Self-Surrender

Karma teaches that each of us is capable of examining our own actions. Morally sound actions cultivate qualities such as honesty, generosity, kindness, and humility. Since we cannot stop acting, we must become mindful of what we think, say, and do, for these actions shape who we become. We are here to work through our karma, and this requires learning the practice of self-surrender. Self-surrender begins with self-knowledge. It is the ability to think rationally and clearly, to see life objectively, and to recognize that we are a part of—not apart from—the whole of existence. We exist on every level: high and low, within and without. We become what we consistently think, say, and do. Know yourself. It is often said that karma gives us exactly what we need to evolve. Whether we choose to learn from it is up to us. Self-surrender begins with awareness of your thoughts, your words, and your actions. These are the choices that define your character. Cultivating this awareness requires strength, flexibility, and balance—not only in the body, but also in the mind. Let us develop both. Closing Reflection Self-surrender is the practice of objectivity. Observe without judging, criticizing, or evaluating. Become more accustomed to listening. Listen to yourself without judgment or comparison. Listen to the people and situations that arise throughout your day. Listen with your whole mind—not one divided by ideas of positive and negative. Remember that you are a part of, not apart from, the whole world, both within and without. You exist on every level—high and low, above and below. You become what you think, what you say, and what you do. Know yourself. Ego Practice Flip your palms upward and extend your index finger. This finger represents the ego. An incomplete understanding of yourself often leads to unwise action. When the ego dominates, self-surrender is replaced by emotional reactivity. We become anxious, overactive, restless, and unable to recover. The ego always feels there is not enough time. It fears its own disappearance, sees time as an enemy, and attempts to outrun it by chasing one experience after another, instead of resting in the quiet presence of the inner self. Now gently curl your index finger into your palm and rest your thumb over it. Take a slow, deep breath, and surrender to your deeper nature. As we release the ego's need to control, life begins to flow more peacefully. We stop defining ourselves by the body, possessions, status, achievements, or power. By connecting with the soul, we surrender the false self and awaken to a deeper truth: life is a sacred play, and we are players here to learn and evolve. When we allow ourselves to move with the natural flow of life, our participation becomes more objective, more compassionate, and less self-centered. Through self-surrender, we discover balance, flexibility, strength, and peace. From this place, life flows with greater ease, and joy becomes a steady companion. Remember, you are a part of, not apart from, the whole. As you think, speak, and act, you become. Know yourself. Namaste ~ may you walk the path of life with health, happiness, and peace. Doctor Lynn