The spiritual journey outlined in A Course in Miracles begins with the profound, yet simple, statement of Lesson 1: “Nothing I see means anything”. This initial teaching is the crucial first step in a practice of mind retraining, designed to fundamentally alter our perception of the world.
The lesson’s core purpose is to allow a greater wisdom to wash the mind clean of all judgments, preferences, and the mistaken belief that some elements of our perception are more important than others. This devoted practice is intended to lead us to forgive the world, helping us awaken from the fragmented dream of pain, suffering, and conflict, and ultimately move toward True Perception.
Students are encouraged to apply this principle very lightly throughout the day, looking at everything in their immediate vicinity without making any exceptions. This commitment is described as a precious undertaking that guides the mind toward a tranquil, calm state of eternal peace. By releasing the need to find meaning or identity in the world of images, the student of A Course in Miracles chooses the freedom of mind that transcends all perceived difficulty.