Chapter II: THE HIGHER MODE OF INTELLIGENCE CONTROLS THE LOWER.

Imagine the internet. A vast network of interconnected computers, each with its own unique purpose, yet working together to create something larger than itself. This network operates as a single entity, a collective intelligence that can access and process information at incredible speeds. Now imagine that this internet wasn't just a technological network, but a fundamental force of the universe, a cosmic intelligence driving the evolution of life and shaping the very fabric of reality.

This cosmic intelligence is not a distant, abstract concept. It's the very essence of life, the force that drives the natural world, and it's also within us. Just as the internet emerged from the interconnectedness of countless individual computers, our individual minds are connected to this larger cosmic intelligence.

Think about the journey of evolution. From the simplest forms of life, like single-celled organisms, to the complex systems of plants and animals, life has steadily evolved, becoming more intelligent and adaptable over billions of years. This journey is an expression of the cosmic intelligence at work, guiding the development of life toward greater complexity and self-awareness.

We humans are the most advanced expression of this cosmic intelligence. We have the capacity for abstract thought, complex language, and deep introspection. This ability to think and reason is a direct result of the evolution of consciousness, a journey that has brought us to a point where we can become consciously aware of the intelligence that flows through us.

So, how does this cosmic intelligence relate to our individual will? Think about the impact of social movements. A single person might have a powerful idea, a vision for a better world. But that vision can only become reality when it's shared, embraced, and acted upon by others. The collective will of individuals, driven by a shared vision, can create powerful change in the world.

This is the power of individual will, our ability to consciously direct our thoughts and actions to shape our reality. But this power doesn't exist in isolation. It's a product of the cosmic intelligence, a force that connects us to the very fabric of the universe.

This connection also extends to the smallest particles of matter. Think of the atoms that make up everything around us, even your own body. Science is now unraveling the incredible complexity of these fundamental building blocks, revealing a hidden potential within them. This potential, this inherent intelligence within each atom, is what we call the "atomic intelligence." It's the intelligence that shapes the behavior of atoms, guiding them to form molecules, crystals, and even the complex structures of living beings.

Now, here's where it gets interesting. The practice of mental science is about consciously connecting with this "atomic intelligence," this innate intelligence present in all things. Just as an artist uses a brush to create a painting, we can use our thoughts and intentions to influence the atoms and energies around us. It's not about wishing for things to magically appear, but rather about aligning our thoughts and actions with the intelligence that shapes our reality.

Think of practices like mindfulness and meditation. These practices help us become more aware of our thoughts, emotions, and the subtle energies around us. By practicing mindfulness, we become more attuned to the flow of cosmic intelligence, allowing it to guide us towards a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

Just as the internet connects billions of computers, the cosmic intelligence connects us all. And just as the power of a single individual can spark a social movement, our own individual will, guided by awareness and intention, can shape our reality in powerful and meaningful ways.

Exercise: Connecting with Atomic Intelligence

1. Choose an object: Pick something small and tangible, like a plant, a rock, or even a pencil.
2. Visualize the connection: Close your eyes and imagine yourself connecting with the "atomic intelligence" within the object. Imagine the energy flowing between you and the object, a web of interconnectedness.
3. Set your intention: Choose a simple intention for the object, like wishing for it to grow stronger, stay beautiful, or be useful. Focus your mind on this intention, sending it out with a sense of clarity and confidence.
4. Observe and reflect: Over the next few days, observe the object closely. Notice any subtle changes, shifts in your perception of it, or new insights that arise. Journal about your experience, exploring the relationship between your thoughts, intentions, and the physical world.

This exercise is a practical way to explore the connection between our minds and the physical world. By focusing our intention and observing the object, we can begin to experience the power of our thoughts and the influence of the cosmic intelligence within us.