Forgiveness is nothing more than your mind being returned, or corrected, back to the Truth because you choose for it to be that way. Handing over the acim corrects the mind and correction is what? Forgiveness. A different cause results in a different effect.
Choice is, therefore, necessary in this illusion because there is something to choose between. However, the greatest use of choice is served by knowing both the error and correction sides of the split mind, or what you are choosing between. Then, simply remember that your goal is to return the mind to True Perception and choose again! It will also help to keep in mind the coinciding terms for True Perception: Correction, forgiveness, salvation, atonement, truth, Holy Spirit and God. There is no difference.
With each gentle correction, which is really a choice for the Right Mind, a portion of the mind is returned to peace, its rightful and natural place with God. This is a place from where it never left. It could not be returned to peace were this not the natural state. Ideas do not leave their source and you, my friend, are the source. The good news is that there is your heavenly side as well. Please consider choosing again.
In Part 2 on the Illusion of Choice, we will be discussing further what it means to choose and ultimately why there is no choice. To end the necessity of choice, which makes it so unsettling, is to end the illusion of choice and return to your natural state of peace. Our goal is the same and A Course in Miracles is a set of guidelines for choosing until it is no longer necessary. This is an inward path with many forks and they all lead home.
