A Course in Miracles: Healing Today’s World with Love and Unity

Hello, everyone. Today, we’re embarking on a journey of profound insight and healing inspired by A Course in Miracles by Helen Schucman—a timeless spiritual masterpiece that has touched millions around the globe.

We’re bringing together some of the most inspiring minds and voices—people who have dedicated their lives to fostering peace, healing divisions, and uplifting humanity. Imagine sitting at the table with Helen Schucman herself, joined by icons like Martin Luther King Jr, Cornel West and the Dalai Lama, alongside modern thinkers like Eckhart Tolle, Brené Brown, and Bryan Stevenson.

Through these imaginary conversations, we’ll explore the big questions facing our world today: How can we bridge political divides? Heal global conflicts? Find inner peace in a chaotic world? Each dialogue is packed with wisdom, practical tools, and transformative ideas to help us heal ourselves and our planet.

So, sit back, open your heart, and join us as we dive deep into these extraordinary conversations. Together, let’s rediscover love, unity, and the power of forgiveness to change the world.

Overcoming Political and Ideological Divides

Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Today, we’re addressing a pressing issue in today’s world: overcoming political and ideological divides. Helen, let’s start with you. How does A Course in Miracles help us understand and heal these divisions?

Helen Schucman: Thank you, Nick. The divisions we see in the world are a projection of the inner separation within our own minds. A Course in Miracles teaches that healing begins with forgiveness. When we let go of judgment and recognize our shared oneness, we dissolve the barriers created by the ego, both internally and externally.

Nick Sasaki: Dalai Lama, your teachings focus on compassion and unity. How can compassion help bridge political divides?

Dalai Lama: Compassion allows us to see beyond labels and ideologies. When we view others as fellow human beings, not as enemies or opponents, we create a foundation for dialogue. True peace comes when we prioritize understanding over judgment, even in the face of disagreement.

Nick Sasaki: Desmond, you’ve had firsthand experience in reconciling deep divisions. What lessons can we learn from your work in South Africa?

Desmond Tutu: One lesson is that no conflict is insurmountable when we recognize the humanity in each other. Forgiveness played a central role in South Africa’s healing. It doesn’t mean forgetting or condoning injustice—it means refusing to let anger and resentment control us.

Nick Sasaki: Brené, you’ve spoken about vulnerability in difficult conversations. How does vulnerability help us overcome ideological divides?

Brené Brown: Vulnerability is the courage to show up with an open heart, even when we risk disagreement or rejection. When we approach others with curiosity rather than defensiveness, we create space for connection. It’s through these honest, heart-centered conversations that real understanding emerges.

Nick Sasaki: Gandhi, your nonviolent approach inspired movements around the world. How does nonviolence relate to healing ideological divisions?

Mahatma Gandhi: Nonviolence is rooted in the principle of ahimsa—the absence of harm in thought, word, and action. When we resist the urge to attack and instead seek the truth in each perspective, we create opportunities for reconciliation. Nonviolence requires immense inner strength, but it is the most powerful tool for uniting divided communities.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, how do we move beyond judgment when ideological differences feel so personal?

Helen Schucman: Judgment stems from fear and the belief in separation. To move beyond it, we must ask for help from the Holy Spirit, who sees everyone as equally worthy of love. This shift in perception allows us to engage with others from a place of unity rather than division.

Nick Sasaki: Dalai Lama, how can individuals take practical steps to cultivate compassion for those they strongly disagree with?

Dalai Lama: Begin with self-compassion. When you are at peace with yourself, it becomes easier to extend compassion to others. Practice active listening, even when you disagree. Try to understand their perspective without rushing to judgment. Compassion is a skill that grows with practice.

Nick Sasaki: Desmond, how do we address the pain and anger that often fuel divisions?

Desmond Tutu: Acknowledge the pain. Ignoring or dismissing it only deepens the wounds. At the same time, remind yourself that holding onto anger harms you more than anyone else. Forgiveness frees us from the chains of our own bitterness, allowing healing to begin.

Nick Sasaki: Brené, what would you say to someone who feels too afraid to engage in these vulnerable conversations?

Brené Brown: Fear is natural, but courage is not the absence of fear—it’s moving forward despite it. Start small. Engage with one person you trust and practice open, honest dialogue. Vulnerability builds connection, and connection is what heals division.

Nick Sasaki: Gandhi, what advice would you give to those seeking to overcome divisiveness in today’s polarized world?

Mahatma Gandhi: Be the change you wish to see. Begin with yourself. Practice kindness, patience, and humility in your own interactions. When enough individuals commit to living these values, the collective transformation will follow.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, any final thoughts on overcoming ideological divides?

Helen Schucman: Remember that the divisions we see are illusions of the ego. Our true reality is one of love and unity. By choosing forgiveness, we pave the way for a world where these divides no longer exist.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Helen. Dalai Lama, Desmond, Brené, Gandhi, your insights have been deeply inspiring. Let’s take these lessons of compassion, forgiveness, and nonviolence into our lives as we work to heal the divisions in our world.

Healing Global Conflicts and War

Nick Sasaki: Thank you all for joining this critical discussion on healing global conflicts and war. Helen, let’s start with you. How does A Course in Miracles guide us in resolving conflict on a global scale?

Helen Schucman: Thank you, Nick. Conflict arises from the belief in separation—the idea that we are fundamentally different from one another. A Course in Miracles teaches that peace is possible when we choose love and forgiveness over fear and judgment. When we see others as part of ourselves, the barriers to understanding and reconciliation dissolve.

Nick Sasaki: Nelson, you lived through and led South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy. What role does forgiveness play in healing deep wounds?

Nelson Mandela: Forgiveness is the foundation of peace. It is not about forgetting the past but freeing ourselves from its hold. During South Africa’s transition, forgiveness allowed us to move forward without being consumed by resentment. It was essential for building trust and unity.

Nick Sasaki: Thich Nhat Hanh, your teachings often emphasize mindfulness. How can mindfulness help address the root causes of war and conflict?

Thich Nhat Hanh: Mindfulness helps us understand the suffering that leads to conflict. When we look deeply into the pain of others and ourselves, we develop compassion. This understanding prevents us from reacting with anger and helps us approach conflict with clarity and peace.

Nick Sasaki: Desmond, as a leader in South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, how did you balance justice and forgiveness?

Desmond Tutu: Justice and forgiveness are not mutually exclusive. Justice acknowledges the harm done, while forgiveness frees us from the cycle of hatred and revenge. Through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we aimed to hold people accountable while also allowing space for healing through truth-telling and forgiveness.

Nick Sasaki: Malala, you’ve faced violence firsthand and continue to advocate for peace and education. How do you remain hopeful in the face of conflict?

Malala Yousafzai: Hope comes from recognizing the power of unity and education. When we educate children, especially girls, we empower communities to resolve conflicts peacefully. I’ve seen how even small acts of kindness and courage can inspire change.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, how can individuals contribute to healing global conflicts when they feel powerless?

Helen Schucman: Every act of forgiveness and love contributes to the collective healing of the world. When individuals choose peace in their daily interactions, it creates a ripple effect that can transform even the most entrenched conflicts.

Nick Sasaki: Nelson, what advice would you give to leaders trying to heal divided nations?

Nelson Mandela: Leadership requires humility, patience, and the willingness to listen. True healing begins when leaders put the needs of the people above their own agendas and prioritize reconciliation over retribution.

Nick Sasaki: Thich Nhat Hanh, what is the role of deep listening in resolving global conflicts?

Thich Nhat Hanh: Deep listening allows us to hear the pain and needs of others without judgment. When people feel heard, they are more open to dialogue and resolution. This simple practice can transform even the most hostile relationships.

Nick Sasaki: Desmond, how can we inspire future generations to choose peace over conflict?

Desmond Tutu: By teaching them that love is stronger than hate. Children must see examples of kindness, forgiveness, and justice in action. When they grow up in an environment of love and respect, they will naturally become peacemakers.

Nick Sasaki: Malala, what is your message to young people living in conflict zones?

Malala Yousafzai: Never give up on the possibility of change. Your voice matters, no matter how small it feels. Education and unity are powerful tools to build a peaceful future, and you are never too young to make a difference.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, any final thoughts on healing global conflicts?

Helen Schucman: Peace begins in the mind. When we choose love over fear, we create a world where war is no longer necessary. The miracle of peace starts with each of us.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Helen, Nelson, Thich Nhat Hanh, Desmond, and Malala. Your insights remind us that even in the face of great conflict, forgiveness, mindfulness, and love can guide us toward healing and peace.

Combating Fear and Anxiety in a Rapidly Changing World

Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Today we’re exploring how to combat fear and anxiety in a world that’s changing faster than ever. Helen, in A Course in Miracles, fear is described as an illusion. How does this concept help us address anxiety in today’s world?

Helen Schucman: Thank you, Nick. Fear arises from the ego, which sees separation and threat everywhere. A Course in Miracles teaches that fear is not real—it’s a misperception. When we shift our awareness to love, we dissolve fear’s power and return to a state of peace, no matter what’s happening externally.

Nick Sasaki: Eckhart, your work emphasizes the present moment. How does living in the now help alleviate fear?

Eckhart Tolle: Fear thrives in the mind’s projections of the future or regrets about the past. When we focus on the present moment, we see that most fears are not real but stories the mind creates. Presence frees us from the grip of anxiety and allows us to respond to life with clarity and calm.

Nick Sasaki: Joe, your teachings on neuroscience suggest we can rewire our brains to overcome fear. Can you explain?

Joe Dispenza: Absolutely. Fear is a learned response reinforced by past experiences and thought patterns. Through practices like meditation and visualization, we can break the habit of fear and create new neural pathways rooted in love and possibility. When we change our thoughts, we change our emotional state.

Nick Sasaki: Louise, you’ve helped millions transform their lives through affirmations. How can affirmations help with fear and anxiety?

Louise Hay: Affirmations reprogram the subconscious mind. When we repeat loving, empowering statements like, “I am safe,” or “I trust life to support me,” we replace fearful thoughts with positive ones. Over time, these affirmations create a deep sense of inner peace and confidence.

Nick Sasaki: Byron, your method, The Work, helps people question their stressful thoughts. How does questioning thoughts help combat fear?

Byron Katie: Fear is often based on unexamined beliefs like, “This is dangerous” or “I can’t handle this.” When we ask, “Is it true?” we often find that our fears are exaggerated or unfounded. By questioning these thoughts, we dissolve fear and discover peace beneath it.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, how does forgiveness play a role in overcoming fear?

Helen Schucman: Forgiveness releases the grip of fear by undoing the ego’s perception of attack. When we forgive, we free ourselves from the past and create space for love to guide us. This shift dispels fear and restores peace.

Nick Sasaki: Eckhart, what practical steps can people take to cultivate presence in their daily lives?

Eckhart Tolle: Begin with simple practices like conscious breathing or observing your thoughts without judgment. These small moments of presence interrupt the mind’s habitual patterns of fear, helping you anchor in the now.

Nick Sasaki: Joe, how can people start reprogramming their brains for peace?

Joe Dispenza: Start with intentional meditation. Visualize the feelings you want to experience, such as love, joy, or gratitude. By emotionally rehearsing these states, you teach your brain to prioritize them over fear.

Nick Sasaki: Louise, can you share a simple affirmation for someone feeling overwhelmed?

Louise Hay: One of my favorites is, “All is well. Everything is working out for my highest good. Out of this situation, only good will come.” It’s a powerful reminder that life supports you.

Nick Sasaki: Byron, how can someone start questioning their thoughts when overwhelmed by fear?

Byron Katie: Write down your fearful thoughts, then ask these four questions: “Is it true? Can I absolutely know it’s true? How do I react when I believe it? Who would I be without it?” This process helps dismantle fear and replace it with clarity and peace.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, any closing thoughts on combating fear in today’s world?

Helen Schucman: Fear is an illusion that loses its power when we choose love instead. Every moment is an opportunity to remember our true nature and trust in the guidance of love.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Helen, Eckhart, Joe, Louise, and Byron. Your insights remind us that fear doesn’t have to control us. Through presence, forgiveness, and questioning our thoughts, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with peace and resilience.

Fostering Unity Amid Social Inequality

Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Our topic today is "Fostering Unity Amid Social Inequality," a challenge that remains critical in our world. Helen, how does A Course in Miracles address inequality and guide us toward unity?

Helen Schucman: Thank you, Nick. Inequality stems from the ego’s belief in separation—that we are different and disconnected from one another. A Course in Miracles teaches that we are all one, united in love. By practicing forgiveness and releasing judgment, we can transcend these illusions and foster true equality and unity.

Nick Sasaki: Dr. King, your leadership in the civil rights movement is legendary. How do love and nonviolence help address social inequality?

Martin Luther King Jr.: Love is the most powerful force for change. Nonviolence, grounded in love, allows us to confront injustice without perpetuating hate. It transforms enemies into allies and fosters reconciliation, which is essential for creating a society where all are treated equally.

Nick Sasaki: Cornel, your work bridges academic and grassroots efforts to address systemic inequality. How do we begin to unite across divides?

Cornel West: Unity begins with radical truth-telling and an acknowledgment of the pain caused by injustice. But truth must be paired with love—what I call a “revolutionary love”—to ensure that our pursuit of justice uplifts and heals, rather than divides.

Nick Sasaki: Reverend Moon, your vision emphasized global unity. How can we foster unity amid the deep inequalities we see today?

Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Unity comes from recognizing that we are one family under God. When we live with true love—love that sacrifices for others—we break down barriers of race, nationality, and class. By seeing others as our brothers and sisters, we can overcome inequality and build a world of peace.

Nick Sasaki: Bryan, your work in justice reform highlights systemic inequities. How do we address these inequalities while fostering unity?

Bryan Stevenson: We must first acknowledge the history and impact of injustice. Unity requires truth-telling, but it also requires hope and the belief that change is possible. When we see the humanity in everyone, even those who have caused harm, we create the conditions for meaningful reform and healing.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, how can forgiveness help in addressing the anger and resentment often tied to inequality?

Helen Schucman: Forgiveness doesn’t mean ignoring or excusing injustice. It means releasing the emotional burdens of anger and judgment, which frees us to act from a place of love. This shift allows us to address inequality without perpetuating the cycle of fear and hatred.

Nick Sasaki: Dr. King, what is the role of faith in fostering unity amid social inequality?

Martin Luther King Jr.: Faith gives us the strength to continue fighting for justice, even in the face of immense challenges. It reminds us that the arc of the moral universe bends toward justice, and that love and truth will ultimately prevail.

Nick Sasaki: Cornel, how can education help bridge divides and foster unity?

Cornel West: Education is a tool for awakening. When we teach people about the shared struggles of humanity and the interconnectedness of our lives, we empower them to see beyond their differences and work together for justice and unity.

Nick Sasaki: Reverend Moon, what practical steps can individuals take to live as “one family under God”?

Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Begin with small acts of love and service. Practice living for the sake of others, even in your daily life. When each person commits to this mindset, we create a ripple effect that brings unity and healing to families, communities, and the world.

Nick Sasaki: Bryan, what advice would you give to those who feel overwhelmed by the scale of inequality?

Bryan Stevenson: Start where you are. Engage in small acts of justice—whether it’s advocating for someone in need or educating yourself and others. Change happens one step at a time, and even small actions can inspire greater movements.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, any closing thoughts on fostering unity amid inequality?

Helen Schucman: True unity comes from seeing beyond the illusions of separation and recognizing the divine light in everyone. When we choose love, we bridge all divides.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Helen, Dr. King, Cornel, Reverend Moon, and Bryan. Your insights remind us that fostering unity is not just about addressing external inequities but also about transforming our inner perceptions. Let’s move forward with love, truth, and a commitment to creating a more just and unified world.

Building Inner Peace to Create Outer Peace

Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Today, we’re exploring how building inner peace can lead to outer peace in our world. Helen, let’s start with you. How does A Course in Miracles guide us in creating inner peace?

Helen Schucman: Thank you, Nick. Inner peace comes from recognizing that the world we see is a projection of our own minds. When we release judgment, practice forgiveness, and align with love, we dissolve the fear and conflict within us. This shift radiates outward, transforming our relationships and communities.

Nick Sasaki: Paramahansa Yogananda, your teachings emphasize the connection between inner and outer harmony. How does meditation contribute to peace?

Paramahansa Yogananda: Meditation is the doorway to divine consciousness. It stills the restless mind and connects us to the infinite source of peace within. When individuals experience this inner calm, they naturally bring harmony into their actions and interactions, creating ripples of peace in the world.

Nick Sasaki: Byron, your method, The Work, helps people question their beliefs. How does questioning stressful thoughts lead to inner peace?

Byron Katie: Stress and conflict come from believing untrue thoughts. When we question those beliefs—asking, “Is it true?”—we dismantle the illusions that cause suffering. Inner peace arises when we stop fighting reality and embrace what is with clarity and love.

Nick Sasaki: Richard, your work focuses on contemplation and spiritual transformation. How can contemplation help us cultivate peace?

Richard Rohr: Contemplation allows us to step back from the dualistic, ego-driven mind and see the world through God’s eyes. In this space of divine awareness, we experience the unity of all things. From this deep connection, peace flows naturally into our actions and relationships.

Nick Sasaki: Jesus, your teachings are the foundation of many spiritual paths. How does love and forgiveness create peace?

Jesus Christ: Love is the fulfillment of all laws. When you love your neighbor as yourself, you dissolve the barriers of fear and hatred. Forgiveness is the ultimate expression of love—it frees both the giver and the receiver, restoring peace within and among us.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, what role does forgiveness play in building inner peace?

Helen Schucman: Forgiveness is essential. It frees us from the chains of the past and clears the illusions of separation. When we forgive, we remember our oneness with others, which is the foundation of both inner and outer peace.

Nick Sasaki: Paramahansa Yogananda, how can people incorporate meditation into their daily lives?

Paramahansa Yogananda: Begin with just a few minutes each day. Focus on your breath, a mantra, or the presence of God. Over time, this practice will deepen, bringing a sense of calm and connection that permeates all aspects of your life.

Nick Sasaki: Byron, how can people start questioning their thoughts to find peace?

Byron Katie: Write down your stressful thoughts and ask these four questions: “Is it true? Can I absolutely know it’s true? How do I react when I believe it? Who would I be without this thought?” This process creates space for peace to enter.

Nick Sasaki: Richard, how can contemplation help us deal with external chaos and conflict?

Richard Rohr: Contemplation centers us in the eternal now, where God’s peace resides. It helps us respond to conflict not with reactivity but with grounded, loving action. Contemplation trains us to bring divine presence into even the most challenging situations.

Nick Sasaki: Jesus, how do we bring peace into a divided and chaotic world?

Jesus Christ: Begin with your heart. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Live in love, extend forgiveness, and trust in God’s will. True peace begins within and flows outward to heal the world.

Nick Sasaki: Helen, any final thoughts on creating peace?

Helen Schucman: Peace is our natural state when we align with love. The miracle of peace begins with the choice to see differently and to act with kindness and forgiveness.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Helen, Paramahansa Yogananda, Byron, Richard, and Jesus. Your wisdom reminds us that inner peace is not just a personal journey but a gift we give to the world. Let’s take these lessons to heart as we work to create a more peaceful and loving world.

Short Bios:

Helen Schucman: Psychologist and scribe of A Course in Miracles, Helen Schucman introduced transformative teachings on love, forgiveness, and inner peace.

Martin Luther King Jr.: Civil rights leader and advocate of nonviolence, Martin Luther King Jr. inspired movements for equality, justice, and unity worldwide.

Cornel West: Philosopher, activist, and author, Cornel West advocates for love, justice, and equality, bridging academic and grassroots movements.

Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Global spiritual leader, Reverend Sun Myung Moon dedicated his life to fostering unity, peace, and the vision of one global family under God.

Bryan Stevenson: Human rights lawyer and founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, Bryan Stevenson works to reform the justice system and fight inequality.

Paramahansa Yogananda: Yogi and author of Autobiography of a Yogi, Yogananda brought teachings of meditation and spiritual awakening to the modern world.

Byron Katie: Creator of The Work, Byron Katie helps individuals find peace by questioning stressful thoughts and aligning with reality.

Richard Rohr: Franciscan friar and spiritual teacher, Richard Rohr inspires with his work on contemplation, non-duality, and divine connection.

Jesus Christ: Central figure of Christianity, Jesus Christ taught unconditional love, forgiveness, and peace as the ultimate path to spiritual salvation.

Thich Nhat Hanh: Zen master and peace activist, Thich Nhat Hanh taught mindfulness, compassionate action, and deep listening to transform suffering.