We have seen that Surrender is a discipline; however, this lesson will explore the implementation of this discipline. One cannot expect to overcome the negative, aggressive forces inherent in our base, primal nature through passivity. Therefore, surrender cannot be completely passive. When attempting to surrender to positive virtues, one becomes instantly aware of the diligence required to succeed.

 Recognition

The first task in surrender is that of recognition. One must recognize the need to surrender which often comes as a result of negative energy, habit patterns or destructive tendencies. One may first observe a negative pattern, for example procrastination. The next course of action would be to meditate upon the origins of this vice. Even though this is a common vice, it may have specific personal origins. One will recognize the presence of another vice called avoidance. Avoidance is more clearly attached to principles such as Fear, Doubt and Gratification. Once these are recognized in meditation, one must acknowledge their presence.  

Acceptance

The next task in the discipline of Surrender is that of acceptance. Having recognized the presence of negative vices and principles, one must accept the reality that they are present. This is best done through conscious assent, either verbally or in the mind. "I acknowledge the presence of procrastination and avoidance." "I recognize that they are the result of self gratification and the desire to remain independent and free of control."

Surrender

The next task is to identify the Positive Principles and Virtues to which one needs to surrender and embrace. This is the heart of the meditation. One may simply pick a virtue such as Diligence and meditate upon the various aspects. One may pick a totem creature such as the hummingbird which busies itself collecting nectar and supplying the earth. One may choose to picture the salmon fighting its way upstream to the origins of its birth, or the mighty Redwood or an ancient Oak. One must embrace the Serenity found in the simplicity and awe of these images. One must accept the truth represented in nature and one's place within that truth.

Application

After the meditation and conscious surrender must come the application. One will find that having embraced Positive Virtues and Principles, Positive Energy now exists. One is now free from the urges and tendencies of the base, Primal Nature. The Primal Nature will attempt to regain control, but one must embrace the newly acquired virtues and continue to abide in the realm of Serenity. Struggle and determination will not help in this application. They will only serve to energize the Primal Nature. The solution is to return to the state of Serenity by again surrendering to virtue through acceptance, and if need be, meditation.