The exercises applying today’s idea are very similar to the exercises of the preceding lesson. The three or four practice periods spaced across the day should each be preceded by a minute or so of mind searching, as before, with the application of today’s idea to each upsetting thought uncovered in the search. Again, it is necessary to name both the form of upset (anger, fear, worry, depression, and so on) and the perceived source or cause very specifically for any application of the idea. For example:

“I feel angry at my partner because I perceive something that is not there.”

“I feel worried about today’s call because I perceive something that is not there.”

Again, if you resist applying the idea to some upsetting thoughts more than to others, remind yourself of the two cautions stated in the previous lesson:

“There are no ‘small’ upsets. They are all disturbing to my peace of mind.”

And,

“I cannot keep this form of upset and let the others go. For the purposes of these exercises, then, I will regard them all as the same.”

Today’s idea is also useful for application to anything that seems to upset you during the day, and can profitably be used throughout the day for that purpose. For instance,

“I feel anxious about this headline because I perceive something that is not there.”

“I feel disgusted with that politician because I perceive something that is not there.”