<![CDATA[prACtIcuM]]>d4929351-01d2-5b46-ba6e-e4bfd265456aFri, 02 Oct 2026 18:23:22 +0000Captivate.fmDaniel Wagnerhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/d899a7df-f582-42d5-9d6a-6c4a957b0ff7/prACtlcuM-500kb.jpgprACtIcuMDaniel WagnerDaniel WagnerA conversation about putting the ideas of A Course in Miracles to work in ordinary life: relationships, the work we are here to do, judgment, forgiveness, and the ongoing practice of seeing Love show up in everything we do. With Aaron Westfall and Daniel Wagner.https://practicum.captivate.fmfalseepisodicnopodcastThe Illusions of the Ego: A Practical ExaminationThe Illusions of the Ego: A Practical ExaminationWe state the central point early: the ego sustains itself by the belief in separation and persuades us that we are separate from God and from one another. We explain that the ego is a thought system, not a thing, and that it can appear as arrogance, humility, control, vulnerability, or victimhood. We teach practical responses: observe the ego without obeying it, choose again when you are not at peace, and practice right teaching and right learning so your actions reinforce love rather than fear. We emphasize that true love is extension, not acquisition, so giving peace and kindness increases what you have instead of depleting it. We invite listeners to use the simple correction “this need not be” when suffering arises, to be still, and to seek God’s communication that heals the mind. We close by urging you to join us in living the practice of being present, sharing love, and recognizing our shared kingdom. We examine the Illusions of the Ego and the practical path out of separation. I describe how the Course in Miracles offers both an intellectual map and a set of lived exercises. We recount how the text alone can feel dense, and how the 365 lessons render the teachings experiential. I emphasize that the ego is not a single trait but an entire thought system built on the belief in separation. We teach that the first corrective step is to observe the ego without obeying it. When we witness our anger, fear, and judgement, we create space to choose differently. We offer concrete signals for change. If you are not in joy, peace, or flow, then you may be operating from the ego. I explain the difference between giving to get and giving as extension. We also show how love need not be transactional. By choosing to extend peace instead of seeking proof, we align with the Holy Spirit. We close with a call to steady practice. We invite readers to pair the text with the daily lessons and to use stillness as the testing ground for truth and for correction.

Takeaways:

  • We describe the ego as a thought system that survives only because we believe in its separateness.
  • We emphasize right teaching and right learning by noticing how our actions teach others and shape our beliefs.
  • We recommend choosing peace in moments of conflict by pausing, observing the mind, and asking for a different perception.
  • We explain that love is extension not acquisition, so giving peace and kindness increases rather than reduces our experience.
  • We warn that the ego uses the body for identity and hides by creating shame, fear, and endless attempts at control.
  • We urge daily practice of the lessons, stillness, and joining minds because our true nature is the kingdom and healing follows.

]]>We state the central point early: the ego sustains itself by the belief in separation and persuades us that we are separate from God and from one another. We explain that the ego is a thought system, not a thing, and that it can appear as arrogance, humility, control, vulnerability, or victimhood. We teach practical responses: observe the ego without obeying it, choose again when you are not at peace, and practice right teaching and right learning so your actions reinforce love rather than fear. We emphasize that true love is extension, not acquisition, so giving peace and kindness increases what you have instead of depleting it. We invite listeners to use the simple correction “this need not be” when suffering arises, to be still, and to seek God’s communication that heals the mind. We close by urging you to join us in living the practice of being present, sharing love, and recognizing our shared kingdom. We examine the Illusions of the Ego and the practical path out of separation. I describe how the Course in Miracles offers both an intellectual map and a set of lived exercises. We recount how the text alone can feel dense, and how the 365 lessons render the teachings experiential. I emphasize that the ego is not a single trait but an entire thought system built on the belief in separation. We teach that the first corrective step is to observe the ego without obeying it. When we witness our anger, fear, and judgement, we create space to choose differently. We offer concrete signals for change. If you are not in joy, peace, or flow, then you may be operating from the ego. I explain the difference between giving to get and giving as extension. We also show how love need not be transactional. By choosing to extend peace instead of seeking proof, we align with the Holy Spirit. We close with a call to steady practice. We invite readers to pair the text with the daily lessons and to use stillness as the testing ground for truth and for correction.

Takeaways:

  • We describe the ego as a thought system that survives only because we believe in its separateness.
  • We emphasize right teaching and right learning by noticing how our actions teach others and shape our beliefs.
  • We recommend choosing peace in moments of conflict by pausing, observing the mind, and asking for a different perception.
  • We explain that love is extension not acquisition, so giving peace and kindness increases rather than reduces our experience.
  • We warn that the ego uses the body for identity and hides by creating shame, fear, and endless attempts at control.
  • We urge daily practice of the lessons, stillness, and joining minds because our true nature is the kingdom and healing follows.

]]>61340664-9d61-4533-8951-02859d302dd2Fri, 02 Oct 2026 20:15:00 +020001:00:44falsefull1551The Innocent Perception: You Are Not What You Think You AreThe Innocent Perception: You Are Not What You Think You AreWe assert that we do not see innocently: healing entails learning to perceive without condemnation. I and my cohost examine chapter three of A Course in Miracles and explain atonement without sacrifice and the link between resurrection and atonement. We describe miracles as true perception and contrast perception with knowledge, showing that judgment and the ego distort our view. I discuss the authority problem and how the ego defends a manufactured self image that blocks peace. We urge listeners to practice forgiveness, choose love over fear, and let spirit guide daily life. We invite you to begin or continue the Course practice and to bring the light of innocent perception into your relationships and actions. We explain the doctrine of innocent perception and its practical implications for spiritual living. I outline the distinction between perception and knowledge and describe how perception is filtered through judgment, guilt, and fear, whereas knowledge is a state of unity and certainty that precedes all experience. We argue that the atonement is established by resurrection rather than by crucifixion, and we show how the Course dismantles the notion that love demands sacrifice. I emphasize the lamb and lion metaphor to demonstrate that true innocence is strength and cannot be attacked. We then link miracles to true perception, describing miracles as corrections of misperception that allow us to see our neighbor as they truly are and to restore inner peace. We also address the authority problem and the construction of the self image. I describe how the ego claims authorship of the self and defends an illusory autonomy that invites fear of spirit and a compulsion to judge. We explain that judgment presumes sufficient context that we do not possess, and that correction, not punishment, is the appropriate response to error. Finally, we connect these ideas to practice: surrendering authorship, practicing pardon, and cultivating communion rather than petitionary prayer are offered as the means by which knowledge reasserts itself and the split mind heals.

Takeaways:

  • We present that innocent perception requires choosing love over judgment and practicing forgiveness daily.
  • I observed that miracles are described as true perception which corrects misperception and heals the mind.
  • We explain that the atonement is established by resurrection, not by punishment, and love demands no sacrifice.
  • I note the distinction between perception and knowledge, where knowledge is unity and perception invites error and division.
  • We describe the ego as an authority problem that defends a manufactured self image and resists surrender to spirit.
  • I assert that true healing comes from correcting perception through forgiveness, leading to inner resurrection and return home.
  • We argue that practicing love and surrender dissolves the split mind, allowing us to perceive neighbors as perfect creations rather than objects of fear, guilt, or judgment.

]]>We assert that we do not see innocently: healing entails learning to perceive without condemnation. I and my cohost examine chapter three of A Course in Miracles and explain atonement without sacrifice and the link between resurrection and atonement. We describe miracles as true perception and contrast perception with knowledge, showing that judgment and the ego distort our view. I discuss the authority problem and how the ego defends a manufactured self image that blocks peace. We urge listeners to practice forgiveness, choose love over fear, and let spirit guide daily life. We invite you to begin or continue the Course practice and to bring the light of innocent perception into your relationships and actions. We explain the doctrine of innocent perception and its practical implications for spiritual living. I outline the distinction between perception and knowledge and describe how perception is filtered through judgment, guilt, and fear, whereas knowledge is a state of unity and certainty that precedes all experience. We argue that the atonement is established by resurrection rather than by crucifixion, and we show how the Course dismantles the notion that love demands sacrifice. I emphasize the lamb and lion metaphor to demonstrate that true innocence is strength and cannot be attacked. We then link miracles to true perception, describing miracles as corrections of misperception that allow us to see our neighbor as they truly are and to restore inner peace. We also address the authority problem and the construction of the self image. I describe how the ego claims authorship of the self and defends an illusory autonomy that invites fear of spirit and a compulsion to judge. We explain that judgment presumes sufficient context that we do not possess, and that correction, not punishment, is the appropriate response to error. Finally, we connect these ideas to practice: surrendering authorship, practicing pardon, and cultivating communion rather than petitionary prayer are offered as the means by which knowledge reasserts itself and the split mind heals.

Takeaways:

  • We present that innocent perception requires choosing love over judgment and practicing forgiveness daily.
  • I observed that miracles are described as true perception which corrects misperception and heals the mind.
  • We explain that the atonement is established by resurrection, not by punishment, and love demands no sacrifice.
  • I note the distinction between perception and knowledge, where knowledge is unity and perception invites error and division.
  • We describe the ego as an authority problem that defends a manufactured self image and resists surrender to spirit.
  • I assert that true healing comes from correcting perception through forgiveness, leading to inner resurrection and return home.
  • We argue that practicing love and surrender dissolves the split mind, allowing us to perceive neighbors as perfect creations rather than objects of fear, guilt, or judgment.

]]>88cde2fc-b731-4180-9290-be42e964a007Tue, 29 Sep 2026 17:15:00 +020001:00:32falsefull1441Separation and Atonement: How Love Corrects the MindSeparation and Atonement: How Love Corrects the MindWe state the principal claim immediately: separation is the root error and atonement, enacted through love and forgiveness, is the corrective. We explain projection versus extension and show how projection breeds fear while extension radiates healing. I relate these teachings to major psychological schools and argue that the Course reorients life purpose toward love rather than pleasure, meaning, or power. We describe the inner altar and how regular communion and meditation repair that altar and restore peace. We emphasize that miracles follow corrected perception, that mind is cause and perception is effect, and that healing is a change in identity rather than only physical change. We conclude that the last judgment is self‑discernment, not divine punishment, and that accepting the atonement hastens the end of collective suffering.

Takeaways:

  • We explain that fear shows I believe in separation and needs correction.
  • We describe atonement as a healing choice that corrects perception, not punishment.
  • We contrast projection and extension and say I can choose love or fear.
  • We relate modern psychology to the course and note Freud Jung Frankl Adler offer different goals.
  • We teach that the altar is within me and I repair it by prayer and meditation.
  • We state that miracles arise when I allow my perception to be corrected and extend peace.
  • We assert cause and effect invert: my mind causes perception, so I change my thinking to change experience.
  • We explain last judgment is my own choice to see what is real and let judgment end.

]]>We state the principal claim immediately: separation is the root error and atonement, enacted through love and forgiveness, is the corrective. We explain projection versus extension and show how projection breeds fear while extension radiates healing. I relate these teachings to major psychological schools and argue that the Course reorients life purpose toward love rather than pleasure, meaning, or power. We describe the inner altar and how regular communion and meditation repair that altar and restore peace. We emphasize that miracles follow corrected perception, that mind is cause and perception is effect, and that healing is a change in identity rather than only physical change. We conclude that the last judgment is self‑discernment, not divine punishment, and that accepting the atonement hastens the end of collective suffering.

Takeaways:

  • We explain that fear shows I believe in separation and needs correction.
  • We describe atonement as a healing choice that corrects perception, not punishment.
  • We contrast projection and extension and say I can choose love or fear.
  • We relate modern psychology to the course and note Freud Jung Frankl Adler offer different goals.
  • We teach that the altar is within me and I repair it by prayer and meditation.
  • We state that miracles arise when I allow my perception to be corrected and extend peace.
  • We assert cause and effect invert: my mind causes perception, so I change my thinking to change experience.
  • We explain last judgment is my own choice to see what is real and let judgment end.

]]>7e13093c-7e79-426c-aafe-c80931726769Wed, 23 Sep 2026 09:00:00 +020001:10:25falsefull1331Atonement, Forgiveness, and the Escape from DarknessAtonement, Forgiveness, and the Escape from DarknessOur conversation advances a comparative, hermeneutical perspective that situates A Course in Miracles within a wider constellation of sacred texts and perennial teachings, thereby demonstrating the Course's integrative capacity. I reference the Gnostic Dialogue of the Savior and the Bhagavad Gita as heuristic parallels: both texts, like the Course, instruct the aspirant to confront inner darkness, to act without attachment, and to remember an original state of wholeness. Daniel and I interrogate the sonship motif and resolve its gendered diction as a principial statement of shared origin rather than a literal patriarchy; we stress that the term indexes the egalitarian ontology that the Course proposes. The discussion examines the paradoxical pedagogy of incarnation and the metaphor of the ‘‘training planet’’—the proposition that worldly experience is calibrated to correct the illusion of separation—and articulates how grace and faith function as unmerited gifts that render the atonement efficacious. We further analyze the psychological dynamics of concealment, the pathology of scarcity arising from lack-consciousness, and the emancipatory power of perfect love to cast out fear. Concluding remarks orient the listener toward Chapter Two, where the taxonomy of the original separation, the altar of God, and the functions of the miracle worker will be interrogated, and we invite sustained study and disciplined practice as the means by which the collective awakening may be advanced.

Takeaways:

  • We describe miracles as natural expressions of love that correct perception toward wholeness.
  • We explain revelation as direct knowing and union achieved through shared presence and stillness.
  • We emphasize atonement as undoing the belief in separation rather than punishment or repayment.
  • We teach that escaping darkness requires bringing private fearful thoughts into the light for healing.
  • We present the sonship concept to stress universal equality and to shift identity from ego to collective.
  • We affirm that forgiveness is the practical means to accept atonement and restore creative potential and joy.
  • We connect teachings from other traditions to show the course as a guide for inner action and service.

]]>Our conversation advances a comparative, hermeneutical perspective that situates A Course in Miracles within a wider constellation of sacred texts and perennial teachings, thereby demonstrating the Course's integrative capacity. I reference the Gnostic Dialogue of the Savior and the Bhagavad Gita as heuristic parallels: both texts, like the Course, instruct the aspirant to confront inner darkness, to act without attachment, and to remember an original state of wholeness. Daniel and I interrogate the sonship motif and resolve its gendered diction as a principial statement of shared origin rather than a literal patriarchy; we stress that the term indexes the egalitarian ontology that the Course proposes. The discussion examines the paradoxical pedagogy of incarnation and the metaphor of the ‘‘training planet’’—the proposition that worldly experience is calibrated to correct the illusion of separation—and articulates how grace and faith function as unmerited gifts that render the atonement efficacious. We further analyze the psychological dynamics of concealment, the pathology of scarcity arising from lack-consciousness, and the emancipatory power of perfect love to cast out fear. Concluding remarks orient the listener toward Chapter Two, where the taxonomy of the original separation, the altar of God, and the functions of the miracle worker will be interrogated, and we invite sustained study and disciplined practice as the means by which the collective awakening may be advanced.

Takeaways:

  • We describe miracles as natural expressions of love that correct perception toward wholeness.
  • We explain revelation as direct knowing and union achieved through shared presence and stillness.
  • We emphasize atonement as undoing the belief in separation rather than punishment or repayment.
  • We teach that escaping darkness requires bringing private fearful thoughts into the light for healing.
  • We present the sonship concept to stress universal equality and to shift identity from ego to collective.
  • We affirm that forgiveness is the practical means to accept atonement and restore creative potential and joy.
  • We connect teachings from other traditions to show the course as a guide for inner action and service.

]]>ff1941f0-9e7f-4d49-a211-9fabd78b6f0aSun, 13 Sep 2026 03:05:00 +020051:11falsefull1221Welcome to Practicum: Practising A Course in MiraclesWelcome to Practicum: Practising A Course in MiraclesThe principal focus of this inaugural episode of Practicum is to explore our personal journeys in relation to A Course in Miracles, elucidating how the teachings of this profound text have manifested in our lives. We, Aaron and Daniel, embark upon this dialogue to share insights garnered from over two decades of engagement with these teachings, emphasizing the transformative power of forgiveness and self-discovery.

Through this podcast, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the course's chapters, offering context and personal narratives that illuminate its relevance and applicability to our everyday experiences. As we delve into the intricacies of our respective paths, we underscore the essential notion that the journey toward spiritual awakening is both individual and communal, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences within this framework.

With a commitment to authenticity and exploration, we extend an invitation to our audience to join us as we navigate the rich tapestry of spiritual understanding woven throughout A Course in Miracles. In the inaugural episode of the Practicum podcast, Aaron and Daniel embark on a profound exploration of A Course in Miracles, a spiritual text that has significantly influenced their lives.

They begin by recounting their personal stories of discovery, emphasizing how the course often finds individuals during moments of existential questioning or emotional upheaval. Daniel reflects on his initial skepticism and subsequent acceptance of the course, while Aaron shares a heartfelt narrative about receiving the book amidst personal loss, illustrating the course's capacity to provide comfort and clarity when needed most.

The discussion soon evolves into an examination of the core themes inherent in A Course in Miracles, such as forgiveness, healing, and the importance of self-awareness. Both speakers stress the transformative power of these teachings, suggesting that the journey towards enlightenment is inherently tied to one's willingness to confront the ego and embrace vulnerability. They articulate the necessity of humility in the spiritual journey, positing that true understanding comes not from intellectual comprehension but from lived experience and personal reflection.

As they set the stage for future episodes, Aaron and Daniel emphasize their commitment to delving into each chapter of the course, aiming to provide listeners with insights that resonate on a personal level. This episode serves as an invitation for audiences to join them on this journey of exploration, encouraging a deeper engagement with the teachings of A Course in Miracles as a means to foster personal growth and spiritual awakening.

Takeaways:

  • This podcast serves as a resource for individuals engaged in practicing A Course in Miracles.
  • We aim to share our respective journeys over the past twenty years with the audience.
  • Each episode will delve into the chapters of A Course in Miracles, offering context and personal experience.
  • The overarching theme emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and healing in achieving inner peace.
  • We explore the idea that the journey is highly individual, though the curriculum remains the same for all.
  • Listeners are encouraged to internalize the teachings, recognizing that the path to understanding lies within themselves.


]]>The principal focus of this inaugural episode of Practicum is to explore our personal journeys in relation to A Course in Miracles, elucidating how the teachings of this profound text have manifested in our lives. We, Aaron and Daniel, embark upon this dialogue to share insights garnered from over two decades of engagement with these teachings, emphasizing the transformative power of forgiveness and self-discovery.

Through this podcast, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the course's chapters, offering context and personal narratives that illuminate its relevance and applicability to our everyday experiences. As we delve into the intricacies of our respective paths, we underscore the essential notion that the journey toward spiritual awakening is both individual and communal, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences within this framework.

With a commitment to authenticity and exploration, we extend an invitation to our audience to join us as we navigate the rich tapestry of spiritual understanding woven throughout A Course in Miracles. In the inaugural episode of the Practicum podcast, Aaron and Daniel embark on a profound exploration of A Course in Miracles, a spiritual text that has significantly influenced their lives.

They begin by recounting their personal stories of discovery, emphasizing how the course often finds individuals during moments of existential questioning or emotional upheaval. Daniel reflects on his initial skepticism and subsequent acceptance of the course, while Aaron shares a heartfelt narrative about receiving the book amidst personal loss, illustrating the course's capacity to provide comfort and clarity when needed most.

The discussion soon evolves into an examination of the core themes inherent in A Course in Miracles, such as forgiveness, healing, and the importance of self-awareness. Both speakers stress the transformative power of these teachings, suggesting that the journey towards enlightenment is inherently tied to one's willingness to confront the ego and embrace vulnerability. They articulate the necessity of humility in the spiritual journey, positing that true understanding comes not from intellectual comprehension but from lived experience and personal reflection.

As they set the stage for future episodes, Aaron and Daniel emphasize their commitment to delving into each chapter of the course, aiming to provide listeners with insights that resonate on a personal level. This episode serves as an invitation for audiences to join them on this journey of exploration, encouraging a deeper engagement with the teachings of A Course in Miracles as a means to foster personal growth and spiritual awakening.

Takeaways:

  • This podcast serves as a resource for individuals engaged in practicing A Course in Miracles.
  • We aim to share our respective journeys over the past twenty years with the audience.
  • Each episode will delve into the chapters of A Course in Miracles, offering context and personal experience.
  • The overarching theme emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and healing in achieving inner peace.
  • We explore the idea that the journey is highly individual, though the curriculum remains the same for all.
  • Listeners are encouraged to internalize the teachings, recognizing that the path to understanding lies within themselves.


]]>54f5a93c-746e-4cdb-ba4f-06a50b0dabe6Fri, 04 Sep 2026 07:30:00 +020050:15falsefull1111