What is Specializing?

Troward's key term for the individual's unique function in the creative process. While the Universal Spirit operates by general laws that apply everywhere and always, the individual mind has the capacity to "specialize" this universal power by directing it into particular channels and specific forms. "We specialize the universal law," Troward writes, meaning that we take the infinite creative energy and focus it through the lens of our individual thought to produce definite results. This is not creating something from nothing; it is giving specific direction to a power that already exists. The concept resolves the apparent paradox of how an infinite, undifferentiated power can produce finite, differentiated results: it does so through the specializing activity of individual minds. This makes the individual not a passive recipient of universal bounty but an active participant in the creative process.

Troward's key term for the individual's unique function in the creative process. While the Universal Spirit operates by general laws that apply everywhere and always, the individual mind has the capacity to "specialize" this universal power by directing it into particular channels and specific forms. "We specialize the universal law," Troward writes, meaning that we take the infinite creative energy and focus it through the lens of our individual thought to produce definite results. This is not creating something from nothing; it is giving specific direction to a power that already exists. The concept resolves the apparent paradox of how an infinite, undifferentiated power can produce finite, differentiated results: it does so through the specializing activity of individual minds. This makes the individual not a passive recipient of universal bounty but an active participant in the creative process.

The term "specializing" originates from the Latin root "specialis," meaning "individual, particular." This in turn comes from "species," referring to a "particular kind or sort." Over time, it evolved to describe the act of making something specific or unique, reflecting its New Thought application of individualizing universal principles.

Practically, specializing involves focused visualization and affirmation. One might visualize a desired outcome in vivid detail, mentally imbuing it with specific qualities and characteristics. This is often coupled with affirmations like, "I specialize the universal abundance into a steady flow of prosperity in my life," or "I specialize the universal intelligence into clear solutions for my current challenges." The key is to consciously direct universal creative energy towards a precise personal manifestation.