"I see nothing as it is now." – A Course in Miracles Workbook, Lesson 9

What if our perceptions are clouded not just by the past but by assumptions and biases that prevent us from truly seeing the present?

In this episode of Love & Learn, we explore Lesson 9 from A Course in Miracles Workbook, which reminds us that our minds rarely see things as they truly are. Instead, we project our past experiences and assumptions onto the present, distorting our ability to engage with reality. By practicing this lesson, we begin to release these filters and open ourselves to a clearer and more authentic perspective.

Key Insights:

1. The Challenge of Unlearning: This lesson emphasizes that confusion and resistance are natural as we begin to undo our false perceptions. Understanding isn’t required at this stage—consistent practice is. Each small step helps clear away the mental clutter that obscures our ability to truly see.

2. Perception Is Distorted by Assumptions: Our perceptions are shaped by judgments, memories, and biases, preventing us from seeing the present moment clearly. By acknowledging that we “see nothing as it is now,” we create space to recognize and release the filters that distort our view of reality.

3. The Power of Honest Practice: The exercise for this lesson invites us to look at familiar objects and practice the mantra: “I see nothing as it is now.” This practice isn’t about doubting what’s in front of us but becoming aware of how our thoughts and assumptions influence what we see. Honest, non-judgmental application of this idea helps us loosen these mental projections.

Overcoming the Sunk Cost Fallacy

This lesson ties beautifully to the concept of the "sunk cost fallacy," which is the tendency to hold onto past investments of time, energy, or resources, even when moving forward would be more beneficial. Just as this lesson encourages us to see the present without the weight of past filters, overcoming the sunk cost fallacy invites us to release attachment to past efforts and focus on the opportunities that lie ahead.

Reflection for the Week

Where in your life are you letting past investments—of time, energy, or beliefs—hold you back from moving forward? How can you release these attachments to see your present reality more clearly and make choices that align with your true self?

Remember: Our perceptions are often distorted by the past, but through honest and consistent practice, we can begin to see the world—and ourselves—with greater clarity and love.

Tune in and join us as we uncover how this practice can help us create a more peaceful, present-centered life!

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"My mind is preoccupied with past thoughts." – A Course in Miracles Workbook, Lesson 8

What if the thoughts filling our minds are actually remnants of the past, blocking our view of the present?

In this episode of Love & Learn, we dive into Lesson 8 from A Course in Miracles Workbook, which reveals how much of our mental activity is a preoccupation with past thoughts. This lesson guides us to recognize how memories and past experiences cloud our perception, preventing us from fully engaging with the present moment. By becoming aware of these thought patterns, we open the door to experiencing life with greater clarity and presence.

Key Insights on Lesson 8

1. The Illusion of Time in Our Thoughts:
This lesson invites us to see that when we think about the past or anticipate the future, our minds are actually blank, disconnected from the present reality. The only time that truly exists is the now, and focusing on it allows us to break free from the illusion of time and connect with what is real.

2. Preoccupation with the Past Blocks the Present:
When our minds are filled with past thoughts, they become cluttered with “thoughtless ideas” that lack true substance. This mental clutter blocks us from seeing the world clearly and experiencing the truth of each moment. By letting go of these past-based thoughts, we open ourselves up to living more fully in the present.

3. Naming Thoughts to Break the Cycle:
The practice of naming each thought—“I seem to be thinking about ______”—helps us become aware of how frequently we drift into past memories or worries about the future. This awareness is the first step to breaking the habit of dwelling on old thoughts and returning to a state of peaceful presence.

Remember: When we recognize that much of our mind is occupied by past thoughts, we create the opportunity to experience life as it truly is, free from the filters of memory and assumption.

Tune in to join us as we uncover how releasing past thoughts allows for a clearer, more peaceful experience of the present moment!

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"Whatever people do, feel, think, or say, don’t take it personally." – Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements

What if you could free yourself from the emotional rollercoaster of others’ opinions and actions?

In this episode of Love & Learn, we explore the second agreement from Don Miguel Ruiz’s transformative book, The Four Agreements: Don’t Take Anything Personally.

This agreement teaches us how to release the need for approval and detach from others’ judgments, allowing us to experience greater inner peace and freedom. By recognizing that people’s actions and words are reflections of their own beliefs and experiences, we learn to protect our self-worth from external influences.

In this episode, we’ll uncover:

• Why people’s opinions and actions are projections of their own reality, not a reflection of you
• How to let go of emotional pain by releasing the need for validation from others
• The powerful effects of creating boundaries and taking ownership of your own feelings

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Others’ Reactions Reflect Their Own Inner Worlds
   People’s actions and words are rooted in their unique beliefs, past experiences, and insecurities—not in who you are. Understanding this allows you to let go of defensiveness and hurt, creating space for compassion and self-acceptance.

2. Your Self-Worth Doesn’t Depend on External Validation
   Taking things personally often means tying your worth to others' approval. By releasing the need for validation, you create a stronger foundation of self-worth based on your own truth, empowering you to live authentically and confidently.

3. Not Taking Things Personally Strengthens Boundaries and Builds Inner Peace
   This agreement doesn’t mean dismissing feedback but encourages discernment and emotional responsibility. By not absorbing others' judgments, you establish healthier boundaries and experience a deeper sense of inner peace and resilience.

Remember: When you stop taking things personally, you free yourself from the control of others’ perceptions. This agreement is a powerful path toward self-love and emotional freedom.

Tune in to discover how letting go of personal importance can transform your relationships and bring you greater peace!

ALL CONCEPTS FROM THE FOUR AGREEMENTS

• Be Impeccable With Your Word
• Don’t Take Anything Personally

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