Defending Illusions

The picture of ourselves

Beneath each action and every thought is a picture of ourselves. Elaborately framed to honor the hero. Whether our protagonist-self is triumphantly mastering its domain or suffering the sorrows of persecution makes little difference. The personification of me proudly hangs on society’s gilded walls.

This self-image is a mental portrait, shaping perception of our roles, abilities, and worth. It serves as the foundation for life’s narratives. And in all accounts, we are the lead actor. The central character upon which the world impertinently impinges.

And thus we repeatedly embark on endless expeditions, seeking some semblance of peace while attempting to minimize the pain. A classic tale of the hero’s journey, all in the service of a self-image.

But what if this most cherished possession, the picture of ourselves, is wrong - the self nothing we imagine it to be? Paraphrasing from Lesson 21 in A Course in Miracles, "You do not recognize reality, and nothing that you believe is real."

Nothing that we believe is real. A world of deceptive appearances. To which the course poignantly propounds, "[Only] a madman will defend his own illusions because in them he sees his own salvation." (P-2.IV.9)

And therein lies the crux of all suffering. Defending an illusion of selfhood, believing it the way to peace.

But there’s another way. A road that transcends all narratives of triumph and victimization. One that assuredly leads to timeless tranquility. Beyond all limitations of self to the authentic nature of oneness. We need but change the way we perceive ourselves, following which all images are instantly transformed into the truth of Being.

Join me in Thursday’s class where we’ll explore the futile purpose behind defending illusions, and techniques we can practice to shift our perception. I look forward to seeing you then.