Forgiveness is everything. It is the way I live a peaceful and happy life while I think I am here. It is the way I awaken from the belief in separation. Forgiveness is the great need of the world, so I stay vigilant for it. No matter where it seems to appear—in someone I know and love, someone I don’t know at all, or in a situation—I am really only seeing the need to forgive a false belief I am holding. Thus, I am always forgiving myself, even when it appears to be outside my mind, because I am the one doing the seeing.
When I first started the Course, it seemed as if the list was endless. But now, while I still find something to forgive each day, it no longer feels overwhelming. Here is an example of how I practice. Someone I love very much is involved in something that could bring devastating consequences for himself and others. Each time I think of it, I feel fear clutch at my gut. This is the main focus of my forgiveness today.
I know there is no hierarchy of illusions. An illusion is an illusion regardless of the form it takes. My mind knows this; my heart sometimes begs to differ. Fear had taken over this morning, and I was lost in the story. But I asked my Brother Jesus to stand with me as I practiced, and my mind cleared; peace returned. It is such a relief when the fog of judgment and fear lifts and, once again, I recognize the presence of a miracle. I feel deep gratitude.
No matter what seems to be the source of my distress, it is always some belief in my mind that needs to be forgiven and let go. There are only a few root cause beliefs, so it is not difficult to see what is asking for correction: the belief that I am unsafe, unfairly treated, a victim, unloved or unlovable, the belief in lack or loss, and the belief in guilt. There may be others, but these come quickly to mind. I am willing to have them all undone. When I do, I am forgiving on behalf of the Sonship because what is forgiven in my mind is forgiven in all minds.
If the forgiveness doesn’t come naturally and easily, I ask the Holy Spirit to correct my perception. It is always a perception that needs correction. This loved one of mine is just living out his script and learning from it as he goes, just as we all are. Jesus says we are learning to remember. I love that idea because it simplifies every decision and puts everything in perspective.
I hope my friend chooses to learn with less suffering, but that is his decision. Regardless of how it seems to unfold, he and I remain safe in God, even while we appear to have this strange experience of separation.
My friend has decisions to make, and that is his responsibility. My interpretation was the problem, not what he seemed to do. So that is what needed correction, and that is my responsibility. That simple request for healed perception is easy to remember and can be offered even when I am busy. Even when I forget the truth, I am supported, strengthened, and comforted.
I am, as always, grateful for A Course in Miracles and for my Father Who placed the Holy Spirit in my mind to guide, heal, and comfort. And in that acceptance, love is remembered.
Video: https://youtu.be/pToXA92Q9Uc
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