Free Will

J.B. asked: In the introduction to A Course in Miracles O.E. is says, "Free will does not mean that you can establish the curriculum.". How would you explain that?

In the introduction to A Course in Miracles, the phrase "free will does not mean that you can establish the curriculum" refers to the idea that although we have the freedom to choose our thoughts and actions, we do not have the ability to determine the ultimate purpose or meaning of our lives.

The Course teaches that our true purpose is to awaken to our identity as spiritual beings and to recognize our oneness with the divine. This purpose is already established by God and is not subject to our personal preferences or desires. While we have the free will to choose how we will approach this purpose, we cannot change its fundamental nature or meaning.

In this context, the curriculum refers to the spiritual teachings and practices that are presented in the Course. While we have the freedom to choose whether or not to study and practice these teachings, we cannot alter their ultimate purpose or meaning, which is to facilitate our awakening to our true identity as spiritual beings.

Overall, the statement "free will does not mean that you can establish the curriculum" is a reminder that although we have the freedom to choose our path in life, our ultimate purpose is already established and is not subject to our personal preferences or desires. The Course teaches that by aligning our will with the divine will, we can experience a sense of peace and fulfillment that transcends the limitations of the egoic mind.

J.B. Follow up question: So does that mean if I'm "supposed" to get cancer I can not change that outcome?

No, the idea that we cannot establish the curriculum or determine the ultimate purpose of our lives does not mean that we are predetermined to experience certain events or outcomes, such as getting cancer. A Course in Miracles teaches that while our lives are guided by a higher spiritual purpose, we also have the freedom to choose our thoughts and actions and to shape our experience of reality.

It is important to note, however, that the Course also teaches that our true nature is spiritual, and that physical illness and other forms of suffering are ultimately illusions that arise from our identification with the ego and our separation from the divine. While we cannot always control the external events and circumstances of our lives, we can choose to align our thoughts and actions with the spiritual teachings of the Course, and to cultivate a deeper sense of connection with the divine.

In the case of cancer or any other illness, it is important to seek appropriate medical treatment and to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. At the same time, practicing the spiritual principles taught in the Course, such as forgiveness, love, and acceptance, can help to promote healing and to cultivate a sense of peace and well-being, regardless of the outcome.

Continuing with this The Course also says we write scripts and act them out. So if I wrote cancer into my script doesn't it have to occur?

A Course in Miracles does teach that we write our own life scripts, but this does not necessarily mean that everything that happens in our lives is predetermined or set in stone. Instead, the Course teaches that we have the power to change our thoughts and perceptions, and in doing so, to change our experience of reality.

While it is true that we may have certain karmic or spiritual lessons that we need to learn in this lifetime, this does not mean that we are fated to experience specific outcomes, such as getting cancer. Rather, it means that we have the opportunity to learn and grow from whatever experiences we encounter, and to use those experiences as opportunities for spiritual awakening and transformation.

The Course also teaches that our thoughts and beliefs are powerful creative forces, and that by changing our thoughts, we can change the events and circumstances of our lives. Therefore, even if we have written cancer into our life script, we still have the power to change our thoughts and beliefs, and to create a different outcome for ourselves.

It is important to note, however, that the Course also emphasizes the importance of accepting what is, and of surrendering our personal will to the divine will. This does not mean that we should resign ourselves to our circumstances or stop striving for healing and transformation. Rather, it means that we should cultivate a sense of trust and surrender, and allow the divine to guide us towards the highest and best outcome for our lives, whatever that may be.

J.B. : hank you. That was very helpful.

You're welcome! I'm glad I could be of help. If you have any more questions or concerns, feel free to ask.