Library of Christ Mind Teachings
ACIM Original Edition
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1 It is because the thoughts you think you think appear as images that
you do not recognize them as nothing. You think you think them, and so
you think you see them. This is how your “seeing” was made. This is the
function you have given your body’s eyes. It is not seeing. It is
image-making. It takes the place of seeing, replacing vision with
illusions.
2 This introductory idea to the process of image-making which you call
seeing will not have much meaning for you. You will begin to understand
it when you have seen little edges of light around the same familiar
objects which you see now. That is the beginning of real vision. You can
be certain that real vision will come quickly when this has occurred.
3 As we go along, you may have many “light episodes.” They may take many
different forms, some of them quite unexpected. Do not be afraid of
them. They are signs that you are opening your eyes at last. They will
not persist, because they merely symbolize true perception, and they are
not related to knowledge. These exercises will not reveal knowledge to
you. But they will prepare the way to it.
4 In practicing the idea for today, repeat it first to yourself, and
then apply it to whatever you see around you, using its name and letting
your eyes rest on it as you say:
5 This _____is an image which I have made.
That _____is an image which I have made.
6 It is not necessary to include a large number of specific subjects for
the application of today’s idea. It is necessary, however, to continue
to look at each subject while you repeat the idea to yourself. The idea
should be repeated quite slowly each time.
7 Although you will obviously not be able to apply the idea to very many
things during the minute or so of practice that is recommended, try to
make the selection as random as possible. Less than a minute will do for
the practice periods, if you begin to feel uneasy. Do not have more than
three application periods for today’s idea unless you feel completely
comfortable with it, and do not exceed four. However, the idea can be
applied as needed throughout the day.
