holding on and letting go

In Zen Buddhism, there is an ill-remembered tale of a teacher who was once encouraging a student.

Perhaps referring to mind, the teacher advised, "Put it down."

When the student indicated he could not, the teacher advised, "Well, if you cannot put it down, pick it up."

In Buddhism, there are numerous encouragements that run along the lines of "letting go" or "surrender" or "drop it." Each has a wonderful ring to it. And each is easier said than done.

But less deference, if I am not mistaken, is accorded to the corollary -- the same statement in different words: Hold on tight, don't let go, never surrender! Love, sorrow, anger, compassion ... hold on with all your might!

In point of practical fact, is there a difference between holding on and letting go?

I doubt it, but I imagine it's worth checking out.