Gordon- 1992

GORDON knew that his wife disliked him. She might have respected him in a former time when wives were submissive, but for now she disliked him and resented his superiority - or so he thought.

Gordon disliked himself. Every detail he had pictured to become his life's plan had gone astray. It did appear that it had all been one single anticlimax, amounting to that pale, worn image that peered back at him in the morning mirror, whilst combing what hair he had left, or nightly when cleaning what teeth he had left.

He had told himself time and time again, that he was to be sensible. Too many people simply have 'lost their grip'. He was battle-weary, for one is usually battle-weary when one continually loses the battles.

He had grudgingly answered the call-up for jury duty. Slight curiosity was intermingled with responsive complaint. For, for the first time in years, he might actually get to stay out all night without being accounted for, in the company of strangers. At the very least, his routine - for what it was worth - was given slight reprieve.

He had laughingly hoped for some gruesome, lengthy, murder trial. Something that would hold his interest, maybe spin a few stories about in the years to come. On the morning it all began, he was casually excited, although careful not to let it show.

Once in the waiting bay, he had opportunity to view the other eleven, so chosen. Representatives of humanity, he thought. Such a selection of mediocrity! Most of them were occupied shuffling through papers, magazines and the like. One woman was knitting, with precision that was confounding. A few twitched idly. They were careful not to let each other catch each other's snatching glance. There was one who did sit alone at the end, who actually looked somber and thoughtful, and actually met his gaze unflinchingly.

As they were called into the chambers and shuffled in file, Gordon recalled that his chewing-gum had been left behind in the pocket of his sports jacket. A few cough lozenges were all he had to sustain him through the morning. He was apprehensive, he was tired; he should have gone to bed much earlier the night before.

"All rise" was the call, when a most peculiar thing did happen. As Gordon had moved up from his seat, complaining to himself - as he had just settled himself - a sensation swept through him as though he was lifting out from himself. Like a foot sliding from a sock, he felt pulled upwards from himself, as an invisible spirit-like form slid and glided up towards the high ceiling of that room. Now this was not just a small imagining, for in this experience he actually saw the participants of the trial from the position which viewed the top of their heads. As if from a great height he peered down; as with a gas-filled balloon, unrestrained, he bobbed to and fro, caught by the ceiling. Just then, his life flashed before his eyes, and in an instant it was over.

Back in his seat, in his place with the eleven others, he feverishly checked himself and the others who sat as before, with no apparent interest. He felt his pocket for a sweet and a handkerchief, and wondered if he had just suffered a heart attack, or perhaps a massive delusion. The voices garbled on around him, he found it difficult to summon any attention to the proceedings at all. There was something about a theft accused, and something about the suspect's unruly behavior. Concentrate. He could not concentrate. He wondered if he might sell the story of his experience to some tabloid. No! They wouldn't believe it.

The wretch for whom the whole party was gathered, sat with back to the jury, curved over, almost weighed down. As lawyers took turns and accusers made statements proclaiming undeniable facts, Gordon resumed his composure, and began to put the morning's experience into perspective of fanciful imagining. For we all have a compartment in which we manage to hide those experiences which are unexplained.

The morning was full of deliberate gestures and articulations. The crowd was stiff, and the air was stifling. There was not the fun that he had anticipated. The accused man shrank back into the compensation offered back by his representation.

Lunch could have been better. The canteen labored with a variety of tasteless presentations. Gordon had decided on an uncomplicated salad, and sat alone with reluctant salivation. 

Just then, one of his fellow jurors brought a tray across and greeted him cordially. This was the fellow who had stared back at him so. Quite dignified, and yet unpretentious, somewhere in middle age; he had the grace of either a well-educated man or perhaps a noble upbringing.

"I couldn't help noticing you today", the gentleman said as he seated himself at the table. Gordon wondered if he would ask his permission before setting down the crockery and cutlery. But he did not.

"My name is Lawrence, I believe you are Gordon?"

"Informal" thought Gordon, "for a man who appears so very conventional". He gestured confirmation.

"There is something you should know" the dignified Lawrence pronounced slowly with meaning. One couldn't help but listen to this voice; it had qualities of tone that were enthralling, quite encaptivating. He continued, "Every case that is tried in this court has proven a verdict of guilty.”

Gordon thought this statement a little bizarre and inquired, "How do you know?"

"I make it my business to know" replied the stranger.

Gordon eyed the small tie tack, an intricate pearl and diamond pin, and judged this Lawrence to be of very good taste. He considered the statement and then asked if he thought that this one would follow suit.

"Might be time for a change, don't you agree?" he replied.

They munched heartily together, downed several cups of instant coffee in between outbursts of affable conversation. Gordon was pleased with his new acquaintance.

Just as they were leaving to return to their respective places, Lawrence passed comment, "I admired the way you rose to the occasion, this morning!" And so saying left Gordon aghast, pondering the strange remark- with a little beetroot stain on his chin.

Back in their respective places, the voice boomed out again "All rise!" This time Gordon clung nervously to the back of his seat, in some vain effort to restrain himself. Lawrence smiled at him. Nothing out of the ordinary took place, much to the relief of Gordon.

He was fidgety now, and rued ever coming. In his heart of hearts he had thought it better to answer the court-duty and make an appearance. Yet he was not so sure. Perhaps he should have found some excuse, for this day had not gone well. There was a constriction in his throat and his mind wandered from his will - not once did it occur to him to think of the poor soul who was at trial.

Unbeknown to Gordon, the accused was in fact a man to which he was well acquainted. This only became apparent at the end of the short trial, when the time came for the great decision making, when the face of the man who bore the pressure of the court was illumined - it was as though a light shone directly overhead - in every detail; every detail, especially the beet-red mark that sat like a wound, upon his chin!

"Good God! That prisoner of these proceedings looks like me!" Gordon's face flushed, as he viewed the accused turning crimson, in recognition. He strained to watch as he was escorted from the courtroom; whilst he was moved forth to proceed to that room where all jurors must go to deliberate.

There was a shift to the informal as the twelve relaxed somewhat; almost a jovial camaraderie, as the masks lifted one by one- too much tension of trial, now too much compensatory mirth. He counted again - there were thirteen, not twelve, in the room.

The worst part of it all was, that he had not been attentive during the trial; and for that matter, he was not convinced that his fellow jurors had a grasp on the case at hand either. Not one notion sprung to mind, save that the man accused bore his face. Even then he suspected not the truth of the situation.

There was a sign upon the wall which read:

THE JURY MAY NOT DISASSEMBLE, NOR MOVE FROM THIS ROOM, UNTIL SUCH A TIME THAT A VERDICT OF GUILTY BE AGREED UPON.

"How can this be so?" thought the confused and bewildered Gordon. "Perhaps it was a public servant's idea of a joke", he reassured himself. The tea-trolley was wheeled in.

Several hours had past, when Gordon began to tire of the discussion; the jurors had spoken much of themselves with not one mention of the subject of the man or the trial at hand.

“Excuse me" Gordon coughed, "we might address the verdict perhaps?"

And the woman who sat with her knitting yarn in lap, twiddling it around her needles, click, clack, clack, click ... looked up and said dryly "Oh, but we've already decided that: guilty of course! Haven't you read that sign?"

The belief was that it was better to send another into the confines of a jail, than to confine themselves to a decision which interred them all indefinitely.

"But that is nonsense!" exclaimed Gordon, as the party became once again immersed in conversation which was not to the point at all.

"I said, that sign is nonsense!" he exclaimed a little louder this time, trying best to make affirmation with unwavering voice. He looked to Lawrence, who was looking hard at him.

"Well said, good chap, well said indeed."

"Well if you ask me he's guilty!" ventured one.

"Probably guilty, most likely!" said another.

"Extremely guilty looking!" said a small framed woman, with a particularly nasty expression.

"Guilty, Guilty, Guilty!" came the crescendo of harmonious agreement.

“And so say all of us!" Gordon found himself to say, having come to the mood of the occasion.

"If you will pardon me asking," came Lawrence's calm and dulcet voice "but could someone explain to me, what exactly this chap is guilty of?"

"Why, guilty of being here!" one of the larger jurors retorted.

"We presume that he's innocently guilty, or guilty of being innocent. Whichever way you have it, he's obviously guilty."

"Show of hands please everybody - dinner is awaiting at home!"

Now one, now two, now three, now four; until to be precise, there were twenty-two hands in the air.

"More than enough!" bustled the knitting woman. She had counted in an orderly way and was well satisfied with the result.

Gordon, all the while, had kept his eyes on Lawrence, who from the corner had not motioned his consent. No hands there. He neither had moved for the verdict.

"It is really not exact for you to put two hands up, and be counted as two" said Lawrence, who seemed unsurprised at their behavior.

"Exact or not, it works anyhow," protested the foreman, who was recording with signature, on the form so provided.

"And what of the punishment? What will become of the man who is judged by these righteous citizens of the court?" asked Gordon dismayed, as he recalled seeing only the face which was his own.

"The punishment will fit the crime- be sure that justice does always prevail", said the woman who held up her knitwear for all to see the pattern and design.

"Accursed you be, if a’cursing you are. If you must look to signs, look for the right ones, and look again at the rest!" said Lawrence, who knew from past experience of the dangers of hastened judgment, which was incorrect.

They looked back to the sign:

THE JURY MAY NOT DISASSEMBLE, NOR MOVE FROM THIS ROOM, UNTIL SUCH A TIME, THAT A VERDICT OF GUILTY BE AGREED UPON.

"You see, gentlemen and ladies of the jury, if I am prohibited to leave this room on these terms, I herewith resign from my obligation of juror, and walk away as a man, with both my freedom and my conscience! Good day!" And so saying, Lawrence withdrew from the room.

Gordon was awash with a certain gratitude. He had felt close to this stranger, Lawrence, close enough to take something from Lawrence that he saw immediately on the man and liked, wanting the same.

The jury disbanded (technically hung), assumed the position of men, each going home with their particular foibles especial to each individual......whilst Gordon left the courthouse well pleased, with his hand in pocket tightly clamped on that lovely little memento he received: a tiny little golden tiepin - an extraordinary example of impeccable good taste!

Desire- 28th March 1992

THERE are extremes in everything - extremes in one's own behavior; whilst there is also that which speaks of a man to a man, which may be far from the example of such extremes. A good example of this is the way in which a man may laugh and joke, when he feels little within himself to be lighthearted about. 

 A man may welcome behavior which steers away from the norm in outburst and eccentricity, knowing also that by such extremes or untoward actions, he has developed his capacity for exhibiting and experiencing moreover, contradictions. The way to finding the true man within, i.e. within oneself, is not to look to the outstanding or untoward examples of those times which were particularly different, but rather to take opinion from those currents which ebb and flow throughout the character beneath the extremes of personality. In this we shall find that there are wants and desires - many shared by all men - whilst added also, are inclinations which run deep that are of themselves foreshadowing and predictable. These inclinations which form the true character are such that have been maintained over a far greater period than this present personality. One shall find that there are qualities which all trees may share which entitles them to be named a tree; however there shall be determining inclinations which will determine exactly their basic form, regardless of minor deviations with growth and size. 

The nature of desire, one's desires, is to inflame. A desire of itself shall not be fulfilling, nor is it meant to be fulfilled to the point of being extinguished: 'snuffed out'. Folk shall try to ease their desires by putting to motivation and acting accordingly, and the desire shall be present regardless of outcome. Men become so used to seeking satisfaction that they mistakenly believe that a desire calmed is a desire quashed.

That element which bore Creation into manifestation was pure Desire - desire from the highest - the flame and the flicker in the bosom of deep thought, in deep longing, in the heart, ere the beginning. It does perpetuate. It goes forth, streaming in and out of every man, taking many forms, many expressions, without which the Cosmos would sleep. Thus in the true sense, desire is that masculine projection which seeks to be fulfilled but of itself cannot fulfill.

Desire within men is not want: want of gratification, want of sin or want of honor. Desire is desire. It is essential, insensual, and indifferent to reality. Desire shall motivate the breath, whilst also shall call to one to step the threshold come their time. Desire is not motivation, but moreover motivates motivation.

The experience of desire does not depend upon the fulfillment of such - many are enlightened or inflamed and find great experience in such pure beginnings without necessity of outcome. For the nature of desire is overwhelming and all encompassing.

What stirs in all beginnings to life? It is this: desire. We all know it well. We may cast a gaze upon all that suffers such birth pangs coming up and into this world and know the intensity of the desire which propels that life forward - the momentous and enspirited, essential desire.

This is distinct from a man who is actually desirous. The two are quite separate as one is the little chap and one is the larger. There is Cosmic Desire and there shall be desire personified. The element however, narrowly viewed, is the same.

When it is said that we should walk in the world free from desire, it is from worldly desire rather than from this, our Cosmic Desire, for to cease to desire would be to cease to be. Were we not inflamed by this inherent element then we should not breathe the Cosmic Breath. No amount of passion, even at the extreme of asceticism, would account for that extinction of such primal Cosmic Desire as imparted.

So what is it that we are to suppress and how are we to behave in good measure? How is a man to regulate and distinguish those elements within his nature to those elements put to unlawful or disruptive abuse?

The cacophony of personality is as varied and untidy as a chookyard. One is forever struggling to heed the inner voice amongst such cackle and screech. Again we all share this deterrent, to fixing upon a stable and peaceable outlook. It is somewhat true to say that a man has a certain road to go before he may begin to unravel and distinguish; and the necessity of experience is paramount to this. We may find episodes of quiet, and when unresolved in 'busy' times, are crushed and dismayed that this cannot flow through to all hours of the day. Whilst it may be essential that one comes to view Heaven herself through a peephole from the dark plains, from fog, from mire, from wasteland, from both joy and content, down to sorrow and its depths - it does not make the present any easier, but rather, more difficult to account for.

Thus the student struggles! And struggle they might! We try to reconcile one with the other: our vision with actuality, our hopes alongside our concerns, our true being with this our contrast, and in trying this we may become easily dismayed. But the dismay shall not last, for Truth in her wisdom sparks yet more desire further, and the desire for the Truth shall relieve us of our personal worries. For a time!

There shall always be contradictions- seemingly. Judgments are to be weighed accordingly always. This does not portend into the endeavors of seeing far into other realms and worlds, but rather into this world and its perspective. If there were not reasons for everything then there should be no precedence for its being, ergo: there is a reason for everything. The fact that it may be cloaked from us is not reason in itself for doubting grand reason.

In substance a man requires desire to be. One may frequent the experience of desire in many varying forms pertaining to their personal life, or they may come to know purer and higher expressions in which desire may work through.

The exercise of the element, desire, is largely based upon exactly how a man may put this to conscious use. Often as not when one is sparked into greater regions, all former desires become inflamed; or more accurately, that which we have desired formerly does present itself, for it is so carried by us and cannot help but be provoked, by this our experience. So the student may be met with challenges of great intensity because he is infilled and charged with much intensity. The experience of calling forth the greater desire invokes the previous patterns of that which we have desired, in all manner and form.

Herein steps the devil himself! The greater temptations that spring from the pious man! Again another little contradiction, unless handled with care.

One must remember that all the cosmic elements are powerful contacts and all embracing. It is they which drive life, and when one is to concentrate their thought or activity in this regard they immediately encounter that path to the source. We may or may not be persuaded by personal demons attributed to ourselves, if we attend sorely and are forgetful of our own development.

We are forever required to attend to our own backyard and it is not so easy to abandon that which we have collected amongst us, by false wonderings and bad attitude. Our harvest of demons shall not disband because of momentarily ignoring them. They will however alter considerably, change face and reform or disband over time: when confronted, when sought out, when the nature of a man is consistent and has gone to great lengths to become morally defined. So the importance of these inner ethics! For if we are to be charged with greater intensity we shall only feed our lowly impulses and untoward instincts, unless our own personage is addressed and redressed.

The prospects for success in this are good if not great! Desires are colored by men and pronounced. If one has the key to cover this, our great desire - the key which proclaims and stipulates right desire thus distinguished - then eventually it shall be thus worked in and the man purified.

The beginnings on the path present many contests. These contests are not to be shunned or persuasively interruptive. They are rather as direct consequence of a man who seeks greater enlightenment- self-determined and very obliging either way.

Dissension or Ascension- 22nd March 1992

Across the seas, great oceans vast,
The passage great, we shall surpass,
From soul to soul, from me to you,
From you to me, across the sea.

EXCITING, igniting and inciting inspiration...

One may definitely stimulate another into prompt awakenings, and lead them also carefully into insights which would have been otherwise unattainable, and at times they were without. To what degree are we to do this? How much or how little is relevant from one to another? 

The tendency to share, and share experience also of being, is one of the greatest drives and longings that there is- and not by mere communication. Communication is established and realized on many, many levels by differing degrees. Moreover, one does seek to make an impression and be impressed, and mark out in time some special statement or expression of mutual accord: an understanding, of a completeness in such union.

This is why the written word shall only satisfy so much. It has its place and may be worthy, and may be quietly assisting such communications. But the actual interactions between the learner and the subject, between the man to the man- companion to his friend in discourse and shared revelation- are by far the greater experience and expression. And we all seek such understandings.

Whilst also, there is the inner communicatee who also craves this intimate discourse and reply; and with solemn but eager countenance, looks to the face of the aspirant who is thus inspired and now extended, so poised as to make something of this higher experience with mutual, dual, consideration. And joy is acknowledged from deeper meanings in this. The higher man becomes released into expression for a time and has found a freedom which hitherto was not available to him. The written word may well assist here, but it is not the written passage of its own which shall speak to the man and thus satisfy him, it is his consultation with indeed his higher self and glorious nature within.

And too, there may be a remarkable relay between author and reader - given that the author is 'living' and accessible throughout the waves of thought. Much may be returned to he who has chosen such relationship, albeit at a distance. Mutuality knows no distance.

What also of those beings higher in angelic community within the folds of Christ who crave also to be party to common and shared inspirations? What of those we have known, and by this are affected and touched by that which we touch? Whether deceased or presently current, they too shall be involved in connections of like understandings and uplifting, ever rising, profundities and glorious insights.

From this one may begin to encompass the necessity and the rewards of true spiritual contemplation, of prayer and guided meditations. For it cannot solely be for the aspirant and in truth affects not just one. All of that which affects one's immediate realm, so also must accordingly span greater tides of influence, to those that we share with from this our little corner. It is precisely such inspiration which is required within the world, particularly today- lively, life endowing inspiration.

One cannot arrive at this happy condition by way of arguments. The tune to an argument, to aggravated discourse, discounts immediately the magic which may otherwise have been expressed and experienced. In this one may see some fruit at the time of the altercation, but it shall not sustain the work. If anything it will hinder and thwart, and interrupt the true student's concentration.

Again one must return to being mindful of their goals. It is natural that one should seek to explain and impart some of their previously gleaned experiences. They know of the intimate joys which realizations may bring. However, such realizations are as potent as the life they spring from; necessarily, for it is this essence that they are true to.

Not all are so ready as to partake in this experience, no matter how zealous and enthusiastic their partner may be. So discretion is required, as well as good intent. One must evaluate how equal the longing for such experience is. There shall always be those who are in need of a good friend or friendly advice, or the ear of a friend; whilst there shall be fewer who are hungry for encounters which are lofty and of deep impression.

Relationships are apt to become confused when there are two or more levels in which one may relate to another. There may be actual ecstasy when thoughts connect and rise together, when the encounters assist in the enrichment of wisdom - and verily one needs the other, not only in support of this and in this, but in deep realization. Whilst all of the time the outer conditions may suggest contradictions, and intimate the revelations unlikely, because the contrast is so great! And one cannot hold indefinitely, concentration on both concurrently.

Therefore we are encouraged, when viewing our brothers, to look beyond those details which are not pertinent to soul discourse, and view all as we would, in said spiritual reality. The practice of this shall help with further reconciliations between that which our personality assesses, and that which presents itself in deeper intercourse. One must not abuse the royal road by adhering extraneous subjective wants upon those who have partaken in the inspiration so great. For this is demeaning and destructive to future participation; for Truth is a free spirit, unshackled by personal demands and requests for compliance.

The greatest tools for any student, come by the nature of the truths imparted to them and experienced by them. The character, the integrity, of the student must be so worthy and refined, and adept at managing such tools. We are well to be reminded of this- especially as the realizations become all the greater!

Impatience is to be calmed and settled, for he who is impatient to grasp the fundamentals shall lose hold of the detail and the depth of implication. Fervor in self discipline may redirect the untoward impatience. Eagerness must be coupled with restraint, even though one's joy is so magnified by this the work. 

There are many disruptive influences which would infiltrate and petition for disharmony within a bond of inspiration, particularly when a group of individuals is so united. For each group, although unique, shares something with that which other groups hold the possibility of: that they are so bonded and creatively aspiring together, and through this each one is immediately accelerated and advanced.

Many groups have personalities which are of the group but separate to the group. Also they have their convoy of friendly associates in unseen places, who gather to encourage, to envelop, to partake in and adhere to- gentle souls and gentle beings, who are not so easily inflamed as the men to whom they have gathered to. When in seasonal episode, the disruptive elements attempt to break in and divide such a group of men, they are dismayed, but without influence unless called upon for assistance by the men themselves. 

Almost as soon as men are united, there are too, impeding beings attracted by the challenge of provoking disunity and disruption. For there is a might when like minds gather and engage, and are most definitely as a beacon, made obvious by such activity.

Sadly to say, one may witness in many a group which had splendid beginnings, fallout with little remaining but a shell of its former hopes and declarations. Many have disbanded way before their due duration to expire; and not because of those things which have incited the disruption, but by experiencing mutually and entertaining this also. For one has to realize that lofty insights attracted and experienced, bring of themselves conditions of vortex within the vacant spaces of design. If men are not guarded, their treasures shall be taken, they shall serve some purpose and then be left without. How then may a group be so responsive in correct manner to divisiveness and discontent?

The principle of the 'free love' movement was ill-directed in relation to physical relations, however the principle itself was good in purporting to freely give rather than freely take. One can easily see how a good idea may be mistaken for a bad one. The lower passions of men are all too easily inflamed and can be paramount in distracting those very inspired, from their newly acquired experiences. It may well be that in the case of a newly formed group, those who are tested are provoked into episodes which accompany their self-acceleration; and one must govern which way one turns and answers all lower passions. One must never sacrifice their unity for the sake of the divisive elements.

Imagine that there is a rock, upon which a plank does rest. On one end of the plank rests that which a man might aspire to, and is too great in weight to be levered by the power of one alone. However, with mutual assistance the weight of the effort employed by many, may in fact raise the other side. Although this view is simplistic, it will do for explanation. Now imagine also, that the men have discovered this knack, and by mutual effort have propelled many an insight experienced out into the ethers. Hurling one, now two, now three! The inspirations are given freedom and go sailing off the edge, of this man-propelled see-saw. And to each is given form, form expelled through this lively creation. And each individual is thus rewarded and marvels accordingly with each new form.

A great crowd does gather around, who may add to the load of the corresponding weight. They bring their ideals, they wheelbarrow in their desires, for they too wish to see them take form and take flight. The original men still heave and push, some will weary with the gathering intensity. Some shall be stronger in this their effort. Some shall be dismayed, if the nature and character of the forms does markedly alter. Imps shall sit at the shoulder and poke fun, and jeer, and call to each man. And they shall be so distracted from their original effort in trying to answer, in giving over their attention. "Who bit my foot?" snaps one, suspicious of another. Envy steps in and does tug at the shoulder, "I am carrying more weight than thee!” And now the effort is dislodged. Concentration waivers, intent becomes vague and the men disband, forgetting their visions just past.

There are many disappointed beings, who in angelic concordance have hoped for men and their outcomes. And men who enter into unity, consciously for mutual effort and mutual realizations, can call upon the presence of those who may oversee to the disruptive elements, and help to awaken them to their presence before they incite much havoc and concern. For it needs be only that we know how to distinguish the true from the false, and the creative from the corruptive, and so recognize precisely those weaknesses which may afflict us.

Usually that which is the divisive element is not of pressing consequence or large concern. If however, one shall afflict another, then of course a harmonious relationship will not be achieved. But at what cost does one argue and encourage the airs of dissension? Dissension or ascension? This is the question!

There needs be spirals of activity within the larger group. There shall be cores and pockets of like-minded souls who know best how to mutually assist each other and complete various tasks of learning. It is true to say that even in episodes of dissension this still holds true, except to say that the learning and experience is shattered into fragments unequally, with promise in future encounters to make balance for such interaction. But specifically, when one enters into the task of maintaining a correct and proper perspective of sharing one's teachings and experiencing greater wisdom thereby, then one must be 'on guard' for that which threatens such fulfilling pursuit.

If the core is strong in purpose and first interests are well attuned, then it shall be a natural consequence that many who are ill-suited will be repelled and dissatisfied upon contact and from the first. If the core maintains that they shall shatter their visions to make them more 'palatable' and likable, then they shall forsake their visions to encompass a greater number of aspirants and thereby alter the entire mass of wisdom they originally set about to experience. 

Thus it has been so that many a society was selective and elitist in order that they may protect their unity and shelter it from disharmonious interference or differing persuasions. So it is that many groups are so protective that they have become totally insulated from the larger world. But what of the students who wish to make study of the larger world? It is contradictory to set such a practice of exclusion and prejudice.

Remember that it is the mutual sympathetic experience which will speak to us. Men will share more divine qualities as they do their sins. If we are to appeal to an inherent sense of truth in great proportions, then it is necessarily to every man we appeal. 

A man may choose to be active within the higher qualities and thus identify, or he may choose a lower profile within the world; and his consciousness shall then comply. If however, he has been so reached as to assume, with help, the beginnings of realizations which carry him into spiritual insights, then such joy found will motivate him to return again and again through the source of the link, to the source of that knowledge. And so one must reiterate that each individual who sets himself within the community of lofty aspirants, can call upon the assistance of those, who with sympathetic aspirations shall help clear his path through the world.

We are not to be fearful of challenges to our personality, nor to be judgmental when we find another who may lapse along the way, for this too is part and parcel of our own dissension. Rather, to be open to the Powers of true insight and inquiry, with loving grace and the grace of such love.

Set all differences to one side. Have respite for a time. When in good company, put the time to good use. Do not waste words. Do not press or make push. Be content that there shall be times of discontent and that all have sinned and will probably sin again. But hold to the times when the group may be at its best in creativity and have hopes for consistency as one of the ideals - which is better to be expressed in a few minutes or in one hour, than not at all.

Treasure the special moments when two or more may meet, soul to soul. Discard for that time all differences. Get on with the work. Then return to the world of men and endeavor to attend also to one's duty.

Perfection is not attained in one eye blink but can be experienced in the space of an eye blink. Take rest and then start again. Some things cannot - and in their time, are not meant to be - reconciled.

We must allow ourselves time to arrive at understandings. In order to arrive we must make attempt at understanding. Anything which blocks such attempt is unuseful and therefore destructive to that endeavor. 

No one is to try to convert the body and mind of another: asking complete compliance, absolute agreement or complete approval. The lasting impressions will be those which are worthy of lasting.

So when so joined together in great unity, men must strive to make connections specific to the task and not require nor seek conformity which negates or ignores their ego-identity. Submissiveness or the request thereof is devilish and impious; for it is the pious who regard our Heavenly Father first before all others who would compete for our attention.

Wand or Feather?- 15th March 1992

THERE is no way of proving our credentials, of who we are, because it would be based upon our say-so. Some are never satisfied, whilst many are too easily satisfied when entering into such relations. Of course the question is relevant. However one can ask: what are the credentials of those who throw doubt upon the matter? 

The 'Space-people' intercourses are not dissimilar to the spiritualism of last century. To many they are one and the same. The figures are equally as fanciful. One can 'pluck' from the astral many an obliging speaker who undoubtedly, will for the most part garble on. At the moment one is working on the basis of assumption that these 'Space-people' are talking entities who convey meaning from very distant realms; that they have just 'flown in'.

Many will tell you (or precisely the mediums) exactly what you want to hear - if this was not the case the mediums would not oblige. They never seem to offend anyone, do they? Some mediums still continue on in the old school, with old names of exalted saints and teachers. Others continue with Indians and (ho, ho, ho) pirates, etc.; others make claim of 'Venusians' et al.. Whilst also, those few idiots who should call upon devils are satisfied also, with slime and incantation. All of them are obliged - but what precisely is their contact? The quality of their teaching, or more accurately the information, will speak for themselves.

Yes it is true that the 'Devas' relish the opportunity to communicate, and yes they may be equally obliging. It is no small matter however, to be privy to interpret 'language' and converse with a being who projects from outside the system. One would have to enter in so close as to actually be here, and have been here for a very long while. You see, if they do not know what it is that they say they know - if indeed there is little evidence of the science and advancement proclaimed - then one must question that they are who they say they are, or more to the point, that their contact and experience is much older than suspected.

If it were the case that our world was so ethereal as to welcome all manner of beings to the doorstep, and indeed shower their influence to degrees that is assumed, then surely we would have been overrun a long long time ago. One can imagine what next century shall bring - most likely the Tree-spirits and Animal-gods etc.! 

In the centuries prior to this one, there was no talk of space vehicles and the like. It is true to say that men would have lacked the accompanying concepts, but nonetheless, were this occurring at all the information would have brought about its impact. But this was not the expression at all. For the main part, we have deceased entities or deceased shells of men who shall speak of foreign planets and missions to Earth. 

Certainly in trance a medium cannot accept into themselves anything but a lower entity; for a higher consciousness could not endure the association, nor would be attracted to try. It is an impossibility. One may frequent the houses for the mentally insane and mentally disabled, and strike much of the same communication which issues willingly from these mediums. The messages of words spoken are simply not put to use by Angelic influence (not in the way described), as their activity is paramount upon the manifestation within the world - what use would be a few garbled words? One can only endeavor to ask them a sensible question and hope for a sensible reply.

The world of men is much more complicated than most imagine. If one has not the business of becoming directly involved, then they are not aware of the capabilities that advanced souls, and not-so advanced souls have entered into. In some ways they can be as glorious or as hideous as any Spaceman concept, in what they can actually effect. But usually the politics is bound to this globe; and busy enough as it is, with such.

The Devas inhabit a world which, one might say, has been separated off from this our world - and yet is one and the same. The etheric realms of golden light are vivid and bright, and by contrast most pleasurable for these individuals. Their perception cannot often make the connection which takes them into the shadows of this world. They would keep to themselves for the most part, and as with all beings they have representatives of their very wise, to their very infant. In legend, they are awaiting a soul of their own and are somewhat disturbed by talk about this. For in truth they have their individuality and ways, and have been with this world e’er since it began. They are in essence the plant kingdom personified.

As men we are continually exerting and exhibiting influences which stream from other planets. So much so that an individual has within him: a Mars man, a Jupiter man and so forth, who with particular characteristics thus imparted from those regions, does work with them accordingly. And some characteristics may definitely dominate others. One aspect so received and featured, will make for a consciousness upon approach into that realm: in conditions of sleep, in conditions after death. And it will be to a particular globe of that planet to which they will go. There are many globes which run concurrently aside from those which are to be. 

None of this is frightening to Man as home is where the heart is! But interpretations of such peregrinations are difficult, if not almost impossible for most to recall or to imagine. Equally so, the fact that this larger home sphere is teeming with beings is incomprehensible. Those who adhere to the Space-people theory often are ignorant of the sheer enormity and diversity of population. This must speak to us therefore, of a limited capacity of comprehension if not experience.

The knack is in trying to develop a consciousness that is self-conscious in the present with present concerns. For surely this is one's first concern. To make effort to expand oneself out from the conscious limits, is in this time a strain and a stress and a contradiction to where one sits at the moment. All things and all places have their appropriate times. Whilst the imagination can soar and 'take off' into realms far less tangible, it is best to exert clear and concise consciousness at best, as is possible, for this will assist one in later efforts in future realms.

Each to his domain! Everything starts from the point of where you are. You may look to yourself, to another, to your little room and what actually is in there, to your garden and to your world. All of these things comprise (right here and now), keys into the realms that extend outer and inner and beyond. One can come to an inherent understanding of the nature of these living qualities through the mysterious which is before you in the very present. To come to observe and know of life intimately- and this is not impossible, right from the position you hold in the room you are in, in the present. 

Now were that you were enabled to experience a little of such perception, there would be no need for a spaceship in order for you to achieve this. Grand Maya! The spaceship enterprise (pun!) is quite contrary and immature to spiritual theory and practice. The ways in which a multitude of beings inflame their influence in man is not as blatant nor as primitive, nor as naïve as the concepts that purport this.

Some Devas are suggestible to Man's bidding. Some are aloof and keep best away, but some are all too easily influenced by the concepts of men as regards themselves. And liberties may be taken on both sides. Even though their experience and wisdom may be as long as their years alongside man, and even though they may present (some of them) as very aged, they are in fact very much the children, who are as children held back. They never quite made the connections, even though they are kith and kindred to humanity. They suffer the ills of humanity, but do not partake directly. 

Their memory may span the ages, as they are not incarnate within the physical realm directly, but they are impassioned by men and imprinted so. They may be corrupted or encouraged or exalted, or dismissed. They who were at the crossroads, who could not make the bridge into humanity but run alongside, are concurrently in many forms and consciousnesses. 

There are many who are far from dull-witted and stupid. There are some who would enter into the realms of men and oblige; whilst others are contemptuous and ill mannered (having gleaned this from men also). In a way, there's perhaps more of a freedom within the realm, and yet also a time and space which is undecided. Depending upon their characters - their personal natures - one will find anything from 'Tinkerbell' flower-hat fairies to veritable demons: those of the earth with bearded consideration, those of the air realms, the water, the Angelic.

Of those who are fixed and more mature, we have many who are quite capable of approaching men and conversing at will. Some may be subservient, whilst others have outreached the general capacity of a man's comprehension. Some are very confused. All have a pretty poor self-image. They are the original 'Green Movement'. Some are understandably 'testy' about these pressing concerns. They must find means of being understood and have been long dissatisfied with their neighbor's habits and inconsiderate interference. 

Added to this, they are rendered almost powerless unless invited to contribute in that which affects the world of men. Some are doting and very impressionable (some, meaning literally millions). They are colorful indeed.

Much inspiration may come from their directives. However as with much within the world, they are as many and varied by nature and attribute, and it does not pay well to generalize. They are also very easily offended. In point of fact one must never be as discourteous as to be haughty about one's position in relation to these beings, nor to be 'pushed around' or 'played with' (depending upon who it is that you encounter) but be respectfully aware with neither fixation or judgment.

Added to all of this there are men, who by varying degrees have excelled and advanced during their lifetimes and have left a legacy of such work as has been done. This legacy is verily the impressions of their efforts under the particular influences from which they worked from. Such a contribution - distinctive in any field - remains within the hemisphere of our Globe as reference and inspiration to others who, in their lifetimes may be so attracted to draw from.

Also it may be comparative work which necessarily does not adhere exactly, but with like intent. In other words, a great mathematician who has departed this world shall leave a residue of his efforts of calculus and inquiry, coupled with his love of that field of endeavour. But later on: one year or two hundred - a similar soul who holds a passion for music may well draw upon the old mathematicians mastery of logic and be thus inspired. He may even be so alike, that the old mathematician will present himself in dreams! However, these visitations will be part of the impressions thus left and signatory to these, rather than actually calling into being that particular soul.

If however, there had been a man-to-man and soul-to-soul contact established within the one lifetime (another perhaps or the present one) and a signatory relationship was thus so formed, then on the other hand, a link and a connection with the true soul may be made - depending on exactly where he was at the time, and how intent or like-minded the 'seeking-out' was. But actually it would lend itself to higher encouragements rather than the particulars of the impressions. In this way it may be easier to talk detail with a 'ghost' from the past than a ghost which is ensouled. For as stated - quite correctly - there comes a time when the individual is past the realms of common speech and cannot intimate word for word in common language.

Added to this we have earthbound souls, who for many reasons - grisly, sad and desperate - moan and groan and hover around the material world; as if to say that they have left the best part of them there. Eventually they too pass on and impressions of these are discarded also, cleaving to the world in odour and sickness. Souls who are somewhat disassociated from the 'spiritual' life and in much turmoil, do also wreak their effect upon the general locality.

Further on, there are men in the world, who have advanced to a degree which does lead them into realms of semi-isolation from the bulk of humanity. These souls are individuals, who by concentrated effort and experience, have greater memory than most and are content to remain within the world sphere and carry on much learning and adapting to the present crisis. Many hold dear affection for 'up and coming souls' and because of past experience, know only too well of both the problems and the strife, and the happinesses that beset all men.

The physicality of the Elder Brothers is indeed an interesting point, for suffice to say, it is altered, and so is not actually according to what most would compare to the general man's condition of being. For there comes a time when great changes ensue and the physical body is transformed in compliance with the renewal and renewing of one's subtle bodies and must also be adaptable that it may withstand certain procedures that ordinary men could not endure.

This is personal to say the least, but we respect people’s eagerness for such knowledge. For it is also the way of the future! Also, we might add that there needs be links, living links with future design, afore the bulk may take to such design. What lies ahead for mankind is manifest in those already who have made further destination, and so the point of physiology is interesting.

Extractions of food and assimilation of such is not required and would indeed be a hindrance if taken in similar manner. The organ, the bowel, is quite transformed as to be almost nonexistent as it is now known. Some babies today are born as such and cannot adapt to this process, and sadly do die - however already, the forms begin.

But nonetheless, we are men. We may command more and are guarded as to what we tell, for it cannot be anything but sensational to do so. However we are not discarnate entities, even though our abilities encompass those that occur 'outside of the body'. We should not be traced to our fingerprints visibly, we have none - but they are there!

We have many friends and co-workers. We have many degrees and representatives. We have but one common goal. We are fearless but apprehensive. We have been known to take tea and beverages. We all need our quiet times! We are not many in number, but represent a great number. Our numbers are guarded, as are our true names. We do not encourage fetishes and exaggerated devotion. We are isolated not so much for our sake, but for the sake of others.

We have no intention of forsaking our humanity. Our commitment is longstanding, and if there is any pride to be had it is in this our fellowship. Our responsibilities are many and we are never in want of 'finding something to do'. We are answerable to many Teachers in the world. We are at all times answerable for everything which we may effect within the world. We are not 'beyond' the Law, nor are we keepers of the Law.

At times, we too are lonely for good company - which is not to say that there are not many, many, connections in spirit, soul to soul, that are forever with us. But that loneliness is precisely what motivates one to work further to assist in the nurture of a growing humanity. Who is it that says “It's lonely at the top!” Only joking. We have our Teachers. It must always be that way. We have those we aspire to, who love us, whom we are grateful for.

We do not have wings, but are as swift as would be if we were endowed. We are blessed and do bless. We are privy to visions past and visions greater. We may concentrate and fix our sight according to pertinent directions. For this one must exact. We take rest. We are not indivisible like some. We regard all our friendships with importance and many span lifetimes- even those that folk do not recall themselves.

We weep and we rejoice. We suffer pain, not physical pain for this we may be released from and disassociate from. However, we may still feel inflictions quite similar.

Usually, when we meet with folk, it is not until after the meeting (if at all) that they begin to wonder. We are formally informal. We have various 'codes' to which we adhere and do not go around pleasing ourselves or others on a whim. It becomes injurious- if nothing more, fanatical! But when the time is right it is only courteous to make ourselves known and this will be so. 

The usual question we are asked is: "If all of this is so, then why not world domination?" You know, this has been tried in the past! It is interesting for there is something of a shield surrounding our influence which prohibits and deflects, and our very nature is non-impact- quite a paradox. We should be stepping outside of what we have become if we were to try and exert such influence within the world as to capture the minds of men and thus direct their affairs. It is not that we function as disassociated from life, but rather that the nature of the binding, the associating, is transformed as to go with, rather than against.

When one waves a wand in the air the waves repel and make for great clanging. We do not clang. We become as great and as insignificant as a feather on the air. We command what we do, but are careful not to negate what we are by the doing. Intervention therefore, is most weighty and guarded. Angels do not make very good boxers. (We do not claim to be Angels, but you get the point.)

Our strongest influence as regards the world is, alike to others, in living an exemplary life and employing our talents in the assistance of others when called upon to do so. Anything outside of this may come into debates of our own, but essentially we too have many limitations. But we are and have to be, at peace with them.

Never let one's concern with those things (or beings) outside of your experience distract you from the true path of finding and realizing inner wisdom. It is good to inquire and be mindful, and thus be equipped, but not to focus intent into unseen realms before they are revealed to you; for the tests will be many enough as it is. The serious student shall be amused enough and yet challenged enough, and the journey into higher thought will bring much enrichment; bringing its own insights stimulating higher perceptions. But that we are guarded, to attend always to the matters at hand and not shirk our duties and first considerations; and in this our development will take care of itself - and in this in time, much will be revealed. Remembering also that it is a good heart which holds the mirror to Heaven, and a defiled heart reflects back much of the murk that has so stained the pure image. This is the focus. This is the key to this and many of the realities of being.

Embrace with Joy- 1992

EMBRACING with joy, rather than assuming a studious painful grimace - it is important to strike the balance between being the happy idiot, and acting out that which one is not. Improvement is always certain, and there is never anticipation of lasting overnight successes.

Be content to absorb and struggle, yes wrestle, with all that is learnt; and forgiving of that which you are now. For all men have worked long and hard to come to this path, including you, and one must never discredit or demean that wonderful effort that is forever concluding and renewing in the eternal now.

888

Wits - Witless; scared out of one's; losing one's; have one's wits about one. Witty laugh; Witness to the fact; unwittingly; to wit. Keep your wits about you. - What on Earth are wits?