We have been quite casual about our practice periods thus far. There has
been virtually no attempt to direct the time for undertaking them,
minimal effort has been required, and not even active cooperation and
interest have been asked. This casual approach has been intentional, and
very carefully planned. We have not lost sight of the crucial importance
of the reversal of your thinking. The salvation of the world depends on
it. Yet you will not see if you regard yourself as being coerced, and if
you give in to resentment and opposition.
This is our first attempt to introduce structure. Do not misconstrue it
as an effort to exert force or pressure. You want salvation. You want to
be happy. You want peace. You do not have them now because your minds
are totally undisciplined, and you cannot distinguish between joy and
sorrow, pleasure and pain, love and fear. You are now learning how to
tell them apart. And great indeed will be your reward.
Your decision to see is all that vision requires. What you want is
yours. Do not mistake the little effort that is asked of you for a sign
that our goal is of little worth. Can the salvation of the world be a
trivial purpose? And can the world be saved if you are not? God has one
Son, and he is the resurrection and the life. His will is done because
all power is given him in Heaven and on earth. In your determination to
see is vision given you.
The exercises for today consist in reminding yourselves throughout the
day that you want to see. Today’s idea also tacitly implies the
recognition that you do not see now. Therefore, as you repeat the idea,
you are stating that you are determined to change your present state for
a better one, and one you really want.
Repeat today’s idea slowly and positively at least twice an hour today,
attempting to do so every half hour. Do not be distressed if you forget
to do so, but make a real effort to remember. The extra repetitions
should be applied to any situation, person or event which upsets you.
You can see them differently, and you will. What you desire you will
see. Such is the real law of cause and effect as it operates in the
world.