Changes

===The Process of Healing===

===The Process of Healing===

1. While truth is simple, it must still be taught to those who have already lost their way in endless mazes of complexity. This is the great illusion. In its wake comes the inevitable belief that, to be safe, one must control the unknown. This strange belief relies on certain steps which never reach to consciousness. First, it is ushered in by the belief that there are forces to be overcome to be alive at all. And next, it seems as if these forces can be held at bay only by an inflated sense of self that holds in darkness what is truly felt, and seeks to raise illusions to the light.

1. While [[truth]] is [[simple]], it must still be taught to those who have already lost their way in endless [[mazes]] of [[complexity]]. This is the great [[illusion]]. In its wake comes the inevitable [[belief]] that, to be safe, one must [[control]] the [[unknown]]. This strange belief relies on certain [[steps]] which never reach to [[consciousness]]. First, it is ushered in by the belief that there are [[forces]] to be overcome to be alive at all. And next, it seems as if these forces can be held at bay only by an inflated sense of [[self]] that holds in [[darkness]] what is truly felt, and seeks to raise illusions to the [[light]].

2. Let us remember that the ones who come to us for help are bitterly afraid. What they believe will help can only harm; what they believe will harm alone can help. Progress becomes impossible until the patient is persuaded to reverse his twisted way of looking at the world; his twisted way of looking at himself. The truth is simple. Yet it must be taught to those who think it will endanger them. It must be taught to those who will attack because they feel endangered, and to those who need the lesson of defenselessness above all else, to show them what is strength.

2. Let us [[remember]] that the ones who come to us for help are bitterly [[afraid]]. What they [[believe]] will help can only harm; what they believe will harm alone can help. [[Progress]] becomes impossible until the patient is persuaded to [[reverse]] his twisted way of looking at the world; his twisted way of looking at himself. The [[truth]] is [[simple]]. Yet it must be taught to those who think it will endanger them. It must be taught to those who will [[attack]] because they feel endangered, and to those who need the lesson of [[defenselessness]] above all else, to show them what is [[strength]].

3. If this world were ideal, there could perhaps be ideal therapy. And yet it would be useless in an ideal state. We speak of ideal teaching in a world in which the perfect teacher could not long remain; the perfect psychotherapist is but a glimmer of a thought not yet conceived. But still we speak of what can yet be done in helping the insane within the bounds of the attainable.

3. If this world were [[ideal]], there could perhaps be ideal [[therapy]]. And yet it would be useless in an ideal state. We speak of ideal teaching in a world in which the [[perfect]] [[teacher]] could not long remain; the perfect psychotherapist is but a glimmer of a [[thought]] not yet conceived. But still we speak of what can yet be done in helping the [[insane]] within the bounds of the [[attainable]].

While they are sick, they can and must be helped. No more than that is asked of psychotherapy; no less than all he has to give is worthy of the therapist. For God Himself holds out his brother as his savior from the world.

While they are sick, they can and must be helped. No more than that is asked of [[psychotherapy]]; no less than all he has to give is [[worthy]] of the therapist. For God Himself holds out his brother as his savior from the world.

4. Healing is holy. Nothing in the world is holier than helping one who asks for help. And two come very close to God in this attempt, however limited, however lacking in sincerity.

4. [[Healing]] is holy. Nothing in the world is holier than helping one who asks for help. And [[two]] come very close to [[God]] in this attempt, however limited, however lacking in [[sincerity]].

Where two have joined for healing, God is there. And He has guaranteed that He will hear and answer them in truth. They can be sure that healing is a process He directs, because it is according to His Will. We have His Word to guide us, as we try to help our brothers. Let us not forget that we are helpless of ourselves, and lean upon a strength beyond our little scope for what to teach as well as what to learn.

Where two have joined for healing, God is there. And He has guaranteed that He will hear and answer them in [[truth]]. They can be sure that healing is a [[process]] He directs, because it is according to His Will. We have His Word to [[guide]] us, as we try to help our brothers. Let us not forget that we are helpless of ourselves, and lean upon a [[strength]] beyond our little scope for what to teach as well as what to learn.

5. A brother seeking aid can bring us gifts beyond the heights perceived in any dream. He offers us salvation, for he comes to us as Christ and Savior. What he asks is asked by God through him. And what we do for him becomes the gift we give to God. The sacred calling of God's holy Son for help in his perceived distress can be but answered by his Father. Yet He needs a voice through which to speak His holy Word; a hand to reach His Son and touch his heart. In such a process, who could not be healed? This holy interaction is the plan of God Himself, by which His Son is saved.

5. A brother seeking aid can bring us gifts beyond the heights [[perceived]] in any [[dream]]. He offers us [[salvation]], for he comes to us as [[Christ]] and Savior. What he asks is asked by God through him. And what we do for him [[becomes]] the gift we give to God. The sacred [[calling]] of God's holy Son for help in his [[perceived]] distress can be but answered by his Father. Yet He needs a [[voice]] through which to speak His holy Word; a hand to reach His Son and [[touch]] his [[heart]]. In such a [[process]], who could not be healed? This holy [[interaction]] is the plan of God Himself, by which His Son is saved.

6. For two have joined. And now God's promises are kept by Him. The limits laid on both the patient and the therapist will count as nothing, for the healing has begun. What they must start their Father will complete. For He has never asked for more than just the smallest willingness, the least advance, the tiniest of whispers of His Name. To ask for help, whatever form it takes, is but to call on Him. And He will send His Answer through the therapist who best can serve His Son in all his present needs. Perhaps the answer does not seem to be a gift from Heaven. It may even seem to be a worsening and not a help. Yet let the outcome not be judged by us.

6. For [[two]] have joined. And now God's [[promises]] are kept by Him. The [[limits]] laid on both the patient and the therapist will count as nothing, for the [[healing]] has begun. What they must start their Father will complete. For He has never asked for more than just the smallest willingness, the least advance, the tiniest of [[whispers]] of His Name. To ask for help, whatever form it takes, is but to call on Him. And He will send His [[Answer]] through the therapist who best can serve His Son in all his present needs. Perhaps the answer does not seem to be a gift from [[Heaven]]. It may even seem to be a worsening and not a help. Yet let the outcome not be judged by us.

7. Somewhere all gifts of God must be received. In time no effort can be made in vain. It is not our perfection that is asked in our attempts to heal. We are deceived already, if we think there is a need of healing. And the truth will come to us only through one who seems to share our dream of sickness. Let us help him to forgive himself for all the trespasses with which he would condemn himself without a cause. His healing is our own. And as we see the sinlessness in him come shining through the veil of guilt that shrouds the Son of God, we will behold in him the face of Christ, and understand that it is but our own.

7. Somewhere all gifts of God must be [[received]]. In [[time]] no [[effort]] can be made in vain. It is not our [[perfection]] that is asked in our attempts to [[heal]]. We are [[deceived]] already, if we think there is a need of healing. And the [[truth]] will come to us only through one who seems to [[share]] our dream of sickness. Let us help him to [[forgive]] himself for all the [[trespasses]] with which he would [[condemn]] himself without a [[cause]]. His healing is our own. And as we see the sinlessness in him come [[shining]] through the veil of [[guilt]] that shrouds the Son of God, we will behold in him the face of Christ, and [[understand]] that it is but our own.

 

There is no other way to seek His Son. There is no other way to find your [[Self]]. [[Holy]] is [[healing]], for the Son of God returns to [[Heaven]] through its kind [[embrace]]. For healing tells him, in the Voice for God, that all his sins have been [[forgiven]] him.

===The Definition of Healing===

===The Definition of Healing===

1. The process of psychotherapy, then, can be defined simply as forgiveness, for no healing can be anything else. The unforgiving are sick, believing they are unforgiven. The hanging-on to guilt, its hugging-close and sheltering, its loving protection and alert defense,–all this is but the grim refusal to forgive. "God may not enter here" the sick repeat, over and over, while they mourn their loss and yet rejoice in it. Healing occurs as a patient begins to hear the dirge he sings, and questions its validity. Until he hears it, he cannot understand that it is he who sings it to himself. To hear it is the first step in recovery. To question it must then become his choice.

1. The [[process]] of [[psychotherapy]], then, can be defined simply as [[forgiveness]], for no [[healing]] can be anything else. The unforgiving are sick, believing they are unforgiven. The hanging-on to [[guilt]], its hugging-close and sheltering, its loving protection and alert [[defense]],–all this is but the grim refusal to forgive. "God may not enter here" the sick repeat, over and over, while they [[mourn]] their loss and yet rejoice in it. Healing occurs as a patient begins to hear the [[dirge]] he sings, and [[questions]] its validity. Until he hears it, he cannot [[understand]] that it is he who sings it to himself. To hear it is the first [[step]] in recovery. To question it must then [[become]] his choice.

 

2. There is a tendency, and it is very strong, to hear this song of [[death]] only an instant, and then dismiss it uncorrected. These fleeting awarenesses represent the many [[opportunities]] given us literally "to [[change]] our tune." The sound of [[healing]] can be heard instead. But first the willingness to question the "[[truth]]" of the song of [[condemnation]] must arise. The strange [[distortions]] woven inextricably into the [[self]]-concept, itself but a pseudo-creation, make this ugly sound seem truly [[beautiful]]. "The [[rhythm]] of [[the universe]]," "the herald [[angel]]'s song," all these and more are heard instead of loud discordant shrieks.

2. There is a tendency, and it is very strong, to hear this song of death only an instant, and then dismiss it uncorrected. These fleeting awarenesses represent the many opportunities given us literally "to change our tune." The sound of healing can be heard instead. But first the willingness to question the "truth" of the song of condemnation must arise. The strange distortions woven inextricably into the self-concept, itself but a pseudo-creation, make this ugly sound seem truly beautiful. "The rhythm of the universe," "the herald angel's song," all these and more are heard instead of loud discordant shrieks.

3. The ear [[translates]]; it does not hear. The eye reproduces; it does not see. Their task is to make agreeable whatever is called on, however disagreeable it may be. They answer the [[decisions]] of [[the mind]], reproducing its [[desires]] and translating them into acceptable and pleasant [[forms]]. Sometimes the [[thought]] behind the [[form]] breaks through, but only very briefly, and the [[mind]] grows fearful and begins to [[doubt]] its [[sanity]]. Yet it will not permit its [[slaves]] to change the forms they look upon; the sounds they hear. These are its "remedies"; its "safeguards" from [[insanity]].

3. The ear translates; it does not hear. The eye reproduces; it does not see. Their task is to make agreeable whatever is called on, however disagreeable it may be. They answer the decisions of the mind, reproducing its desires and translating them into acceptable and pleasant forms. Sometimes the thought behind the form breaks through, but only very briefly, and the mind grows fearful and begins to doubt its sanity. Yet it will not permit its slaves to change the forms they look upon; the sounds they hear. These are its "remedies"; its "safeguards" from insanity.

4. These [[testimonies]] which the [[senses]] bring have but one [[purpose]]; to justify [[attack]] and thus keep unforgiveness unrecognized for what it is. Seen undisguised it is intolerable. Without protection it could not [[endure]]. Here is all sickness cherished, but without the [[recognition]] that

this is so. For when an unforgiveness is not recognized, the form it takes seems to be something else. And now it is the "something else" that seems to [[terrify]]. But it is not the "something else" that can be [[healed]]. It is not sick, and needs no remedy. To concentrate your healing efforts here is but futility. Who can cure what cannot be sick and make it well?

4. These testimonies which the senses bring have but one purpose; to justify attack and thus keep unforgiveness unrecognized for what it is. Seen undisguised it is intolerable. Without protection it could not endure. Here is all sickness cherished, but without the recognition that

5. Sickness takes many forms, and so does unforgiveness. The forms of one but reproduce the forms of the other, for they are the same [[illusion]]. So closely is one translated into the other, that a careful study of the form a sickness takes will point quite clearly to the form of unforgiveness that it represents. Yet seeing this will not effect a cure. That is [[achieved]] by only one [[recognition]]; that only [[forgiveness]] heals an unforgiveness, and only an unforgiveness can possibly give rise to sickness of any kind.

this is so. For when an unforgiveness is not recognized, the form it takes seems to be something else. And now it is the "something else" that seems to terrify. But it is not the "something else" that can be healed. It is not sick, and needs no remedy. To concentrate your healing efforts here is but futility. Who can cure what cannot be sick and make it well?

5. Sickness takes many forms, and so does unforgiveness. The forms of one but reproduce the forms of the other, for they are the same illusion. So closely is one translated into the other, that a careful study of the form a sickness takes will point quite clearly to the form of unforgiveness that it represents. Yet seeing this will not effect a cure. That is achieved by only one recognition; that only forgiveness heals an unforgiveness, and only an unforgiveness can possibly give rise to sickness of any kind.

6. This realization is the final [[goal]] of [[psychotherapy]]. How is it reached? The therapist sees in the patient all that he has not forgiven in himself, and is thus given another [[chance]] to look at it, open it to re-[[evaluation]] and forgive it. When this occurs, he sees his [[sins]] as gone into a past that is no longer here. Until he does this, he must think of [[evil]] as besetting him here and now.

The patient is his screen for the [[projection]] of his sins, enabling him to let them go. Let him retain one spot of sin in what he looks upon, and his release is partial and will not be sure.

6. This realization is the final goal of psychotherapy. How is it reached? The therapist sees in the patient all that he has not forgiven in himself, and is thus given another chance to look at it, open it to re-evaluation and forgive it. When this occurs, he sees his sins as gone into a past that is no longer here. Until he does this, he must think of evil as besetting him here and now.

7. No one is [[healed]] alone. This is the [[joyous]] song [[salvation]] sings to all who hear its [[Voice]]. This statement cannot be too often remembered by all who see themselves as therapists. Their patients can but be seen as the bringers of [[forgiveness]], for it is they who come to demonstrate their sinlessness to eyes that still [[believe]] that sin is there to look upon. Yet will the [[proof]] of sinlessness, seen in the patient and [[accepted]] in the therapist, offer [[the mind]] of both a [[covenant]] in which they meet and join and are as one.

The patient is his screen for the projection of his sins, enabling him to let them go. Let him retain one spot of sin in what he looks upon, and his release is partial and will not be sure.

===The Ideal Patient : Therapist Relationship===

===The Ideal Patient : Therapist Relationship===

1. Who, then, is the therapist, and who is the patient? In the end, everyone is both. He who needs healing must heal. Physician, heal thyself. Who else is there to heal? And who else is in need of healing? Each patient who comes to a therapist offers him a chance to heal himself. He is therefore his therapist. And every therapist must learn to heal from each patient who comes to him. He thus becomes his patient. God does not know of separation. What He knows is only that He has one Son. His knowledge is reflected in the ideal patient-therapist relationship. God comes to him who calls, and in Him he recognizes Himself.

1. Who, then, is the therapist, and who is the patient? In the end, everyone is both. He who needs [[healing]] must heal. [[Physician]], heal thyself. Who else is there to heal? And who else is in need of healing? Each patient who comes to a therapist offers him a [[chance]] to heal himself. He is therefore his therapist. And every therapist must learn to heal from each patient who comes to him. He thus [[becomes]] his patient. God does not know of [[separation]]. What He knows is only that He has one Son. His [[knowledge]] is [[reflected]] in the [[ideal]] patient-therapist relationship. God comes to him who calls, and in Him he [[recognizes]] Himself.

2. Think carefully, teacher and therapist, for whom you pray, and who is in need of healing. For therapy is prayer, and healing is its aim and its result. What is prayer except the joining of minds in a relationship which Christ can enter? This is His home, into which psychotherapy invites Him. What is symptom cure, when another is always there to choose? But once Christ enters in, what choice is there except to have Him stay? There is no need for more than this, for it is everything. Healing is here, and happiness and peace. These are the "symptoms" of the ideal patient-therapist relationship, replacing those with which the patient came to ask for help.

2. [[Think]] carefully, teacher and therapist, for whom you [[pray]], and who is in need of [[healing]]. For [[therapy]] is prayer, and healing is its aim and its result. What is prayer except the joining of [[minds]] in a relationship which [[Christ]] can enter? This is His [[home]], into which psychotherapy invites Him. What is [[symptom]] cure, when another is always there to [[choose]]? But once Christ enters in, what choice is there except to have Him stay? There is no need for more than this, for it is [[everything]]. Healing is here, and [[happiness]] and [[peace]]. These are the "symptoms" of the ideal patient-therapist relationship, replacing those with which the patient came to ask for help.

3. The process that takes place in this relationship is actually one in which the therapist in his heart tells the patient that all his sins have been forgiven him, along with his own. What could be the difference between healing and forgiveness? Only Christ forgives, knowing His sinlessness. His vision heals perception and sickness disappears. Nor will it return again, once its cause has been removed. This, however, needs the help of a very advanced therapist, capable of joining with the patient in a holy relationship in which all sense of separation finally is overcome.

3. The [[process]] that takes place in this [[relationship]] is actually one in which the therapist in his [[heart]] tells the patient that all his sins have been [[forgiven]] him, along with his own. What could be the [[difference]] between healing and [[forgiveness]]? Only Christ forgives, knowing His sinlessness. His [[vision]] heals [[perception]] and sickness disappears. Nor will it return again, once its cause has been removed. This, however, needs the help of a very advanced therapist, capable of joining with the patient in a [[holy relationship]] in which all sense of separation finally is overcome.

4. For this, one thing and one thing only is required: The therapist in no way confuses himself with God. All "unhealed healers" make this fundamental confusion in one form or another, because they must regard themselves as self-created rather than God-created. This confusion is rarely if ever in awareness, or the unhealed healer would instantly become a teacher of God, devoting his life to the function of true healing. Before he reached this point, he thought he was in charge of the therapeutic process and was therefore responsible for its outcome. His patient's errors thus became his own failures, and guilt became the cover, dark and strong, for what should be the Holiness of Christ. Guilt is inevitable in those who use their judgment in making their decisions. Guilt is impossible in those through whom the Holy Spirit speaks.

4. For this, one thing and one thing only is required: The therapist in no way [[confuses]] himself with God. All "unhealed healers" make this fundamental [[confusion]] in one form or another, because they must regard themselves as [[self]]-created rather than [[God]]-created. This confusion is rarely if ever in [[awareness]], or the unhealed healer would instantly [[become]] a [[teacher of God]], devoting his life to the [[function]] of true healing. Before he reached this point, he thought he was in charge of the therapeutic [[process]] and was therefore responsible for its outcome. His patient's [[errors]] thus became his own [[failures]], and guilt became the cover, dark and strong, for what should be the Holiness of [[Christ]]. [[Guilt]] is inevitable in those who use their [[judgment]] in making their [[decisions]]. Guilt is impossible in those through whom the [[Holy Spirit]] speaks.

5. The passing of guilt is the true aim of therapy and the obvious aim of forgiveness. In this their oneness can be clearly seen. Yet who could experience the end of guilt who feels responsible for his brother in the role of guide for him? Such a function presupposes a knowledge that no one here can have; a certainty of past, present and future, and of all the effects that may occur in them. Only from this omniscient point of view would such a role be possible.

5. The passing of guilt is the true aim of [[therapy]] and the obvious aim of [[forgiveness]]. In this their oneness can be clearly seen. Yet who could [[experience]] the end of guilt who feels [[responsible]] for his brother in the role of [[guide]] for him? Such a function presupposes a knowledge that no one here can have; a [[certainty]] of past, present and future, and of all the [[effects]] that may occur in them. Only from this [[omniscient]] [[point of view]] would such a role be possible.

Yet no perception is omniscient, nor is the tiny self of one alone against the universe able to assume he has such wisdom except in madness. That many therapists are mad is obvious. No unhealed healer can be wholly sane.

Yet no [[perception]] is omniscient, nor is the tiny self of one alone against [[the universe]] able to assume he has such [[wisdom]] except in madness. That many therapists are mad is obvious. No unhealed healer can be wholly sane.

6. Yet it is as insane not to accept a function God has given you as to invent one He has not. The advanced therapist in no way can ever doubt the power that is in him. Nor does he doubt its Source. He understands all power in earth and Heaven belongs to him because of who he is.

6. Yet it is as [[insane]] not to [[accept]] a function God has given you as to [[invent]] one He has not. The advanced therapist in no way can ever [[doubt]] the [[power]] that is in him. Nor does he doubt its [[Source]]. He [[understands]] all power in earth and [[Heaven]] belongs to him because of who he is.

And he is this because of his Creator, Whose Love is in him and Who cannot fail. Think what this means; he has the gifts of God Himself to give away. His patients are God's saints, who call upon his sanctity to make it theirs. And as he gives it to them, they behold Christ's shining face as it looks back at them.

And he is this because of his [[Creator]], [[Love of God|Whose Love]] is in him and Who cannot fail. Think what this means; he has the gifts of God Himself to give away. His patients are God's saints, who call upon his [[sanctity]] to make it theirs. And as he gives it to them, they behold Christ's [[shining]] face as it looks back at them.

7. The insane, thinking they are God, are not afraid to offer weakness to God's Son. But what they see in him because of this they fear indeed. The unhealed healer cannot but be fearful of his patients, and suspect them of the treachery he sees in him. He tries to heal, and thus at times he may. But he will not succeed except to some extent and for a little while. He does not see the Christ in him who calls. What answer can he give to one who seems to be a stranger; alien to the truth and poor in wisdom, without the god who must be given him? Behold your God in him, for what you see will be your Answer.

7. The insane, [[thinking]] they are God, are not [[afraid]] to offer [[weakness]] to God's Son. But what they see in him because of this they [[fear]] indeed. The unhealed healer cannot but be fearful of his patients, and [[suspect]] them of the [[treachery]] he sees in him. He tries to heal, and thus at times he may. But he will not succeed except to some extent and for a little while. He does not see the Christ in him who calls. What answer can he give to one who seems to be a [[stranger]]; alien to the [[truth]] and [[poor]] in [[wisdom]], without the god who must be given him? Behold your God in him, for what you see will be your Answer.

8. Think what the joining of two brothers really means. And then forget the world and all its little triumphs and its dreams of death. The same are one, and nothing now can be remembered of the world of guilt. The room becomes a temple, and the street a stream of stars

8. Think what the joining of two brothers really means. And then [[forget]] the world and all its little [[triumphs]] and its [[dreams]] of [[death]]. The same are one, and nothing now can be remembered of the world of [[guilt]]. The room becomes a [[temple]], and the street a stream of [[stars]]

that brushes lightly past all sickly dreams. Healing is done, for what is perfect needs no healing, and what remains to be forgiven where there is no sin?

that brushes lightly past all sickly dreams. [[Healing]] is done, for what is perfect needs no healing, and what remains to be [[forgiven]] where there is no sin?

9. Be thankful, therapist, that you can see such things as this, if you but understand your proper role. But if you fail in this, you have denied that God created you, and so you will not know you are His Son. Who is your brother now? What saint can come to take you home with him? You lost the way. And can you now expect to see in him an answer that you have refused to give? Heal and be healed. There is no other choice of pathways that can ever lead to peace.

9. Be thankful, therapist, that you can see such things as this, if you but [[understand]] your proper role. But if you fail in this, you have denied that [[God]] created you, and so you will not know you are His Son. Who is your brother now? What saint can come to take you home with him? You lost the way. And can you now [[expect]] to see in him an answer that you have refused to give? Heal and be healed. There is no other [[choice]] of [[pathways]] that can ever lead to [[peace]].

O let your patient in, for he has come to you from God. Is not his holiness enough to wake your memory of Him?

O let your patient in, for he has come to you from God. Is not his [[holiness]] enough to wake your [[memory]] of Him?

==The Practice of Psychotherapy==

==The Practice of Psychotherapy==

===The Selection of Patients===

===The Selection of Patients===

1. Everyone who is sent to you is a patient of yours. This does not mean that you select him, nor that you choose the kind of treatment that is suitable. But it does mean that no one comes to you by mistake. There are no errors in God's plan. It would be an error, however, to assume that you know what to offer everyone who comes. This is not up to you to decide.

1. Everyone who is sent to you is a patient of yours. This does not mean that you select him, nor that you [[choose]] the kind of treatment that is suitable. But it does mean that no one comes to you by [[mistake]]. There are no errors in God's plan. It would be an error, however, to [[assume]] that you know what to offer everyone who comes. This is not up to you to [[decide]].

There is a tendency to assume that you are being called on constantly to make sacrifices of yourself for those who come. This could hardly be true. To demand sacrifice of yourself is to demand a sacrifice of God, and He knows nothing of sacrifice. Who could ask of Perfection that He be imperfect?

There is a tendency to assume that you are being called on constantly to make [[sacrifices]] of yourself for those who come. This could hardly be true. To demand sacrifice of yourself is to demand a sacrifice of [[God]], and He knows nothing of sacrifice. Who could ask of [[Perfection]] that He be imperfect?

 

2. Who, then, decides what each brother needs? Surely not you, who do not yet [[recognize]] who he is who asks. There is Something in him that will tell you, if you [[listen]]. And that is the answer; listen. Do not demand, do not decide, do not [[sacrifice]]. Listen. What you hear is true. Would God send His Son to you and not be sure you recognize his needs? Think what God is telling you; He needs your [[voice]] to [[speak]] for Him. Could anything be holier? Or a greater gift to you? Would you rather choose who would be god, or hear the [[Ta|Voice of Him Who is God in you]]?

2. Who, then, decides what each brother needs? Surely not you, who do not yet recognize who he is who asks. There is Something in him that will tell you, if you listen. And that is the answer; listen. Do not demand, do not decide, do not sacrifice. Listen. What you hear is true. Would God send His Son to you and not be sure you recognize his needs? Think what God is telling you; He needs your voice to speak for Him. Could anything be holier? Or a greater gift to you? Would you rather choose who would be god, or hear the Voice of Him Who is God in you?

3. Your patients need not be [[physically]] present for you to serve them in the Name of God.

This may be hard to [[remember]], but God will not have His gifts to you [[limited]] to the few you

actually see. You can see others as well, for seeing is not limited to the [[body]]'s eyes. Some do not need your [[physical]] [[presence]]. They need you as much, and perhaps even more, at the instant they are sent. You will recognize them in whatever way can be most helpful to both of you. It does not matter how they come. They will be sent in whatever [[form]] is most helpful; a name, a [[thought]], a picture, an idea, or perhaps just a [[feeling]] of reaching out to someone somewhere. The joining is in the hands of the [[Holy Spirit]]. It cannot fail to be accomplished.

3. Your patients need not be physically present for you to serve them in the Name of God.

4. A holy therapist, an advanced [[teacher of God]], never forgets one thing; he did not make the [[curriculum]] of [[salvation]], nor did he establish his part in it. He [[understands]] that his part is [[necessary]] to [[the whole]], and that through it he will recognize the whole when his part is complete. Meanwhile he must learn, and his patients are the means sent to him for his [[learning]]. What could he be but [[grateful]] for them and to them? They come bearing God. Would he refuse this Gift for a pebble, or would he close the door on the [[savior]] of the world to let in a ghost? Let him not [[betray]] the Son of God. Who calls on him is far beyond his [[understanding]]. Yet would he not rejoice that he can answer, when only thus will he be able to hear the call and understand that it is his?

This may be hard to remember, but God will not have His gifts to you limited to the few you

actually see. You can see others as well, for seeing is not limited to the body's eyes. Some do not need your physical presence. They need you as much, and perhaps even more, at the instant they are sent. You will recognize them in whatever way can be most helpful to both of you. It does not matter how they come. They will be sent in whatever form is most helpful; a name, a thought, a picture, an idea, or perhaps just a feeling of reaching out to someone somewhere. The joining is in the hands of the Holy Spirit. It cannot fail to be accomplished.

===Is Psychotherapy a Profession?===

===Is Psychotherapy a Profession?===

1. Strictly speaking the answer is no. How could a separate profession be one in which everyone is engaged? And how could any limits be laid on an interaction in which everyone is both patient and therapist in every relationship in which he enters? Yet practically speaking, it can still be said that there are those who devote themselves primarily to healing of one sort or another as their chief function. And it is to them that a large number of others turn for help.

1. Strictly speaking the answer is no. How could a separate [[profession]] be one in which everyone is engaged? And how could any [[limits]] be laid on an [[interaction]] in which everyone is both patient and therapist in every [[relationship]] in which he enters? Yet practically speaking, it can still be said that there are those who [[devote]] themselves primarily to [[healing]] of one sort or another as their chief function. And it is to them that a large number of others turn for help.

That, in effect, is the practice of therapy. These are therefore "officially" helpers. They are devoted to certain kinds of needs in their professional activities, although they may be far

That, in effect, is the [[practice]] of therapy. These are therefore "officially" helpers. They are devoted to certain kinds of needs in their professional activities, although they may be far

more able teachers outside of them. These people need no special rules, of course, but they may be called upon to use special applications of the general principles of healing.

more able [[teachers]] outside of them. These people need no special rules, of course, but they may be called upon to use special applications of the general principles of healing.

 

2. First, the professional [[therapist]] is in an excellent position to [[demonstrate]] that there is no order of difficulty in [[healing]]. For this, however, he needs special [[training]], because the [[curriculum]] by which he became a therapist probably taught him little or nothing about the real [[principles]] of [[healing]]. In fact, it probably taught him how to make healing impossible. Most of the world's teaching follows a curriculum in [[judgment]], with the aim of making the therapist a judge.

2. First, the professional therapist is in an excellent position to demonstrate that there is no order of difficulty in healing. For this, however, he needs special training, because the curriculum by which he became a therapist probably taught him little or nothing about the real principles of healing. In fact, it probably taught him how to make healing impossible. Most of the world's teaching follows a curriculum in judgment, with the aim of making the therapist a judge.

3. Even this the [[Holy Spirit]] can use, and will use, given the slightest invitation. The unhealed healer may be [[arrogant]], [[selfish]], unconcerned, and actually dishonest. He may be uninterested in healing as his major [[goal]]. Yet something happened to him, however slight it may have been, when he chose to be a healer, however misguided the [[direction]] he may have chosen.

That "something" is enough. Sooner or later that something will rise and grow; a patient will [[touch]] his [[heart]], and the therapist will [[silently]] ask him for help. He has himself found a therapist.

He has asked the Holy Spirit to enter the [[relationship]] and heal it. He has [[accepted]] the [[Atonement]] for himself.

3. Even this the Holy Spirit can use, and will use, given the slightest invitation. The unhealed healer may be arrogant, selfish, unconcerned, and actually dishonest. He may be uninterested in healing as his major goal. Yet something happened to him, however slight it may have been, when he chose to be a healer, however misguided the direction he may have chosen.

4. [[God]] is said to have looked on all He created and pronounced it [[good]]. No, He declared it [[perfect]], and so it was. And since His creations do not [[change]] and last forever, so it is now.

That "something" is enough. Sooner or later that something will rise and grow; a patient will touch his heart, and the therapist will silently ask him for help. He has himself found a therapist.

Yet neither a perfect therapist nor a perfect patient can possibly exist. Both must have denied their perfection, for their very need for each other implies a sense of lack. A one-to-one [[relationship]] is not one Relationship. Yet it is [[the means]] of return; the way God chose for the return of His Son. In that strange [[dream]] a strange correction must enter, for only that is the call to [[awake]]. And what else should therapy be? Awake and be glad, for all your sins have been [[forgiven]] you. This is the only message that any two should ever give each other.

He has asked the Holy Spirit to enter the relationship and heal it. He has accepted the Atonement for himself.

4. God is said to have looked on all He created and pronounced it good. No, He declared it perfect, and so it was. And since His creations do not change and last forever, so it is now.

5. Something [[good]] must come from every meeting of patient and therapist. And that good is saved for both, against the day when they can [[recognize]] that only that was real in their [[relationship]]. At that moment the good is returned to them, [[blessed]] by the [[Holy Spirit]] as a gift from their [[Creator]] as a sign of His Love. For the therapeutic relationship must [[become]] like the relationship of [[the Father]] and [[the Son]]. There is no other, for there is nothing else. The therapists of this world do not [[expect]] this outcome, and many of their patients would not be able to [[accept]] help from them if they did. Yet no therapist really sets the [[goal]] for the [[relationships]] of which he is a part. His [[understanding]] begins with recognizing this, and then goes on from there.

Yet neither a perfect therapist nor a perfect patient can possibly exist. Both must have denied their perfection, for their very need for each other implies a sense of lack. A one-to-one relationship is not one Relationship. Yet it is the means of return; the way God chose for the return of His Son. In that strange dream a strange correction must enter, for only that is the call to awake. And what else should therapy be? Awake and be glad, for all your sins have been forgiven you. This is the only message that any two should ever give each other.

5. Something good must come from every meeting of patient and therapist. And that good is saved for both, against the day when they can recognize that only that was real in their relationship. At that moment the good is returned to them, blessed by the Holy Spirit as a gift from their Creator as a sign of His Love. For the therapeutic relationship must become like the relationship of the Father and the Son. There is no other, for there is nothing else. The therapists of this world do not expect this outcome, and many of their patients would not be able to accept help from them if they did. Yet no therapist really sets the goal for the relationships of which he is a part. His understanding begins with recognizing this, and then goes on from there.

6. It is in the instant that the therapist forgets to judge the patient that [[healing]] occurs. In some [[relationships]] this point is never reached, although both patient and therapist may [[change]] their dreams in the [[process]]. Yet it will not be the same dream for both of them, and so it is not the dream of [[forgiveness]] in which both will someday wake. The [[good]] is saved; indeed is cherished. But only little time is saved. The new dreams will lose their temporary [[appeal]] and turn to dreams of [[fear]], which is the content of all dreams. Yet no patient can [[accept]] more than he is ready to [[receive]], and no therapist can offer more than he believes he has. And so there is a place for all relationships in this world, and they will bring as much good as each can accept and use.

6. It is in the instant that the therapist forgets to judge the patient that healing occurs. In some relationships this point is never reached, although both patient and therapist may change their dreams in the process. Yet it will not be the same dream for both of them, and so it is not the dream of forgiveness in which both will someday wake. The good is saved; indeed is cherished. But only little time is saved. The new dreams will lose their temporary appeal and turn to dreams of fear, which is the content of all dreams. Yet no patient can accept more than he is ready to receive, and no therapist can offer more than he believes he has. And so there is a place for all relationships in this world, and they will bring as much good as each can accept and use.

7. Yet it is when [[judgment]] ceases that [[healing]] occurs, because only then it can be [[understood]] that there is no order of [[difficulty]] in healing. This is a [[necessary]] understanding for the healed healer. He has learned that it is no harder to [[wake]] a brother from one [[dream]] than from another. No professional therapist can hold this understanding consistently in his [[mind]], offering it to all who come to him. There are some in this world who have come very close, but they have not accepted the gift entirely in order to stay and let their understanding remain on earth until the closing of [[time]]. They could hardly be called professional therapists. They are the Saints of God. They are the Saviors of the world. Their [[image]] remains, because they have chosen that it be so. They take the place of other images, and help with kindly dreams.

7. Yet it is when judgment ceases that healing occurs, because only then it can be understood that there is no order of difficulty in healing. This is a necessary understanding for the healed healer. He has learned that it is no harder to wake a brother from one dream than from another. No professional therapist can hold this understanding consistently in his mind, offering it to all who come to him. There are some in this world who have come very close, but they have not accepted the gift entirely in order to stay and let their understanding remain on earth until the closing of time. They could hardly be called professional therapists. They are the Saints of God. They are the Saviors of the world. Their image remains, because they have chosen that it be so. They take the place of other images, and help with kindly dreams.

8. Once the [[professional]] therapist has realized that minds are joined, he can also [[recognize]]

that order of difficulty in [[healing]] is meaningless. Yet well before he reaches this in time he can go towards it. Many [[holy instants]] can be his along the way. A goal marks the end of a [[journey]], not the beginning, and as each goal is reached another can be dimly seen ahead. Most professional therapists are still at the very start of the beginning stage of the first [[journey]]. Even those who have begun to understand what they must do may still oppose the setting-out. Yet all the [[laws]] of healing can be theirs in just an instant. The journey is not long except in [[dreams]].

8. Once the professional therapist has realized that minds are joined, he can also recognize

9. The professional therapist has one [[advantage]] that can save enormous [[time]] if it is properly used. He has chosen a road in which there is great [[temptation]] to misuse his role. This enables him to pass by many [[obstacles]] to peace quite quickly, if he [[escapes]] the temptation to assume a [[function]] that has not been given him. To understand there is no order of difficulty in healing, he must also recognize the [[equality]] of himself and the patient. There is no halfway point in this.

that order of difficulty in healing is meaningless. Yet well before he reaches this in time he can go towards it. Many holy instants can be his along the way. A goal marks the end of a journey, not the beginning, and as each goal is reached another can be dimly seen ahead. Most professional therapists are still at the very start of the beginning stage of the first journey. Even those who have begun to understand what they must do may still oppose the setting-out. Yet all the laws of healing can be theirs in just an instant. The journey is not long except in dreams.

Either they are equal or not. The attempts of therapists to [[compromise]] in this respect are [[strange]] indeed. Some utilize the [[relationship]] merely to collect bodies to [[worship]] at their [[shrine]], and this they regard as [[healing]]. Many patients, too, consider this strange procedure as [[salvation]]. Yet at each meeting there is One Who says, "My brother, choose again."

9. The professional therapist has one advantage that can save enormous time if it is properly used. He has chosen a road in which there is great temptation to misuse his role. This enables him to pass by many obstacles to peace quite quickly, if he escapes the temptation to assume a function that has not been given him. To understand there is no order of difficulty in healing, he must also recognize the equality of himself and the patient. There is no halfway point in this.

10. Do not forget that any form of [[specialness]] must be [[defended]], and will be. The defenseless therapist has the [[strength]] of [[God]] with him, but the defensive therapist has lost sight of [[the Source]] of his [[salvation]]. He does not see and he does not hear. How, then, can he teach?

Either they are equal or not. The attempts of therapists to compromise in this respect are strange indeed. Some utilize the relationship merely to collect bodies to worship at their shrine, and this they regard as healing. Many patients, too, consider this strange procedure as salvation. Yet at each meeting there is One Who says, "My brother, choose again."

Because it is the [[Will of God]] that he take his place in the plan for salvation. Because it is the Will of God that his patient be helped to join with him there. Because his inability to see and hear does not limit the [[Holy Spirit]] in any way. Except in [[time]]. In time there can be a great lag between the offering and the [[acceptance]] of healing. This is the veil across the face of [[Christ]].

Yet it can be but an [[illusion]], because time does not exist and the [[Will of God]] has always been exactly as it is.

===The Question of Payment===

===The Question of Payment===

1. No one can pay for therapy, for healing is of God and He asks for nothing. It is, however, part of His plan that everything in this world be used by the Holy Spirit to help in carrying out the plan. Even an advanced therapist has some earthly needs while he is here.

1. No one can pay for therapy, for [[healing]] is of [[God]] and He asks for nothing. It is, however, part of His plan that [[everything]] in [[this world]] be used by the [[Holy Spirit]] to help in carrying out the plan. Even an advanced therapist has some earthly needs while he is here.

Should he need money it will be given him, not in payment, but to help him better serve the plan. Money is not evil. It is nothing. But no one here can live with no illusions, for he must yet strive to have the last illusion be accepted by everyone everywhere. He has a mighty part in this one purpose, for which he came. He stays here but for this. And while he stays he will be given what he needs to stay.

Should he need [[money]] it will be given him, not in payment, but to help him better serve the plan. Money is not [[evil]]. It is nothing. But no one here can live with no [[illusions]], for he must yet strive to have the last illusion be [[accepted]] by everyone everywhere. He has a mighty part in this one [[purpose]], for which he came. He stays here but for this. And while he stays he will be given what he needs to stay.

2. Only an unhealed healer would try to heal for money, and he will not succeed to the extent to which he values it. Nor will he find his healing in the process. There will be those of whom the Holy Spirit asks some payment for His purpose. There will be those from whom He does not ask. It should not be the therapist who makes these decisions. There is a difference between payment and cost. To give money where God's plan allots it has no cost. To withhold it from where it rightfully belongs has enormous cost. The therapist who would do this loses the

2. Only an unhealed healer would try to heal for [[money]], and he will not succeed to the extent to which he [[values]] it. Nor will he find his healing in the [[process]]. There will be those of whom the [[Holy Spirit]] asks some payment for His [[purpose]]. There will be those from whom He does not ask. It should not be the therapist who makes these [[decisions]]. There is a [[difference]] between payment and cost. To give money where God's plan allots it has no cost. To withhold it from where it rightfully belongs has enormous cost. The therapist who would do this loses the

name of healer, for he could never understand what healing is. He cannot give it, and so he does not have it.

name of healer, for he could never [[understand]] what healing is. He cannot give it, and so he does not have it.

3. The therapists of this world are indeed useless to the world's salvation. They make demands, and so they cannot give. Patients can pay only for the exchange of illusions. This, indeed, must demand payment, and the cost is great. A "bought" relationship cannot offer the only gift whereby all healing is accomplished. Forgiveness, the Holy Spirit's only dream, must have no cost. For if it does, it merely crucifies God's Son again. Can this be how he is forgiven? Can this be how the dream of sin will end?

3. The therapists of this world are indeed useless to the world's [[salvation]]. They make demands, and so they cannot give. Patients can pay only for the exchange of [[illusions]]. This, indeed, must demand payment, and the cost is great. A "bought" [[relationship]] cannot offer the only gift whereby all [[healing]] is accomplished. [[Forgiveness]], the [[Holy Spirit]]'s only [[dream]], must have no cost. For if it does, it merely [[crucifies]] God's Son again. Can this be how he is forgiven? Can this be how the dream of [[sin]] will end?

4. The right to live is something no one need fight for. It is promised him, and guaranteed by God. Therefore it is a right the therapist and patient share alike. If their relationship is to be holy, whatever one needs is given by the other; whatever one lacks the other supplies. Herein is the relationship made holy, for herein both are healed. The therapist repays the patient in gratitude, as does the patient repay him. There is no cost to either. But thanks are due to both, for the release from long imprisonment and doubt. Who would not be grateful for such a gift?

4. The right to live is something no one need fight for. It is [[promised]] him, and guaranteed by [[God]]. Therefore it is a right the therapist and patient [[share]] alike. If their [[relationship]] is to be [[holy]], whatever one needs is given by the other; whatever one lacks the other supplies. Herein is the relationship made holy, for herein both are healed. The therapist repays the patient in [[gratitude]], as does the patient repay him. There is no cost to either. But thanks are due to both, for the release from long imprisonment and [[doubt]]. Who would not be grateful for such a gift?

Yet who could possibly imagine that it could be bought?

Yet who could possibly [[imagine]] that it could be bought?

5. It has well been said that to him who hath shall be given. Because he has, he can give.

5. It has well been said that to him who hath shall be given. Because he has, he can give.

And because he gives, he shall be given. This is the law of God, and not of the world. So it is with God's healers. They give because they have heard His Word and understood it. All that they need will thus be given them. But they will lose this understanding unless they remember that all they have comes only from God. If they believe they need anything from a brother, they will recognize him as a brother no longer. And if they do this, a light goes out even in Heaven. Where God's Son turns against himself, he can look only upon darkness. He has himself denied the light, and cannot see.

And because he gives, he shall be given. This is the [[law of God]], and not of the world. So it is with God's healers. They give because they have heard His Word and [[understood]] it. All that they need will thus be given them. But they will lose this understanding unless they [[remember]] that all they have comes only from God. If they [[believe]] they need anything from a brother, they will recognize him as a brother no longer. And if they do this, a light goes out even in [[Heaven]]. Where God's Son turns against himself, he can look only upon [[darkness]]. He has himself denied the [[light]], and cannot see.

6. One rule should always be observed: No one should be turned away because he cannot pay. No one is sent by accident to anyone. Relationships are always purposeful. Whatever their purpose may have been before the Holy Spirit entered them, they are always His potential temple; the resting place of Christ and home of God Himself. Whoever comes has been sent.

6. One rule should always be observed: No one should be turned away because he cannot pay. No one is sent by [[accident]] to anyone. [[Relationships]] are always purposeful. Whatever their [[purpose]] may have been before the [[Holy Spirit]] entered them, they are always His [[potential]] [[temple]]; the resting place of [[Christ]] and [[home]] of [[God]] Himself. Whoever comes has been sent.

Perhaps he was sent to give his brother the money he needed. Both will be blessed thereby.

Perhaps he was sent to give his brother the [[money]] he needed. Both will be [[blessed]] thereby.

Perhaps he was sent to teach the therapist how much he needs forgiveness, and how valueless is money in comparison. Again will both be blessed. Only in terms of cost could one have more. In sharing, everyone must gain a blessing without cost.

Perhaps he was sent to teach the therapist how much he needs [[forgiveness]], and how valueless is money in [[comparison]]. Again will both be blessed. Only in terms of cost could one have more. In [[sharing]], everyone must gain a blessing without cost.

7. This view of payment may well seem impractical, and in the eyes of the world it would be so. Yet not one worldly thought is really practical. How much is gained by striving for illusions? How much is lost by throwing God away? And is it possible to do so? Surely it is impractical to strive for nothing, and to attempt to do what is impossible. Then stop a while, long enough to think of this: You have perhaps been seeking for salvation without recognizing where to look. Whoever asks your help can show you where. What greater gift than this could you be given? What greater gift is there that you would give?

7. This view of payment may well seem impractical, and in the eyes of the world it would be so. Yet not one worldly thought is really [[practical]]. How much is gained by striving for [[illusions]]? How much is lost by throwing God away? And is it possible to do so? Surely it is impractical to strive for nothing, and to attempt to do what is impossible. Then stop a while, long enough to [[think]] of this: You have perhaps been seeking for [[salvation]] without recognizing where to look. Whoever asks your help can show you where. What greater gift than this could you be given? What greater gift is there that you would give?

8. Physician, healer, therapist, teacher, heal thyself. Many will come to you carrying the gift of healing, if you so elect. The Holy Spirit never refuses an invitation to enter and abide with you. He will give you endless opportunities to open the door to your salvation, for such is His function. He will also tell you exactly what your function is in every circumstance and at all times. Whoever He sends you will reach you, holding out his hand to his Friend. Let the Christ in you bid him welcome, for that same Christ is in him as well. Deny him entrance, and you have denied the Christ in you. Remember the sorrowful story of the world, and the glad tidings of salvation. Remember the plan of God for the restoration of joy and peace. And do not forget how very simple are the ways of God:

8. [[Physician]], [[healer]], therapist, [[teacher]], heal thyself. Many will come to you carrying the gift of healing, if you so elect. The [[Holy Spirit]] never refuses an invitation to enter and abide with you. He will give you endless [[opportunities]] to open the door to your [[salvation]], for such is His [[function]]. He will also tell you exactly what your function is in every circumstance and at all times. Whoever He sends you will reach you, holding out his hand to his Friend. Let the [[Christ]] in you bid him welcome, for that same Christ is in him as well. Deny him entrance, and you have denied the Christ in you. Remember the sorrowful story of the world, and the glad tidings of [[salvation]]. Remember the plan of God for the restoration of [[joy]] and [[peace]]. And do not forget how very [[simple]] are the ways of God:

You were lost in the darkness of the world until you asked for light.

You were lost in the [[darkness]] of the world until you asked for [[light]].

And then God sent His Son to give it to you.

And then God sent His Son to give it to you.