Once a month, I play the organ at what previously was the Christian Science society. I was one of three remaining members of that organization and when we closed our doors, the building was deeded over to a non-profit organization called Heart of Many Ways. This was the dream of a local woman — to create a safe space for smaller spiritual groups to meet. This month, a flutist joined me. She chose a beautiful number called Deer Song, from the oratorio, Concerning Matthew Shepard. We asked a local Englishman to narrate the beautiful words along with this exquisite tune. We ended our hour of classical duets with this emotional piece. (If you’re interested in knowing more about this young man, Matthew, or the song, it’s easily found online). After the well-received program, the woman who facilitates happenings in this group called me with fears and concerns. She was worried that this emotionally-charged selection could cause people to sink into despondency, perhaps even triggering suicide. I listened to her. Realizing that “all things I think I see reflect ideas”, I understand everyone will not interpret events the same. I choose to see this song as a beautiful call to action for those of us who stand up for human rights. I realize, also, that some may see it as a sad event which stays with them, creating anxiety. I am grateful to see both sides of this story.
“All things I think I see reflect ideas. This is salvation’s keynote: What I see reflects a process in my mind, which starts with my idea of what I want. From there, the mind makes up an image of the thing the mind desires, judges valuable, and therefore seeks to find. These images are then projected outward, looked upon, esteemed as real and guarded as one’s own. From insane wishes comes an insane world. From judgment comes a world condemned. And from forgiving thoughts a gentle world comes forth, with mercy for the holy Son of God, to offer him a kindly home where he can rest a while before he journeys on, and help his brothers walk ahead with him, and find the way to Heaven and to God.
“Our Father, Your ideas reflect the truth, and mine apart from Yours but make up dreams. Let me behold what only Yours reflect, for Yours and Yours alone establish truth.”
A Course in Miracles W-325.1:1–2:2
“Ideas of Truth alone are reflected in the myriad manifestations of Life, and thus it is seen that man springs solely from Mind.”
Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 543:26-28
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