May 1, 2015 - The Forgiving Mind

"White River in Beaver, Arkansas"
photo from Arthur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #121

“Forgiveness is the key to happiness.”

We are told in today’s ACIM lesson that “forgiveness is the key to happiness”. The unforgiving mind is sad, torn with doubt, confused, afraid, angry, weak, blustering, afraid of every sound and more afraid of stillness; terrified of darkness, but more so of approaching light. Recently I went with a friend to see the movie “Cinderella”. It was a visual treat, full of fun transitions and beautiful scenes. The wicked stepmother and her daughters exhibited all of the characteristics of an unforgiving mind, while Cinderella held to what her mother had taught her: courage and kindness. Because of her loving disposition and compassion, she was shown the way out of drudgery by a fairy godmother. In the final scene, she tells her stepmother she forgives her and, of course, lives happily ever after. Some people think of this as a silly story, something made up in order to give ourselves false hope, but I’ve seen some real-life fairy tales in action. When I attend an event and feel wicked-stepmother energy and sweet-princess energy, I’m going to go sit by Cinderella!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“The depth, breadth, height, might, majesty, and glory of infinite Love fill all space. That is enough!

Science & Health Page 520:3-5

April 30, 2015 - All is Well

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Lesson #120

Review of:

#109 "I rest in God."

#110 "I am as God created me."

A friend recommended that I read, Dying to be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing by Anita Moorjani. Although this title would be sufficient to turn me away from it when seen on a book shelf, I trust my friend and immediately delved into this beautiful story. One of the important points made in the book is something that is recognized in our studies: Sickness is not your fault. Often new-age teachings tell us that past thoughts and actions create karma which returns to you in terrible ways. Ms. Moorjani assures us that this is not the case. Although many factors may be involved in physical illness, blaming yourself and seeking absolution has nothing to do with true healing. The recognition that you are pure Love, the knowledge that you are connected to everything, the joy which comes from acceptance of yourself just as you are -- this understanding of your being is what allows the body to be well. It doesn't matter what caused it, what "stage" the problem has advanced to, what mortal predictions are on the table -- nothing matters but the acceptance of yourself as a product of Love. When feeling the purity of Oneness, all material thought must be silenced. We can stop striving and start Being. When slipping into this space of pure Love, nothing else matters. And all is well.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Mortal mind must part with error, must put off itself with its deeds, and immortal manhood, the Christ ideal, will appear.”

Science & Health Page 430:3-5

April 29, 2015 - Correcting Error?

photo courtesy of Chris Fischer

ACIM Lesson #119 Review of: #107 "Truth will correct all errors in my mind." #108 "To give and to receive are one in truth."

It seems there are any number of errors to correct in this world. It’s quite a relief to discover that I only need to correct them in my mind, not in the fearful and angry minds I witness around me. If I look at these actions with horror, or disgust, or anger, or fear, I have become a part of them and share in them. If I look on others as Love, there is forgiveness. By making such statements in public, I run the risk of someone telling me I don’t know what I’m talking about — and, perhaps, they won’t be using words quite so kind! There is a young woman who makes video talks about these teachings. Today I witnessed someone attack her in the comments section of youtube. If the speaker and the listeners are willing to give this man energy in retaliation and defense, we are accepting this attack within ourselves. If we give him forgiveness and love, honoring him as he is, where he is in thought, realizing we are all One in Truth, then we give this back to ourselves. Therein lies correction!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Because Truth is infinite, error should be known as nothing. Because Truth is omnipotent in goodness, error, Truth's opposite, has no might.”

Science & Health Page 329:21-24

April 28, 2015 - Peace, Stillness, Truth

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Course in Miracles Lesson #118 Review of: #105 "God's peace and joy are mine." #106 "Let me be still and listen to the truth."

When our minds are busy with worries and repetitive thoughts, when we're voicing our concerns either orally or mentally, it's very difficult to hear the still, small voice of Truth. This is why I always recommend meditation for people who tell me they’re having problems sleeping. Not only must the mind be quiet for easy, peaceful falling into sleep, but the last thoughts we think before sinking into this other-worldly abyss are very important! We have been told by material practitioners of various disciplines that sound sleep is necessary for good health; that it facilitates healing in on-going ways which are necessary to our well-being. I've always felt this is true because we need to be quiet to hear the ever-present voice of Truth, which is often drowned out by the constant chatter we allow into our heads. This listening mode of being is essential to health, because this health we speak of comes from listening to our true Self rather than the material beliefs of the ages.  Silencing our lips and thoughts to materialism allows Love to replace error, then peace and joy reign supreme in our existence. What a lovely byproduct!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Lips must be mute and materialism silent, that man may have audience with Spirit, the divine Principle, Love, which destroys all error.”

Science & Health Page15:11-13

April 27, 2015 - God = Love = Happiness!

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Lesson #117

Review of: #103 "God, being Love, is also happiness." #104 "I seek but what belongs to me in truth."

Nothing can be imaged forth in form unless it exists in consciousness. What??  I know, I know. You may say you had never heard of such and such disease until you got it. Well, collective consciousness counts, too. Yikes! So how do we keep from contracting every disease and imaging forth all the horrors of the world? This is exactly what Gary Renard tells us in "The Disappearance of the Universe" and what Mary Baker Eddy means by "there is no life, truth, intelligence, nor substance in matter". When we put more faith in matter than Spirit, then, yes, we are subject to every little quirk of the universe. But the realization of Truth puts us under no government but that of divine Mind, God. It may seem that it would be impossible to come out from under the tent of materiality in favor of Spirit. I've had enough glimpses to know it is indeed very possible. But it takes work. When you listen to detailed stories of disease, it become embedded in consciousness. I'm never surprised when something jumps out of that vast forever, but I do negate it in thought -- to the best of my ability. And practice does make perfect, so I won't give up!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“...God is Love, and without Love, God, immortality cannot appear. Mortals try to believe without understanding Truth; yet God is Truth.”

Science & Health Page 312:16-19

April 26, 2015 - Happiness is the Way!

Marsha at Film Festival
photo courtesy of Jay Vrecenak

ACIM Lesson #116

Review of: #101 "God's Will for me is perfect happiness." #102 "I share God's Will for happiness for me."

As sage words tell us: There is no way to happiness; happiness is the way. I’ve had a lovely time at our local Independent Film Festival! It’s wonderful to see old friends again. I’ve been hermit-ing for the last few months, enjoying solitude after a change in my physical circumstance in December. Many people are surprised that I’m this happy after losing a lower extremity, but I hold to the perfect happiness which is mine as the experience and expression of God. Happiness and peace never change, and when my ego tries to tell me otherwise, that misperception is quickly corrected when I allow it to be. For the ability to see past material belief, I am very grateful!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Upon this stage of existence goes on the dance of mortal mind. Mortal thoughts chase one another like snowflakes, and drift to the ground. Science reveals Life as not being at the mercy of death, nor will Science admit that happiness is ever the sport of circumstance."

Science & Health Page 250:28-1

April 25, 2015 - Changing Thought

photo from Arthur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #115

Review of:  #99 "Salvation is my only function here." #100 "My part is essential to God's plan for salvation."

Imagine a world with no pain, no war, no lack. This is the world presented in a marvelous movie called, "The Giver". This scenario seems Utopian on the surface, but no one sees colors, or feels love, or knows joy. This world of sameness is set up to eliminate envy and greed, as these are feelings that lead to conflicts and war.  Jeff Bridges plays the giver of memories, as no one else knows the memories of past horrors or wonders. What do you think? Would it be worth it to have a perfectly comfortable and predictable world with no highs nor lows? Is this what we're trying to create for ourselves in giving drugs to anyone who steps outside of the so-called norm in society? What are we creating in our efforts to make everyone socially acceptable? Do you think the media is part of this plot to make sameness the only way to go? I feel like I'm asking you questions in an Oprah book club or something similar! This movie asks us: Is all the pain worth the glimpses of love we may experience.  I know many of us are willing to give up our belief in a hellish world of pain and reach within for heaven. I can see that many of us are finding bliss no matter what the outer circumstance, but a lot of people are frightened and resistant. We can't change anyone else, but we can change our own thought. If we really are One, this makes a difference!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Now is the time for so-called material pains and material pleasures to pass away, for both are unreal, because impossible in Science. To break this earthly spell, mortals must get the true idea and divine Principle of all that really exists and governs the universe harmoniously.” Science & Health Page 39:21-27

April 24, 2014 - Salute!

"Peach Blossom"
photo courtesy of Chris Fischer

ACIM Workbook Lesson #114

Review of: 

#97 "I am spirit."

#98 "I will accept my part in God's plan for salvation."

The knowledge that we are Spirit and the understanding of what that means allows us to live by divine law rather than material belief.  It's difficult to accept that we are so much more than we ever thought! We tend to continue behaviors which are comfortable, rather than opening up to a whole new paradigm of thought and action. Today I’d like to salute all people who have stood up to material laws and worked to end inhumane practices. We can look back in history and find many, such as Joan of Arc, Jesus, and thousands of lesser-known names. But today I want to salute each and every one of you who aren’t afraid to express divine Love in all action and thought. Accepting our part as an emanation of Spirit brings freedom of thought and action. The willingness to leave the old ways and embrace Oneness in every moment opens us to the grand adventure of Life. Cheers to you! 

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Question. — What are the demands of the Science of Soul?

Answer. — The first demand of this Science is, ‘Thou shalt have no other gods before me.’ This me is Spirit. Thou shalt have no intelligence, no life, no substance, no truth, no love, but that which is spiritual.”

Science & Health Page 467:1-7

April 23, 2015 - Too Many Rules

"Tsagaglalal"
Fabric Creation by
Sandy Starbird

ACIM Workbook Lesson #113 Review of: #95 "I am one Self, united with my Creator." #96 "Salvation comes from my one Self."

As a society, it seems we have gone overboard with rules, don't you think? When we look to Spirit to guide and govern every action, there is no need for a multitude of laws to tell us what we can and cannot do. Personal government is not dictated by material laws. No matter how many mandates we make in the name of safety, there will still be trees that fall down without prior notice. When we are governed by divine Law, which is heard when listening to that "still, small voice" within, we truly can live by the Golden Rule of doing unto others as we would have them do unto us. Living by this rule of Oneness results in a peaceful feeling. If uneasiness is bouncing around in my chest, it's time to wonder why! I want to be governed by the intuitive feeling which comes from listening with spiritual sense. Ah -- At-One-Ment!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Atonement is the exemplification of man's unity with God, whereby man reflects divine Truth, Life, and Love.”

Science & Health Page 18:1-3

April 22, 2015 - Namastè -- No Matter What!

ACIM Workbook Lesson #112:

"Robin in Nest"
photo by Chris Fischer

Review of: #93 "Light and joy and peace abide in me" #94 "I am as God created me."

In the movie, “Gandhi”, a Hindu man comes to the Mahatma and tells him that he is going to hell because he has killed a little boy. He is asked, Why did you do this? He replies because the Muslims killed his little boy. Gandhi tells him there is a way out of this hell, and that is to find a little Muslim boy whose parents have been killed and raise him as his own — as a Muslim. Forgiving ourselves is often the hardest thing to do. It helps to know we are the image of Love, the idea of God, the expression of Spirit. It’s easy to see that God which is Love would not condemn and has no need to forgive. Seeing ourselves as that reflection allows us to be the same. Namastè.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Man is idea, the image, of Love; he is not physique."

Science & Health Page 475:13-14

April 21, 2015 - Sit Quietly in the Light

"Spring, White River"
photo by Arthur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #111

Review of: #91 “Miracles are seen in light." #92 "Miracles are seen in light, and light and strength are one.”

I’ve spent most of a day laughing about the actions of people in regard to a local non-discrimination ordinance. Some folks think it should be repealed and are being very vocal about this. They are trying to spread fear amongst people by telling us that if this ordinance is in effect, men can go into women’s public restrooms and subject our children to abuse. As though this isn’t ridiculous enough, one of their videos promoting this viewpoint features a new minister in our town. It turns out he’s a serial rapist who spent over 20 years in prison. So they’ve had to pull their video from the pages of social media and do a bit of backtracking. There is so much craziness surrounding this that I have become almost overwhelmed with giggles every time I see something new. I am reminded time and again, in so many ways, to simply sit quietly with the light and allow things to unfold. Therein is strength!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Love inspires, illumines, designates, and leads the way. Right motives give pinions to thought, and strength and freedom to speech and action. Love is priestess at the altar of Truth. Wait patiently for divine Love to move upon the waters of mortal mind, and form the perfect concept."

Science & Health Page 454:18-23

April 20, 2015 - True Self

"Bryce Canyon"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #110

“I am as God created me.”

During a conversation with friends, someone asked me how I could have come through a particularly traumatic time without some form of therapy. I hadn't really thought about this, but only knew that I had accepted reality over illusion. The reality is that I am as God created me. The illusion is all the stories I encountered which could affect how I feel about myself and others. Let's say you have just found out about something which happened in the past. This something changes many material truths you believed, including your name, age, and heritage. What reaction would you have? Perhaps your initial response would be anger. People would say this is a normal reaction to betrayal. With the realization that you are as God created you, this situation is seen to have absolutely nothing to do with your true Self, allowing the hurtful illusion to dissipate as mist hit by sunlight. Our hurt feelings, our fears, can disappear into their native nothingness, being replaced with the Truth of Being. "I Am as God created me." Anything other than our true creation is changeable. Today I choose unchanging, eternal Truth!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“In divine Science, man is the true image of God. The divine nature was best expressed in Christ Jesus, who threw upon mortals the truer reflection of God and lifted their lives higher than their poor thought-models would allow.”

Science & Health Page 259:6-9

April 19, 2015 - Active and Quiet Rest

"Around the Bend"
painting by Carol Dickie

ACIM Workbook Lesson #109

“I rest in God.”

Since the closing of my gallery at the end of 2014 and the changes in my mobility, I haven’t been to many social events. Today I went to an art show which a dear friend was having at a lake-front house in an idyllic setting. Not only did I revel in her beautiful art, but I saw many artists and friends whom I hadn’t seen in quite some time. It was inspiring and invigorating and I’m glad I went. These last few months of relative solitude have enabled me to rest in God more easily than ever before. I found that this rest was not disrupted by the cacophony of mortal thought which bombarded me out in the world. It was with gratitude that I watched and felt people’s loving care and fearful worries being expressed. I suddenly realized any number of ways I can be of service in the world by allowing the experience of God to flow through me. I am grateful for the rest — both quiet and active!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“…when we realize that immortal Mind is ever active, and that spiritual energies can neither wear out nor can so-called material law trespass upon God-given powers and resources, we are able to rest in Truth, refreshed by the assurances of immortality, opposed to mortality."

Science & Health Page 387:8-12

April 18, 2015 - Unified Thought

"Dogwood Canyon"
photo by Arthur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #108

“To give and to receive are one in truth.”

"One thought, completely unified, will serve to unify all thoughts." This is a sentence from today's ACIM lesson. The spiritual reality we are learning about allows this idea to be not only possible, but probable! During practice periods we are advised to hold out to others what we would have for ourselves. For instance: "To everyone I offer quietness. To everyone I offer peace of mind. To everyone I offer gentleness." Today I will open my heart to receive all the good which is innately mine. This reception opens avenues to share in unexpected ways. I will offer to others everything I want for myself: peace, happiness, joy, contentment, satisfaction, grace, love. Freely I have received, freely I will give.

Mary Baker Eddy quotes:    

"A musician demonstrates the beauty of the music he teaches in order to show the learner the way by practice as well as precept. Jesus’ teaching and practice of Truth involved such a sacrifice as makes us admit its Principle to be Love."  

--Science & Health Page 79:30-32

April 17, 2015 - Ascension

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #107

“Truth will correct all errors in my mind.”

Every prayer, every meditation, every expression of divine Mind is magnified exponentially. We have the power to change the world through ourselves. Every interaction identifies us with either a world of love or of fear. The Love which heals spreads through the web of Oneness. In the same way that we take personal responsibility for ourselves, our health, our well-being, we can take responsibility for a return to Love. It does matter what we do and what we think. We never know what a difference a simple interaction will make in someone's life. A single word or a smile may turn them away from reactive fear to healing Love. The Truth which corrects all errors in our mind is our ascension into heaven within. Never doubt that you matter, that you make a difference.  Allow silence and listening to guide you to your role in being the change you want to see. 

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Immortal ideas, pure, perfect, and enduring, are transmitted by the divine Mind through divine Science, which corrects error with truth and demands spiritual thoughts, divine concepts, to the end that they may produce harmonious results." Science & Health Page 259: 27-31

April 16, 2015 - I'm Full

Halloween at Eureka Thyme

ACIM Workbook Lesson #106

“Let me be still and listen to the truth.”

I'm full. I'm finished. I've had enough. These are phrases I've always had trouble with! Whatever my current tangent may have been -- smoking, drinking, reading, eating -- I've done almost everything to excess. There was a time I was somewhat proud of my "addictive personality". It's nice to relax out of those crimes against Self. It's still tough to give things up, especially when I feel they're not finished. Letting go of my art gallery is what I've mourned the last few months, but I think I'm done. Whether it's giving up a personal relationship, the passing of a loved one, the letting go of any cherished belief, it's always a freeing experience to come to peace with the emotions surrounding it. I may think I don't know what to do without a particular thing or person, but it always seems to be all right when looked at in retrospect. It takes a desire for inner silence and peace. Keeping a busy mind does nothing to fill the void I tried to stuff with everything other than Truth. I am most grateful for all which has led me to this parenthesis in eternity, and can hardly wait to see what tomorrow may bring!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Willingness to become as a little child and to leave the old for the new, renders thought receptive of the advanced idea. Gladness to leave the false landmarks and joy to see them disappear,--this disposition helps to precipitate the ultimate harmony. The purification of sense and self is a proof of progress.”

Science & Health Page 323:32-5

April 15, 2015 - Receiving and Giving

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #105

“God’s peace and joy are mine.”

Today we concentrate on the nature of giving and receiving. We have become accustomed to thinking of giving gifts for special occasions such as birthdays and holidays. Perhaps gifts are given as a form of compensation to those whom we appreciate because they are patrons of our business. Or maybe someone gave money to our favorite non-profit organization, so we give them a thank you gift. We may feel guilty if someone gives us a gift and we don't have anything for them. We have lots of beliefs about what should and should not be given and how we react to those offerings. It's difficult for many of us to accept gifts — perhaps it’s that old I'm-not-worthy syndrome rearing its head. I love these sentences from today's ACIM workbook lesson: "True giving is creation. It extends the limitless to the unlimited, eternity to timelessness, and love unto itself." To live our lives from this perspective allows us to express Love freely, with no fear of it being rejected or misinterpreted. It allows us to gently reach out to people we've just met with heartfelt expressions of empathy and compassion. We bloom in unexpected ways when "extending the limitless to the unlimited". It's ours to give and to receive, in an eternal loop of Love. There's no way to measure how far the ripples of our joy and peace may extend. My cup runneth over!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"The calm and exalted thought or spiritual apprehension is at peace. Thus the dawn of ideas goes on, forming each successive stage of progress." Science & Health Page 506:11-14

April 14, 2015 - Joy, Peace, Happiness

"Mongolia"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #104

“I seek but what belongs to me in truth.”

Joy and peace and happiness are my birthright. These things are what belong to me in truth. These gifts do not need to be earned. We needn't barter with a faraway god in order to experience them. We don't need to wait until we die, we don't have to do a certain number of good deeds, we don't need to take communion, it's not necessary to belong to a church. We have been hoodwinked into believing that we must strive all our lives to attain something which seems unattainable. The conflict of the world is so great that we can't make our way through the maze to the prize we know must be hiding somewhere. We are learning that we can confidently clear the altar of our minds, freeing our thought from fear and pain, and embracing our function as forgiveness, thereby healing our minds and allowing us to find what has always been there: joy and peace and happiness!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“God has built a higher platform of human rights, and He has built it on diviner claims. These claims are not made through code or creed, but in demonstration of "on earth peace, good-will toward men."

Science & Health Page 226:14-17

April 13, 2015 - Happiness Is ...

"Japanese Cherry Blossom"
photo by Chris Fischer

ACIM Workbook Lesson #103

“God, being Love, is also happiness.”

As if he knew I'd been intensely thinking about happiness for the last few days, an old friend (whom I hadn't seen in months) called and asked if I wanted to see a good movie. He brought it over and its title is, ”Hector and the Search for Happiness". It involves a man who is a psychiatrist and goes to China, Africa, and the U.S. asking people what happiness means to them -- and, of course, finds out what happiness means to him. Ultimately, it is not anything out there which is going to make us happy. One of the people he meets along the way asks how many of us remember a moment in childhood when happiness was a state of being; when everything, inside and out, was all right. I think that says it all, don't you? What does it take to be happy? Forgetting everything that makes you unhappy and allowing your natural state to shine forth! To quote the ACIM lesson: "God, being Love, is also happiness. and it is happiness I seek today. I cannot fail, because I seek the truth."

Love and happiness are our divine heritage as the expression of God. God is Love, and so are we!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Soul has infinite resources with which to bless mankind, and happiness would be more readily attained and would be more secure in our keeping, if sought in Soul. Higher enjoyments alone can satisfy the cravings of immortal man.”

Science & Health Page 60:28-1

April 12, 2015 - I See Happy People!

"Dogwood Blossom"
photo by Chris Fischer

ACIM Workbook Lesson # 102

“I share God’s Will for happiness for me.”

I see happy people! Everywhere I go, everyone I see is exuding joy. Even in places other than Eureka Springs, most people seem to be happy. Very few have dead eyes or downward sliding smiles. A sweet friend passed on a couple of days ago after a short illness. The last time I saw her was about two weeks ago. We sat on her back deck on a beautiful spring day, talking and laughing. We laughed so much her husband came out and jokingly said the neighbors were complaining and we needed to hold it down. She was genuinely happy, totally unafraid, and profoundly grateful. She knew she hadn't long to enjoy the thrill of living on this plane, and she was making the most of it. These Course in Miracles lessons which are guiding us toward happiness are appreciated by so many. May we all scatter joy as we go about our daily activities! Happy spring!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Look away from the body into Truth and Love, the Principle of all happiness, harmony, and immortality. Hold thought steadfastly to the enduring, the good, and the true, and you will bring these into your experience proportionably to their occupancy of your thoughts."

Science & Health Page 261:2-7

April 11, 2015 - What Will?

"Spring in the Ozarks"
photo by Arthur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #101

“God’s Will for me is perfect happiness.”

This Course in Miracles topic was posted by Auntie Patricia on her Facebook page.  Patricia Robinette has recorded all 365 lessons which can be found on youtube with her reading them in her own delightful way. But I digress. Someone commented to her social media entry saying that they didn't want God's will because they wanted their own will. It's interesting how we react to statements which seem, on the surface, to take something away from our own self. I've come to see that doing God's will IS my will. When I'm doing what I think of as my own free will, more often than not I'm simply regurgitating some long-held belief or performing a by-rote action. Can there be free will in a brainwashed mind? No one likes to think they're being controlled, for sure! But perhaps we have it backwards.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"The power of the human will should be exercised only in subordination to Truth; else it will misguide the judgment and free the lower propensities. It is the province of spiritual sense to govern man. Material, erring, human thought acts injuriously both upon the body and through it." 

Science & Health Page 206:4-9

April 10, 2015 - All is Well

photo courtesy of Jodie English

ACIM Workbook Lesson #100

“My part is essential to God’s plan for salvation.”

"Salvation and forgiveness are the same. They both imply that something has gone wrong; something to be saved from, forgiven for; something amiss that needs corrective change; something apart or different from the Will of God." I've had numerous thoughts about today's lesson, and have started to write about it in many ways, but none of them feel right. So I'm going to step back and let you tell me what this means to you today. Love to each and every one ---

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Harmony is produced by its Principle, is controlled by it and abides with it. Divine Principle is the Life of man. Man's happiness is not, therefore, at the disposal of physical sense. Truth is not contaminated by error. Harmony in man is as beautiful as in music, and discord is unnatural, unreal.”

Science & Health Page 304:16-21

April 9, 2015 - Led By Spirit

photo by Arthur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #99

“Salvation is my only function here.”

When David Hoffmeister was "called" to go on the road and talk to people about the teachings of a Course in Miracles, he didn't know how he would have the funds to do this. He was told by Spirit that all his needs would be supplied, but he didn't believe that. He found himself trying to teach Jesus about the laws of supply and demand.  David is a man with excessive formal education, including knowledge of economics, and so he felt certain that Jesus simply didn't understand how the world worked. We tend to think of people like Buddha and St Francis and Jesus as being beggars of sorts. They didn't make a lot of money, but trusted in the Universe to provide. David was being asked to rely on Spirit to articulate this new/old curriculum. He was being led to teach using everything available -- music, dance, lectures, gatherings -- to help others express deep Love and peace.  The reign of peace has begun, and many people are fighting against it. Let's not be concerned with that. Let's put our energy where it will grow -- on this peaceful transition. Christ consciousness is coming out of hiding and we're being called to help everyone see (by way of our own sight) that this is not some esoteric thing that must be kept secret. It's to be shouted from the rooftops! Fear not, shine your light, call forth witnesses to this light -- and above all, don't tone down your joy!

[Many David Hoffmeister videos may be found on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g--bfDLRd8]

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Love giveth to the least spiritual idea might, immortality, and goodness, which shine through all as the blossom shines through the bud.”

Science & Health Page 518:19-21

April 8, 2015 - Follow Your Heart

"St. Patrick's Day Parade in Eureka"
photo by Richard Quick

ACIM Workbook Lesson #98

“I will accept my part in God’s plan for salvation.”

Pierre Dulaine wanted to be a ballroom dancer. After years of performing, he became a teacher. He was determined to bring ballroom dancing to the classrooms of New York City. No one wanted him to do this. Administrators, teachers, and especially students thought it was a horrid idea. He persisted and now his way of teaching is integral in more than 500 schools around the world. His idea is that if you can dance together, you can get along. He paired up kids by height, with no regard to nationality or gang affiliation or anything else. When these kids are dancing, they are happy and everything else falls away. It doesn't matter if their families have feuded for years or if someone hurt the other's feelings the day before. These students are being taught respect for themselves and others through dance. They must hold each other and cooperate in movement. They are taught to look into each others' eyes and learn the confidence to do so in daily life. Pierre Dulaine was led to do something everyone thought to be foolish and a waste of time. He has followed his heart and brought a gift of Love and peace and grace to thousands by doing so. 

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Spirit, God, gathers unformed thoughts into their proper channels, and unfolds these thoughts, even as He opens the petals of a holy purpose in order that the purpose may appear."

Science & Health Page 506:18-21

April 7, 2015 - Substance

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #97

“I am spirit.”

The knowledge that Spirit is our true substance allows us how to live beyond the belief that we are this body. The much-quoted "Our Deepest Fear" from Marianne Williamson's A Return to Love tells us that what we fear most isn't our inadequacies but our power. Here is the paragraph from the book: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” These words will be a constant reminder to me today that I Am a reflection of God, and this will be demonstrated through knowing that I am Spirit, I am Soul, I am Life, I am Truth, I am Love, I am Mind, I am Principle.

Mary Baker Eddy quote: [This is from a dialogue between matter and Spirit. Spirit is speaking here]

“I am Spirit. Man, whose senses are spiritual, is my likeness. He reflects the infinite understanding, for I am Infinity. The beauty of holiness, the perfection of being, imperishable glory,--all are Mine, for I am God. I give immortality to man, for I am Truth. I include and impart all bliss, for I am Love. I give life, without beginning and without end, for I am Life. I am supreme and give all, for I am Mind. I am the substance of all, because I AM THAT I AM.”

Science & Health Page 252:32-8

April 6, 2015 - Know Thyself

ACIM Workbook Lesson #96

“Salvation comes from my one Self.”

A friend who is also a student of A Course in Miracles tells me she doesn't think these teachings should be presented to children. She thinks they wouldn't have a reason to live if they thought this way. I see it as just the opposite. It seems that the main problem young people are expressing is that they have no sense of self. I see with my own kids that knowing about their Self precludes them from worrying about the labels which may be put on them by others. Self knowledge fosters self confidence. There is much talk about bullying and labels which are used to taunt young people by their peers. Being a witness to what others do, but not becoming a part of it, is admitting the freedom of salvation. Not taking things personally is part of this freedom, but there's more than that. You must know what IS, not just what is not. Today I will delve deeper into Truth, knowing that the One Mind will show me what I need to know. I will look forward to interactions with young people, looking deep within and sharing salvation!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"The point for each one to decide is, whether it is mortal mind or immortal Mind that is causative. We should forsake the basis of matter for metaphysical Science and its divine Principle."

Science & Health Page 195:11-14

April 5, 2015 - The Joys of Today and Every Day

"Picnic Bunny"
painting by Judith Ann Griffith

ACIM  Workbook Lesson #95

“I am one Self, united with my Creator.”

For many of us, the celebrations of Easter hold negative trigger words such as salvation, resurrection, crucifixion. When we look at the metaphorical meaning of those words, we can relax into an understanding which is different from the traditional story telling about the murder of Jesus. I’m not going to delve into those interpretations as you all know them as well as I — perhaps better, depending upon your religious background. No matter what we have believed, we’re asked to put down the sword and pick up the flowers, carrying forth the light of forgiveness and recognizing ourSelves in the light of the Christ, which is what Jesus was trying to tell us in his beautiful teachings. If you want to hear some lovely things about this vision, Britney Shawley has a chat on youtube where she speaks to the resurrection we can experience daily. Happy Easter everyone! May the bunnies bring you joy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TscACpnru4s

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Resurrection: Spiritualization of thought; a new and higher idea of immortality, or spiritual existence; material belief yielding to spiritual understanding."

Science & Health Page 592:9-11

April 4, 2015 - Choose Again!

"White River"
photo by Arthur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #94

“I am as God created me.”

I am often amused by signs I see on billboards of churches. Today I was so appalled by one that a rude word came out of my mouth before I could stop it. On a return trip from a neighboring metropolis, I saw this in front of a small, country church: “Duct tape can mend anything, but God fixes it with nails. Happy Easter.” Perhaps I interpreted this as something other than what they meant it to be. Maybe I’m just on edge from being on the verge of defensiveness too much. Whatever the case, I was wrong. Today’s ACIM lesson reminds us to respond “You are as God created you” any time anyone irritates us. Too bad I wasn’t reminded of that yesterday. But it’s all right, because today I have a chance to choose again!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Sometime we shall learn how Spirit, the great architect, has created men and women in Science. We ought to weary of the fleeting and false and to cherish nothing which hinders our highest selfhood.”

Science & Health Page 68:4-9

April 3, 2015 - Light Materialized

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #93

“Light and joy and peace abide in me.”

Some days it's difficult to feel that light and joy and peace are abiding in me. During one of those times, I watched a documentary called "Queen of the Sun". In this film about bees, we are told that pollen is materialized light. I love that, don't you? When thought of in this way, it seems possible that we, too, are materialized light. As the reflection of God, that's exactly what we are! They also illustrate how the bee's light is freed through blocks of honeycomb, exquisitely shared with all as sweet, beautiful honey. And yet again, the light is freed through the illumination of beeswax candles. The freeing of light is cumulative with the bees, and we can experience the same thing as we unshackle the light and peace and joy within ourselves. Another lesson from the bees is the importance of community. Watching them working together for a common cause is uplifting and inspiring to me. It makes me want to join with my neighbors and do something important. But wait -- I'm doing that! What blesses one blesses all. My awakening to light and joy and peace is yours, too. Bees, people, trees -- as an idea of divine Mind, we're all in this together!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Light is a symbol of Mind, of Life, Truth, and Love, and not a vitalizing property of matter. Science reveals only one Mind, and this one shining by its own light and governing the universe, including man, in perfect harmony.."

Science & Health Page 510:27-1

April 2, 2015 - Light and Miracles

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #92

“Miracles are seen in light, and light and strength are one.”

I just saw a clip from a morning show where they were asking people questions about spirituality and religion. Most people they asked thought of themselves as spiritual but not religious. It seems the religious people were mainly looking for a sense of community and fellowship. An answer which was given often mentioned inclusiveness. People are looking for a spiritual group which will accept them as they are without trying to change them. People talked about doubt and said they needed groups of like-minded people to help them in times of loss and fear. It seems so simple for everyone to live together in Love, being kind, helping each other. Apparently it is not. Long-held beliefs cloud our vision and we fearfully try to pull others into our illusion. Today I will see the light of miracles everywhere I look, refusing to be pulled into darkness, even in jest.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“As a material, theoretical life-basis is found to be a misapprehension of existence, the spiritual and divine Principle of man dawns upon human thought and leads it to "where the young child was," --even to the birth of a new-old idea, to the spiritual sense of being and of what Life includes. Thus the whole earth will be transformed by Truth on its pinions of light, chasing away the darkness of error."

Science & Health Page 191:7-15