Spiritual Preparation For
An Emerging World
Steps To Knowledge
The Book Of
Inner Knowing
by
Marshall Vian Summers
* * * * *
Published by New Knowledge Library at Smashwords
Steps To Knowledge: The Book of Inner Knowing
Copyright 1999 by The Society for the Greater Community Way of Knowledge
Spiritual Preparation For
An Emerging World
Steps To Knowledge
The Book Of
Inner Knowing
Marshall Vian Summers
New Knowledge Library
STEPS TO KNOWLEDGE: The Book of Inner Knowing
Copyright 1999 by The Society for The Greater Community Way of Knowledge.
Printed and bound in the United States of America. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher.
Book Design by Alan Bernhard, Argent Associates, Boulder, CO.
Edited by Darlene Mitchell
Steps To Knowledge: The Book of Inner Knowing
Library of Congress Catalog Card Number: 90-61253
This is the third edition of Steps to Knowledge
Publisher’s Cataloging-in-Publication
(Provided by Quality Books, Inc.)
Summers, Marshall
Steps to knowledge : the book of inner knowing / by
Marshall Vian Summers — 3rd ed.
p. cm.
Preassigned LCCN: 90-61253
1. Society for the Greater Community Way of Knowledge.
2. Spiritual exercises. I. Title
BP605.S58S86 1997
299'93 QBI97-509
The books of the New Knowledge Library are published by The Society for The Greater Community Way of Knowledge. The Society is a religious non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and teaching Greater Community Spirituality.
Steps to Knowledge serves as the book of practices in learning and applying The Greater Community Way of Knowledge. Formal study of The Greater Community Way of Knowledge is presented in the sacred texts Steps to Knowledge, Wisdom from the Greater Community: Volumes I & II and Greater Community Spirituality: A New Revelation which can be ordered directly from The Society or requested at your local bookstore.
To order the books of the New Knowledge Library or to receive information about The Society’s audio recordings, educational programs and contemplative services please visit The Society’s Homepage on the World Wide Web or write:
The Society For The Greater Community Way Of Knowledge
P.O. Box 1724 • Boulder, CO 80306-1724 • (303) 938-8401
E-mail: society@greatercommunity.org Internet: www.newmessage.org
Introduction
Steps to Knowledge is the Book of Inner Knowing. Its one-year study plan, which is divided into 365 “steps,” or lessons, is designed to enable students to learn to experience and to apply their Self-Knowledge, or Spiritual Power, in the world. Steps to Knowledge sets out to accomplish this task in a step-by-step manner as students are introduced to the essential ideas and practices which make such an undertaking possible. Practicing every day provides a solid foundation of experience and develops the thinking, perception and self-motivation necessary for both worldly success and spiritual advancement.
What Is Knowledge?
Steps to Knowledge describes Knowledge in the following way:
“Knowledge represents your True Self, your True Mind and your True Relationships in the universe. It also possesses your greater calling in the world and a perfect utilization of your nature, all of your inherent abilities and skills, even your limitations, all to be given for good in the world.” (STEP 2)
Knowledge is the deeper spiritual mind that the Creator has given to each person. It is the source of all meaningful action, contribution and relationships. It is our natural Inner Guidance system. Its reality is mysterious, but its Presence can be directly experienced. Knowledge is remarkably wise and effective in guiding each person in finding his or her right relationships, work and contribution. It is equally effective in preparing one to recognize the many pitfalls and deceptions that exist along the way. It is the basis for seeing, knowing, and acting with certainty and strength. It is the foundation of life.
Who Is Steps To Knowledge For?
Steps to Knowledge has been provided as a Way for individuals who feel that a spiritual calling and purpose are emerging in their lives, but who need a new approach to fully comprehend what this means. Often these individuals have felt this pull for a long time. Steps provides a foundation upon which they can begin to respond to this calling. The only entrance requirement is the determination to know one’s purpose, meaning and direction.
What Is It Designed To Achieve?
Steps to Knowledge represents both a path to God and a path of contribution in the world. It engages the student in solving the two most fundamental questions in life: Who am I? and Why am I here? Steps addresses these questions within the context of purpose, relationships and community. It emphasizes that everyone is looking for these in the world and that this pursuit underlies all the desires and endeavors considered to be meaningful here. The experience of purpose, relationships and community gives each person whatever sense of meaning and identity they may have at any given moment. Steps indicates that these needs are intrinsic to everyone and that everyone has brought the answer to these needs with them from their Ancient Home. Thus it says that every person carries, unknowingly, their own fulfillment within themselves, within their Self-Knowledge. Through practice and revelation, Steps to Knowledge gives students the necessary structure to find Knowledge, to engage with Knowledge and to follow Knowledge in every situation. With this, they begin to find their true direction in life. Studying every day builds the skill and the confidence that only consistent self-application can provide. The reclamation and the application of Self-Knowledge is the purpose of this book of spiritual practice and its teaching. The emphasis in each step is to develop the student’s inner life and outer life together, for Knowledge (Self-Realization) and Wisdom (Self- Application) must arise together. Thus, through studying and applying The Way of Knowledge, the student naturally develops patience, objectivity, insight, strength, tolerance and an abiding sense of self-worth.
How It Was Given
Steps to Knowledge was revealed to the teacher Marshall Vian Summers in the Spring of 1989. It was received over a fourteen-day period in a state of revelation. Steps to Knowledge was provided by a group of unseen spiritual teachers who describe themselves as Teachers of the Greater Community. Their message is universal and yet their methods are unique for our time and world.
Why It Was Written
Our world is at the threshold of emerging into a Greater Community of intelligent life in the universe around us. Therefore, a more universal understanding and perspective on relationships, spirituality and human advancement are needed at this time. Steps to Knowledge is provided for those who show promise of being the primary contributors during the next great period in human history, where humanity begins to encounter other intelligent races from the Greater Community. This is the greatest threshold that we have ever faced. Yet from a Greater Community perspective, it is clear that humanity is not prepared. This has set the stage for a new spiritual understanding and teaching to be given to the world, for the Creator would not leave us alone and unprepared for our emergence into the Greater Community. Thus, a spiritual preparation of a very unique kind has been given which can enable men and women to gain the power, the compassion and the skill needed to serve a world in transition. To prepare these individuals to find their greater calling in life, Steps to Knowledge and its companion books have been provided as a guide and a resource.
How to Work With Steps
Please consider these following recommendations to enable you to receive the maximum benefit from your study of Steps to Knowledge:
_ Steps to Knowledge is a complete program of study. Each step takes you higher and closer to your self-discovery. Therefore, plan to go the whole way. If you don’t stop, you will advance.
_ Though Steps to Knowledge is a self-study program, it is recommended that you find others with whom you can share your practice and experience. This maximizes your opportunity for learning and provides a meaningful basis for new relationships to form.
_ Follow the “steps” in Steps to Knowledge exactly as they are given. Do not alter the practices in any way. This is very important. You may stay on one lesson for more than a day if you wish, but do not stay on any lesson for too long or you may lose pace with the curriculum.
_ Do not skip ahead or alter the sequence to practice lessons that you find to be attractive. Each lesson is designed to take you one step at a time. This provides a safe and successful passage in your approach to Knowledge. Follow and utilize the step for the day. It is perfect for that day.
_ Read the lesson both in the morning when you arise and later in the day. You may also read the lesson in the first person, on one of these occasions, if you wish to personalize the message for yourself.
_ Steps to Knowledge will teach you how to practice and how to develop effective study habits. At times you may find that staying with the practices will be quite a challenge. Yet remember that Steps will build both your strength and self-awareness through its practices. You are able to do these practices and doing them will harmonize and transform your life.
_ Set aside regular practice times each day. Do not let circumstances dictate your availability to practice. Practice is essential for building an environment for Knowledge to emerge. Practice times have been added at the bottom of each step to assist you in integrating the practice into your day.
_ Keeping a journal is extremely valuable in tracking your progress and in seeing how each step plays a part in serving you every day. The journal is a powerful tool for self-discovery and will assist you in applying the steps. Keeping a journal also will greatly help you in using the REVIEW practices that occur throughout the curriculum.
_ Be patient and allow the steps to work for you. It is amazingly powerful if you follow the sequence of the steps as they are given. This takes time. A great journey is made up of many little steps. Each one is necessary.
_ If you miss a day, simply return to practice. Do not condemn yourself (or the program).You need only continue in Steps to receive its full benefit.
_ Steps to Knowledge may challenge cherished beliefs and assumptions. If this occurs, accept this challenge and see what it holds for you. You must see beyond a limited viewpoint to gain a greater one. This is where satisfaction is achieved.
_ Steps to Knowledge is a gift to you from God through the unseen teachers who serve humanity. It is a gift for you to receive and to give.
In Conclusion
The power and scope of Steps to Knowledge is as great as is its purpose. Its Source is from beyond this world. It teaches that the world is in the process of entering into a Greater Community of Worlds. It offers a new spiritual understanding and preparation that are needed to activate each person’s spiritual powers and worldly abilities. This will redeem their past and prepare them for their future. Steps to Knowledge advocates a perspective greater than a purely human point of view in comprehending events within the world and beyond. It would be appropriate then to say that the curriculum in the Steps to Knowledge represents Universal Wisdom in the truest sense. As Steps so often indicates, the Truth, however conceptualized, must be fully experienced to be realized and properly applied. This is a step-by step process. To serve those who are called to realize their spiritual heritage and purpose in the world at this time, Steps to Knowledge has been given.
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Step 1: I Am Without Knowledge Now.
Step 2: Knowledge Is With Me. Where Am I?
Step 3: What Do I Really Know?
Step 4: I Want What I Think I Know.
Step 5: I Believe What I Want To Believe.
Step 6: I Have A True Foundation In The World.
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Step 8: Today I Will Be Still.
Step 9: In Stillness All Things Can Be Known.
Step 11: I Am Not Apart From Life.
Step 12: My Individuality Is To Express Life Itself.
Step 13: I Want To Be Separate To Be Unique.
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Step 15: I Shall Listen To My Experience Today.
Step 16: Beyond My Mind Is Knowledge.
Step 17: Today I Want To Hear The Truth.
Step 18: Today I Feel The Truth Arising Within Myself.
Step 20: I Will Not Let Doubt And Confusion Slow My Progress.
Step 22: I Am Surrounded By The Teachers Of God.
Step 23: I Am Loved, Surrounded And Supported By The Teachers Of God.
Step 24: I Am Worthy Of God’s Love.
Step 25: I Am At One With The Greatest Truth Of Life.
Step 26: My Errors Give Birth To My Knowledge.
Step 27: I Have A Wisdom That I Wish To Discover.
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Step 29: I Will Observe Myself Today To Learn Of Knowledge.
Step 30: Today I Will Observe My World.
Step 31: I Wish To See A World I Have Never Seen Before.
Step 32: The Truth Is With Me. I Can Feel It.
Step 33: I Have A Mission In My Life To Fulfill.
Step 34: I Am A Beginning Student Of Knowledge.
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Step 36: My Life Is A Mystery to Explore.
Step 37: There Is A Way To Knowledge.
Step 38: God Knows The Way To Knowledge.
Step 39: The Power Of God Is With Me.
Step 40: Today I Will Feel The Power Of God.
Step 41: I Am Not Afraid Of The Power Of God.
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Step 43: My Will Is To Know God.
Step 44: I Wish To Know My Own Strength.
Step 45: Alone I Can Do Nothing.
Step 46: I Must Be Small To Be Great.
Step 47: Why Do I Need Teachers?
Step 48: True Instruction Is Available To Me.
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Step 50: Today I Will Be With Knowledge.
Step 51: Let Me Recognize My Fears So That I May See The Truth Beyond Them.
Step 52: I Am Free To Find The Source Of My Knowledge.
Step 53: My Gifts Are For Others.
Step 54: I Will Not Live In Idealism.
Step 55: I Will Accept The World As It Is.
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Step 58: Knowledge Is With Me.
Step 59: Today I Will Learn Patience.
Step 60: I Will Not Judge The World Today.
Step 61: Love Gives Of Itself Through Me.
Step 62: Today I Will Learn To Listen To Life.
_
Step 64: Today I Will Listen To Another.
Step 65: I Have Come To Work In The World.
Step 66: I Will Stop Complaining About The World.
Step 67: I Do Not Know What I Want For The World.
Step 68: I Will Not Lose Faith In Myself Today.
Step 69: Today I Will Practice Stillness.
Step 71: I Am Here To Serve A Greater Purpose.
Step 72: I Will Trust My Deepest Inclinations Today.
Step 73: I Will Allow My Errors To Teach Me.
Step 74: Peace Abides With Me Today.
Step 75: Today I Will Listen To My Self.
Step 76: Today I Will Not Judge Another.
_
Step 78: I Can Do Nothing Alone.
Step 79: I Will Allow Uncertainty To Exist Today.
Step 81: I Will Not Deceive Myself Today.
Step 82: I Will Not Judge Another Today.
Step 83: I Value Knowledge Beyond All Things.
_
Step 85: I Find Happiness In Small Things Today.
Step 86: I Honor Those Who Have Given To Me.
Step 87: I Will Not Be Afraid Of What I Know.
Step 88: My Higher Self Is Not An Individual.
Step 89: My Emotions Cannot Dissuade My Knowledge.
Step 90: Today I Will Make No Assumptions.
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Step 92: There Is A Role For Me To Play In The World.
Step 93: I Am Sent Here For A Purpose.
Step 94: My Freedom Is To Find My Purpose.
Step 95: How Can I Possibly Fulfill Myself?
Step 96: God’s Will Is For Me To Be Unburdened.
Step 97: I Do Not Know What Fulfillment Is.
_
Step 99: I Will Not Blame The World Today.
Step 100: Today I Am A Beginning Student Of Knowledge.
Step 101: The World Needs Me, But I Will Wait.
Step 102: There Is Much I Must Unlearn.
Step 103: I Am Honored By God.
Step 104: God Knows More About Me Than I Do.
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Step 106: There Are No Masters Living In The World.
Step 107: Today I Will Learn To Be Happy.
Step 108: Happiness Is Something I Must Learn Again.
Step 109: I Will Not Be In A Hurry Today.
Step 110: I Will Be Honest With Myself Today.
Step 111: Today I Will Be At Ease.
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Step 113: I Will Not Be Persuaded By Others.
Step 114: My True Friends Are With Me. I Am Not Alone.
Step 115: Today I Will Listen To The Power Of Knowledge.
Step 116: Today I Shall Be Patient With Knowledge.
Step 117: It Is Better To Be Simple Than To Be Poor.
Step 118: I Will Not Avoid The World Today.
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Step 120: I Will Remember My Knowledge Today.
Step 121: Today I Am Free To Give.
Step 122: I Give Without Loss Today.
Step 123: I Will Not Pity Myself Today.
Step 124: Today I Will Not Pretend I Am Happy.
Step 125: I Do Not Need To Be Someone Today.
_
Step 127: Today I Will Not Try To Get Even With God.
Step 128: My Teachers Are With Me. I Need Not Fear.
Step 129: My Teachers Are With Me. I Will Be With Them.
Step 130: Relationships Will Come To Me When I Am Prepared.
Step 131: Today I Will Seek The Experience Of True Purpose In Life.
Step 132: Let Me Learn To Be Free So That I May Join.
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Step 134: I Will Not Define My Purpose For Myself.
Step 135: I Will Not Define My Destiny Today.
Step 136: My Purpose Is To Reclaim My Knowledge And To Allow It To Express Itself In The World.
Step 137: I Will Accept The Mystery Of My Life.
Step 138: I Need Only Follow The Steps As They Are Given.
Step 139: I Have Come To The World To Serve.
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Step 141: I Will Be Confident This Day.
Step 142: I Will Be Consistent Today.
Step 143: Today I Will Be Still.
Step 144: I Will Honor Myself Today.
Step 145: I Will Honor The World Today.
Step 146: I Will Honor My Teachers Today.
Step 148: My Practice Is My Gift To God.
Step 149: My Practice Is My Gift To The World.
Step 150: Today I Will Learn To Learn.
Step 151: I Will Not Use Fear To Support My Judgments.
Step 152: I Will Not Follow Fear Within The World.
Step 153: My Source Wishes To Express Itself Through Me.
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Step 155: The World Blesses Me As I Receive.
Step 156: I Will Not Be Concerned About Myself Today.
Step 157: I Am Not Alone In The Universe.
Step 158: I Am Rich So I Can Give.
Step 159: The Poor Cannot Give. I Am Not Poor.
Step 160: The World Is Poor, But I Am Not.
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Step 162: I Will Not Be Afraid Today.
Step 163: I Will Feel Knowledge Today.
Step 164: Today I Will Honor What I Know.
Step 165: My Duties Are Small. My Mission Is Great.
Step 166: My Mission Is Great.Therefore, I Am Free To Do Small Things.
Step 167: With Knowledge I Am Free In The World.
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Step 169: The World Is Within Me.This I Know.
Step 170: I Am Following The Ancient Rite Of Preparation Today.
Step 171: My Giving Is An Affirmation Of My Wealth.
Step 172: I Must Reclaim My Knowledge.
Step 173: Today I Will Do What Is Necessary.
Step 174: My Life Is Necessary.
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Step 176: I Will Follow Knowledge Today.
Step 177: I Will Learn To Be Honest Today.
Step 178: I Will Remember Those Who Have Given To Me Today.
Step 179: Today I Will Thank The World For Teaching Me What Is True.
Step 180: I Complain Because I Am Lacking Knowledge.
Step 181: Today I Receive The Love Of Knowledge.
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Step 183: I Seek Experience Not Answers.
Step 184: My Questions Are Greater Than I Had Realized Before.
Step 185: I Have Come Into The World For A Purpose.
Step 186: I Am Born Of An Ancient Heritage.
Step 187: I Am A Citizen Of The Greater Community Of Worlds.
Step 188: My Life In This World Is More Important Than I Had Realized Before.
Step 189: My Spiritual Family Exists In All Places.
Step 190: The World Is Emerging Into The Greater Community Of Worlds, And That Is Why I Have Come.
Step 191: My Knowledge Is Greater Than My Humanity.
Step 192: I Will Not Neglect Small Things Today.
Step 193: I Shall Listen To Others Without Judgment Today.
Step 194: I Will Go Where I Am Needed Today.
Step 195: Knowledge Is More Powerful Than I Realize.
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Step 197: Knowledge Must Be Experienced To Be Realized.
Step 198: Today I Will Be Strong.
Step 199: The World I See Is Emerging Into The Greater Community Of Worlds.
Step 200: My Thoughts Are Too Small To Contain Knowledge.
Step 201: My Mind Was Made To Serve Knowledge.
Step 202: I Behold The Greater Community Today.
Step 203: The Greater Community Is Influencing The World I See.
Step 204: I Will Be At Peace Today.
Step 205: I Will Not Judge The World Today.
Step 206: Love Is Flowing From Me Now.
Step 207: I Forgive Those Whom I Think Have Hurt Me.
Step 208: All Things I Truly Value Will Be Expressed From Knowledge.
Step 209: I Will Not Be Cruel With Myself Today.
_
Step 211: I Have Great Friends Beyond This World.
Step 212: I Gain Strength From All Who Practice With Me.
Step 213: I Do Not Understand The World.
Step 214: I Do Not Understand Myself.
Step 215: My Teachers Are With Me. I Am Not Alone.
Step 216: There Is A Spiritual Presence In My Life.
Step 217: I Give Myself To Knowledge Today.
Step 218: I Will Hold Knowledge Within Myself Today.
Step 219: I Will Not Let Ambition Deceive Me Today.
Step 220: I Will Use Restraint Today So That Greatness May Grow Within Me.
Step 221: I Am Free To Be Confused Today.
Step 222: The World Is Confused. I Will Judge It Not.
Step 223: I Will Receive Knowledge This Day.
_
Step 225: Today I Will Be Serious And Lighthearted All At Once.
Step 226: Knowledge Is With Me. I Will Not Be Afraid.
Step 227: I Will Not Think That I Know Today.
Step 228: I Will Not Be Poor Today.
Step 229: I Will Not Blame Another For My Pain.
Step 230: My Suffering Is Born Of Confusion.
Step 231: I Have A Calling In This World.
Step 232: My Calling In Life Requires The Development Of Others.
Step 233: I Am Part Of A Greater Force For Good In The World.
Step 234: Knowledge Serves Humanity In All Ways.
Step 235: The Power Of Knowledge Is Becoming Evident To Me.
Step 236: With Knowledge I Will Know What To Do.
Step 237: I Am Only Beginning To Comprehend The Meaning Of My Life.
_
Step 239: Freedom Is Mine Today.
Step 240: Small Ideas Cannot Fulfill My Need For Knowledge.
Step 241: My Anger Is Unjustified.
Step 242: My Greatest Gift To The World Is My Knowledge.
Step 243: I Do Not Need To Be Special To Give.
Step 244: I Am Honored When Others Are Strong.
Step 245: When Others Fail, I Am Reminded Of The Need For Knowledge.
Step 246: There Is No Justification For Failing To Reclaim Knowledge.
Step 247: I Will Listen To My Inner Teachers Today.
Step 248: I Will Rely Upon The Wisdom Of The Universe To Instruct Me.
Step 249: Alone I Can Do Nothing.
Step 250: I Will Not Hold Myself Apart Today.
Step 251: If I Abide With Knowledge, There Will Be No Confusion In My Relationships.
_
Step 253: All Things I Truly Need Will Be Provided For Me.
Step 254: I Trust My Teachers Who Abide With Me.
Step 255: The Errors Of This World Will Not Dissuade Me.
Step 256: The World Is Emerging Into The Greater Community Of Worlds.
Step 257: Life Is Greater Than I Had Ever Realized.
Step 258: Who Are My Friends Today?
Step 259: I Have Come To Teach In The World.
Step 260: I Am A Friend Of The World Today.
Step 261: I Must Learn To Give With Discernment.
Step 262: How Can I Judge Myself When I Do Not Know Who I Am?
Step 263: With Knowledge All Things Become Clear.
Step 264: I Will Learn Of Freedom This Day.
Step 265: There Is A Greater Freedom Awaiting Me.
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Step 267: There Is A Simple Solution To All Problems That Face Me Today.
Step 268: I Will Not Be Deceived By Complexity Today.
Step 269: The Power Of Knowledge Will Extend Itself From Me.
Step 270: With Power Comes Responsibility.
Step 271: I Will Accept Responsibility Today.
Step 272: My Teachers Will Guide Me As I Proceed.
Step 273: My Teachers Hold The Memory Of My Ancient Home For Me.
Step 274: I Seek Freedom From Ambivalence Today.
Step 275: Today I Seek Freedom From Uncertainty.
Step 276: Knowledge Is My Salvation.
Step 277: My Ideas Are Small, But Knowledge Is Great.
Step 278: What Is Changeless Will Express Itself Through Me.
Step 279: I Must Experience My Freedom To Realize It.
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Step 281: Above All Else I Seek Knowledge.
Step 282: I Will Learn To Accept The Responsibility Of Carrying Knowledge In The World.
Step 283: The World Is Ambivalent, But I Am Not.
Step 284: Stillness Is My Gift To The World.
Step 285: In Stillness All Things Can Be Known.
Step 286: I Carry Stillness Into The World With Me Today.
Step 287: With Knowledge I Cannot Be At War.
Step 288: Enemies Are Only Friends Who Have Not Learned To Join.
Step 289: Today I Am A Student Of Knowledge.
Step 290: I Can Only Be A Student. Therefore, I Will Be A Student Of Knowledge.
Step 291: I Am Grateful To My Brothers And My Sisters Who Err Against Me.
Step 292: How Can I Be Angry With The World When It Only Serves Me?
Step 293: I Do Not Wish To Suffer Today.
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Step 295: I Am Now Penetrating The Mystery Of My Life.
Step 297: Novre Novre Comey Na Vera Te Novre
Step 298: Mavran Mavran Conay Mavran
Step 299: Nome Nome Cono Na Vera Te Nome
Step 300: I Receive All Those Who Are My Spiritual Family Today.
Step 301: I Will Not Lose Myself In Anxiety Today.
Step 302: I Will Not Resist The World Today.
Step 303: I Will Step Back From The World’s Persuasions Today.
Step 304: I Will Not Be A Student Of Fear Today.
Step 305: I Feel The Power Of Love Today.
Step 306: I Will Rest In Knowledge Today.
Step 307: Knowledge Is Living Within Me Now.
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Step 309: The World I See Is Attempting To Become One Community.
Step 310: I Am Free Because I Desire To Give.
Step 311: The World Is Calling Me. I Must Prepare To Serve It.
Step 312: There Are Greater Problems For Me To Solve In The World.
Step 313: Let Me Recognize That What Is Complex Is Simple.
Step 314: I Will Not Be Afraid To Follow Today.
Step 315: Today I Will Not Be Alone.
Step 316: I Will Trust My Deepest Inclinations Today.
Step 317: I Need But Relinquish My Ambivalence To Know The Truth.
Step 318: There Is A Greater Power At Work In The World.
Step 319: Why Should I Be Afraid When A Greater Power Is In The World?
Step 320: I Am Free To Work Within The World.
Step 321: The World Is Awaiting My Contribution.
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Step 323: My Role In The World Is Too Important To Neglect.
Step 324: I Will Not Judge Another Today.
Step 325: The World Is Emerging Into The Greater Community Of Worlds. Therefore, I Must Be Attentive.
Step 326: The Greater Community Is Something I Can Feel But Cannot Understand.
Step 327: I Will Be At Peace Today.
Step 328: Today I Will Honor Those Who Have Given To Me.
Step 329: I Am Free To Love The World Today.
Step 330: I Will Not Neglect The Small Things In My Life.
Step 331: What Is Small Expresses That Which Is Great.
Step 332: I Am Only Beginning To Comprehend The Meaning Of Knowledge In My Life.
Step 333: There Is A Presence With Me. I Can Feel It.
Step 334: The Presence Of My Teachers Is With Me Every Day.
Step 335: The Fire Of Knowledge Is With Me Every Day.
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Step 337: Alone I Can Do Nothing.
Step 338: Today I Will Be Attentive.
Step 339: The Presence Of Love Is With Me Now.
Step 340: My Practice Is My Contribution To The World.
Step 341: I Am Happy, For I Can Now Receive.
Step 342: I Am A Student Of Knowledge Today.
Step 343: Today I Will Honor The Source Of My Preparation.
Step 344: My Knowledge Is The Gift I Give Unto The World.
Step 345: My Knowledge Is My Gift To My Spiritual Family.
Step 346: I Am In The World To Work.
Step 347: I Allow My Life To Unfold Today.
Step 348: Today I Will Witness The World Unfolding.
Step 349: I Am Happy That I Can Finally Serve The Truth.
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Step 351: I Serve A Greater Purpose, Which I Am Now Beginning To Experience.
Step 352: I Am A True Student Of Knowledge Today.
Step 353: My True Home Is In God.
Step 354: I Must Experience My True Home While I Am In The World.
Step 355: I Can Be At Peace In The World.
Step 356: I Will Find My Self Today.
Step 357: I Am In The World To Express My Self.
Step 358: I Wish To Be At Home In The World.
Step 359: I Am Present To Serve The World.
Step 360: I Must Learn How To Reveal Greatness In The World.
Step 361: I Am Being Led Into The Light Of Knowledge Today.
Step 362: I Am Learning To Learn Because I Carry Knowledge Within Me Today.
Step 363: Knowledge Is My True Desire Because I Am A Student Of Knowledge.
Step 364: Knowledge Carries Me Because I Am A Student Of Knowledge.
Dedication
“This method is given to
all students of Knowledge in the world
with gratitude and high expectation
from your Spiritual Family.
Follow the instructions as they are given.
In this way, the power and efficacy of this work
will be revealed to you and, therefore,
our gift to you will have been given.
It is with great excitement
that we bestow this upon you
and through you upon your world.”
Steps To Knowledge
I Am Without Knowledge Now.
There must be a starting point at any juncture of development. You must start from where you are, not from where you want to be. You start here in the understanding that you are without Knowledge. That is not to say that Knowledge is not with you. It is simply to say that you are not with Knowledge. Knowledge is waiting for you to proceed. Knowledge is waiting to give itself to you. Therefore, you are beginning now to prepare to be in relationship with Knowledge, the greater aspect of mind that you have brought with you from your Ancient Home.
Three times today spend 10 minutes thinking about what Knowledge is, not merely applying your own ideas, not merely applying your past understanding, but thinking about what Knowledge really is.
Practice 1: Three 10-minute practice periods.
Knowledge Is With Me. Where Am I?
Knowledge is with you, completely, but it resides in a part of your mind to which you have not yet gained access. Knowledge represents your true self, your true mind and your true relationships in the universe. It also possesses your greater calling in the world and a perfect utilization of your nature, all of your inherent abilities and skills, even your limitations—all to be given for good in the world.
Knowledge is with you, but where are you? Today think about where you are. If you are not with Knowledge, where are you? Therefore, three times today, 10 minutes each, think about where you are, not just physically or geographically, but where you are in terms of your awareness of yourself in the world. Think very, very carefully. Do not allow your mind to distract you from this orientation. It is essential now at the beginning of your preparation to ask these questions very seriously.
Practice 2: three 10-minute practice periods.
What Do I Really Know?
Today ask yourself what you really know and distinguish what you know from what you think or hope for or want for yourself or your world, what you are afraid of, what you believe in, what you cherish and what you value. Distinguish this question from all such orientations to the very best of your ability and ask yourself, “What do I really know?”You must continuously examine whatever answers you give to this question to see if they represent your beliefs or assumptions or the beliefs or assumptions of other people or perhaps even of humanity at large.
Three times today, for 10 minutes each, ask this question and think very seriously about your response and about the meaning of this question, “What do I really know?”
Practice 3: Three 10-minute practice periods.
I Want What I Think I Know.
You want what you think you know, and this is what constitutes the basis of your understanding of yourself and your world. In fact, this constitutes the basis of your whole identity. You will find, however, upon honest examination that your understanding is based upon assumptions primarily, and these assumptions have not been founded upon your experience to a very great degree, if at all.
Today in your three brief practice periods, in which you devote your total attention to examining your assumptions, think about the things you really think you know, including things that you have not thought to question before—things that you think you know. Today’s exercise, then, carries forth from the previous steps where you begin to see the difference between what you think you know and real Knowledge itself and the relationship between what you think of as Knowledge and your own assumptions, beliefs and hopes for things.
Therefore, in each practice session it is very essential for you to think about the things you think you know. When you realize they are based primarily upon your assumptions, you will realize how weak is your foundation in the world. Understanding this may be upsetting and disconcerting, but it is absolutely essential for you to give you the impetus and the desire to discover your true foundation in the world.
Practice 4: Three 10-minute practice periods.
I Believe What I Want To Believe.
This statement represents the great folly of humanity and humanity’s most dangerous forms of self-deception.
Beliefs are primarily founded upon what is wished for, not on what is actually happening and not on what is genuine. They may in fact represent the greater ideals of humanity and in this they bear a true reflection, but on a day-to-day basis, and in most practical questions, people base their beliefs on things they hope for, not on things that actually exist. You must have a very sound understanding that the approach to any resolution and to any constructive establishment must begin with current reality. What you are and what you have today must be your starting point.
Therefore, in your three practice periods today, think about this statement. Examine what you believe and then examine what you want. You will find that even your fearful or negative beliefs are associated with your ambitions. Only careful application of today’s practice will reveal this to you.
Practice 5: Three 10-minute practice periods.
I Have A True Foundation In The World.
Beyond the beliefs and assumptions which mask your own fear and uncertainty, there exists for you a true foundation in the world. This foundation is built upon your life beyond this world, for that is where you have come from and that is what you will return to. You have come from a place to which you will return, and you have not come empty-handed.
Twice today, spend two longer periods of 15 to 20 minutes in considering what your true foundation may bethink of all your ideas about this. This is a very important question. You must realize your great need for this to ask this question with sincerity and with penetrating depth.
Without a true foundation, your real accomplishments and advancement would be without hope. It is a great blessing, then, that you possess this, even if it is unknown to you.
Practice 6: Two 15 to 20-minute practice periods.
Review
In today’s two practice periods, review all that we have covered thus far, beginning with the first step and continuing on up to include the preceding day’s step. Then consider the entire sequence of the steps together. It is very important at this juncture that you not require that you have any conclusions, but that you ask questions and realize the extent to which you need true Knowledge. If you undertake this practice today sincerely, it will be most evident that you have this great need. You are vulnerable without your assumptions, but you are also in a position to receive truth and certainty in life. Take two practice periods today, 30 minutes each, to consider these things.
Practice 7: Two 30-minute practice periods.
Today I Will Be Still.
In your two meditation practices today, practice stillness for 15 minutes. Begin by taking three deep breaths and then focusing on an internal point. It may be an imaginary point or it may be a point in your physical body. With eyes closed, simply give this your full attention, without judgment and evaluation. Do not be discouraged if early attempts prove difficult. Beginning anything important in life can be difficult at first, but if you persist, you will achieve this great goal, for in stillness all things can be known.
Practice 8: Two 15-minute practice periods.
In Stillness All Things Can Be Known.
Stillness of mind allows a greater mind to emerge and to reveal its wisdom. Those who cultivate stillness with a desire for Knowledge will be preparing themselves for greater revelation and true insight to emerge. The insight may emerge during practice or during any normal activity. The important aspect here is that the preparation has been made.
Twice today practice yesterday’s practice of stillness, but practice without the expectation of a result. Do not use this practice to ask any form of question because you are practicing stillness, in which all speculation, all questions and all searching end. For 15 minutes, twice today, practice stillness once again.
Practice 9: Two 15-minute practice periods.
Very good question! Why are you doing this anyway? Why are you asking such questions? Why do you seek for greater things? Why are you exerting the effort? These questions are inevitable. We anticipate them. Why are you doing this? You are doing this because it is essential. If you wish to live anything greater than a purely superficial and unstable life, you must penetrate deeper and not be confident based only upon weak assumptions and hopeful expectations. There is a greater gift awaiting you, but you must prepare yourself mentally, emotionally and physically. Without Knowledge, you are unaware of your purpose. You are unaware of your origin and your destiny, and you will pass through this life as if it were a troubled dream and no more.
What Is Knowledge?
Let us say that Knowledge is not the things that are usually associated with it. It is not ideas. It is not a body of information. It is not a system of belief. It is not a process of self-evaluation. It is the great mystery of your life. Its outward manifestations are profound intuition, great insight, inexplicable knowing, wise perception in the present and in the future and wise understanding of the past. But despite these great achievements of mind, Knowledge is greater than this. It is your True Self, a Self that is not apart from life.
Practice 10: Read the lesson three times today.
I Am Not Apart From Life.
Regardless of the great establishments built upon your individuality and all that is associated with you personally— your body, your ideas, your difficulties, your specific forms of expression, your idiosyncrasies, your talents—you are not apart from life. This is so obvious if you look at yourself with simplicity and realize that the very makeup of your body, the very fabric of your physical life, is completely made of what life is in the physical. It is quite apparent that you are made of the same “stuff” as everything else around you. What is mysterious is your mind. It seems to be a distinct point of understanding, but it is as much a part of life as your physical fabric. You are an individual unaware of your Source and your total inclusion in life. Your individuality is a burden now, but it will be a great happiness to you when it can express life itself.
Practice 11: Read the lesson three times today.
My Individuality Is To Express Life Itself.
Here your uniqueness is a great asset and a source of joy, not a source of painful alienation and not a source of painful judgment against yourself or others. This distinction does not elevate you above or place you below anyone else. It merely pinpoints the real purpose behind your individuality and its great promise for the future. You are here to express something. That is the real meaning given to your individuality because you do not want to be separate anymore.
On two occasions today, practice two periods of silence exercising the practice that we have illustrated thus far.
Practice 12: Two 15-minute practice periods.
I Want To Be Separate To Be Unique.
This thought represents the true motive for separation, yet it is unnecessary. We do not give it here as an affirmation but as an expression of your current state. You want to be separate because this defines your self; your self is defined in terms of separation, not in terms of inclusion. Separation is the source of all your pain and confusion of mind. Your physical life demonstrates a separate life but only from a certain point of view. Given another point of view, it does not demonstrate separation at all. It demonstrates a unique expression of a Greater Reality.
On two occasions today, spend 15 minutes concentrating upon the idea for today. Think seriously about what this lesson means and call upon your own experience to reflect upon its relevance to your life. Reflect upon what your desire for separation has cost you in time, energy and pain. Realize your motivation for separation and you will know that you want to be free.
Practice 13: Two 15-minute practice periods.
Review
Once again review all the prior lessons given. In this Review reread the instructions that have been given in each step. Also review all of your practice sessions to determine the depth of your involvement in practice and the results that you have experienced. Throughout your study plan, you will be investigating the content of your own experience. This will build upon itself and eventually will reveal to you the realization of your own Knowledge.
Spend one practice period today of approximately 45 minutes to review all of the instructions and to review the results and quality of your practice. Tomorrow we shall begin the next stage of our preparation together.
Practice 14: One 45-minute practice period.
I Shall Listen To My Experience Today.
Today I will listen to my experience to find out the content of my mind.
Realize that the true content of your mind is buried beneath all that you have added since the day you were born. This true content wishes to express itself in the context of your current life and current situation. To discern this you must listen carefully and in time realize the difference between the true content of your mind and its messages for you and all the other impulses and wishes that you feel. To separate thoughts from Knowledge is one of the great accomplishments which you will have an opportunity to learn in this course.
The one practice today of 45 minutes will be devoted to inner listening. This will require that you listen without judgment of yourself, even if the content of your thoughts is disturbing. Even if the content of your thoughts is disagreeable, you must listen without judgment to allow your mind to open. You are listening for something deeper than the mind, but you must go through the mind to get there.
Practice 15: One 45-minute practice period.
Beyond My Mind Is Knowledge.
Beyond your mind is Knowledge, the true core of your being, your True Self, not the self that you have constructed to negotiate the world, but your True Self. From this True Self come thoughts and impressions, inclinations and direction. Most of what your True Self communicates to you you cannot yet hear, but in time you will learn to hear as your mind becomes still and as you develop the necessary refinement of listening and discernment.
Today practice in three periods of 15 minutes each. Listen more carefully than the day before. Listen for deeper inclinations. Again you must listen without judgment. You must not edit anything. You must listen deeply so that you may learn to hear.
Practice 16: Three 15-minute practice periods.
Today I Want To Hear The Truth.
The desire to hear the truth is something that is both a process and the result of true preparation. Developing the ability to hear and the desire to hear will yield to you that which you seek. The truth is utterly beneficial to you, but at first it can be quite shocking and disappointing to your other plans and goals. This you must risk if you wish to have the certainty and the empowerment that the truth will bring to you. The truth always brings resolution of conflict, always provides an experience of self, always gives you a sense of current reality and always provides direction for you to move forward.
Today, in your three 15-minute practice periods, practice listening to the truth, trying to listen beyond the mind and emotions. Again do not be concerned if all you hear is the rushing about of your own thoughts. Remember, you are developing listening. That is the most important thing. Like exercising a muscle in the body, you are exercising the faculty of mind called listening. Therefore, this day practice listening, taking these practice periods to devote yourself so that you may feel the truth arising within you.
Practice 17: Three 15-minute practice periods.
Today I Feel The Truth Arising Within Myself.
The truth must be fully experienced. It is not merely an idea; it is not merely an image, though images and ideas may accompany it. It is an experience, and so it is something that is deeply felt. It may manifest in slightly different ways for those who are beginning to penetrate it, but nonetheless it will arise. It is something you must feel. To have a feeling orientation, your mind must be still. Truth is something you will feel with your entire body, with your entire being.
Knowledge does not speak to you at every moment, but it always holds a message for you. To come into the proximity of Knowledge means that you become more and more like Knowledge itself—more whole, more consistent, more honest, more devoted, more concentrated, more self-disciplined, more compassionate and more self-loving. All of these qualities are developed as you approach that which is the source of these qualities.
It is in this direction that you will practice moving today as you feel the truth arising within yourself. This will join all aspects of you, giving you a uniform experience of yourself. In your three 15- minute practice periods, give your full attention to feeling the truth arising within yourself. Practice in stillness, and do not be discouraged if it is difficult at first. Simply practice and you will proceed.
Throughout the day as well, without doubt or hesitation, pursue your true goal in life. From this true goal will come all of the important things that you will need to accomplish and the great power of vision and discernment that will allow you to find those individuals that you have come into the world to find.
Practice 18: Three 15-minute practice periods.
Today I Wish To See.
The Desire To See Is Like The Desire To Know. It too requires a refinement of your mind’s faculties. To see with clear vision means you are not seeing with preference. It means that you are able to perceive that which is actually occurring rather than that which you wish to see. There is something actually occurring beyond your wishes. This is very true. The desire to see, then, is the desire to see a greater truth. This requires a greater honesty and a greater openness of mind.
Today in your two practice sessions, practice looking upon one simple mundane object. Do not take your eyes off of that object, but look and practice looking very conscientiously. You are not trying to see anything. You are simply looking with an open mind. When the mind is open, it experiences its own depth, and it experiences the depth of what it is perceiving.
Choose one simple object that has very little meaning for you and gaze upon it twice today for at least 15 minutes. Allow your mind to become very still. Breathe deeply and regularly as you gaze upon this object. Allow your mind to settle down into itself.
Practice 19: Two 15-minute practice periods.
I Will Not Let Doubt And Confusion Slow My Progress.
W hat can slow your progress but your own indecision, and what can breed indecision save that which produces confusion of mind? You have a greater goal which is being illustrated in this program of preparation. Do not let doubt and confusion be an obstruction to you. To be a true student means that you are assuming very little and that you are directing yourself in a manner that you do not prescribe for yourself but which is given to you from a Greater Power. The Greater Power wishes to raise you to its own level of ability. In this way, you receive the gift of preparation so that you may give it to others. In this way, you are given that which you cannot provide for yourself. You realize your individual power and ability because they must be developed in order for you to follow a program of this nature. You also realize your inclusion in life as life strives to serve you in your true development.
Therefore, practice the same practice that you attempted in the previous day in your two practice periods, and do not let doubt or confusion dissuade you. Be a true student today. Allow yourself to concentrate on your practice. Give yourself to practice. Be a true student today.
Practice 20: Two 15-minute practice periods.
Review
In your third review, review all the lessons of the past week and the results of those lessons. Practice today not making any conclusions, but simply recognize the line of development and take note of the progress that you have made thus far. It is too early to make genuine conclusions, though it may be very tempting to do so. Beginning students are not in a position to judge their curriculum. This right must be earned and comes later if you wish for your judgments to have true effect and to be wise.
Therefore, in your one practice period, review the last section of practice and all that has been experienced thus far.
Practice 21: One 45-minute practice period.
I Am Surrounded By The Teachers Of God.
You are indeed surrounded by the teachers of God, who have undertaken a training in many ways similar to the one you are doing now. Though given in many different forms, in different eras, in different worlds, a very similar kind of training was given to them that was geared wisely to their former state of mind and circumstances in life.
Today, in two 15-minute practice periods, feel the presence of the Teachers of God. You cannot yet see them with your eyes, and you cannot yet hear them with your ears because these faculties of sense have not been refined sufficiently yet, but you can feel their presence, for their presence surrounds and protects you. In your practice, let not other thoughts interfere. Do not give in to doubt or confusion, for you must prepare to have the reward that you seek, and you must know that you are not alone in the world to have the strength, the confidence and the resource of Wisdom necessary to achieve that which you were sent here to achieve.
You are surrounded by the teachers of God. They are here to love, support and direct you.
Practice 22: Two 15-minute practice periods.
I Am Loved, Surrounded And Supported By The Teachers Of God.
The truth of this will become self-evident as you prepare, but for now it may require great faith. This idea may challenge existing ideas or beliefs, but it is true nonetheless. God’s Plan is invisible and recognized by very few because very few have the openness of mind and the quality of attention that will allow them to see what is obviously occurring around them, which at this point is not obvious to them at all. Your Teachers love you, surround you and support you, for you are emerging into Knowledge. This calls them to your side. You are one of the few who has the promise and the opportunity to emerge from the sleep of your own imagination into the grace of Reality.
Therefore, in your two practice periods today, feel this love, support and direction. It is a feeling. It is not ideas. It is a feeling. It is something you must feel. Love is something you must feel to know. You are indeed loved, surrounded and supported by your Teachers, and you are very worthy of their great gift to you.
Practice 23: Two 15-minute practice periods.
I Am Worthy Of God’s Love.
You are indeed worthy of god’s love. In fact, you really are God’s love. Without pretense of any kind, at the very core of yourself, this is your True Self. It is not the Self you yet experience, and until you do experience it, do not pretend that this is your experience. But hold in true awareness that this is your Self. You are a person, but you are greater than a person. How can you be unworthy of God’s love if that is what you are? Your Teachers surround you and provide that which you are so that you may experience yourself and your true relationship with life.
In your two practice periods today, practice receiving once again the love, support and direction of your Teachers, and if any thought obstructs this, if any feeling prevents this, remind yourself of your great worthiness. You are worthy not for what you have done in the world. You are worthy for who you are, where you have come from and where you are going. Your life may be filled with errors and mistakes, wrong decisions and poor choices, but you have still come from your Ancient Home to which you will return. Your worthiness in the sight of God is unchanged. There is only great effort to repair your errors so that you may experience your True Self so that it may be rendered into the world.