July 5, 2013 - Arrogant or Humble?

"Adventure in Mongolia"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #186

“Salvation of the world depends on me.”

Admittance that salvation of the world depends on me may sound arrogant, but the opposite is true. The realization that we are united with God and all that Is -- that's humbling. It's easy to get this concept backwards, believing if we recognize our oneness with God, we are displaying braggadocio. It looks to me as though that is humility. The boastful behavior comes about with a misplaced idea of our heritage, insisting that we're not worthy, that we're weak humans, that we have no choice as to our circumstance. It's arrogant to think your material beliefs are more valid than the ideas of God. Never question what right you have to think this way. It's your birthright!

Mary Baker Eddy quote: "God creates all forms of reality. His thoughts are spiritual realities. So-called mortal mind — being non-existent and consequently not within the range of immortal existence — could not by simulating deific power invert the divine creation, and afterwards recreate persons or things upon its own plane, since nothing exists beyond the range of all-inclusive infinity, in which and of which God is the sole creator. Mind, joyous in strength, dwells in the realm of Mind. Mind’s infinite ideas run and disport themselves. In humility they climb the heights of holiness."

July 4, 2013 - Independence

"Fireworks"
by Aaron Springston

A Course in Miracles Workbook Lesson #185

“I want the peace of God.”

This is a day of celebration in the United States. On July 4th we celebrate Independence. Today's lesson tells us that if we want the peace of God, it is ours. The reason for this is that peace is our birthright as a child of God. If we don't experience this peace, it's because we don't really want it. So today I will celebrate my independence from thoughts which bind me to old ways which do not bring peace nor freedom. I will throw off the shackles of belief and celebrate the freedom which living my true heritage brings. I won't concentrate on what I am not, but what I Am. I Am a reflection of divine Mind. Woo-hoo!! Let the celebration begin!!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"A few immortal sentences, breathing the omnipo‐tence of divine justice, have been potent to break despotic fetters and abolish the whipping-post and slave market; but oppression neither went down in blood, nor did the breath of freedom come from the cannon’s mouth. Love is the liberator."

Science & Health Page 225:16-22

July 3, 2013 - Key to the Door of Truth

"Glacier National Park"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #184

“The Name of God is my inheritance.”

Not only have we chosen names to delineate things, but we have preconceived notions about what those things represent. These names and our ideas about what they mean separate us from each other: they de-unify us. We think learning is knowing what these things are, and we study to find out everything about them. While we need these symbols, these names, to communicate in the world we have made, we keep getting glimpses of true communication -- and, if you're like me, you want more! Watching birds fly in formation is but one way we get a taste of something beyond what we, as humans, believe to be communication. Rather than learning more about these illusion of names and notions, I'd rather work toward understanding that everything real is a shared unity with God. The knowledge that the confusion we are faced with in daily life is not true creation, this is the key to the door of Truth. Therein we find peace.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“In the Scriptural allegory of the material creation, Adam or error, which represents the erroneous theory of life and intelligence in matter, had the naming of all that was material. These names indicated matter's properties, qualities, and forms. But a lie, the opposite of Truth, cannot name the qualities and effects of what is termed matter, and create the so-called laws of the flesh, nor can a lie hold the preponderance of power in any direction against God, Spirit and Truth.”

Science & Health Page 177:15-24

July 2, 2013 - What is God's Name?

"Aaron in China"

ACIM Workbook Lesson #183

“I call upon God's Name and on my own.”

What is God's name? Certainly it is different things to different people. That's part of the separation we speak of so often. All the names that represent individuality and differences need to be forgotten. Perhaps, like me, you want to think of God as Love. Omnipresent Love.  I also use the seven synonyms given for God by Mary Baker Eddy. These words build upon each other and totally define Deity. Each word alone does not do the job, but when you start to see the connection in these synonyms, there is an overwhelming All-ness which begins to be understood. Mind, Spirit, Soul, Principle, Life, Truth, Love. These seven words combine to give us a gift. This gift grows as it is accepted and practiced within our mind. Through this material insight, we are able to see a bit of our spiritual reality. Translate the word God in any way it feels correct within yourself. You can't go wrong!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"Question: What is God?

Answer: God is incorporeal, divine, supreme, infinite Mind, Spirit, Soul, Principle, Life, Truth, Love.

Question: Are these terms synonymous?

Answer: They are. They refer to one absolute God. They are also intended to express the nature, essence, and wholeness of Deity. The attributes of God are justice, mercy, wisdom, goodness, and so on.

Question: Is there more than one God or Principle?

Answer: There is not."

Science & Health Page 465: 8-17

July 1, 2013 - Be Still and Go ...

"Bryce Canyon"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #182

“I will be still an instant and go home.”

This lesson is asking us to quiet all the hubbub in our existence for just an instance, in order to feel the peace of God which is ours. And so I will today pause for many instants. I will sink deeper into the wonder of Truth, knowing all else is but a made-up dream of existence. When I hear anything which might cause me to think in a defensive way, I'll remember what is true and what is imagined. If the world has decided to live in an attack mode, defending against everything which it deems to be harmful, I will do my part in bringing in the dawn of Truth by accepting spiritual reality and rejecting material myth. An instant is all it takes to feel the presence of God!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“As mortals begin to understand Spirit, they give up the belief that there is any true existence apart from God.”

Science & Health Page 282:30-32

June 30, 2013 - We're All In This Together

"Bryce Canyon"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #181

“I trust my brothers, who are one with me.”

[To hear Auntie Patricia read the introduction to the next 20 lessons, and today's lesson, go to: acimessentials.com]

Reading today's topic reminds me of something Marianne Williamson jokingly said: I can't stand fundamentalists; they're so judgmental! And I'm also reminded of how judgmental I was when seeing a man outside my gallery who was carrying a sign saying something about anyone who marries a divorced woman is an adulterer. I have since examined why this man's actions were so disturbing to me. Perhaps it's because I'm thrice-divorced. Perhaps it's because I perceive him to be a religious zealot and I'm afraid I'm one, too. Whatever the reasons are, I am uncomfortable with my feelings toward him, so I know they need to change. We are learning that if something is disturbing to us, we need to look within and root out the cause. It's easy to forget that we are all in this together. It's hard to see past the stories we've chosen for ourselves in this life.  Some of these guises are delightful, some are hideous, but they're all make believe. I will work to rid myself of needless notions, while looking inward to Truth.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“I saw the love of God encircling the universe and man, filling all space, and that divine Love so permeated my own consciousness that I loved with Christlike compassion everything I saw.”

"We Knew Mary Baker Eddy" Page 68

June 29, 2013 - Set Free by Grace

"Ozark Mountains"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #180

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of:

#169 "By grace I live. By grace I am released."

#170 "There is no cruelty in God and none in me."

For me, preparation for reception of Grace has but one essential quality: silence. Whether you call it meditation, prayer, communion, listening, it matters not. Be kind to yourself. Allow your heart to hear. There's a Joel Goldsmith book entitled "Practicing the Presence" which contains wonderful words speaking to this subject. One analogy he gives is of a person sitting in the dark and declaring that electricity gives light. Of course this is true, but we're still sitting in the dark until we flip the switch and make a connection with the source of the light. He states that nothing is going to happen to us, regardless of how many affirmations of truth we know or repeat, unless we attain the consciousness of that truth and realize our Oneness with the Source. I am particularly struck by the two statements in today's review: "By grace I live. By grace I am released" and "There is no cruelty in God and none in me." Recently I had a conversation with a friend in which it was disclosed that her in-laws and her husband had been abused by their father. The father has passed away and the three children, now in their 60s, suffer in numerous ways from these past actions. The mother knows this, but won't admit it happened. If only she could do this for her beloved children, they could all be set free. Everyone knows, but no one will acknowledge it. "By grace I live. By grace I am released." This grace is ours whether anyone gives it to us or not. This mother does not need to release her children, but they don't know this and so they remain trapped. How many situations do we feel ensnared by, when in actuality nothing can keep us in bondage. All we need do is realize our source is God. Nothing else matters.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"As aforetime, the spirit of the Christ, which taketh away the ceremonies and doctrines of men, is not accepted until the hearts of men are made ready for it."

Science & Health Page Page 131:22-25

June 28, 2013 - Life is Deathless

Aaron at Yellowstone

ACIM Workbook Lesson #179

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of:

#167 "There is one life, and that I share with God."

#168 "Your grace is given me. I claim it now."

We are so happy to know and accept the fact that Life is deathless! But then we try to turn that immortality into material life. We imagine ourselves going on into the "afterlife" in this body, with these feelings, seeing others whom we know in their bodies, with their individuality as humans intact. And we are very upset if we think this may not be what we will experience. We have decided to think it's comforting to imagine that life through the "pearly gates" will be just like this -- only better! No one of us knows exactly what will happen after the change we call death. But by listening to those who have more experience than I do in such matters, I am gaining a sense of what seems plausible and what doesn't. And one thing I'm absolutely sure of is that there is nothing to fear. What an adventure it will be!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

In the illusion of Illusion of death, mortals wake to the knowledge of two facts: (1) that they are not dead; (2) that they have but passed the portals of a new belief."

Science & Health Page 251:8-11

June 27, 2013 - Friends

"Between Friends"

ACIM Workbook Lesson #178

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of:

#165 "Let not my mind deny the Thought of God."

#166 "I am entrusted with the gifts of God."

Gathering with others is a lovely way to be reminded of the Truth inherent in us. The Thought of God isn't our thinking about God, but our listening to the Thought which is God. I love to talk with others and hear how these images of divine Mind shine through the myths we have created for ourselves in daily life. More and more we are realizing what is True and what is simply habitual thinking, perpetuated by repetition. And how do we know if it's coming from the one Source or our mortal, limited thinking? Does it make my heart sing and my mind feel at peace? Does it bless all equally, along with me? Or do I feel an uneasiness which I can't exactly pinpoint? Maybe there's a feeling of importance and superiority. These last two things are sure indicators that the thoughts are coming from my limiting sense of ego and not the One Mind, God.  Today I want to "Be with those who help [my] being." Rumi 

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“How empty are our conceptions of Deity! We admit theoretically that God is good, omnipotent, omnipresent, infinite, and then we try to give information to this infinite Mind. We plead for unmerited pardon and for a liberal outpouring of benefactions. Are we really grateful for the good already received? Then we shall avail ourselves of the blessings we have, and thus be fitted to receive more. Gratitude is much more than a verbal expression of thanks. Action expresses more gratitude than speech.”

Science & Health Page 3:17-27

June 26, 2013 - Mesmerizing Things

"Performance in Thorncrown Chapel"

ACIM Workbook Lesson #177

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of:

#163 "There is no death. The Son of God is free."

#164 "Now are we one with Him Who is our Source."

I've been asked numerous questions about yesterday's writing concerning the mesmeric quality of lyrical music. As synchronicity would have it, I was some place today for almost two hours where classic rock music was playing. Probably 90-percent of the lyrics had to do with separation: wanting something you can't have, having something you don't want, feeling lost and lonely -- or worse. One person tells me that it's a good thing to have music remind us that we're not alone in feeling horrible. To mortal sense, I'm sure this is so. But that's what we're trying to break away from with the realization of our true identify as a reflection of divine Mind. And so I will choose to soar with the sounds of songs without words. Every thought is important. Let me not be a parrot! 

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“When the final physical and moral effects of Christian Science are fully apprehended, the conflict between truth and error, understanding and belief, Science and material sense ,,, will cease, and spiritual harmony reign.”

Science and Health Page 288:10–14

June 25, 2013 - I'm a Sponge -- Are you?

"Super-moon over the Ozarks"
photo by Arhur Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #176

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of: #161 "Give me your blessing, holy Son of God."

#162 "I am as God created me."

While playing in my flower garden this evening, my neighbor was washing his car with his radio turned up all the way. I was reminded of how music with lyrics is mesmerizing and quite an effective form of brainwashing! It easily drowns out the "still, small voice" of inner knowing. As a student of Christian Science, I am learning to turn thought away from that which I do not want to be a part of me. My years spent as a court reporter showed me that I'm a mental sponge. Many times, after listening to testimony about disease, typing it, proofreading it, I would then have those very symptoms myself. And so I practice keeping thought in line with what I want to experience in my life. When I'm riding in the car, I prefer the company of Wayne Dyer or Eckhart Tolle or someone I can have a stimulating interaction with! Today I will be super-aware of what I'm bringing into my consciousness. 

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"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 251:4-7

June 24, 2013 - Joy is Contagious!

photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #175

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of: #159 "I give the miracles I have received."

#160 "I am at home. Fear is the stranger here."

I'll always remember a man who came in the gallery and told me that he thought Eureka Springs was stuck in a time warp. He seemed to think this was a detrimental thing. And so, I thought about that. Of course, it's not wise to be stuck in the past, so I asked him if that's what he meant. Yes, he said, but even more than that he found the people here to be oblivious to the "outer world". He actually asked if we watched television and had computers here! He said that everyone he had met was happy, and if we knew what was going on in the world we wouldn't be. Wow!! I really liked that he saw us in this way, but, as we know, it's more than that. I know lots of happy people who are aware of what's going on "out there". Perhaps this is what is meant by "being in this world but not of it". This happiness we exhibit is being shared unselfishly with all who wander into our world. We give our acceptance of Life to everyone we meet. With the understanding that God is love and so am I, there is nothing to fear. To live Love is to claim peace and express it in every action and thought. This man caused me to examine what it is which allows us to live this way, and I'm happy with what I see! And I'd be willing to bet he's had a few thoughts along these lines, too! He's probably out there scattering joy just like we're doing here in Eureka. It's contagious!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Beauty, wealth, or fame is incompetent to meet the demands of the affections, and should never weigh against the better claims of intellect, goodness, and virtue. Happiness is spiritual, born of Truth and Love. It is unselfish; therefore it cannot exist alone, but requires all mankind to share it.”

Science & Health Page 57:15

June 23, 2013 - Never Alone

photo by Heather Magnan

ACIM Workbook Lesson #174

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of:

#157 "Into His Presence would I enter now."

#158 "Today I learn to give as I receive."

My thoughts are occupied by the palpable sadness expressed to me today by a woman. She is in a loveless relationship with a manipulative person. As she told me a short version of her story, it unfolded that she wouldn't leave because she didn't want to be alone. And she quoted Eudora Welty: "We are the breakers of our own heart." Looking back at my own life and how often I broke my own heart, I'm very aware of where she's coming from. I remember never leaving one man until I had another one waiting. I remember the restlessness and fear of loneliness that would drive me to the bars. By the understanding of our unity, by feeling the Oneness within, I'm no longer afraid of the silence. Whereas it used to be loud and fearful, it's now quiet and peaceful. I know some people think that to have God as your best friend is pretty boring. I don't!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

[This is from the glossary of S&H, where she gives spiritual interpretations to biblical things]

"Japhet (Noah’s son) A type of spiritual peace, flowing from the understanding that God is the divine Principle of all existence, and that man is His idea, the child of His care."

June 22, 2013 - Change

"Marsha During Christmas Home Tour"

ACIM Workbook Lesson #173

Central Theme: “God is but love and therefore so am I.”

Review of:

#155 "I will step back and let Him lead the way."

#156 "I walk with God in perfect holiness."

Oftentimes we realize change is necessary in our lives, but various reasons keep us from moving forward. There may be factors of fear, stubbornness, or hedonistic desires involved in our reluctance. Almost 20 years ago, I was prompted to make some major changes. I brought my children to Eureka Springs and started a new life. We changed everything from our furniture to our way of thinking and daily activities. The cleansing effect of this change brought happiness and peace where drama and turmoil had been before. Recognizing that "God is Love and so am I" allowed me to be led in perfect holiness, for which I am most grateful.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

"… we must first turn our gaze in the right direction, and then walk that way. We must form perfect models in thought and look at them continually, or we shall never carve them out in grand and noble lives."

Science & Health Page 247:25-29

June 21, 2013 - Step by Step

"Wildfire Sunset"
photo by Arthus Lau-Sed

ACIM Workbook Lesson #172

Central Theme: “God is but love and therefore so am I”

Review of: #153 “In my defenselessness my safety lies.”

#154 “I am among the ministers of God.”

Our studies take us, step by step, into a new/old world. The spiritual consciousness within us is being opened, allowing new perceptions to become a natural shift in our lives. It's easy to slip back into discarded thought, and I've done so recently. I've been defending silly behavior on my part, lashing out if anyone comes close to exposing my foolishness. I must keep in mind that when I judge others, I judge myself. When I defend, I become defenseless. When I live in Love, I am among the ministers of God. One of my favorite statements from A Course in Miracles is, "Choose again!" And so I shall. Namaste'

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Teach your student that he must know himself before he can know others and minister to human needs. Honesty is spiritual power.”

Science & Health Page 453:14-15

June 20, 2013 - I Am Love

Unknown photographer

ACIM Workbook Lesson #171

Central Theme: "God is but love and therefore so am I."

Review of: 

#151 "All things are echoes of the Voice for God."

#152 "The power of decision is my own."

We often wonder how to demonstrate in daily life the ideas we're learning about. To feel the love that I share with God, the Love that is our essence, it helps to feel the warmth of a puppy, to see a fawn with its mother, or to hold a newborn baby. From that point, it's an easy leap to open my heart to omniscient Love. Today let's concentrate on the Love which is God and all the ways in which we reflect that. Specifically, knowing that all things are the echoes of the Voice for God is a wonderfully comforting knowledge to relax into. It helps me to see God everywhere. In doing that, the decisions to be made are already made. Listening to these echoes leads us in paths of peace and right choice. There can be nothing else when surrendering my personal will, my so-called ego, to the perfection of divine Love.

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Individuals are consistent who, watching and praying, can 'run, and not be weary; . . . walk, and not faint,' who gain good rapidly and hold their position, or attain slowly and yield not to discouragement. Imperfect mortals grasp the ultimate of spiritual perfection slowly; but to begin aright and to continue the strife of demonstrating the great problem of being, is doing much.”

Science & Health Page 254:1-15

June 19, 2013 - Kindness is Our True Nature

"Three Generations of Love"

ACIM Workbook Lesson #170

“There is no cruelty in God and none in me.”

It often seems difficult to accept that cruelty is not a part of so-called human nature. We have heard for so long that certain behaviors are built-in and nothing can be done about it. There is a new traffic cop in Eureka Springs who seems to be mean-spirited and rude. I have been trying to see past his actions to his true Being, but without much success. Recently I saw him crossing the street, heading toward a woman, and immediately I thought to myself, What's he going to do to her? He walked up to her and gently reached out and petted a little dog she had in her arms. The expression on his face was that of pure love and kindness. Yippee!! There it was! A symbol of his real Self, expressed in a sweet act. As we learn that we are actually spiritual, we are able to see through the facade built by fear into the face of Love. If it's true that what we put our attention on grows, that's where I want to be!

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“And we solemnly promise to watch, and pray for that Mind to be in us which was also in Christ Jesus; to do unto others as we would have them do unto us; and to be merciful, just, and pure.”

Science & Health Page 497:24-28

June 18, 2013 - Preparing the Ground

"Thorncrown Chapel in
Eureka Springs, Arkansas"

ACIM Workbook Lesson #169

“By grace I live. By grace I am released.”

A goal of these teachings we study is to clear our minds of learned beliefs and behaviors, preparing a clean page for grace to be written. We are told that the reception of grace is past learning, yet it is the goal of learning. It is explained that grace is inevitable for the prepared mind. And so we plow and turn, sow seeds and pull weeds, allow lots of light to enter, water lovingly, and expect high yields from our planting. Yesterday evening, I attended a musical performance in a splendid setting. A fellow attendee said of our experience that she felt cleansed and nurtured. These types of activities are integral to preparation for reception of grace. They enable me to say, "God is, and then cease to speak, for in that knowledge words are meaningless."

Mary Baker Eddy quote: "We should strive to reach the Horeb height where God is revealed; and the cornerstone of all spiritual building is purity. The baptism of Spirit, washing the body of all the impurities of flesh, signifies that the pure in heart see God and are approaching spiritual Life and its demonstration." 

Science & Health Page 241:24-30 

June 17, 2013 - Grace is Mine

"Illinois Sunset"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #168
“Your grace is given me. I claim it now.”

Today's topic sent me to Webster's in search of definitions for "grace". The one which seems to fit best is this: Divine Love and protection bestowed freely on people. I urge you to listen to and/or read the ACIM lesson in its entirety at www.acimessentials.com. Accepting the grace which is ours involves giving it at every opportunity. Mary Baker Eddy’s spiritual interpretation of the Lord’s Prayer includes this correlation to "Give us this day our daily bread": "Give us Grace for today, feed the famished affections." It seems everywhere we look, we see these "famished affections". By practicing kindness when faced with hardness of heart, meekness when those around us are aggressive, loving those who seem unlovable, and paying it forward in every action, we prepare ourselves to acknowledge the God-given Grace which is our true heritage. And we learn what it feels like, not just what it means.


Mary Baker Eddy quote: “What we most need is the prayer of fervent desire for growth in grace, expressed in patience, meekness, love, and good deeds. To keep the commandments of our Master [Jesus] and follow his example, is our proper debt to him and the only worthy evidence of our gratitude for all that he has done. Outward worship is not of itself sufficient to express loyal and heartfelt gratitude, since he has said: "If ye love me, keep my commandments." [Those commandments being: Love God above all else and your neighbor as yourself.]

Science & Health Page 4:3-10

June 16, 2013 - Life is Divine Principle

"Principia Soccer Team"
photo by Aaron Springston

ACIM Workbook Lesson #167

“There is one life, and that I share with God.”

I was in the grocery store check-out line. The kid sacking the groceries was trying on the checker's glasses. He says he doesn't know how anyone can see through them, and the checker tells him they're reading glasses and he'll find out some day.  He says, "I hope God comes before that happens." The checkout lady says, "That's horrible! No, that's wonderful. No ..." At this point, I also was somewhat speechless. We had interpreted his comment to mean he hoped he died before he lost his 20/20 vision. But upon reflection, he could have meant other things -- perhaps "the rapture"?? The whole conversation reflected muddled, confused thought in so many ways. For one thing, the assumption is being made that getting older requires a loss of close-up sight. Erroneous assumptions abound here! But ultimately the kid was right in hoping "God comes before this happens". This appearing of God doesn't require us to die, and it doesn't require some miraculous change in the way things are, it simply requires a change in our thought about reality. In this change, all sorts of things we thought to be law are seen to be illusion. I prefer to consider what Life is, rather than what it is not. After this event at the grocery store, I came home and watered my flower garden. The beauty of a sunset, combined with earthy scents, brought Life into focus. The fireflies began to come out and the scent of mint, anise hyssop, and wet earth took over my senses. I saw not only the unreality of erroneous material thought but how unnecessary it is. To be still and experience the beauty of this life is enough. All questions are answered in the stillness of yielding to All that Is. I Am that I Am. Amen ~~~

Mary Baker Eddy quote:

“Question: What is Life?

Answer: Life is divine Principle, Mind, Soul, Spirit. Life is without beginning and without end. Eternity, not time, expresses the thought of Life, and time is no part of eternity. One ceases in proportion as the other is recognized. Time is finite; eternity is forever infinite. Life is neither in nor of matter. What is termed matter is unknown to Spirit, which includes in itself all substance and is Life eternal. Matter is a human concept. Life is divine Mind. Life is not limited. Death and finiteness are unknown to Life. If Life ever had a beginning, it would also have an ending.”

Science & Health Pages 468:26-6