Lesson 7: I See Only the Past
Description:
In this episode of Deep Dive in A Course In Miracles, we delve into Lesson 7: “I see only the past.” This powerful practice reveals how our perception is influenced by past experiences and judgments, shaping the way we view the world today. By applying this idea to everything we see, we begin to challenge the hold of past associations and open ourselves to a fresh, unclouded perspective. Join us as we explore how this lesson can transform your understanding of perception and bring you closer to true awareness.
Briefing Doc: A Course in Miracles - Lesson 7
Main Theme: The perception of the world is shaped by the past, obstructing true understanding of the present.
Key Ideas:
• The past conditions perception: Our view of the world is determined by past experiences, preventing us from seeing things as they truly are.
• The present is inaccessible: We do not perceive objects, such as a cup, as they exist in the present moment. Instead, we view them through the lens of memories, sensations, and prior knowledge.
• The illusion of reality: This distorted perception creates an illusory reality in which our thoughts and reactions are shaped by the past.
Important Points:
• Time as a barrier to truth: Past conceptions of time prevent us from embracing this new idea and perceiving the present with clarity.
• Practical application: The lesson suggests an exercise to integrate this perspective by observing everyday objects and affirming: “I see only the past in [name of object].”
Key Quotes:
• “This idea is particularly difficult to believe at first. Yet it is the reason why all the previous ones are true.”
• “This is why you gave everything you see all the meaning that it has for you.”
• “What do you know about that cup, except what you learned in the past? You would have no idea what it is, if you had not learned it in the past. Do you, then, really see it?”
Conclusion:
Lesson 7 of A Course in Miracles invites us to question our perception of the world and recognize the influence of the past on how we see things. The goal is to free ourselves from the constraints of the past to access a more authentic perception of the present.