Crossover Week #8 (b)

(8.24) The Universal Mind–in which we live and move and have our being–is one and indivisible. This makes it just as possible to help others as it is to help ourselves.

(7.24) Our greatest success will be achieved by a recognition of the fact that it is just as essential to give as it is to receive.

We have the potential to help others by directing our attention (giving/serving) toward their well being. This is referred to as “blessing.”

(7.23) Selfish thought contains the germ of dissolution.

(8.23) To absolutely convince yourself of the truth concerning the conditions you desire to see manifested in life is the method for destroying all forms of fear.

Dissolution–in this context–is the erosion of a thought. Beneficial thought is the dissolution of fear. Thus, selfish thought–inevitably–leads to fear.

(8.22) The real “I” is spiritual and consequently creative and can, therefore, never be less than perfect.

(7.22) We can be of the most service by keeping an open mind. Be interested in the race not the goal; the pursuit not the possession.

As a result of our spiritual nature, we must keep an open mind in the face of adversity and realize that difficulty and obstacle are necessary for wisdom and spiritual growth (7.12). Suffering, though, is optional. (7.13)

By keeping our thoughts directed toward our ideal state, we can transcend the suffering of mind (5.27) and by seeking the cause of adversity (the effect), we are able to avoid repeating the cyclical actions that led to adversity.

(7.21) The first law of success is service.

(8.21) Every system of metaphysics depends upon a knowledge of the truth concerning ourselves and the world.

Truth is observable and measurable phenomena.  These are universally agreed upon concepts–like gravity, mathematics, and cause & effect. They are beyond dispute, regardless of culture or creed. These are not “absolute” truths because we can not be absolutely certain of anything. Science (observation) is constantly revising its understanding of nature (the observed).

In error, we define “truth” through the filter of our respective belief systems. Belief systems are contingent upon “hit or miss absolutes.”  These are not universally accepted nor empirically measurable, yet within specific cultural and sociological groups, they are regarded as infallible truths. Dogma and religion fit into this category.

Service is directed attention may be accompanied by action.

(8.20) Constructive thinking is a recognition of the creative nature of spiritual energy and our ability to control it.

(7.20) Insight enables us to understand the value of making application of knowledge we have gained. Many seem to think knowledge applies itself, which is–by no means–true.

We recognize our ability to control spiritual energy by taking the initiative to consistently direct our attention toward thoughts that support our ideal state.

Initiative is making application of knowledge we have gained.  The process of taking initiative results in the integration of knowledge to reorganize our belief systems.

Reorganizing our believe systems is a necessary process of individuation (bringing the unconscious into consciousness). This is a process that continues throughout our life because consciousness is in a constant state of evolving.

(7.19) A knowledge of the truth invariably destroys error. We do not have to laboriously shovel the darkness out. All that is required is to turn the light on. This same principle applies to every form of negative thought.

(8.19) The source of all harmony is constructive thinking.

Cause & effect is as reliable as gravity. This makes this principle of natural law an undisputed truth, observable by anyone, anywhere. When we choose to direct our thoughts toward our ideal state, we will begin feeling (experiencing emotion) that corresponds to our thoughts. the result is that our perception and attitude will change, opening us up to give (thought) and receive (thought) that will perpetuate the ‘feeling’ required to realize a manifestation of our ideal state.

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