I-Ching

(Q) Can suggestions be made as to how self-mastery can be developed; that is, willpower and initiative?

(A) Study that from the spiritual angle, if there would be that power, that might to succeed. For, as has been given, all first finds concept in the spiritual. The mental is the builder. This is true in planning the life, the relationships, and every phase of man’s existence or experience. 2322-2

Remember, the Lord thy God is One! Thy experiences through the earth then are one. The activities of thy body, thy mind, thy soul should be then as one. And each experience to thine self comes as those influences that make for regeneration, uplift, the experience which if taken into the activities of self becomes as the means for bringing harmony and peace in the inner self. 1183-1

Those then that are come into the new life, the new understanding, the new regeneration, there is then the new Jerusalem . . . the place is not as a place alone but as a condition, as an experience of the soul.

Jerusalem has figuratively, symbolically, meant the holy place, the holy city—for there the ark of the covenant, the ark of the covenant in the minds, the hearts, the understandings, the comprehensions of those who have put away earthly desires and become as the new purposes in their experience, become the new Jerusalem, the new undertakings, the new desires. 281-37

. . . for whether there is, as is given, the ascending into the heavens to bring down that as would be understood, or the descending into the depths to bring up as to that that would be heard, or going beyond the seas to bring over that as has been studied or seen, or visioned by others, that as was given still is the same: That lies within each entity, that awakens to the spirit of truth, or the essence of regeneration in the spirit of truth, that makes for the continuity, or the active forces in the spirit of life, or the essence of same itself. 294-140

As the carnal foods make for strength, physical vitality, so do the foods of the spirit make for strength in the Lord . . . 274-3

Only those become conscious of same that have attuned themselves to that which is in accord, or seeking to know—then—His will; for each soul, every soul, should seek to attune its mind, its soul—yea, its body-vibrations—to that He, the Son of man, the Mother-God in Jesus the Christ, lived in the earth. Tune in to that light, and it becomes beautiful; in that you think, that you are, that you live! 254-68

But know that each soul, even self, would have learned much more keeping close to nature. And kicking a clod may be a very uncomely thing to some, but you are closer to Mother Earth and God in same than listening to many an individual rant on what others should do! 257-253

For each and every individual should own sufficient of the earth to be self-sustaining. For the earth is the mother of all; just as God is the Father in the spiritual, the earth is the mother in the material. These are the supplies, the sources, from which individuals sustain or gain the sustenance for the material undertakings. 470-35

So may one be joyous, being kind, being loving, being open-hearted, open-minded to those things wherein that in the word spoken, in the manifestation of the smile in the face, in the eye, to those that the self contacts, there is brought forth that from the hearts, the minds, the souls of those whom the entity contacts day by day!

Turn self inward then, at given periods, at specific times. 274-3

Unless you become as open-minded, unless you can get mad and fight and then forgive and forget. For it is the nature of man to fight, while it is the nature of God to forgive. 3395-3

But take time to add something to your mind mentally and spiritually. And take time to play a while with others. There are children growing. Have you added anything constructive to any child’s life? You’ll not be in heaven if you’re natot leaning on the arm of someone you have helped. You have little hope of getting there unless you do help someone else. 3352-1

(Q) Give specific directions for approaching this study of music under present conditions.

(A) As has been given all along here, again and again—see the rhythm in the activities of every nature; whether in viewing the scrubwoman or the artist in giving expression—see the timing of same necessary to make the activity valuable and of a spiritual nature in its essence! 949-13

Find thy ideal—spiritually, mentally, materially. Know in whom ye believe as well as in what. Know that He, the Ideal, has been, is, manifested in the earth from the beginning of time, and that His promises are thine—if ye will embrace them. 2397-1

. . . as the spirit builds, as the spirit forms in its activity in mind, the mind becomes then the builder. The mind is not the spirit, it is a companion to the spirit; it builds a pattern. And this is the beginning of how self may raise that expectancy of its period of activity in the earth. And this is the beginning of thy ideal. Of what? Of that the soul should, does, will, can, must, accomplish in this experience! 2533-6

(Q) When did I first exist as a separate entity?

(A) Would this add to thy knowledge? The first existence, of course, was in the mind of the Creator, as all souls became a part of the creation. As to time, this would be in the beginning. When was the beginning? First consciousness! There is no time, there is no space. Hence the injunction, first know thy spiritual purposes. Ye know thy ideal. 2925-1

One that finds childhood, especially the adolescent age, the most interesting to the body, both from the mental standpoint and from the spiritual essence as may be manifested in the hopefulness, the genuineness, the sincerity, of youth in its endeavors. 5424-1

(Q) Any message to the group as a whole?

(A) Be thou strong in thy might in thy youth, that when the evil days come they will not be as troubled waters but that ye may save those who are weak. 792-1

If same is founded in love, in peace, these beget the children thereof. These must be considered first and foremost in the heart of each as they approach a truth as may be founded, even in that termed by the world as superstition, ignorance, and such; yet out of the mysteries to the blind comes those forces, those manifestations, that make life worth living for those that seek to know the light. 254-52

Do not jump at conclusions. Analyze all relationships. Hold no grudges, no feelings, because others have not applied or do not apply that as ye feel to be right, or ye feel should be. Suppose self in the other individual’s place, and hold thy tongue from speaking guile or evil of anyone. 2074-1

(Q) [993]: Would appreciate guidance at this time regarding healing group and how I may best improve same?

(A)Let thy self be lost wholly in that thou givest of thy time, of thy self, of thy mind, in thy service to thy fellow man. Be patient; be kind; be gentle; be forgiving, even to those who in their ignorance speak unkind. For, remember, how they buffeted thy Lord! Let thy watchword be: “Through the power of the Christ in me, I can—and will—do that He would have me do! Trusting only in Him I will press on—on—to the mark of the calling whereunto He has called, and does call me.” 281-22

For, as given, “In patience possess ye your souls.” This does not mean sitting down and waiting, but with prayer, with fortitude, with patience, with persistence, meet each day with that necessary fullness of purpose as to be ready to be used as He would see fit. And, as has been given, as each approaches in such a way and manner He opens the way for that necessary for the meeting of every need, materially, mentally, spiritually, in thine experience. 333-3

(Q) About how long will it take before she will be able to walk?

(A) This to be sure depends upon the responses of the body. Whether long or short (but this should be within one cycle), the results will be worthy of the patience, the care. 1328-1

As has been indicated, and as has been outlined, this will require the cycle of change in the body. To lose faith, or patience, or confidence, is to allow the child in its development—and the man—to be handicapped in this experience. Either do it, or allow it to go undone! 3873-2

Even though an entity in the earth’s plane, in this life, may reach the years of fourscore and ten, these are as but moments in eternity. How oft would it be the better that each soul weigh those things in its experience that it knows! and to consider that someone cares; for He, the Lord of light, the way, the truth, the bright and morning star, the lily of the valley, the rose of Sharon, awaits—as has given His angels charge concerning thee, that thou walkest in the light. Be patient; for in patience, in waiting on the Lord, in being kind and gentle, do ye become aware of His presence in the earth. Not unto vain glorying, but be ye joyous in the service that would make of thee—in thy temptations, in thy trials—as one that would be a bright and morning star, a hope to thy fellow man, a prop to those that falter and stumble, a refuge to those that are troubled in body and mind! 640-1

In the present there is the love of things that are easy, which arises from the harkenings of the inmost self; the love of those things that are true arises from that period also—and hence the two are often in conflict within self. O that all would know that the greater conflict ever to each soul is between its own self’s experiences as compared to that it has experienced! 541-1

There are the tendencies, then, towards mysticism and the psychic. These conflict also one with another.

The tendencies towards the Oriental truths often conflict with Occidental habits of individuals, causing in the entity’s activities those periods of confusions to the entity itself. 3411-1

(Q) [137]: I have certain thoughts regarding the Association’s environments and condition. Can you give me counsel of those?

(A) In the interior forces of self, there is seen that no higher counsel may be had than that as may be gained by self through that attunement of self to that power. Heed none other. Let no conflict of any nature separate thine self from that ability to attune self with Him, and in counsel of every character He will guide, whether it be of those that pertain to material, mental or spiritual. He was in the flesh thine brother. 140-35

(Q) Is it best for me to assume an impersonal attitude toward all material conditions around me (as it was told me in regard to the Cayce Hospital), or should I take definite stands?

(A) In the light of that just given, judge ye. For when definite stands of a material way conflict with definite stands of other individuals in their material way, conflicts ensue. But let thy desires, thy purposes, thy aims, be as one with that which is shown thee through the meditations from within. 288-37

As indicated in the seal, the entity may play upon the emotions of others or it may use them for steppingstones or stumbling blocks. It may use opportunities to raise others to the point of anxiety or to the point where they would spend their souls for the entity; using them either as buildings or as serpents or scorpions in its emotions. It may love very deeply, either for the universal consciousness or for gratifying only of self or the physical emotions. 3637-16

(Q) How can I better prepare myself for the work I have chosen and for leadership?

(A) By prayer and meditation. It is innate and natural, yet the basis of service must be as of the ideal; not merely idealistic-for that indicates unattainable, but “Be ye perfect, even as I am perfect,” said He. This then is in purpose, in intent, in hope, in application. This is the manner to attain to leadership.

Ask no one to do that ye would not do thyself. Ask no one to do that the Lord thy Master did not do. 2746-1

(Q) Who can give body the best leadership or counsel for his spiritual development?

(A) That which may be found in St. John. 282-4

And the abilities are here to accomplish whatever the entity would choose to set its mind to, so long as the entity trusts not in the might of self, but in His grace, His power, His might. Be mindful ever of that, in thy understanding in thy own wisdom, much may be accomplished; but be rather thou the channel through which He, God, the Father, may manifest His power-in whatever may be the chosen activity of the entity. 3183-1

(Q) Am I devoting too much of my time to committee or community work?

(A) Not devoting too much, provided that advantage is taken of those associations as brought about in committee work, in community work; taking advantage of that insight as is given into the affairs of others, and use same-Don’t abuse! but use same! 322-1

While it may appear that some of the things that might have been accomplished materially have passed the entity by, these abilities in the present should be used in a constructive, creative manner, and thus be ever a contributor to the welfare of whatever community the entity may be a part of, or group; making those with whom the entity may associate a little better, thinking and feeling a little bit improved by the knowledge, the abilities, the activities that may be accomplished in the young from the abilities latent within the entity. 3424-1

Every phase of human experience and human relationship must be taken into consideration; just as indicated from that given, that we are our brother’s keeper.

Then if those in position to give of their means, their wealth, their education, their position, do not take these things into consideration, there must be that leveling that will come. 3976-19

For there is set before thee those choices to be made, as to whom ye will serve.

As to manners, then, in which each soul shall conduct self as respecting this as an individual organization, it has oft been given that this is not under any schism or ism or any individual tenet other than that which has been of old, “I am my brother’s keeper!” That should be the cry that should be in the heart of every member, every individual, “I am my brother’s keeper!’

Then so live, so act, so conduct thyself in thy dealings with thy fellow man day by day that they who are astray may be set aright. 254-91

And in the application, study self. Be humble, but not timid; be positive, but not in that determination of rule or ruin. But rather in that as was given-mercy, justice, patience, love, long-suffering, brotherly kindness, and forgetting those things that easily beset one in grudges or hatreds or hard feelings-but rather study others. 1402-1

Open the door for those that cry aloud for a knowledge that God is within the reach of those that will put their hand to doing; just being kind-not a great deed as men count greatness, but just being gentle and patient and loving even with those that would despitefully use thee. For the beauties of the Lord are with those that seek to know and witness for Him among men.

That is thy mission, that is thy purpose, in this material experience. 1436-1

(Q) How can I still further advance into the perfection I seek to attain in the Father’s eyes and the fellow man’s?

(A) Put into practice day by day that as is known. Not some great deed or act, or speech, but line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little. Not as sounding of trumpets as to what is being accomplished, but in the quiet of thine own conscience lay the plans for that that may be accomplished, and in the acts day by day so build that as conforms to His way; for, as He has given, those that seek to know the Lord and do His biddings shall not go empty-handed; neither shall his seed beg bread. 257-78

In the application of self, this entity has gained the ability of discernment, and in the way of using the little in hand to gain the greater understanding of the whole. 115-1

Keep the faith. Walk in the light. Let no darkness be in thee at all. For He is the light, the truth and the way, and He is willing—if thou wilt but walk with Him. 792-1

(Q) Please advise [257] as you did years ago in the Albert Pick-Federal matter, what he should do step by step to again be successful in this field.

(A) As given and outlined here, and given again: First take all those situations that confront the body from every angle, and after analyzing them, comparing self and self’s abilities, self’s qualifications, the qualifications, the tactics and the policies of those with whom the body would associate, and who would be the better. Then work and pay that necessary in effort, time, endeavor, to make the connections in such a manner as to meet every situation. 257-138

In the application does the knowledge come of what is to be accomplished by self, in the step by step, line by line, that others may know of that promise that is to each individual that may be one with Him. Be not unmindful that those met in the way are seekers also, and are the Israel of the Lord. 262-30

(Q) How should we present it to one who has lost faith in Creative Force?

(A) . . . Be not overcome with those things that make for discouragements, for He will supply the strength. Lean upon the arm of the Divine within thee, giving not place to thoughts of vengeance or discouragements. Give not vent to those things that create prejudice. And, most of all, be unselfish! For selfishness is sin, before first thine self, then thine neighbor and thy God.

Love ye one another. Give as ye have received. 254-87

And all maybe on fire with the powers that may manifest through them; becoming less and less self-centered, less and less selfish; and more and more at peace and in harmony with those experiences that are theirs in the going about to show forth His love, through the application of that each are gaining through their walks with Him in prayer, in meditation. 262-38

Each has been chosen as a channel, and each in its own way-and not alone of self, but manifesting life through love will bring the Spirit’s reaction in the daily experiences of every soul. For, they are one-all believe, all have heard. Then, let them that have eyes see, and ears hear, what the Spirit saith unto them in such meditation in the inner self.

For, from the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh; and the love of the Father through the Son constraineth all, if each will be less selfish, less self-centered, more desirous of showing forth His love, His abundant mercy, His peace, His harmony, that comes from being quiet in the Lord, being joyous in service, being happy in whatsoever state ye find self; knowing that he whom the Lord loveth him doth He call into service, if each soul will but seek to know His way rather than “my way or thy way.” Let thy yeas be yea in the Lord. Let thine understanding take hold on the things of the spirit, for they are alone eternal. 262-46

For, whatever the entity chooses to do may be accomplished; provided that the ego does not get ahead of the I AM in the entity’s experience. For, if self is placed first and foremost, this is as the “little book” which when eaten turns to gall within the experience of the entity. Using the abilities in any direction to the glory of the Creative Forces may bring honor and fame, as well as much of this world’s goods. Allowing self to become self-centered, the best friends may be as outcasts from the entity, and peace and harmony within self be as naught. 3126-1

Yet thou, in thine own self, hast that which may set the world on fire for the Lord; that of sincerity with self. Keep thine heart pure. Thou mayest bring peace and harmony to many by the gentleness of the Christ words through thine own self. 281-19

While there might be much given as to that which has caused or produced the conditions, these should be rather viewed by the entity, the body [716], in this attitude: “The physical conditions that have come upon me are those most necessary for my own soul’s development.” While there have been periods of antagonism and of belittling self, making for the berating of the circumstance, the conditions that have come upon self, know that these conditions have given thee the opportunity to see that in it all there has been given the privilege for others to express in their activity the true spirit of love, that creative influence that is worshiped by man as God. 716-2

(Q) How can body avoid constant restlessness and sense of frustration and uselessness? Why doesn’t her home life and her charities satisfy her?

(A) These will, when they are made one with the mental, physical and spiritual well-being; for these have been kept separated—and one as not knowing what the other did, but in the coordinating of the physical and mental and spiritual well-being, of that as may be accomplished in the home, in the charity, or in the associations socially, these should be ever with the eye single of that, “whatsoever my hands find to do, that will I do, with an eye single of showing, manifesting, living, being, my concept of the Divine.” 454-1

(Q) Why do I suffer acutely at times from a sense of frustration?

(A) This is partly physical, partly the karmic and the form of the ideas in relationship to the real ideals of the entity. 2329-1

If the entity will apply in self that it knows to do—not as something that applies to self alone, but that applies to self in its relationships to others—the results will be apparent. Ye apply thy love, if ye would have others love thee! Ye do trust others and ye are the trust and the hope, if ye would have hope or expect others to have hope and trust in thee! 3078-1

(Q) [69]: What is the extreme test of fellowship?

(A) Doing unto others as ye would have them do unto you is the extreme test of fellowship. Without same ye may not wholly please God. 262-22

(Q) [307]: Can brotherhood exist among men without true fellowship?

(A) Fellowship is first brotherhood, a pattern of—or a shadow of—what fellowship is; for, as has been given, all one sees manifest in a material world is but a reflection or a shadow of the real or the spiritual life. Brotherhood, then, is an expression of the fellowship that exists in the spiritual life. 262-23

. . . the trust must be in Him, not in the group! The group is only lending their power, their ability, to make more aware the needs of each individual so seeking of that power! for He hath knowledge of that we have need of before we ask, but “Ask and ye shall receive.” 281-9

The entity gained throughout that period; for, from its early experience, as will be seen, there has been the consciousness of the needs for man in the low estate as well as in the high estate to be dependent one upon the other; yet the needs for the trust, the confidence to be established upon a principle or a basis for the betterment of each group. This was the basis upon which the entity applied itself in that period. 2902-1

In understanding, does strength, power and might come.

Take this and keep it with thee in thy heart, and in thine mind always. With power of money, with position, and wealth, comes greater responsibility. But ye know in whom ye believed, and He is able to keep you against that day. 137-125

Man’s answer to everything has been power—power of money, power of position, power of wealth, power of this, that or the other. This has never been God’s way, will never be God’s way. Rather little by little, line upon line, here a little, there a little, each thinking rather of the other fellow, as that that has kept the world in the various ways of being intact—where there were ten, even, many a city, many a nation, has been kept from destruction. 3976-8

(Q) What would be the most harmonious and remunerative business for me?

(A) . . . a strong, healthy, well-balanced physical body may find, with its activities to make for same, a budgeting of its efforts in mental and physical and spiritual things . . . for with health may come wealth if it is needed in that for the spiritual development.

Would that most people would gain that knowledge that if they are attempting to live a normal life, if wealth is necessary for their soul development it is a portion of their experience! 498-1

(Q) How may the material activities and the spiritual purpose be coordinated?

(A) That in the material world is a shadow of that in the celestial or spiritual world. Then, the material manifestations of spiritual impulse or activity must be in keeping or in attune with that which has its inception in spiritual things. For, the mind of man is the builder; and if the beginning is in spiritual life, and the mental body sees, acts upon, is motivated only by the spiritual, then the physical result will be in keeping with that thou hast sown . . .

If the activities make for the exaltation of the mind, the body, or the position, power, wealth or fame, these are of the earth earthy.

Not that there should not be the material things, but the result of spiritual activity—not the result of the desires for that which the material things bring as power to a soul. 524-2

(Q) How could I eliminate self-consciousness and fear when addressing an audience?

(A) That’s just what we have been talking about, in entering into the silence, by not as rote, but as entering into the consciousness of that of the Creative Forces as gives to all that as was promised, “Take no thought of what ye shall say, for in the self-same hour will it be given thee.” When one has reached, and does reach, that consciousness of the Divine’s activity within self, then self’s consciousness, or self-consciousness, is laid aside. 666-1

(Q) Do you recommend that during the treatments suggested any of the following exercises be taken?

(A) [Interrupting] As indicated here, there is not the great amount of exercise to be taken. Not that the body is just to sit down and rest and do nothing, but no specific exercises until the compound has been taken; then all forms of exercising, whether swimming, walking, rowing, golfing, or that, would be well for the body—in moderation—but control the exercises, rather than the exercises controlling the body. 498-1

. . . for with all things let them be done in moderation, in decency and in order, and in a way keeping to these truths as set in the way as has been set for the law as is known to the entity concerning that necessary in self to bring the best normal gift to the world of the position occupied by entity. Then do it. 136-20

Better to be moderate in all things, whether eating or drinking, or smoking, or what! Moderation is the key to success or longevity! 294-130

To be named as a vice-president doesn’t make the body any more capable, or his abilities any greater; neither does it increase the valuation in the eyes of the public—other than the ability to serve the public in that capacity in a greater degree. Raised to a position in a public service only gives the individual the opportunity to serve the public in a more noble manner. Position by name means little! Position by the acquiring of the abilities to fill the position means much! Fill self with enthusiasm for service, rather than glory for that attained. 257-32

(Q) Do adverse astrological influences have anything to do with his apparent inability to gain strength and enthusiasm again?

(A) Not anything to do! These must be met and not followed! It is like this: You don’t feel like moving about, but move a little bit anyway—and this gains strength! 556-12

(Q) What can I do to regain the pep and enthusiasm which I need to be successful with [257] in the . . . Furniture line in N.Y.?

(A) First have the physical conditions corrected, and get out of the attitude of trying to hedge or stall or trying to make for the easy way or the shortcuts. 1414-1

. . . if the efforts and activities—as we find—are expended in the right direction, this characteristic, this ability to express the personality, the enthusiasm that the entity is able to work itself up to on any proposition—either mental, spiritual or material (if convinced of the sincerity, the plausibility and possibilities), may be expanded upon by the entity in such a manner as to produce enthusiasm in the efforts of those with whom the entity may surround self in any endeavor. 342-2

Seek first, then, within self as to what is thy ideal. Hold fast, thou, to that strength as thou perceived that prompted the hearts and minds and bodies of those that served their fellow man without seeking for self-glorification. And with thy ideal set in the spiritual things, ye may find and ye will know the truth that was in Him. For the truth shall indeed make you free, when ye come to the understanding of same as ye apply it in thy relations to thy fellow man. 877-1

For an idea and an ideal are two different things—an ideal is that that may be sought for, while an idea may lead into troubled waters. 5502-2

Self-development, as the individual then makes for the personality in the material life and in the spiritual life, makes the associations with the creative influences in every walk, in every act, in every deed. And be ye joyous in this service.

How may such be accomplished in the present? Know in what thou has believed, knowing that He is able to keep thee against any experience that may bring fear or doubt. For, by faith are ye healed and that not of yourself, but is the gift of the Father to those that seek and those who have made Him that He has given in the earth as the ideal. 439-2

(Q) What counsel have you for Mrs. [Eileen] Garrett’s spiritual development?

(A) Present self in thine own inner conscience in such a way and manner that answers for the conscience within self of its own soul development. And as the soul remains true to that which is its ideal from within, it may never give that other than constructive in its speech with those that seek to know the mysteries of soul and self-development; that has made of itself a channel through which men may approach those mysteries of life, and their activities in the minds, the hearts and the souls of men. 507-1

What then is the purpose of the entity’s activity in the consciousness of mind? That it, the entity, may know itself to be itself and part of the Whole; not the Whole but one with the Whole; and thus retaining its individuality, knowing itself to be itself yet one with the purposes of the First Cause that called it, the entity, into being, into the awareness, into the consciousness of itself.

That is the purpose, that is the cause of being. 826-11

(Q) What is my mission in this incarnation?

(A) As has been indicated, again dissemination of truth in its relationship to things, to conditions, to individuals, to nations.

(Q) Am I making progress in that direction?

(A) You are at the crossroad—the choice is to be made! Choose the spiritual import!

(Q) Should I proceed with the work I am planning for greater harmony in the industry; between management and labor?

(A) Provided the spirituality is included. For the spirit giveth life; the law killeth; the spirit giveth life!

(Q) Will this work prove as beneficial as I think it will?

(A) Do it for the cause of Him, who is truth and ye may leave the results to Him and it will not be a failure. 5395-1

Ever, ever, the fruits of the Spirit in their awareness; long-suffering, brotherly love, patience, kindness, gentleness, hope and faith!

If ye in thy activities in any manner with thy fellow man destroy these in the minds, in the heart of thy fellow man, ye are not only slipping but ye have taken hold on the path of destruction.

Then so love, so act, so think that others seeing thy good works, thy hopes that ye bring, thy faith that ye manifest, thy patience that ye show, may also glorify Him.

For that cause, for that purpose ye entered into the materiality in the present. 826-11

In Venus we find the home and the beauties of friendships; with Uranus as well as Mercury bringing about influences of wisdom, strength, and unseen influence among groups of masses through which the entity may—and does—influence others.

This almost becomes then an unconscious influence that the entity bears. 910-4

(Q) What should the next step be for those in this office in regard to the establishment of the New York group?

(A) Be rather insistent, in a gentle and persuasive manner, to each that might be a portion of the group to induce that this be accomplished in as speedy manner as possible; giving to each again and again the necessities for that they would foster, they would cherish in their experience for that they received, and are receiving, and may receive through such a channel! If this is not worthy, then—forget it! 254-64

(Q) How may those desiring to assist this body best obtain the cooperation of the body in following this treatment?

(A) This, as has been given, will require some persistence, some persuasive powers, in gentleness and in kindness, and with the reasoning of the body as respecting same. We will find that the body will have a tendency to adhere to these, then to leave them off—but be persistent in following these as given. 5683-1

. . . hold fast to those judgments that are of the Creative Forces. Know that only in Him is there truth and light and authority. For all power is of His giving, and is lent to the sons of men as opportunities for expressions of the Creative Forces. 956-1

That the soul—a portion, an expression of God’s desire for companionship—might find expression, the souls of men and women came into being; that there might be that which would make each soul, then, as a fit companion for that realm. There is the necessity of fitting itself through the experiences of all phases and realms of existence, then; that it, the soul, may not cause disruption in the realm of beauty, harmony, strength of divinity in its companionships with that Creative Force.

Hence the experiences, if we will gain that deeper comprehension of same, are but opportunities; for in whatsoever state of consciousness one finds self, the awakening is from the desire of the Father that each soul shall continue to have its thread of gold that runs through each conscious force for its companionship with Him.

So the use or application of that in hand makes for the awareness within self of its, the soul’s, relationships to the Creative Force. 805-4

For ye live, ye move in an environ of dimensions according to the awareness and application of thyself to these influences in thy activity. It is not then what ye think or what ye say that counts, but what thy soul desires, what thy soul hopes for, what thy soul manifests in thy relationships to these environs; that are opportunities for the application of that understanding ye may have at any given period of manifestation. 2608-1

. . . as you each become conscious in your own experience of the movement of the influences through the body upon the various stages of awareness, there comes a determination, a desire, a longing for the greater light. To him, to her that is faithful, there shall be given a crown of light. And His name shall be above every name; for ye that have seen the light know in whom thou hast believed, and know that in thine own body, thine own mind, there is set the temple of the living God, and that it may function in thy dealings with thy fellow man in such measures that ye become as rivers of light, as fountains of knowledge, as mountains of strength, as the pastures for the hungry, as the rest for the weary, as the strength for the weak. Keep the faith. 281-28

. . . there is produced by same humbleness—not as has been in some instances in the entity’s self—not the lording of others. For as He gave, who was, who is, who ever will be the manifestation of the Spirit—which is true psychic force—he that will be the greatest will be the servant of all. Not necessarily being as a doormat, but ever willing, ever helpful—but to the glory of God, to the honor of self. Not to the glory of self in any manner or way, but in humbleness preferring one another. 3548-1

(Q) At this time, is there anything else that you would care to say to me about the past, present or future?

(A) So live and so act with self as to be able to look every man or individual in the face and tell him to “Go to hell”; or so act, in that way and manner that there is known within self that there is that activity which cannot be questioned, either by the superior or by the office boy, or by the drayman. So act, in that way and activity of forces, that that as is done becomes a living example of that that the body would present to its Creator; not being ashamed of that which it acts upon, through or how, but in a way acceptable to self, to God—to thy Creator! 270-28

Q) Is there any advice for greater development of character?

(A) Study to know thyself in relationship to that ye choose as thy ideal. And let that ideal be set in Him, who is the way, the truth and the light.

This does not mean becoming goody-goody, no—far from it! Be able to look everyman in the face and tell him to go to hell—but live as He did, the lovely Nazarene! 2869-1

The entity because of his indecisions at times allows others to take advantage of him. The entity must learn to be self-assertive; not egotistical but self-assertive—from a knowledge of the relationship of self with the material world. 3018-1

Cultivate those abilities for making the beautiful tales of those influences or things that apparently are the commonplace. For it is the commonplace that wields the greater influence in the lives of individuals in any home, in any community. These may be added to in such ways and manners as to later, in thy experience, become channels through which great blessings may come to others. 2037-1

For, we live only the one moment at the time. Those that are transient will pass away—and only the earthly pass; but that love that can sustain, that love that does sustain in all the hours of trial, all the hours of temptations, all the hours of sufferings, abides with thee still. Keep—keep—the heart singing. Look deeper into the heart of the rose. Listen to the song of the bird. See the paintings of His face in the setting and the rising sun. See the loveliness in the moonbeam that turns all into the radiance of His glory. 410-2

So in thy dealings with others, with thy problems with others, in thy daily associations, in thy home, in thy activities—remember to evaluate every phase of an experience and to stress the beautiful, minimize the faults. For, this is sowing the seed of beauty in the spirit of truth; and that, too, will blossom in thy life and in thy dealings with others. 2448-2

(Q) Please explain why I seem to sob from within.

(A) As indicated, frustration of ideals brought about by apparent circumstance, in which much of that beautiful has been subjugated in the experience of the entity. 2339-1

Like begets like. This is infallible.

If there is the desire, then, to force an issue, there will be just as strong opposition the other way; and even when an issue is forced, has anything been gained? For the moment, perhaps—but this association should be, if properly founded and based (as it has been in the past, in most of its activities), of a longer duration than one generation. 270-31

(Q) [Explain] “Content but not satisfied.”

(A) Content in that “Have Thy way, Lord. Use me as a channel. Not my will but Thine be done!” That is content.

Satisfied means gratified, and is the beginning of the falling away, for self is to be then glorified. 262-24

As today ye come to those experiences of seeing, of feeling greater hope and love, greater peace and beauty, so rest ye in the Lord.

Oft hath He given, fret not thyself but stand still and see the glory of the Lord. These apply in thy experiences day by day. Keep in the way of the seeking—opening thy heart, thy mind for a greater service to others.

Teach thyself in teaching others to be patient, to be content; not satisfied but content in the ways of the Lord! 262-121

(Q) Why am I restless, unsettled?

(A) Not restless and unsettled in the inner self, but lack of response in the emotional body. Thus, keep self in accord. Ye chafe under duty, but do not that as would condemn self. 3282-1

(Q) Is it best to let this business proposal rest, or shall I try to force the issue?

(A) We would not force the issue, but we would not let it lag or rest! Rather put self in that position first physically and mentally to be able to meet or cope with, or to advance same—see? Then, as this is being accomplished, put self in the way of same being offered again—or the same proposal made both by self and from others. 279-1

With the periods set aside for meditation – don’t hurry yourself, don’t be anxious but closing the self, the conscious mind to anxieties from without – enter within thine own inner temple. There let the voice, the feeling direct; yea, let the spirit of the purpose of self be free in its direction to self. 1861-18

The general resistance of the system we find at a lower ebb than we have had before at all. This is produced, as we see, through those physical conditions wherein the whole system is attacked through the forming of those poisons and bacilli, through the toxins as absorbed in the system, through uric acid that is taken back in system; and through the debilitation of the mental forces by strain in the mental and physical manner to the body.

As we see, for the best of the body physically and mentally, the body should not ever be in that condition that he worries over physical and mental attitudes toward conditions. This we see much of at present. 294-69

(Q) Any further advice for my better welfare?

(A) Go slow; or make haste slowly. Be patient with self and with others. Do not work self into a state of overanxiety at the changes that will be found, or attempt to use up the strength and vitality mentally and physically to gain or maintain those balances that once were held in relationships to these; for these will come in their normal time. Forget not the source of thine inspiration in self, for they must be in the God of life, of truth, of hope, of love. 480-11

(Q) You have told me in my Life Reading [443-1] that I had many impulses. Will you now show me how to so harmonize them that my mind and emotions always work together?

(A) As may be seen by the experience of the entity, while the emotions and the impulses at times vary, this for many an individual – and for this body – is a natural manner of expression; and if the ideal is always kept as the measuring stick, as it may be termed, the developments will come in the natural order of things or experiences.

Hence in harmonizing, only let the impulses and the activities in those impulses be gauged by the ideal, and it will make for harmony in the experience of the entity in its development. 443-6

…there is seen in the make-up of human mentality that which seeks for the unknown, and this air; yet the simplicity of the ability of individuals to apply that as may be obtained from their own subconscious self, cosmic forces and universal consciousness (or call it by whatever name the individual may choose) – this is the great truth that must be apparent to the layman, the individual, the scientist, the mathematician, the historian, the individual seeking information through these sources finds this apparent. 254-46

Study then, first, the 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th of John. Apply them, as “This is Jesus speaking to [you], – speaking!”

What is thy answer? “I am ready, Lord.” Or, “As soon as I get this done, I’ll try.”

These ye must answer within thyself. For the will of each entity, of each soul, is that which individualizes it, that makes it aware of itself; and as to how this is used makes thee indeed a child of God.

He hath not willed that ye should perish, that ye should want, that ye would not know Him. What have ye willed? What is thy way? What is thy desire? It becomes then so simple that the simplicity becomes the complexness of the daily life. 853-9

Hence we find the influence in Jupiter with Neptune makes for the innate expressions or desires of the entity to be a rover, a wanderer as it were—yet seeking ever an expression, or that something which is latent or “just beyond” the horizon.

Such an attitude at times brings into the experience doubts and fears of others as respecting the entity’s purpose, the entity’s attitude towards the real abilities that are a portion of the entity’s experience. 2331-1

As ye apply, as ye make use of that in hand, more is given thee. For, day unto day is sufficient, if use is made thereof; not to self, not to self alone. Not that self is not to be considered, but losing self in good is the better way to find self.

What is good? How is such defined in thy life—of awakening to all the possibilities that exist in thy intake of life and its phases? To do good is to think constructively, to think creatively. What is creative, what is constructive, ye may ask? That which never hinders, which never makes for the bringing of any harm to others. 1206-13

(Q) How could I bring about a more harmonious unity in my home in regard to my father and his wife, or would it be best at this time for me to leave their home?

(A) There must be first the quiet or harmony in one’s own self if one would find harmony with the association with others. As we find, if we would have an alternative, not to remain away from home all the while, but portions of the time, it would be well. 1540-7

In considering the physical disturbances in the body, much more than the mere pathological conditions must be taken into consideration. While in the present this is not a mental condition, there may become such. But if proper precautions are taken and corrections made we should have an entirely new outlook on life, new abilities, new possibilities, new opportunities coming to this entity. 3392-1

Hence we find the influence in Jupiter with Neptune makes for the innate expressions or desires of the entity to be a rover, a wanderer as it were—yet seeking ever an expression, or that something which is latent or “just beyond” the horizon.

Such an attitude at times brings into the experience doubts and fears of others as respecting the entity’s purpose, the entity’s attitude towards the real abilities that are a portion of the entity’s experience. 2331-1

As ye apply, as ye make use of that in hand, more is given thee. For, day unto day is sufficient, if use is made thereof; not to self, not to self alone. Not that self is not to be considered, but losing self in good is the better way to find self.

What is good? How is such defined in thy life—of awakening to all the possibilities that exist in thy intake of life and its phases? To do good is to think constructively, to think creatively. What is creative, what is constructive, ye may ask? That which never hinders, which never makes for the bringing of any harm to others. 1206-13

(Q) How could I bring about a more harmonious unity in my home in regard to my father and his wife, or would it be best at this time for me to leave their home?

(A) There must be first the quiet or harmony in one’s own self if one would find harmony with the association with others. As we find, if we would have an alternative, not to remain away from home all the while, but portions of the time, it would be well. 1540-7

In considering the physical disturbances in the body, much more than the mere pathological conditions must be taken into consideration. While in the present this is not a mental condition, there may become such. But if proper precautions are taken and corrections made we should have an entirely new outlook on life, new abilities, new possibilities, new opportunities coming to this entity. 3392-1

It is not in the tempest, not in the roar or the lore of the might of battle. Though there may be the destruction of life, of property (as is known materially)—no one can destroy the soul but self! No one but self!

God hath not willed that any soul should perish, but hath given even His Son, that brought even into the world that spirit of Christmas.

Let thy message be:

There is hope in Him. For there is the promise through, “Lo, I am with thee always, even unto the end of the world.” And though the world, the earth may pass away, though it may be burned up, though it may bring destruction to the material things, we look to Him, we know there is safety in Him. Fear not he that may destroy the body, but rather fear him that may destroy the soul in torment. Then, in love, in obedience, in prayer, follow Him. 281-59

Each soul, as is known by the entity, enters an experience for the magnifying of the entity’s ideal. For as has been given, He hath not willed that any soul should perish; neither does He seek to bring sorrow, disappointments, heartaches, in the experience of those activities in the earth—save it be for the edifying of the soul.

For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and purgeth every one. 1466-3

Each soul as it has entered and does enter into material manifestation is to fulfill a purpose, with the Creative Forces or God. For He hath not willed that any soul should perish, but hath with every temptation, every fault, prepared a way, a manner, an opportunity for the entity to become as one with Him.

For that is the purpose of the soul’s being in the beginning. Hence without beginning, without end. 257-201

(Q) Is my health being affected by aggravation resulting from business association with my family, and would it be advisable to make a change?

(A) In part, as has been given! This comes from those—but it’s more of a physical, else—those relationships with the family could be, and would be, made as stepping-stones for better things, rather than being allowed to overcome and subdue the abilities! 279-1

(Q) Is the ill health which I have been experiencing the past years the result of mistakes of a past life or is it due to something amiss in this present life?

(A) Both. For there is the law of the material, there is the law of the mental, there is the law of the spiritual. That brought into materiality is first conceived in spirit. Hence as we have indicated, all illness is sin; not necessarily of the moment, as man counts time, but as a part of the whole experience. For God has not purposed or willed that any soul should perish, but purgeth everyone by illness, by prosperity, by hardships, by those things needed, in order to meet self—but in Him, by faith and works, are ye made every whit whole. 3395-2

Do not confuse self, do not overstep self, but as hath been said, “When ye call I will hear—and answer speedily.”

This applies to thee—yea, to each soul, to be sure; but make it thine own cry, with the willingness in self to be led, to be guided, to be directed, by that as He hath given, “Ask in my name and ye—believing—shall have.”

Can there be a greater promise? Oft ye, as so many, feel—or act—as if this meant someone else.

Is not thy soul as precious in His sight as though ye had taken a city, yea as though ye had directed a nation?

. . . In such meditation, then—in such may the self awaken to that strength of purpose, that determination to carry on! Though the world forsake thee, if thy Lord is upon thy side, ye stand even as Eleazar before the hosts of the Lord. [Num. 3:32] 165-26

In Mars with Uranus, beware that the temper does not overcome the better self; or beware of the associations that would make for the arising in the experience of those things when doubts respecting others bring an activity when wrath or madness, or tendencies in these directions, might bring destructive forces not only in this present experience but that which may make for development or retardment in the soul’s sojourn also.

For, this is as the warning: Keep thine own judgments, yes. He that hath no temper is of little value, but he that controls not his temper is worse than though he had none at all! 524-1

We find from Mars that the entity has a very good temper; this isn’t bad temper, but a good temper! One without a temper is in very bad shape, but one who can’t control his temper is in still worse shape! 1857-2

Grit, or “get-up”—termed by many. This an element that may be both constructive and destructive in the make-up of an individual. Woe to him who may be ruled by wrath. Woe to him who is also of such a nature as to allow the temper, or the elements that make for impulses, to be so overshadowed by that as is momentarily necessary for the activities of a life and not grounded in Truth, that arises from spiritual concepts. 412-5

From the influences in Mars, as well as Jupiter, we find indicated rather anger or madness or wrath on the part of others more than of self. For while the entity has not gotten to where it is not able to be angry, we find that it has attained to that position where it may be angry and yet sin not.

But leave off rather those inclinations to hold grudges. Let such experiences be rather as not having been. See the light! For know, as ye may learn from the study of the motivative forces of mind, matter and spirit, if one but sets the face toward the light the shadows fall far behind. 1695-1

Then indeed there is no power that emanates that is not from God.

Then what is this Spirit of Rebellion, what is this Spirit of Hate? What is this Spirit of Self-Indulgence? What is this Spirit that makes men afraid?

Selfishness! Allowed, yes, of the Father. For, as given, He has not willed that the souls should perish but that we each should know the truth—and the truth would make us free. Of what? Selfishness!

Then we should each know that the sin which lies at our door is ever the sin of selfishness, self-glory, self-honor.

Hence as the Master has said, unless we become even as He, we may not in any wise enter in. 262-114

Think not that there is any shortcut to peace or harmony, save in correct living. Ye cannot go against thine own conscience and be at peace with thyself, thy home, thy neighbor, thy God! For as ye do it unto the least of thy brethren, ye do it unto thy Maker. 1901-1

Much may be lost through aggrandizement of selfish motives. Little of self is held in esteem above others, would there be humble and the contrite heart before the creative forces that give—give—to others that the understanding of relations between men as men, or man’s relation to the creative forces—for in selfishness is the greatest plague, the greatest hindrance, the greatest barrier towards man’s own development. 165-2

Be not overcome with those things that make for discouragements, for He will supply the strength. Lean upon the arm of the Divine within thee, giving not place to thoughts of vengeance or discouragements. Give not vent to those things that create prejudice. And, most of all, be unselfish! For selfishness is sin, before first thine self, then thine neighbor and thy God.

Love ye one another. Give as ye have received. 254-87

For, to the entity, it would require patience in these directions, and—as the teacher of old has given—”In patience possess ye your souls.” This does not mean in bearing with individuals that willfully disobey, but rather being strong and steadfast and humble in the sight of higher forces, yet active in that known to be not only duty in the spiritual sense but duty in the mental and material sense. For, duty and patience are akin; for he that grows weary in well-doing, or who falters and faints and gives up, is not worthy of those things that may be his lot. 517-1

. . . where the treasure is the heart is also. Unless that as is determined in self is wholly in keeping with those precepts, those principles that may make for a continuity of life, hope itself, little may be expected. For, as given, this—here—in this place—now—may become as a shining light to many, or may become the laughingstock of many. 254-54

(Q) Please explain what was meant by seeking universal source as contact for helping self and others.

(A) Seeking the Spirit, or the continuity of life within self, which is the gift of the Creative Force in the experience of every entity! 267-1

Thus the using or applying of that as may be given will bring the better understanding, the better comprehension of the continuity of life and the application of the abilities in bringing into the experience of others that which will make for hopefulness in their experience.

For as each entity gains the understanding, more and more is there the realization that the purposes for which each soul enters any given experience are to apply the opportunities that are a part of the experience in bringing into the consciousness of others the fact of the continuity of life, and to bring hope and cheer. 622-4

For what is bad? Good gone wrong, or something else? It is good misapplied, misconstrued, or used in a selfish manner—for the satisfying of a desire within self. 1089-5

(Q) How can she conduct herself so as to gain the goodwill and respect of her family and friends; and rid herself of her temper?

(A) As indicated, there must be builded the purposefulness in knowing self as one with constructive influences—that build for peace, harmony and happiness.

(Q) How should she be treated by her family?

(A) In that manner which may be called as loving indifference to the temperamental outbursts; not condemnation, but in that of quiet, peaceful contemplation with the body as to the manner in which the personality may be made for constructive influences or forces in the experience. 352-1

Learn ye patience, if ye would have an understanding, if ye would gain harmony and grace in this experience! “For in patience do ye possess your souls.” It’s when individuals have become impatient, and desire their own will or desire their expression or desire that they as individuals be heard, that they become less and less in that close association with the Divine—and more of that as is human and of the animal becomes manifest. This is a power, to be sure, but fraught with egotism becomes a destructive power.

And bad is only good gone wrong, or going away from God. 1201-2

Then only in loving indifference may the conditions be met.

What, ye say, is loving indifference?

Acting as if it had not been, save disregarding as if they were not. Not animosity; for this only breeds strife. Not anger; for this only will produce mentally and physically the disturbances that become as physical reactions that prevent meeting every phase of the experience; whether in the good, the hope, the help ye mete to others, or in keeping self—as has been given for self—unspotted from the cares of the world. 1402-2

With this entity then, as we find, the astrological influences make the entity naturally as one headstrong, as one naturally tended towards having its own way. Hence it depends upon the manners of usage of these tendencies as to whether they may become as forbearing or forgiving or for that oneness with Creative Forces, or for self-indulgences. Yet the entity is a natural leader, with the natural inclinations for directions that may be as an impelling influence, if not by might by power, if not by right by the main forces in associations itself.

Hence all the more reason that such an entity keep the ideal before self, not only of its material relationships, not only in the material positions, but more so in that the spiritual ideal is not lost sight of in all of the activity, in all of its relationships. 1211-1

In knowledge and power comes responsibility, that in patience may be tested in self. Be not overcome by either trials or by those joys that may make forgetfulness of the source from which the power comes. In patience is the race of life run, that the joys may be the greater in Him. 262-26

And if there will be first, in the present, the purposing and living in such a manner before God as to walk circumspectly in thine own conscience before Him, and in dealing as through that experience with thy fellow man, ye may find—as this world’s goods increase in thy hands (as thy must necessarily do)—they will not and do not become burdens to thy conscience nor separate thee from thy home or thy fellow man. But rather is the opportunity to serve thy Maker.

Ye have earned that right for much of this world’s goods. Do not abuse that; else ye become—in thine own conscience—an outcast in this experience. 1901-1

So as ye come to thine weakness, find thine strength and thine power and thine love in Him; and life’s pathways will grow brighter, though the road may be rough, though there may be words that are harsh. Yet as thou lookest upon that tower of strength in thine seal as of the pyramid, as thou reliest upon the cross of Him who bore it for thee, the rose of love, light and radiance will bear thee up, and thou wilt not dash thy foot against a stone. 845-1

From those things given as to the experiences and application of self, it may be seen that knowledge alone does not make one wise. With the abilities to use that thou hast in hand may there come understanding. 540-1

It is well to gain that full concept that all there is in materiality is of the spirit; is of the spirit of truth, if it is constructive. They that live by the spirit, through the mental attributes of same, shall prosper in the Lord. They that live by might or main, though their days may be glamorous, find that contentment shall flee away; and those things that make for disorder, disturbance, distrust, must arise in the experience, for these are not the fruits of the spirit. For these are they: Just being kind, just being in that manner in which the fellow man is served day by day; and that the outcome of same is fellowship, patience, kindness, gentleness, brotherly love—these manifested in the experience; not by jerks and spurts but as a living example day by day, not to be seen of men alone but rather that which is done in secret shall be proclaimed from the housetops. 391-8

(Q) Will this firm be successful and prosper?

(A) As has been indicated, as we find so long as there is the holding to the ideals of each, it will be successful. 877-17

In seeking to know that opportunity that is given each in the present, it is one thing to live that there may be presented to another that which will open another’s opportunity; and it is for self to recognize and use the opportunity in self’s own development.

But know, as each has been called, that there will come the greater opportunity in self’s development, self’s understanding, in preparing that which is for the enlightenment of thine neighbor. 262-50

In that which has been thus far presented, each individual in its own way is finding the consciousness of opportunity. And the lessons that may be presented from such individuals may be made worthwhile in the experience of those who seek to understand opportunity from the view that has been presented, in that opportunity itself—of the spiritual activity in the experience of individuals—comes to materialization in what the individual does respecting that the individual holds as the spiritual activity of such an experience as related to its ideal. 262-51

Now we find these are improving, and only needs keep on keeping on, until we will bring the desired results, for this will prove a successful operation. Then, give as this: Conditions on improve. Best push forward, and do not be discouraged. Success is coming. 4905-14

(Q) Please give me any other advice I may need at present.

(A) Do not allow disturbing conditions to so fret the body-physical as to undermine or to sap the vitality. Know, as has oft been given, in thine own strength alone little may be accomplished, but in the strength of the power and the might of thine Savior, in and through His promises, much may be done. 303-13

And do find patience with self. It has been said, “Have we not piped all the day long and no one has answered?” Seekest thou, as was given from this illustration, for the gratifying of thy self? or seekest thou to be a channel of blessing to thy fellow man? They may not have answered as thou hast seen. They may have even shown contempt, as sneering, for thy patience and thy trouble. But somewhere the sun still shines; somewhere the day is done; for those that have grown weary, for those that have given up. The Lord abhorreth the quitter. And those temptations that come in such cases are the viewing of thine own self. Ye have hurt thyself and ye have again crucified thy Lord, when ye become impatient or speak harshly because someone has jeered or because someone has sneered or because someone has laughed at thy efforts!

Leave the results, leave the giving of the crown, leave the glory, with the Lord! He will repay! Thou sayest in thine own heart that thou believest. Then merely, simply, act that way! In speech, in thought, in deed. 518-2

(Q) Is there anything I can do to bring about a more friendly relationship between my parents and myself and family?

(A) This condition enters into many varying relationships. The causes which are to some unreasonable; to others of a very definite nature. That which is to the body, individual, an irritation, may be overcome. That as is held as animosity in the eyes of others must be overcome within themselves. Satisfy self that the proper attitude is being taken by self as regarding the relationships, considering that others have the right of their opinion as well as self, and an amiable condition may be arrived at, one more satisfactory than existent at present. Yet, as to what the actions of others are may not be governed by the individual, other than self’s own action as respecting same. 2744-2

As has been given of old, “Take that thou hast in hand.” Use same day by day. And as that ye use, as that ye know is applied in those directions, those principles as indicated, in the home, in the daily labors, in the daily associations, social, material and otherwise, then that as is necessary for the next step is given. 633-5

. . . for, as in individual life, more and more must there be the necessity of business and business relations on every hand to have an ideal. The sooner the necessity is recognized in the minds, the hearts, the souls of individuals that carry on in the commercial or business world, the sooner will there come that regeneration which will make for the drawing together of those who may make the day of the Lord at hand; for in Him we live and move and have our being. Business must have an ideal, a soul. 257-88

For each cell is as a representative of a universe in itself. Then what would ye do with thy abilities? As ye give to others, not hating them, to know more of the Universal Forces, so may ye have the more, for, God is love.

Do that, and ye will bring bettered conditions for yourself. Work where you are. As was given to those who were called, “The ground upon which ye stand is holy.” Begin where you are. 4021-1

(Q) How can I use my energy to get the most out of life?

(A) In understanding or listening to those voices that speak from within and about self. Not material; but those unseen sources are opening to the abilities. Apply; do not abuse. Rather harken to that still small voice; for know that while the storms may—in all their picturesque beauty—bring fears or joy in the hearts of many, and that the ravages of war and the boldness as created by the spirit of patriotic influences are aroused, these are outward signs—and that which builds is the still small voice from within. Seek not “Who shall ascend into the heavens to bring him down, or go to the ends of the earth that ye may know!” Rather that that is within thine own self only needs the line upon line, the line upon line, to bring the understanding that He lives—and all is well! 2741-1

This, then, is as a lesson to the entity, that in the taking on of that experience that the entity sees, knows, understands, grasps a portion of, in the various phases of its earthly or physical or material existence, the lessons are then as stepping-stones, and wade in, rather than dive in head first. For little by little, line upon line, line upon line, must one gain the full concept of the conditions in which one lives, moves, and has its being. Not that life and its phases are a mystery, or something to be afraid of, but rather that the glory of the knowing of the existence and its meaning is the worthwhile condition in the material and the spiritual spheres and planes. 137-84

(Q) How can I overcome antagonistic forces in self and others?

(A) By actual manifesting forgiveness, more and more. As has been given, “Is it easier, Son, thy sins be forgiven, or to say Arise, take up thy bed and walk? but that ye may know that the Son hath power to forgive” [Matt. 9:5-6]—meaning to forget the weakness and give strength to those that falter. Even so, in overcoming antagonistic feelings, forgive as ye would be forgiven, remembering then no more. This overcomes antagonism and antagonistic influences; for as self was, is, an influence in dispersing feelings in hearts and souls of peoples, the thoughts held create the currents upon which the wings of experience must pass, and then—as these are made in positive contacts—so does antagonism be overcome, love made manifest, glorying in thine own ability in Him; not in self, in Him! 538-30

As ye would have mercy shown thee, ye show mercy to those that even despitefully use thee. If ye would be forgiven for that which is contrary to thy own purposes—yet through the vicissitudes of the experiences about thee, anger and wrath give place to better judgment—ye, too, will forgive those that have despitefully used thee; ye will hold no malice. For ye would that thy Ideal, that Way ye seek, hold no malice—yea, no judgment—against thee…

Hence as ye give, ye receive. For this is mercy, this is grace. This is the beauty of the inner life lived. 987-4

In showing forth that which is manifest in thine experience, let the love that was manifested in forgiveness be in thee, that there be no envy, no strife, no knowledge of other than good works through the activities of self. For, in glorying in the knowledge of the Father comes more and more the manifestations of the Spirit of the Christ. “Inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, my little ones, ye do it unto me.” 262-47

Then what is the real problem?

Hold fast to that as ye purpose in thy heart, that there will be the opportunity for those that are through their own shortcomings losing, or have lost, sight of their relationships.

Then put on rather the whole armor. Look within self, first. Clear that doubt of thy association, thy connection with that divine source, that with which ye may conquer all; and without which even all the fame, all the fortune of the age would not bring that ye have purposed to do into the experience of even one soul—the relationship of the soul to its Maker and the Maker’s relationship to that created!

. . . But whom the Lord would exalt, He first brings low that they may know the strength is of the Lord—and not in hosts but the still small voice that beareth witness with thy soul, thy spirit, that ye walk that straight and narrow way that leadeth to understanding. And in saving those of thy own shortcomings, ye find ye have been lifted up. 165-26

In those forces from the activities or sojourns in the extreme or the Uranian influence, we find great stresses and great strains; experiences when the entity finds itself very enthusiastic, and others when everything seems or appears to be at a very low ebb.

These extremes are to be watched. Rather than using them as stumbling stones, make of the stepping-stones.

For the hope and faith and patience and long-suffering, gentleness and kindness as may be manifested to others, will bring into the experience peace and contentment that may not be found in the great emotions without the serious considerations of all phases of an experience; or even in the great stresses when the entity would tend to make great sacrifices of one nature or another, whether in things pertaining to the ideals or just the outlook as to what people will say. 1530-1

Then, there is the will of the creative forces and the purposes for which each soul or entity enters an experience. For He hath not willed that any soul should perish, but has with every temptation prepared a way, a means not only of escape but of turning that which may appear to be a physical conflict into greater channels for manifestation of the glorifying of the name of the Father, the Son—through the application of self in its relationships to its opportunities and conditions that present themselves in the experience of an entity. 1947-1

Then, when these are weighed, choose thou. For, as has ever been, there is no influence that may supersede the will of man; for such are the gifts unto the sons of men that they may make their souls such as to be the companionship with the All-Wise, All-Creative Forces, or separate from them. For, there is no impelling force other than that, “If ye will be my people, I will be your God.” 440-16

For the will of each entity, of each soul, is that which individualizes it, that makes it aware of itself; and as to how this is used makes thee indeed a child of God.

He hath not willed that ye should perish, that ye should want, that ye would not know Him. What have ye willed? What is thy way? What is thy desire?

It becomes then so simple that the simplicity becomes the complexness of the daily life. 853-9

As to what an entity does concerning its environs or hereditary influence from the material viewpoint, this is governed by the action of the will (that active principle making for the individuality of an entity, from those atomic forces that may manifest in a material plane or in any sphere of material or matter existence). Thus is man endowed with the individual soul.

Hence the will is an attribute of the soul, and the whole development of an entity. 274-1

Hence one of those influences which should ever be first and foremost is consistency, as well as persistency.

And know that the ideals must ever be of a constructive, creative nature, if there is to be harmony, peace, or even a semblance of material success. 2160-1

(Q) What general advice may be offered to me for my personal guidance in making myself successful both in the eyes of God and man?

(A) Keep those policies that have builded self to know self to be honest with self. And when you are honest with self you will not be false to the God or to the fellow man.

Meet every condition fairly, squarely. Every act must be met by self, in its dealings with its fellow man. 335-4

The answers, then, are within thyself. For thy body is indeed the temple of the living God. There He has promised to meet thee, in the holy of holies—thy purpose, thy will.

Will ye make it then to be at-one with His purpose? Let thy prayer ever be:

“Lord, have Thine own way with me! Use me in the way and manner Thou seest, O God, that I may be the greater channel of blessings to others, to glorify Thee—here and now!”

That is the attitude, my friend, that will bring thee closer and yet closer to the knowledge, the understanding and—yea—with same the wisdom to apply that thou knowest.

He asketh not that ye apply that ye know not of, but desires that every soul “Seek and ye shall find, knock and it will be opened unto thee.”

These are not merely sayings, beautiful to hear yet impractical in daily life! Have ye not observed and found that these are in keeping with the law? 2524-3

(Q) How can I rise above my last period of depression and feel that I am going forward again?

(A) Set thine thoughts and thine mind on things that pertain to His love, His will, and those things that would hinder become as the shadows in the background, and look not upon that in the rear . . .

(Q) Were evil forces warring within me, or was it my reasoning mind that caused this depression?

(A) As has been given from the beginning, “There is set before thee good and evil. Choose thou.” In the choosing, in the setting of thine will in that direction or the other direction allows those influences to become magnified or lessened by that in the promises. 288-30

What, then, ye may ask, is the will of the Father here, now, under the varying circumstances that ye confront in the present? with thy problems that are thine heritage through the use thou hast made, and are making in thy dealings with thy fellow man day by day.

To do good, to eschew evil, to love mercy and judgment, saith the prophet, is the whole duty of man—as related to his activities in the earth. 2524-3

Love mercy and justice, eschew evil; and keep thy heart singing all the while. For the joy of the service in the love of the Lord maketh the heart glad. Look not upon those things that make for disturbing influences, as of an evil force. For God so loved the world as to give His Son, that we through Him might know eternal life! 262-116

As ye then forgive those who trespass, who speak evil, who are ungentle, who are unkind, so may the Father forgive thee when thou art wayward, when thou art headstrong and seek His face . . .

Then, if thou wouldst know what may be the understanding heart, just be kind, just be patient, just be lovely, just be friendly to thy fellow man. Forgive those that speak lightly or unkindly, or who even in premeditated manner do thee evil. For if ye forgive not these, how can thy heavenly Father forgive thee? 792-1

(Q) [689]: How is the best way to cooperate with other organizations who are in sympathy with or who have an understanding of this work?

(A) As has so oft been given. Let those that are sincere, that are honest with themselves, seek not the differences in the organizations but where they may cooperate. And as they do, you will find—as with these that are gathered here, they are of many faiths, many creeds, yet they find one common purpose—good to thy fellow man! So, as those that have found in this vision, in this interpretation, or in that promotion or in that experience of this or that nature, seek rather the common interest where there is cooperation, rather than the differences. And then if any group, if any organization, if any association has not this, it has not the full soul. 254-95

For if ye would in thy daily or material life be a musician, may ye think of thy music once a week or a month or a year? or art thou making it a portion of thy life?

If ye would be an athlete, would ye disregard thy hours, thy body, thy meals? or would ye work at that which ye would make as a portion of thy real inner self?

Are thy relationships, thy friendships, such that ye need only to mention or to speak of or to act at or like there is never any communication with same? or are they renewed, with the memory of those periods when thou wert enjoined one with another, in a common purpose, in a oneness of desire? 281-26

There may be different channels of approach, yes. For not all peoples walked in the field when the wheat was ripe. Neither did all stand at the tomb when Lazarus was called forth. Neither were they all present when He walked on the water, nor when He fed the five thousand, nor when He hung on the cross. Yet each experience answered, and does answer to something within each individual soul-entity. For each soul is a corpuscle in the body of God. And when differences arise in a body, where corpuscles are at variance to a common purpose for all, sin enters, and death by sin, to whatever may be that group, that organization, that is stressing differences rather than the coordinating channels through which all may come to the knowledge of God. 3395-2

In the uses then to which this entity may use these forces and understanding, be not fainthearted whether from physical or financial disability. Ever pressing onward, upward, relying wholly on Him who has made the way, the path, to the everlasting, and through the will, bring to submission all those conditions that would, through selfishness or desire, destroy the better elements within self, looking to that city without foundation whose builder and maker is God. 3791-1

Then, let the entity gain that as the first the knowledge of self, and of Him who gives all good and perfect gifts, then the ever-correcting force of His purpose, as is in Him, be directed in that channel, leading then ever upward, onward, to that bright and holy land. 487-4

As there is put into activity that gained, and as self looks onward, upward, there comes the clarifying of the way in the consciousness of self. There is the growth in self. Be not weary in well-doing. 262-30

Thus may the entity, if it will but look within the heart of self, know that the study of self, the study of self’s purposes, and analyzing same in the light of the Master Jesus, may enable one to find the beauty of love, the joy of love, the joy of living in the past and in the present. But look ever upward, onward, to that new day in which all will come before the throne of grace and mercy. 3954-1

(Q) In regard to the entity’s life reading [295-1], just what is it that is innate in the entity that would lead to unhappiness in marriage?

(A) Mistrust of men!

(Q) Does this mean the entity should never consider marriage in this life, but go through life never expecting to have a home of her own, for which she has yearned since a child?

(A) Be well to choose, or to take that one—if she so desires—and bear the consequences! Make her a bigger and a better woman! but those conditions as we have outlined are as we have seen them!

(Q) How can the entity best overcome the loneliness that so often besets her?

(A) Fill the life with the interests of others, and not so much of self—or belittle self, or condemn self for the conditions. Fill the life in the interests of others. 295-2

But leave out of thy thought those things which have too often become as barriers in thy gaining thy proper understandings. Do not complain as to the “bad luck” that has come, or that appears to be. Do not blame others, or any influence. Rather meet such in Him. 1816-1

(Q) Any message for the group as a whole?

(A) Be ye joyous in thy service to thy fellow man, in the name of Him who is able to keep thy ways. Count thy hardships, thy troubles, even thy disappointments, rather as stepping-stones to know His way better. Be ye joyous; be ye happy in His love. For He hath loved us, even when afar. How much more when we try, though we may stumble and fail! For the trial, the test, the determination creates that which will rise as faithful, true, and as righteousness before the throne of grace. For thou art under a dispensation of mercy. Be ye merciful. Be ye unhurt by hard words. 262-83

Then, turn to thine own opportunity within to know Him while it is yet day in thine own material consciousness. Sow the seeds of truth, of brotherly love, of kindness, of gentleness, of patience. And know, that alone ye possess is that which ye have given away! That which ye command or demand is never a defense, but rather a judgment ye have set upon thine own self.

Then, let thy well [wellspring? Pr. 16:22; 18:4] be renewed within thee, that ye may show forth in the days of thy awareness as to thy relationship to thy brother, that ye take thought of him in that as ye would have men do to you, ye do even so to them. 1759-1

There have been periods when the entity, through various forms or manners of seeking, has touched—yea, for the moment opened—the wellspring of understanding. And then through infinite mysteries these have at times been shattered by the mysteries of the experiences in associations with others.

The desire, the hope in the present is to use self, self’s abilities, for the awakening of hope, the arousing of faith to activity. And this is bringing that peace, that hope within the experience of self that is making this experience to become as it were the greater of all the experiences of the entity through the sojourns in the earth. 1613-1

For all power has been given unto Him who hath overcome the world, overcome even death; and is at the right hand of glory; that we, too, may know the way, the light; that we may drink deep of the waters of life . . . 540-3

(Q) How can she broaden her social life?

(A) In the same way and manner. Be a source of knowledge to all, and this attracts those not only whom the entity may help but who may aid the entity—in all fields of activity that have to do with mental, material and spiritual development.

(Q) What will bring back the entity’s zest and love of life?

(A) Engaging in, and aiding others in, same. 189-3

(Q) Give the body any advice and counsel that will help him at this time.

(A) Has the body determined in self that it has chosen wisely and well in its activities day by day? In its choice of association in every direction, are they in keeping with the ideal the body has sought, does seek, and in taking such stock of self the body will find some changes, some conditions that amendments or change will be gradually brought about. Think not to destroy anything by the merely quitting or changing of same, until a whole consciousness is gained of the purpose of it all. Do not fight blindly or in the dark, for the whole of the physical and mental training of the body has been—and is—of a purpose, or a reason for accomplishing or going about any activity. Then, are those activities—are those purposes—in accord with the ideal as is builded, as is sought, as may be found by the self? Then work like thunder! 99-7

It is also understood, comprehended by some, that a new order of conditions is to arise; that there must be many a purging in high places as well as low; that there must be the greater consideration of each individual, each soul being his brother’s keeper.

There will then come about those circumstances in the political, the economic and the whole relationships where there will be a leveling—or a greater comprehension of this need.

For as the time or the period draws near for these changes that come with the new order, it behooves all of those who have an ideal—as individuals, as well as groups or societies or organizations, to be practicing, applying same in their experience—and their relationships as one to another.

For unless these are up and doing, then there must indeed be a new order in their relationships and their activities.

For His ways will carry through. For as He gave, “Though the heavens and the earth may pass away, my word will not pass away.”

All too often has this message been forgotten in the pulpits and in the organizations, not only in the national relationships but in the international relationships. 3976-18

Who hath said what manner of vessel this shall be? The Lord is the potter, we are the clay! Would we, then, say what manner of man we should be? Rather being a vessel of the Lord, and used by Him as a vessel for service in whatsoever field He has chosen we should go! Kick not against thine lot, nor against those things that beset thee in thine disappointments in men, or their relationships as one to another. Knowest thou not they, too, are vessels of Him that rules over all? 539-1

Hence hold fast to that thou hast gained. For as given, thy prayers are heard. Thou art a chosen vessel, thou knowest the way. As to attempt to guide or as to how, hold fast to that which is good. Hold fast to that faith, that blessing He hath given. Even as thou hast seen thy Lord, may His blessings ever be as these:

“They that love me, they that keep my commandments—they are not grievous to bear, for they bring rest not to body but to thy soul.” 1301-1

. . . for the light is set in Him, and thou art chosen as a vessel for that light. Be not broken on the wheel of strife, nor yet be thou overanxious—for these are but the wayside of those who would be led astray. Keep the counsel of Him who gave that, “Come unto me and I will make thy burden light, for my yoke is easy—but learn of me.” 254-35

(Q) Are we using the correct methods of breathing and intonation in our group meditations?

(A) As has been given in Meditation, to some, this then is the correct manner: As has been given so oft of old, purge ye your bodies, washing them with water, putting away those things of the mind and of the body; for tomorrow the Lord would speak with thee.

Hence in this group make thy mind, thy body, as a fit subject for a visit of thy Lord, thy God. 281-28

For many may labor well under prosperous reactions and others well under adverse—but indeed greater is he who may take all, not merely as a part of the experience but using each for the abilities and opportunities for the greater manifestation of the sincerity of its purpose and its ideal. 1731-1

(Q) [993]: In passing through the test that has come with the sign that was promised, has my faith been sufficient? Would appreciate more light regarding same, and how I should act.

(A) As has been promised, “My grace is sufficient,” and “Take no thought of what ye shall say in the hour of trial or test, for it will be given thee that as is necessary for the renewing of that spirit that makes for the understanding of ‘His Spirit beareth witness with thy spirit.’ ” Then, meet each step as is shown thee, remembering that He has promised, “I am with thee always, even unto the end of the world. I will not leave thee comfortless, but will come to thee, and he that takes my cross shall not bear it alone.” 262-15

(Q) How can I keep from worrying so much about my wife’s health?

(A) Why worry, when ye may pray? Know that the power of thyself is very limited. The power of Creative Force is unlimited.

(Q) What qualities must I develop to grow more rapidly spiritually?

(A) Patience! 2981-1

Remember, there has been given, “Fear rather him who may destroy body ane who may destroy the body alone.”

In an hour of trial, when there are influences abroad that would change or mar, or take away that freedom which is the gift of the Creative Forces to man; that man might by his own innate desire be at-one with God, the Father, as was manifested in Jesus, the Christ; there should be the willingness to pattern the life, the emergencies, the exigencies as may arise, much in the way and manner as the Master indicated to each and every soul.

According to the pattern of the life, as He gave, one should ever be able to give the evidence of the hope and faith that lies within the individual. 602-7

And those influences in the emotions, unless they be governed by an ideal, often may become as a stumbling stone.

But use rather thy choices, thy endeavors, thy experiences, in a way and manner that they may become stepping-stones for a greater comprehension, a greater awakening of that consciousness of the Creative Forces of good, of hope, of faith, of brotherly love, of kindness, of gentleness; yea, of patience. 1599-1

(Q) Explain, “If thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.” [Matt. 6:22, 23]

(A) It explains itself. The I AM, the I Self, the I Consciousness, the eye as in those things James has given; the eye that hath looked on, the eye that hath observed, the eye that hath desired in the heart. That eye.

If thine eye be single thine whole body is then full of light. Just as indicated in that given, as the Master gave to him that became the teacher to many peoples, how hard it is to kick against the pricks. Or in other words, how hard it is to make thine eye single, or thyself to say, “Lord, have thy way with me.” 262-85

In the relations then with individuals, let those forces emanate that the self may ever be conscious of the life well spent in keeping the spiritual aspects of life first and foremost. Not that anyone should give self to being sober, long-faced or not knowing any of the pleasures of the earthly spirit, yet use, rather than abuse, those relations. 212-1

(Q) How can body avoid constant restlessness and sense of frustration and uselessness? Why doesn’t her home life and her charities satisfy her?

(A) These will, when they are made one with the mental, physical and spiritual well-being; for these have been kept separated—and one as not knowing what the other did, but in the coordinating of the physical and mental and spiritual well-being, of that as may be accomplished in the home, in the charity, or in the associations socially, these should be ever with the eye single of that, “whatsoever my hands find to do, that will I do, with an eye single of showing, manifesting, living, being, my concept of the Divine.” 454-1

While storms and trials are necessary in every soul, as we see manifested in nature, only in contentment does growth make manifest. Not contentment to that point of satisfaction, for a satisfied mind or soul ceases to seek. But only in contentment may it receive and give out. In giving does a soul grow, even as a tree, even as a rock, even as a sunset, even as a world grows in its influence upon that about it. So has that force grown that we find manifested in the earth that we worship as constructive influence of God, as to the All-Wise purpose, or as to the Holy Spirit, or as to those influences that make alive in giving, in making itself manifest. So are ye gods in the making, saith He that walked among men as the greater teacher of all experiences and ages. 699-1

There is no standing still. Either one progresses or retards, and one that does not use every means for development and for gaining the better understanding of how to use that in hand is retarding. One that applies self in the manner of the pattern as is set in material only finds same magnified in the spiritual consciousness, see? 900-309

(Q) Has any progress been made in the last two or three incarnations?

(A) There is progress whether ye are going forward or backward! The thing is to move! 3027-2

And unless each soul entity (and this entity especially) makes the world better, that corner or place of the world a little better, a little bit more hopeful, a little bit more patient, showing a little more of brotherly love, a little more of kindness, a little more of long-suffering—by the very words and deeds of the entity, the life is a failure; especially so far as growth is concerned. Though you gain the whole world, how little ye must think of thyself if ye lose the purpose for which the soul entered this particular sojourn! 3420-1

(Q) Is the average fulfillment of the soul’s expectation more or less than fifty percent?

(A) It’s a continuous advancement, so it is more than fifty percent. 5749-14

(Q) Considering my prejudice and feeling of unfairness concerning conscription, please advise me how to conduct myself so as to develop rather than retard through the experience.

(A) This has been indicated in the first premise. Consider Him—who is thy guide, thy way. Did He hold prejudice because of those in authority, or because there were those experiences that were displeasing among His own peoples, or among the followers and the officers of the house of the Lord?

He only filled that place—as ye may do. Use those ideals, those principles in thy daily activity. 1107-2

If there is still held that of self-pity, or the continued making for condemnation of self, such influences work as definitely upon the physical organisms as related to the sensory reactions as slow poison to the system. 1073-5

(Q) How can I overcome the feeling that I am most misunderstood?

(A) Be honest with self as you would have others be honest with thee. In that manner ye may overcome all those things that bring doubt or fear. 2509-2

. . . when there is that activity in which the apparent action of the self as in relationships to others is unappreciated for its phase of good or phase of material gain, there comes a hurt, there comes a disappointment . . .

And these become then periods in which the entity finds itself oft having to turn again to that which has been given; know in whom as well as in what ye have believed. 1554-2

There are barriers builded, yes. These may be taken away in Him, who has paid the price for thee; not of thyself but in faith, in love, in patience, in kindness, in gentleness may it be met.

That these have been the experience may appear to the entity as rather unfair. Is it? The law of the Lord is perfect. His grace is sufficient, if thy patience will be sufficient also. 5001-1

Then, know what thy ideal is; of the spiritual not of the temporal; not that around which there may be put metes and bounds, but rather put thy ideal in those things that bespeak of the continuity of life; the regeneration of the spiritual body, the revivifying of the temporal body for spiritual purposes, that the seed may go forth even as the Teacher gave, “Sin no more, but present thy body as a living sacrifice; holy, acceptable unto Him, for it is a reasonable service.”

These things as an ideal should be founded in thine experience, as thou hast seen again and again the vision of the mountaintop yet these visions have faded because thou hast not founded thy ideal in the Creative Forces that are set in Him who gave, “As ye do it unto the least, ye do it unto me.” 969-1

In the attitudes keep creative in thought, knowing that in Him is life and life more abundant to those who seek to do His bidding.

What is the first commandment with a promise? Said another way, it is life abundant. What is life? It is opportunity to serve the living God! 3524-1

To base the activities on the spiritual outlook does not mean that one should become sordid, self-centered or puritanic in any sense. Let each question be answered by determining what thy ideal should be respecting same.

The Christian principle is a joyous, abundant, happy, hopeful life in all phases of its experience, of its expression. And it only meets sorrow, disappointment and such with that assurance of peace and hope and life abundant. 270-48

…on the mountaintop, the entity gains the full height, or the full concept, of the manner and way in which the entity may and must act, would the entity gain the full understanding and the returns from same. 900-305

When opportunities are presented, it is the entity’s own will force that must be exercised—that which has separated it or has made it equal to the creative influences in the higher spiritual forces to make for itself that advancement. Then in every contact is there the opportunity for an entity, a soul, to fulfill or meet in itself or its soul self’s association with the Creative Forces from the First Cause, to embrace that necessary for the entity to enter into the at-oneness with that Creative Force. Hence as for the entity’s fulfilling, it is ever on the road. 903-23

. . . each cycle brings a soul-entity to another crossroad, or another urge from one or several of its activities in the material plane. But these are chosen with the purpose to indicate to the entity how and why those urges are a part of the entity’s experience as a unit, or as a whole. For, one enters a material sojourn not by chance, but there is brought into being the continuity of pattern or purpose, and each soul is attracted to those influences that may be visioned from above. Thus there the turns in the river of life may be viewed.

To be sure, there are floods in the life; there are dark days and there are days of sunshine. But the soul-entity stayed in a purpose that is creative, even as this entity, may find the haven of peace as is declared in Him. 3128-1

The image of Him is within thine own self, if ye will but open thy heart, thy mind, thy conscience to the indwelling of that force, of that promise which is thine own—if ye will but embrace same.

In those abilities of thy mental and material self, then, pattern same after His manner of expressing same before His fellow man. For ye are indeed the fellow traveler with Him. 1796-1

For each entity in the earth is what it is because of what it has been! And each moment is dependent upon another moment. So a sojourn in the earth, as indicated, is as a lesson in the school of life and experience. Just as it may be illustrated in that each entity, each soul-entity, is as a corpuscle in the body of God—if such an entity has applied itself in such a manner as to be a helpful force and not a rebellious force. 2823-3

We are conscious of the action of psychic and spiritual forces in the same manner we are conscious of the action of electrical forces in any manner in the physical world, or as we see, “The wind bloweth where it listeth. Thou heareth the sound thereof though know of from whence it cometh nor whence it goeth.” 900-56

Let thy voice be raised, then, as in praise to thy Maker; not in word alone but rather in the manner in which ye meet thy fellow men day by day. For the prayer, and the living of same by those sixty and four who are here gathered, may even save America from being invaded—if that is what ye desire. 3976-25

Only in Him in whom there was found no guile, and though He were buffeted by man—though He was ridiculed by those in power, though He suffered among those convicted of crime in the flesh, and railings against their fellow man—yet those tenets as were proclaimed by that as the man, making self as the son of man, and through those conditions became the Son of the living God—in these tenets, in these ways and manners, may such conditions be brought to the realization of those that would build an invisible empire within the hearts of men . . . 3976-4

(Q) Are there any entities in the invisible world who are trying or have tried to reach me with messages?

(A) Oft, as has been given, have there been glimpses of those innate forces and influences that would guide or direct, yet—as has been given—better that these be from those forces from within self, than from too much of those of the outside influence; for when the contacts may be made with the divine forces themselves, why take substitutes? 1048-1

(Q) Do I have any direct guidance from invisible helpers?

(A) As indicated, ever the guardian angel stands before the throne of God—for each individual.

Let not thy good be evil-spoken of nor thy bad be such as to cause continued questioning. Rather let the attitude be in that direction of hopefulness for the things to come. 3189-3

In the study of ideal and idealism, as it may be termed, well that the ideal be outside one’s self—rather than for the motives of same be as added, in any manner, to the pleasure, satisfaction, gratification, contentment, ease, or such. Rather in humbleness, drawing a comparison of self’s own activities as related to the ideal as is set or held, then individualities and the application of the things of life may be gained or attained. 301-3

Then, in the mental-soul balance of the entity, there are abilities in many directions that in the application of same to self may make for influences that may bring into self contentment or joy, or may at times make for those very same influences in self where the pleasure may be in those of relationships to others rather than of looking too closely within self’s own relation or activity. 491-1

Do these things; live these things, that contentment may come; not being satisfied, no—but grow in these things. For, as ye nourish and cherish these things in thy dealings with thy associates, thy fellow man, faint not because thou dost feel at times that thou art not appreciated for thine efforts among thy associates or friends; but rather let those things that would make doubts or misunderstandings give place to love. Then thou shalt find in thine experience in life that this world’s goods, whether little or much, are replaced with that in self and with that which is said concerning thee—that cannot be bought with money, fame, position, or with powers that make men afraid. 531-3

Study to show thyself approved unto God, rightly divining the words of truth, keeping self unspotted from the world. Though the world hate thee, be not of the world. Though things, conditions, appearances, may grow as to be red, dark, black—if thine heart, thine soul is founded in Him, the dawn shall come! 792-1

. . . do not look or seek for the phenomenon of the experience without the purpose, the aim. Use same as a criterion, as what to do and what not to do. Not that it, the simple experience, has made or set anything permanent! For there is the constant change evidenced before us; until the soul has been washed clean through that the soul in its body, in its temple, has experienced by the manner in which it has acted, has spoken, has thought, has desired in its relationships to its fellow man! 518-2

. . . keep the self unspotted from the world; that is, do nothing physically or in thought—that you’ll be ashamed to present to thy Maker or to the woman you love. Don’t be ashamed, and don’t ask others to do something that you would not do yourself nor to be something that you are not yourself. Then keep the self unspotted from the world. This should not be as your system or policy but it should be your religion. For all that you may know of God is within yourself. What are you doing about it? What are you doing with it? 3689-1

There has also come a teacher who was bold enough to declare himself as the son of the living God. He set no rules of appetite. He set no rules of ethics, other than “As ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them,” and to know “Inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, thy brethren, ye do it unto thy Maker.” He declared that the kingdom of heaven is within each individual entity’s consciousness, to be attained, to be aware of—through meditating upon the fact that God is the Father of every soul. 357-13

(Q) Although the upward flight of my soul has been tremendous, why has it always been blocked by limitation when opportunity has come?

(A) . . . True, each soul as it enters this material plane enters for its advancement.

What the soul-entity does about that it has gained in experience, in application, makes for whether this is to be far—or very little—or even a backward tend. For growth is hindered as by the searing of influences that are not of the nature to make quick or lasting growth. 708-1

(Q) What are my present errors in conducting my personal life and my work?

(A) As has been indicated, a little more patient, a little more tolerant, a little more humble. But, as has been indicated, not a tolerance that becomes timid – this would make rebellion in self. Not a patience that is not positive. Not an humbleness that becomes morbid or lacking in beauty. For as orderliness is a part of thy being, so let consistency – as persistency – be a part of thy being. 1402-1

It is not what one knows that counts, but what one does about that it knows! Then it is the application of these attributes to which this soul, each soul, must adhere—to prevent confusion, to bring about harmony, to bring about not gratifying at all times but contentment in the experience; that first of sincerity of purpose, that of long-suffering with others, that of patience with self, that of understanding of others’ viewpoints—and seeing thyself as others see thee in the light of that thou proclaimest to others that thou believest. 1182-1

Be kind, be gentle, be patient. For he that waiteth on the Lord in patience, in sincerity, in honesty, shall not be lacking in principle nor in opportunity—either in the material things or in the peace that brings the more perfect understanding. 1983-1

Remember, fame and fortune and power are not the rule, but sincerity, patience, kindness, long-suffering, gentleness. Against these there is no law, for it is the law—of love, of knowledge, of wisdom. 189-3

But impress upon self, and upon all, that the body is associated or affiliated with not a goody-goody attitude but being purposefully good for something!

Parade not thy ideals. Be humble. Be gentle. Be kind. Be sincere.

Be true to self, to self’s obligations, to self’s promises; that there may be within self the purpose to meet all factors—good, bad, indifferent—in such a manner that the experience may be for betterment of every nature, for every member of the family—as well as those ye meet day by day. 934-6

Then, according to how thoroughly ye live up to them, is to how much peace, how much harmony, how much development ye will find in this experience. For sincerity and consistency are real virtues; and in a woman, sincerity is indeed a jewel, for in a man, it rarely exists! 2175-8

Who, having named the name of the Christ, has become conscious of that He represented or presented in the world? As the records have been handed down that Abraham represents the faithful, Moses meekness, David the warrior yet humility, so the Christ represents love; that all may know that He hath paid the price for all. 262-56

(Q) Is our lack of material necessities due to the fact that we have not first sought the Kingdom, or lack of faith in not speaking the word?

(A) Both. For what saith the law? Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all things shall be added unto thee thou hast need of! Most of us think we need a great deal more than we do!

When there was given the bounty to man through the activities of the law of the Lord, did He prepare other than that needed for the sustenance of all? In the preparation at the feast of Galilee in Cana what supplied He? The meats and the viands of the table? No, only that lacking. When He supplied the needs to the thousands that were weak and ahungered and troubled, did He use other than that at hand? That at hand was multiplied in the blessings!

Be patient, all. For all will pass through, in material experience, the greatest bounty of all. When ye fail here or there, ye must learn thy lessons. Humility, patience, faith. 262-89

Not with that outward show which may be experienced by attempting to solve some problem that there may be the enjoying of the reward for same, but rather that there may be the experiencing of the joy, the happiness, the harmony, the love, that fruit which comes from recognizing and using the privileges that are for those who—in their simplicity of manner recognize, know, experience His presence; which abides with thee, wilt thou but recognize, understand its own closeness to thee in thine daily experiences. In this manner, then:

In putting into practice that thou knowest to do, in the little things, being led by that which has been given to each, thy contributions may be such from this as to aid others who may seek to know His presence, the joy of His presence, the harmony, the peace that comes with abiding in Him. 262-33

It is not that which causes the uprising or the tumult or the shout, nor the voice of the trumpets for the mighty, that brings accomplishment within one’s own self. These are not God’s ways. Rather in the stillness of the night, in the still small voice, in the beauty in the smile of the babe, in the beauty of the blush of the rose, do we find those activities that play upon the hearts and sentiments of men and women everywhere! These are the things that wield the greater power among the masses as well as those that rule in power and in might.

And know, as ye learned in those experiences, there is no power given to any man—nor to thyself—save by the will of the Creative Force as an opportunity that he may become more aware of the glory and the purpose of God’s ways with man! 1641-1

(Q) Please advise her spiritually and mentally for her complete happiness and accomplishment of life’s work.

(A) Keep in the ways that are known to self, and that are satisfying to the desires of the spiritual life; the aid as may be given in counsel and advice to those about the body; worrying as little as possible as to the manner in which the responses are made to such; knowing in self that the seed of thought sown in the advice, whether there is built a resentment at the time or not, will if self does not build a wall of resentment—sooner or later have its effect upon those about it. 325-44

(Q) Must the solar cycle be finished on earth, or can it be completed on another planet, or does each planet have a cycle of its own which must be finished?

(A) If it is begun on the earth it must be finished on the earth. The solar system of which the earth is a part is only a portion of the whole. For, as indicated in the number of planets about the earth, they are of one and the same—and they are relative one to another. It is the cycle of the whole system that is finished, see? 5749-14

(Q) Is there anything in particular I can do now to accomplish the reason for present incarnation?

(A) If there hadn’t been you wouldn’t be allowed to be in the earth in the present! These become self-evident facts in themselves, or should, to those who apply themselves: belief in God, belief in self, belief in the divinity of man’s relationship to God, accomplished for, by and through one, Jesus the Christ. The belief, the faith, the doing of that thy hands find to do which is in accord with, in compliance with His desires, gives reason, gives purpose, accomplishes that. For what were His words? “Father, I come to thee, I have finished the work thou gavest me to do.” Hast thou finished the work He gave thee to do; hast thou sought to know the work? Hast thou walked and talked with Him oft? It is thy privilege. Will ye? 3051-7

There are faults; there are virtues. Magnify in thy life and thy experience all the virtues, as love, hope, brotherly kindness, gentleness, patience. This ye need to guard closely as a teacher, as an instructor, and that ye need to use, particularly in that in which ye may do the best, in thy writing. While you may never set the world on fire, you may change the opinions of masses. 5214-1

Be sure there is not too much difference made in ideas and ideals, for, as has so oft been given, these must of necessity, for the accomplishment of the purport of teaching, training, and giving to a waiting world the individual truths as may be exemplified in the individuals’ lives, until that or those individuals may become one with that purport as is being set forth—an idea may be beautiful, may be wonderful, but without the background of an ideal becomes as but sounding brass, or as the gourd without water.

In these things, then, let each be mindful of that place, that niche, that purport each is to fill, and fill that with all of the power, might, strength, that lies within that body! 254-50