Essence of practical process DIAGRAM
Here are the six points from yesterday’s class. I have changed their order slightly, in that what was #5, about choosing reality, has now become #3. It became clear to me that this order more accurately reflects how the Course seems to picture the process.
1. Be constantly aware of the two sides—reality and illusion
Nothing real can be threatened.
Nothing unreal exists.
Herein lies the peace of God.
This is how A Course in Miracles begins. It makes a fundamental distinction between the real and the unreal; between knowledge and perception. (Preface)
2.Hold in mind the goal of moving from one side to the other
Meaningful seeking is consciously undertaken, consciously organized and consciously directed. The goal must be formulated clearly and kept in mind. (T-4.V.5:3)
Do not let your mind forget this goal for long. (W-pI.126.11:2)
3. Choose, remember, dwell on reality
Frequently remember, dwell on, and focus on reality and your desire for it.
This mainly takes the form of repeating meaningful statements, such as “I choose to see my brother’s sinlessness” (Lesson 335).
4. Watch your mind for illusions
Be vigilant for the intrusion of the ego into your mind
Watch your mind for the temptations of the ego, and do not be deceived by it. (T-4.IV.6:1)
While you believe that two totally contradictory thought systems share truth, your need for vigilance is apparent. (T-7.VI.8:11)
Look on it calmly
Let us, then, look upon them calmly, that we may look beyond them. (T‑23.II.1:4)
Look at it honestly
Watch carefully and see what it is you are really asking for. Be very honest with yourself in this, for we must hide nothing from each other. (T-4.III.8:1-2)
Look on it from the perspective of reality
For His answer is the reference point beyond illusions, from which you can look back on them and see them as insane. (T-13.III.12:9)
5. Choose to let them go
Today we let no ego thoughts direct our words or actions. When such thoughts occur, we quietly step back and look at them, and then we let them go. (W-pI.254.2:1-2)
This mainly takes place through repeating statements that negate the illusion. For instance, “God did not create that war, and so it is not real” (W-pI.14.4.5).
6. Express your new perception in your behavior
Miracles are expressions of love. (T-1.I.35:1)
[Please note: ACIM passages quoted in this article reference the Foundation for Inner Peace (FIP) Edition.]
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