"My mind is preoccupied with past thoughts." – A Course in Miracles Workbook, Lesson 8

What if the thoughts filling our minds are actually remnants of the past, blocking our view of the present?

In this episode of Love & Learn, we dive into Lesson 8 from A Course in Miracles Workbook, which reveals how much of our mental activity is a preoccupation with past thoughts. This lesson guides us to recognize how memories and past experiences cloud our perception, preventing us from fully engaging with the present moment. By becoming aware of these thought patterns, we open the door to experiencing life with greater clarity and presence.

Key Insights on Lesson 8

1. The Illusion of Time in Our Thoughts:
This lesson invites us to see that when we think about the past or anticipate the future, our minds are actually blank, disconnected from the present reality. The only time that truly exists is the now, and focusing on it allows us to break free from the illusion of time and connect with what is real.

2. Preoccupation with the Past Blocks the Present:
When our minds are filled with past thoughts, they become cluttered with “thoughtless ideas” that lack true substance. This mental clutter blocks us from seeing the world clearly and experiencing the truth of each moment. By letting go of these past-based thoughts, we open ourselves up to living more fully in the present.

3. Naming Thoughts to Break the Cycle:
The practice of naming each thought—“I seem to be thinking about ______”—helps us become aware of how frequently we drift into past memories or worries about the future. This awareness is the first step to breaking the habit of dwelling on old thoughts and returning to a state of peaceful presence.

Remember: When we recognize that much of our mind is occupied by past thoughts, we create the opportunity to experience life as it truly is, free from the filters of memory and assumption.

Tune in to join us as we uncover how releasing past thoughts allows for a clearer, more peaceful experience of the present moment!

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"Whatever people do, feel, think, or say, don’t take it personally." – Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements

What if you could free yourself from the emotional rollercoaster of others’ opinions and actions?

In this episode of Love & Learn, we explore the second agreement from Don Miguel Ruiz’s transformative book, The Four Agreements: Don’t Take Anything Personally.

This agreement teaches us how to release the need for approval and detach from others’ judgments, allowing us to experience greater inner peace and freedom. By recognizing that people’s actions and words are reflections of their own beliefs and experiences, we learn to protect our self-worth from external influences.

In this episode, we’ll uncover:

• Why people’s opinions and actions are projections of their own reality, not a reflection of you
• How to let go of emotional pain by releasing the need for validation from others
• The powerful effects of creating boundaries and taking ownership of your own feelings

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Others’ Reactions Reflect Their Own Inner Worlds
   People’s actions and words are rooted in their unique beliefs, past experiences, and insecurities—not in who you are. Understanding this allows you to let go of defensiveness and hurt, creating space for compassion and self-acceptance.

2. Your Self-Worth Doesn’t Depend on External Validation
   Taking things personally often means tying your worth to others' approval. By releasing the need for validation, you create a stronger foundation of self-worth based on your own truth, empowering you to live authentically and confidently.

3. Not Taking Things Personally Strengthens Boundaries and Builds Inner Peace
   This agreement doesn’t mean dismissing feedback but encourages discernment and emotional responsibility. By not absorbing others' judgments, you establish healthier boundaries and experience a deeper sense of inner peace and resilience.

Remember: When you stop taking things personally, you free yourself from the control of others’ perceptions. This agreement is a powerful path toward self-love and emotional freedom.

Tune in to discover how letting go of personal importance can transform your relationships and bring you greater peace!

ALL CONCEPTS FROM THE FOUR AGREEMENTS

• Be Impeccable With Your Word
• Don’t Take Anything Personally

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"Words are a force; they hold the power to create or destroy." – Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements

What if every word you spoke shaped your reality, affecting not only your self-image but the world around you?

In this episode of Love & Learn, we dive into the first of Don Miguel Ruiz’s Four Agreements: Be Impeccable with Your Word. This agreement reminds us of the transformative power of our words, not just in our interactions with others but in how we speak to ourselves. By being mindful of our language, we can create a more positive, authentic, and loving experience of life.

In this episode, we’ll uncover:

• Why words are more than symbols—they’re tools that shape our beliefs and experiences
• The meaning of "impeccability" and how it relates to self-respect and self-love
• How to become aware of negative self-talk and shift to words that affirm your worth

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Words Are Seeds That Shape Your Reality: Each word you speak or think is like a seed planted in the fertile ground of your mind, shaping how you see yourself and others. By using words that nurture love, compassion, and truth, you’re planting seeds that will grow into a more fulfilling and peaceful life. Remember, words aren’t just sounds; they’re tools that have the power to create or destroy. Choose them wisely.

2. Being Impeccable with Your Word Is an Act of Self-Love: Being impeccable with your word means aligning what you say and think with your higher self—words that honor, uplift, and respect who you are. This is an act of love, not only for yourself but for those around you. When we avoid self-criticism, gossip, and judgment, we reduce the “emotional poison” in our lives, allowing us to see ourselves and others more clearly and compassionately.

3. Commit to Breaking Negative Agreements: Pay attention to your self-talk and notice any patterns of negativity or self-criticism. By shifting these thoughts—even in small ways—you begin to challenge limiting beliefs and replace them with words that uplift and support your journey. Many of our limiting beliefs come from agreements we didn’t consciously choose. By being impeccable with our word, we actively challenge and rewrite these agreements. Each time you choose words that empower rather than diminish, you weaken old patterns and strengthen new agreements that affirm your worth, creativity, and joy. As Ruiz says, this agreement will “change the kind of seeds your mind is fertile for,” allowing you to nurture a life built on love instead of fear.

Remember: Your words have the power to create a more loving, compassionate world within you and around you.

Tune in to discover how being impeccable with your word can shift your perspective and enrich your daily life!

ALL CONCEPTS FROM THE FOUR AGREEMENTS

• Be Impeccable With Your Word
• Don’t Take Anything Personally

CONNECT WITH DON MIGUEL RUIZ

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• Instagram

CONNECT WITH JESSICA FLINT

• Website
• Retreat
• Instagram