In a sense, Atonement – which is the correction for the mad idea of separation – includes an appreciation of the power of our mind. If thought can create a world in which we suffer and die, can it not also set that world aside in order to behold the origin and truth of its own creative ability?
Can it not create – through extension, not projection – only the perfect, the good and the true?
. . . life is thought. Let me look on the world I see as the representation of my own state of mind. I know that my state of mind can change. And so I also know the world I see can change as well (W-pI.54.2:3-6).
Life is inclusive, rather than divisive. There is Life, not many lives. God creates in a continuous flow, rather than by bits and pieces. Thus, there is no such thing as a private thought. Since all mind is one, “every mind contains all minds” (W-pI.161.4:2). Our power to create is shared; it comes forth in unity with our brothers and sisters.
As my thoughts of separation call to the separation thoughts of others, so my real thoughts awaken the real thoughts in them. And the world my real thoughts show me will dawn on their sight as well as mine (W-pI.54.3:6-7).
Critically, Lesson 18 describes a mutual experience. As we awaken others, others awaken us. It is impossible for a Child of God to be alone or to create in isolation. Love does not reinforce separation – the illusion of the personal self with private thoughts and separate interests. It undoes separation by demonstrating that the power to change every mind about what it is, is in us because it is in God.
And only what God created is real, and nothing God did not create exists. This is the source of unending peace (T-in.2:2-4).
The workbook lessons teach us that the world has already been changed, and in doing so, reminds us that what we are in truth is beyond the reach of illusions. It can’t suffer; it can only heal and be healed.
I would behold the proof that what has been done through me has enabled love to replace fear, laughter to replace tears, and abundance to replace loss. I would look upon the real world, and let it teach me that my will and the Will of God are one (W-pI.54.2:4-5).
The answer – and all the happiness it can offer us – has been given. Are we ready now to accept it and – through our active acceptance – extend it to a world in need of salvation?
