The Roman poet and lyricist Horace is best known as the world’s first autobiographer. His words are delightfully soaring in scope, often stirring the emotions. And rousing the intellect. Perhaps none more so than this line:
Rule your mind or it will rule you.
Wise words we’d do well to heed.
Every thought we have comes from the mind. Either the fearful mind of the ego or the serene mind of source. And we can always tell which by how we feel.
If we experience anything other than perfect peace and unconditional joy, then we can be certain we’re choosing the ego.
Which is why philosophical thought systems such as A Course in Miracles counsel close observation of our thoughts.
It is helpful to remind you that you do not guard your thoughts carefully enough. (T-2.VII.1)
The nearly irresistible temptation is to believe the world, our body, and the bodies of others are responsible for our sense of well-being. Which is why we exert enormous time and energy toward lamenting the state of affairs and attempting to effect change.
Never once considering that every experience is the result of thought - and nothing else.
It is your thoughts alone that cause you pain. Nothing external to your mind can hurt or injure you in anyway. (W-pI.190.5)
Hence Horace’s guidance to rule our mind. The source of thought.
By observing our thoughts with gentleness, we return awareness to the mind. From here we can make a different choice - one that leads to extraordinary peace.
Join me in Thursday’s class where we’ll explore the nature of mind and how we can prevent our thoughts from ruling us. I look forward to seeing you then.