ne	retreat eliminate or escape the system for a while

Retreat is a temporary separation or disconnection of the problem from the problem-owner. This may either mean removing the problem from the problem owner (elimination) or removing the problem-owner from the problem (escape).  Retreat is usually intended to be followed by a returm with renewed strength (for example in military or spiritual contexts), or with a better balance.

Contrast this with removal, which is a permanent separation or disconnection.

Retreat as disengagement may belong to a cycle of engagement–disengagement–reengagement.  Sometimes you might disengage with no intention to reengage, unsure whether you ever will or can reengage.
 

Military retreat	When faced with an obstacle, retreat until the time is right to overcome the obstacle. (Several of the 36 stratagems include various forms of time biding, especially stratagem 36.)
Spiritual retreat	The hermit removes himself or herself from the mundane, the profane, in order to concentrate on the spiritual, the sacred.  Whether into the countryside for a long weekend, or sitting atop a pole for the rest of your life.

Page last updated on February 19th, 2001 Copyright © 2001, Richard Veryard