousness from the body. Use it no more as an excuse to accept limitations. Turn away your consciousness from the binding body-post. Rush your consciousness beyond the body, sweeping through the minds, hearts and souls of others. Switch on your light in all lives. Feel that you are the One Life that shines in all creation.
—Paramahansa Yogananda