Lesson 9

I see nothing as it is now

This idea obviously follows from the two preceding ones. But while you may be able to accept it intellectually, it is unlikely that it will really mean anything to you as yet. However, understanding is not necessary at this point. In fact, the recognition that you do not understand is a prerequisite for undoing your false ideas. These exercises are concerned with practice, not with understanding. You do not need to practice what you really understand. It would indeed be circular to aim at understanding and assume that you have it already.

It is difficult for the untrained mind to believe that what seems to be pictured before it is not there. This idea can be quite disturbing, and may meet with active resistance in any number of forms. Yet that does not preclude applying it. No more than that is required for these or any other exercises. Each little step will clear a little of the darkness away, and understanding will finally come to lighten every corner of the mind that has been cleared of the debris that darkens it.

These exercises, for which three or four practice periods are sufficient, involve looking about you and applying the idea for the day to whatever you see, remembering the need for its indiscriminate application and the essential rule of excluding nothing. For example:

I do not see this typewriter as it is now.

I do not see this key as it is now.

I do not see this telephone as it is now.

Begin with things that are nearest you, and then extend the range:

I do not see that coat rack as it is now.

I do not see that face as it is now.

I do not see that door as it is now.

It is emphasized again that while complete inclusion should not be attempted, specific exclusion must be avoided. Be sure you are honest with yourself in making this distinction. You may be tempted to obscure it.

Personal Notes: “What a good thing we are not expected to understand the exercises in order to benefit from them”. I was flailing in darkness unable to see which end was up. Knowing and believing there was a better way to live this life here, hungering and longing for answers and direction. Led of Holy Spirit to study the Course, exercises of undoing the way we see things now, and practicing, I see nothing as it is now, seemed like a good place to start. Believing that each small step is clearing the darkness and debris from my mind little by little bringing light and understanding into every corner of my mind, bit by bit. I have seen great results in doing these exercises for the past 2 years and am looking forward to reviewing the lessons once again and sharing with others throughout this new year of 2021 with great expectation for even more Enlightenment, Purpose, Peace and Love for all brothers in Christ Jesus and myself! Thank you for sharing with me. Walk in Love my friend.