"Miracles Are Seen in Light" is the headline for Lesson 91 in A Course in Miracles. It is important to note that miracles and vision are inseparable and form a central idea in your new thought system. The presence of miracles is not caused by your vision, nor does their absence result from your failure to see.
Your awareness of miracles is the only aspect affected. By perceiving them in the light, you will not see them in the dark. A Course in Miracles defines vision as God's perception of us in our perfection, and it encompasses the miracles that counter the ego's separation from our source. The things perceived by our physical eyes are illusions created by the ego, forming a simulated reality opposite to God's plan for us.
Miracles exist in a pure and perfect form as created by God, regardless of our perception. They do not appear or disappear based on our ability to see them. The fluctuating world of scarcity and pain that we experience through our bodies represents darkness. "Miracles are seen in light" refers to our inward journey, disconnecting from the body and connecting with our inner divine source.
To connect with the inner light, we delve into the teachings of A Course in Miracles. It offers specific exercises to awaken our perception of the inner light. In paragraph five, the lesson suggests setting aside three ten-minute sessions for quiet reflection, leaving behind the limitations associated with perceiving through the body. Recognizing that you are not a body and aligning your mind with your will allows you to transcend the body and experience your inner strength.
The longer practice begins with affirming the true cause and effect relationship: "Miracles are seen in light, but I am not a body. What am I?" This process guides us towards understanding ourselves as spirit. The passage assures us that by engaging in this practice, we will encounter spirit, the source of inner light, and progress to a higher level. It is important to note that the Course does not view the body as inherently evil or negative. Rather, it is a neutral reflection of the mind and its connection to spirit. The body is likened to a computer screen that displays the effects of what is happening within the mind. By following these teachings, we can develop our ability to perceive miracles in the light, detach from the limitations of the body, and connect with our inner divine source.
If there are positive developments and efficient processes on the computer, they will be manifested on the screen. The body is described as a learning device that provides insights into the deeper levels of the soul. However, it is important to avoid demonizing the body. Labeling it as inherently evil or bad can create unnecessary conflicts elsewhere. Instead, it suggests that when we pass away, the ideal approach is to simply remove the metaphorical garment we have been wearing, fold it up, and set it aside, expressing gratitude for the years of service it has provided. This perspective offers a beautiful and gentle way to contemplate the concept of dying. I often reflect on it when I learn about the passing of individuals close to me. In the past month alone, I have received news of six different people who were connected to most of my clients. Over the span of 20 years, I have built enduring relationships, accompanying them on their journeys alongside their families and children. My heartfelt condolences and love go out to all those affected. I prioritize maintaining their confidentiality, both in person and in any related videos.
There's one additional point to address before concluding. Referring back to paragraph four and cross-referencing Lesson 47, it states that even your small efforts receive strong support. If you realized the immense strength that lies within you, your doubts would vanish. Today, we will focus on helping you feel that strength, which makes all miracles easily accessible. As you experience this inner strength, the miracles hidden by your sense of weakness will become evident. By trusting the steps explained here, opening your heart and mind, and tapping into the inner light, you will witness the manifestation of strength for yourself. It is crucial to exercise free will and agency in making the request for miracles, so we do not find ourselves complaining about something imposed upon us unintentionally. Some individuals may hold the position that they prefer struggle, sleep, and the drama rather than freedom from scarcity, pain, suffering, and isolation offered by the inner miracles. Therefore, the divine respects our choices and asks us to engage in the simple practice of going inward and connecting with the inner source of light. In response, it will meet us with an immeasurable amount of strength, surpassing our own perceived weakness. That is why I carry Lesson 47 as a reminder, reciting the mantra "God is the strength in which I trust" throughout my day. By surrendering to this inner GPS, I allow it to take charge, surpassing my own limited ways. It becomes evident that, compared to the capabilities of this inner guidance, my own intelligence and accomplishments pale in comparison. I often humorously refer to myself and other human beings as "dumb as doorknobs" to emphasize the gap between our abilities and what the inner GPS can do for us if we collaborate with it.
An alternate term for "vision" in this context could be "truth." We discuss truth as opposed to fear, referring to universal truths that apply not only to ourselves but also to God. As reflections of God, these truths are transitive properties that extend to us. This perspective forms the basis of our vision. I perceive it as an additional interpretation. Vision can encompass the various attributes represented by premade miracles, such as peace, love, strength, joy, abundance, and health. These qualities are multidimensional and holographic, making it challenging to encapsulate them with a single word.
Now, we will transition into discussing a chapter from my book, Nightmares to Miracles. Regarding the design of the book cover, I initially planned for it to feature only the blue and white colors. However, upon closer examination, I noticed what appeared to be gray smudges. I initially thought it was a mistake or a flaw. It turned out those were Native American dreamcatchers, which completely transformed my perception. I realized they were a wonderful and unexpected addition made independently by the designer, which felt like a meaningful gift to me. I often mention that there is a hidden puzzle connected to A Course of Miracles without disclosing it fully. I'm curious to see if the general input sparks intrigue and prompts people to share their thoughts on the representation from A Course of Miracles.
Moving on, in the 1-Page Mind trainer, this marks the stage where, in my work with individual clients, we begin focusing on the "vision board." The document uses color coding, with red denoting the Practical Key, the blue representing the Blueprint Key, and the Inner Genius key highlighted in green. It serves as a worksheet to identify different quadrants and categories to cover in the vision board process. For instance, you'll find three columns: Practical, Blueprint, and Inner Genius. Under the Practical column, the main goals for the year in health, wealth, love, and enlightenment are outlined. These are the top goals for 2023, with half the year remaining. This document will be updated at least annually, although it may be revised more frequently for individuals.
Following the goals section, there is a list of recent achievements—accomplishments that bring pride, fulfillment, and satisfaction. Underneath the goals and achievements, in the Practical column, there is a section referred to as the parking lot. It includes items that one may wish to pursue in the future, but not within the current year. These could include starting a family, getting married, buying a house, relocating, or returning to school, among others. This encompasses the first column, where the focus is on establishing specific details and desires. Ultimately, all these elements will be complemented by pictures and the typical components found in vision boards.
Moving on to the second column, the Blueprint key, we have a box designated for identifying current stressors. These could be related to mortgages, student loans, spouses, children, or any other sources of stress. Below that, we explore the main traumas throughout our lives, conducting inventories from birth to the present year, addressing deep-seated points of pain. When creating the actual vision board, we aim to include elements that address these stressors and traumas, focusing on healing, freedom, and release.
The final column, the Inner Genius, has been an ongoing exploration throughout the book. Here, we consider areas where one may possess a particular genius, inclination, or affinity. For example, I personally have a passion for playing the guitar, although I wouldn't claim to have a special talent for it. These are distinct attributes. While I derive enjoyment from playing the guitar and have dedicated 30 years to its study, the manifestation of exceptional talent in that area has yet to occur. However, who knows? Perhaps a miracle will transpire, and I will start playing like Jimmy Hendrix. For now, I approach it with a sense of fun and enjoyment, much like someone playing golf without a serious commitment. These hobbies serve as metaphors for life—improvement through practice, the joy of engagement, and the valuable lessons learned over the years.
Exponentials represent elements that help us amplify our efforts. Email, for instance, is an exponential tool in our lives. The ability to communicate with a million people instantly through email is significantly more efficient compared to sending physical letters. It's remarkable how these technological advancements have transformed our capabilities. Similarly, the ability to interact with individuals from thousands of miles apart, resembling an in-person meeting, could be an exponential. You can see each other's features, share information on a shared screen, and collaborate efficiently. These advancements are all examples of exponentials—efficiency multipliers that maximize impact with minimal effort. I encourage my clients to explore what inspires them in an exponential manner. It could be catalysts and enzymes, which expedite reactions in the body that would otherwise take hours, or other aspects that enhance productivity and effectiveness. Additionally, there is a section dedicated to the Miracle Resume compilation of extraordinary events that have occurred in one's life, considered to be miracles.
As a 17-year-old, coming to the States to pursue college was a miraculous experience for me. Transitioning from a biology major to psychology and religion, which resonated more with me, was another significant milestone. Getting accepted into a competitive PhD program, successfully completing it, and establishing my own business are among the miracles in my life. However, one of the most impactful miracles I often discuss is my heart miracle. I thought I was doomed, but thanks to A Course in Miracles and the miracle process, I managed to avoid open heart surgery, no longer require heart medication, and can exercise without limitations. It's a testament to the power of healing and the miracles that have unfolded in my life since 2014. In the final section, the Miracle Resume, individuals are encouraged to document their own miracles and recognize the profound moments that have shaped their lives. These miracles can vary for each person, serving as reminders of the extraordinary events that have transpired.
Moving on to the "Four Doors to Miracle Success," it's essential to reaffirm our focus on fundamental aspects such as our health, financial stability, and the work we undertake to achieve these goals. Love, represented by circles of loving connections, begins with self-love and extends to encompass the universe, the divine, family, friends, colleagues, and the world at large. Finally, enlightenment, the inner light we have discussed, is about cultivating a deep relationship with our inner selves. It is through this connection that we perceive particular miracles, basking in their illumination and harnessing their transformative power.
The entire process we have explored forms the foundation of the vision board. As individuals fill out these sections, they can translate their thoughts and aspirations into visual representations, resulting in a highly gratifying experience. Over time, versions of the vision board evolve, capturing the growth and progress made along the journey.
Before concluding, I would like to mention that my co-host on the podcast, Brittany, has an old YouTube video I where she demonstrate how to create a digital vision board using a user-friendly graphic design tool called Canva. By accessing Canva.com and creating a free account, individuals can explore various templates and examples tailored to their vision board needs. The digital medium offers the advantage of specificity, allowing for precise selection of images, fonts, and quotes that resonate on a deeply personal level. Additionally, the digital version can be saved as a desktop background, printed as a poster, and conveniently shipped by Canva if desired.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of a vision board lies in its ability to energize and inspire us on a subconscious level. The more it ignites that fire within, the more potent its impact becomes. Considering these alternative approaches can enhance the vision board experience and provide a fresh perspective on manifestation. Using the 1-Page Mind Trainer you can identify the principles which you wish to form the building blocks of your aspirational miracle life. To recap, be encouraged to complete the 1-Page Mind Trainer yourself and create a vision board accordingly.
