Discussion on Hope as a barrier to enlightenment

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First, I would like to thank Tami for starting this thread of

discussion. It has been interesting for me.

It reminds me of a similar discussion that occured several months ago

regarding beliefs around the word " compassion " . This was

another " hot button " for many folks and for me, another example of

how the Mind has deluded us into believing that " what is " is not

perfect now.

My thinking loves to sugar coat beliefs like hope, sympathy,

compassion, etc. to make me believe that it is OK for me to belittle

the perfection that exists now.

Judy and I have differing views on this subject because we are

approaching it from diferrent angles. I personally believe that both

views are correct, depending upon your position of perception. This

invariably occurs when duality meets non-duality. For me, I spent

about 20 years teaching people how and what they could do to get

more " peace, love, hope, compassion, patience, etc. " This was prior

to my meeting and also prior to my becoming a student of the

Course In Miracles. And, it was perfect and it was " not as if I had

a choice " ! :-) I don't see what I believe today as any higher or

lower than what I taught in class for 20 years. For me, both are the

same, " they are a beginning " . However, for 20 years, I did think

that I knew that I knew and now I know that I really don't.

Love you all, Steve D.