Surrender, Surrender

Dear Universe,

Have you heard that song by Cheap Trick that goes “surrender, surrender, but don’t give yourself away?”

Of course you have (and you’re probably also imagining a jazz-handed Zoey Deschanel mid-parent trap – IYKYK).

But anyway, I feel like those lyrics are hanging over my head these days. I’m learning the hard way that I just need to surrender to life’s plan.

And, Universe? I’m really really not good at it.

I want to be in control. I want to feel certain about things before I make moves. I want to analyze every minute detail of every possible thing because I just might discover some magical hidden answer that will give me both control and certainty in any given situation.

But every single time I try, you laugh, say “bitch, please,” and knock me right back down on my ass where I belong.

Kidding – sort of.

I don’t think you want me to be on my ass. I actually think what’s happening is that you want me to get it through my thick skull that I’m wasting my energy trying to think my way into clarity and predicting unpredictable outcomes.

You just want me to live life by the seat of my pants and let the clarity follow.

Not loving that plan yet, by I’m starting to accept it.

Because I do believe that you have a plan for me I can’t always (ever…) see. You know what I need and when I need it. Opportunities and people will come into my life when I’m ready for them and when they’re ready for me.

So yes, I’m picking up that my job in all of this surrending thing goes back to that stupid wisdom prayer (or whatever it’s called) – to remember the things I can control, let go of what I can’t, and be wise enough to know the difference.

Wisdom sounds a little more empowering than surrender, doesn’t it?

And to circle back, Universe, I haven’t forgotten the second part of the lyrics: “don’t give yourself away.”

As much as I’m trying to float like a butterfly on the wings of life, I’m ready to sting like a bee when something feels right for me, too.

I’m learning to trust my gut and my intuition to take action when it feels aligned – when it feels like the control actually is mine for the taking. I’m learning to stay true to myself as the number one priority through the surrender.

I really believe that’s what you’re asking of me here (and Cheap Trick just nailed the message in a shorter and catchier way).

So I guess that leaves us with this, Universe: Mommy’s alright, and she may seem a little weird, but she’s learning and she’s growing.

Cheers to the surrender.

XO – Bailee

July 9, 2026