II. The Alternative to Projection, P 4 & 5
4 We have learned, however, that there is an alternative to projection. Every ability of the ego has a better use, because its abilities are directed by the mind, which has a better Voice. The Holy Spirit extends and the ego projects. As their goals are opposed, so is the result.
Journal
The ego makes for the purpose of adding to the illusion. Whatever it is we have made through ego, the Holy Spirit can use to help us wake up.
5 The Holy Spirit begins by perceiving you as perfect. Knowing this perfection is shared He recognizes it in others, thus strengthening it in both. Instead of anger this arouses love for both, because it establishes inclusion. Perceiving equality, the Holy Spirit perceives equal needs. This invites Atonement automatically, because Atonement is the one need in this world that is universal. To perceive yourself this way is the only way in which you can find happiness in the world. That is because it is the acknowledgement that you are not in this world, for the world is unhappy.
Journal
When I began my search for a new car, I remembered past experiences and judged this one by those criteria. I felt uncomfortable and at a disadvantage. I saw the salesman as my enemy, someone with whom I was competing. It felt really bad and so that jarred me out of my ego trance. I realized I was projecting and I knew that projection would take me deeper into the illusion. It would further separate me from my brothers and so from God. I made a different choice.
I asked the Holy Spirit to heal my mind. I remembered my purpose and it was not to get a good deal on a car, but to extend love. From that different choice I had a different experience. I treated everyone I spoke to as if they were precious to me. I had moments when the ego tried to entice me back into the game, but I would then remember my purpose. It turned out to be a good experience and I now own a very nice car.
When I asked the Holy Spirit for help, He did not start by telling me what was wrong with me so that I could fix it. He looked at me and saw perfection and that awakened a memory in me. I was not consciously aware of this process, but that is what was happening. It is the reason I could turn on a dime and suddenly see myself in an expanded way. I was no longer a woman at a car lot afraid of being duped as she tried to navigate a situation without the knowledge to do so.
From a healed mind, I became a teacher of God buying a car. My purpose was to allow healing of my mind and so move closer to awakening, and in the process help my brothers to awaken as well. I started out this contracted little person, defensive and ready to attack at the slightest provocation. I became an extender of love, treating everyone as I would want to be treated. The Holy Spirit looked out from my perfection to their perfection, and I joined in His Vision.
There was no cost, only gain because God does not want our sacrifice. He does not Will that any of His children suffer. I got a nice car, the salesman made his commission, and the dealership made their profit. And we all felt the Love of God move through that transaction. Holy Spirit, thank you for your Vision and for healing my mind. Please guide me through this day as well, and help me to remember my purpose in all that I do.