Good Learning Conditions

“Notes on this course should be read only under good learning conditions. They should also be reviewed, with the same rule applying to review periods. I’ll tell you when, but remember to ask.” (ACIM, COA ed., T-1.15.3:1-3)

Jesus stayed very close to Helen and Bill while Helen was taking dictation, the “notes” referred to here. We can imagine that he will stay as close to us, if we ask. He comes upon a “single unequivocal call.” And he comes with comfort and solace. When we read A Course in Miracles, we are reading the version of the notes he gave Helen, the version which is most complete in this “complete and annotated” edition prepared by the Circle of Atonement.

We need to show up, dressed and ready, with a mind ready to comprehend, “under good learning conditions.” If we are overly tired or sleepy, we will think Jesus unnecessarily complicated and obtuse. This he is not. The prose makes perfect sense when the mind is keen. And it certainly wouldn’t hurt to engage the heart, as A Course of Love (sequel to ACIM) makes clear. If we are living with our faith “full out,” so to speak, we will comprehend and be blessed. Anything less than this means that we have not been reading under good learning conditions.

Jesus stayed close to Helen and Bill, and they received guidance directly from him about when to study the Course. We can ask for the same, and he will be here. And, if we are following the Holy Spirit, He can be our responsive guide. If we believe that we have moved into the time of Christ, and the Christ-Self is in the ascendancy, we can ask this inner Self what the next right move might be. In any of these ways, if we expect and are open to an Answer, we will get it. God does not keep His children in limbo.

Dear God,

I find that I can read ACIM best in the evenings, before I get sleepy and reading to turn in for the night. Early morning finds my mind fuzzy, because I am not a morning person. I know that You will meet me when I am best able to take in the revelations that are there for me. Thank You for giving me the insight of when best to confront A Course in Miracles.

Amen.