T-17.IV

The Two Pictures

Chapter 17 — Forgiveness and the Holy Relationship

Two pictures of relationship stand side by side—ego’s specialness defense and the Holy Spirit’s Holy Instant—so you choose content over frame and let joining replace sacrifice.

Practice with this section Read the source text at acim.org/acim/en

15

of 68

Motifs

intersect here

Motif Contents

15 occurrences

Primary

Special Relationship A glittering frame hides the special relationship’s defensive purpose. Holy Instant A miniature of Heaven placed in time to defend your mind.

Pillar

Defenses ▲ Milestone Look past the golden frame; see what the defense contains. Form—Content Do not worship the frame; choose the picture and let light reveal it.

Supporting

Decision Compare the two pictures honestly, not the frames that sell them. Means—End Defenses offered as gifts still deliver the purpose they contain. Ego The special relationship is the ego’s favorite hiding place. Holy Spirit Special relationships are restored, not taken away. Death / Suffering Behind the shiny frame of specialness lies the ego’s hidden gift: death. Holy Relationship Two pictures of one form: choose God’s purpose for relationship. Kingdom The holy instant holds a miniature of Heaven, exchanging darkness for creation. Time Focus on the picture, not the frame; time cannot hold eternity. Will of God Let God’s single purpose replace specialness: relationships exist to bring happiness.

Minor

Separation The ego defends separation as safety, yet the defense is insanity. Memory of God Let the frame fade; choose creation over the little picture.