Chapter 1 VII Distortions of Miracle Impulses
In Chapter 1, Section VII of A Course in Miracles, titled "Distortions of Miracle Impulses," Jesus teaches that our distorted perceptions create a barrier to our awareness of miracles. These barriers are often created when we confuse physical desires with true miracle impulses. The text explains that "physical impulses are misdirected miracle impulses." This means that when we place too much importance on material desires or fantasies, we are misinterpreting the deeper calling of our spirit to align with God’s will.
The passage makes an important distinction between what is real and what is illusion. Real joy comes from doing God's will and recognising our true selves, while physical impulses and fantasies represent a denial of that truth. The Course reminds us, "All real pleasure comes from doing God’s Will." Anything that takes us away from this, such as fantasies about material objects or worldly achievements, serves only to keep us trapped in the illusion.
As I read this, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own life. I often catch myself dreaming about having a more beautiful home—a new kitchen, a bath, or even a dishwasher. These are desires I’ve held onto, believing they would somehow enhance my happiness. But as I move through A Course in Miracles, I’m beginning to see these desires for what they are: distractions from what truly matters.
The Course calls these desires "fantasies," and it describes fantasy as a distorted form of vision, a way in which we twist our perception of reality to meet false needs. For example, when I focus on how much I want a new kitchen or bath, I’m temporarily giving these things the power to affect my happiness. But in truth, my happiness doesn't depend on these external changes; it depends on recognising the love and completeness that already exist within me.
In the text, Jesus says, "Fantasies are a means of making false associations and attempting to obtain pleasure from them." This statement really resonates with me. When I focus on these material desires, I’m not really looking for a new kitchen or dishwasher—what I’m searching for is the happiness or contentment I believe these things will bring. But the Course gently reminds me that this sense of peace can never be found in anything external. It is already within, waiting to be uncovered through the practice of love and forgiveness.
Another important point made in this section is that we are here to "create the good, the beautiful, and the holy." This means that while we are still in bodies, we can use them to express love, kindness, and healing. The purpose of the body, then, is not to satisfy physical desires or fantasies, but to help expand our perception and lead us toward real vision. Our bodies become tools for healing and miracles when we align with God’s will, instead of chasing after material fantasies.
As I continue my study of A Course in Miracles, I see how much energy I’ve spent on these fantasies, believing they would make me feel more complete. This section is helping me shift my focus. Its not easy because even writing this I still really want these things. but instead of thinking about what I can get to make me feel happy or secure, I’m learning to ask, "How can I use my body, my mind, and my actions to express love and create healing?"
Ultimately, the Course explains that when we let go of these distortions and fantasies, we open ourselves to the "wholly satisfying nature of reality." This is where true happiness lies, not in the material things we fantasise about, but in the love and wholeness that is already ours.
For me, this chapter is a reminder to clear away the distractions and focus on what really matters: aligning with the truth of who I am and using my life as an expression of love. The material desires that once seemed important now feel less significant, as I begin to embrace the idea that real fulfilment comes from within, not from the things I once thought I needed.
Bibliography
A Course in Miracles.
Foundation for Inner Peace.
A Course in Miracles: Combined Volume, 3rd Edition. Foundation for Inner Peace, 2007.
URL: https://acim.org.
