This idea is another step in the direction of identifying cause and effect as it really operates. You perceive only real or unreal things because you have only real or unreal thoughts. It is always the thought that comes first, despite the temptation to believe that it is really the other way around. This is not the way the world thinks, but you must learn that it is the way you think when you are thinking truly. If our thoughts did not determine our perceptions, our perceptions would be consistent and stable, the rock-solid basis of reality, unchanged by what takes place inwardly in us. In view of perception’s highly variable nature, this is hardly likely.

In applying today’s idea, say to yourself, with eyes open:

“I perceive only real or unreal things because I have only real or unreal thoughts.”

Then look around you, resting your glance on each thing that catches your eye long enough to say:

“I perceive either a real or unreal _____ because my thoughts about _____ are either real or unreal.”

For example, you might say:

“I perceive either a real or unreal printer, because my thoughts about printers are either real or unreal.”

“I perceive either a real or unreal hand, because my thoughts about hands are either real or unreal.”

As usual, it is essential to make no distinction between what you believe to be perceptions of things animate or inanimate, pleasant or unpleasant. Regardless of what you may believe, if your mind is holding unreal thoughts then you will not be perceiving anything that is really alive and really joyous. That is because you will be unaware of any thoughts that are really true and therefore really happy.

Three or four specific practice periods are recommended, and no less than three are required for maximum benefit, even if you experience resistance. However, if you do experience resistance, the length of the practice period may be reduced to less than the minute or so which is otherwise recommended for each practice period.