True Story

As most of you know by now, I love cigars and use tobacco in my tea, because, even according to science, nicotine helps me mentally since I am schizoaffective and bi-polar. But there is another positive interesting use for the "noxious weed" (NOT MJ). When I was about 5 or 6 years old, I stepped on a rusty nail which penetrated my shoe and went into my foot about 3/4 of an inch. My Mom had no idea what to do about it as it grew worse and worse. Then a woman-friend of my Mom's who chewed tobacco told her to put chewing tobacco on it. Mom, not being a user, boiled the tobacco leaves and applied them to my foot. Amazingly, the swelling stopped and my foot healed completely without so much as a scar! I don't even remember which foot it was. What does this have to do with this Forum? Probably nothing, but it's a good story, and does prove that sometimes the remedies of "old wive's tales" are the best!

Andrew
:rolleyes:

Not so weird, Andrew. Tobacco is an herb used for medicinal purposes. I have seen it listed in many herb books, magical books, and in a lot of others pertaining to religious ceremonies of various faiths. The indians (Americas) use it as well. I believe it has been used by some as other New Age groups would use sage; to dispell negative influences and clean the energy around a person.

Christian

I read somewhere that G. De Purucker (former leader of the TS Pasadena) considered tobacco a cleanser of the atmosphere. Adyar theosophists would generally use incense for this purpose (on advice of both Blavatsky and Leadbeater). There is even special 'Adyar incense' which I have personally always liked a lot.

Since I've been asked to introduce articles on my website every once in a while, this may be a good moment to link to an article of mine which extracts some of Blavatsky's tips on cleansing the aura from her ES instructions: 'keeping elementals out of the way'

I almost had a Heart attack when I read the title:

"Keeping Elementals out of the Way."

Partly, because I took your intro message in in your post here to imply that these thoughts came from Blavatsky. Usually, she is fairly good at making the distinction between Elementals, Elementaries and Nature People (a Higer form of Elemental.) She has been careful in her distinctions as Elemental covers just about everything below humans. There is a distinction in quality of consciousness, and self-awareness.

I write books on Nature People, and have channeled them hundreds of times. All types of the actual Nature People. These ARE NOT Elementaries, or general elementals, and human kind, especially Theosophists, sure seem to have a great deal of trouble with the boundaries.

I read the article, and was much relieved to find that Blavatsky did not actually say the words expressed. The Introduction in that post is OK, but the What To Do is very much not, from my personal heavily involved experience. The boundaries are blurred, and it is written to "Elementals" generically. This is truely an offense to the self-aware Nature People consciousness. I have two books out, "If You Could Only See ... A Gnome's Story," and "Seeing and Sensing Gnomes." You may want to read them if you want to understand what a self-conscious Elemental actually is. They are available at Borders, Barnes & Noble, through all New Age books stores etc, and online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Target etc. Pretty much anywhere. I think it would greatly benefit Theosophists if they start to "appreciate" other life, it is a doable thing. My books go along way to help people accomplish just that, and I also have a national lecture tour to further that end.

PS: Although the correspondence chart is basically OK, in my opinion, If you want to keep those colors, then they need to be expanded.

PS: I would question the issue about red meat and blood. To some degree there is a Leadbeater-like influence there. I could even see Adayr. I find those to be very cultural agendas, and in practice, have not found the connections stated to be true at all. This is something I have pursued for decades with other people who are psychic/mediumship/spiritually attuned. It more and more looks like some form of "preference." No one highly skilled, that I have found, finds the statement true, (I thought I should share that,) regardless that it may a politically correct thing to say.

PS: Avoid touching animals. First, think that should have been greatly elaborated upon. If it is a higher form of animal, perhaps surprisingly, the reason would be so as not to harm THEM. Although, the reverse is what is conveyed, and such may be true with lower forms. Birds, nevertheless, can go both ways.

SO, I GUESS WE GET TO ENJOY THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE DIFFERING OPINIONS. I feel it is important to accept that others can have their view, and believe and understand it from their perspective, but find it adult and refreshing when in fairness, an earnest counter perspective can be offered. Such is my post.

Regards,

Christian

Christian,

Here is a passage from Elementals, an HPB article that can be Googled.

I have underlined, as of particular interest, a phrase; what do you think of it?

I think that it is misleading, is what I think. Indeed, Gnomes etc to belong to that class called Elementals. The article is not likely speaking to every consciousness of Elemenetals however. This, as well, is inconsitent with HBP's other published works. The Elemental class is aetheric. It's occupants can indeed change shape, although, they have a default one which is what they commonly hold.

Thanks

My article is in keeping with Blavatsky's work - though because she isn't consistent in her terminology, it probably reflects that. The word elementals there refers to the lower kind, obviously. Whatever other names you may want to give them.

You can't very well expect my terminology to be in keeping with your specific terminology and opinions.

The colors are the basis for my article, IMO. The fact that eating meat is an issue, is purely Blavatsky based, though the stress on that may be an Adyar influence that is indirectly Besant/Leadbeater based.
Actually I'd say that the ignoring of the issue of meat is part of the Judge/Purucker tradition. Whereas the Adyar tradition has expanded on Blavatsky's very consistent comments on it.
See my collection of information on veganism and eating meat: http://www.katinkahesselink.net/health/vegan.html
For instance she says (quoted in the above mentioned article and from the Key to Theosophy):

Having studied all of Blavatsky's writings I find nothing inconsistent in this passage - at least in regard to the two main points: their generally dangerous nature and their following the thought (conscious or unconscious) of the man dealing with them.

Blavatsky does mention that the leaders of the elementals have a specific character and some intelligence, but the vast majority do not. And recall that she is not speaking theoretically; she was personally familiar with that kingdom for some 50 years of her life.

Conversations on Occultism, in vol. nine of her Collected Writings has some good passages on elementals. But there are many others sprinkled throughout her writings.

I find Blavatsky's familiarity and understanding to be based on elementaries, then other forms of elementals. I do not believe she has had much if any genuine experience, nor practical understanding of nature people. Her descriptions of her understanding only serve to further underscore a limited exposure.

Beyond that, I believe there was a definite interest in stearing people away from relating to the aetheric planes. I believe further, that there was a connection between it and much of the "proofs" that were given in the early days. It is clearly the easier answer, the logical and probable answer to many. I have no doubt that the earlier folks would want us to stay clear of this province. The truth is, for someone inexperienced, this would be truly sage advice. After 5 decades of personal involvement I have both witnessed and accomplished a lot.

Anyone starting out will automatically be working from the lowest of realms first. The realms of the overall elemental class comprise the upper sub-planes of our Physical, and the lower of the Astral. Theosphists claim over 6,000 species in those elemental realms, which places mankinds's sole species in a position of needing to become more aware. Some amazing things are possible, given that manifestation is a normal mode of operation everywhere, except here.

There are those who would say that the experiences of the lowest realms are meant to discourage all of those who do not have a natural ability to connect with entity, spirit and consciousness in them. For those of us who do, it becomes quite impossible over the years to not work your way through these things.

I can personnally attest to bazzar and frightning things happening when the lowest semi-conscious are involved, especially when subdued - always a mistake in the long term, by the way. I've seen the ground explode, metal poles burst into flame, all the gadgetry going haywire, etc. But my natural instinct to focus on the much Higher Mental plane quickly helped put all that past me. When one learns to discern the perceptible differences in the matter, energy and consciousness in the different Planes, and when one naturally draws the purest around them, it is virtually impossible to become cognizant of the low forms, and vice versa. But, there is that learning curve I spoke of. I think that something of this nature is behind the very limited discussion on the subject.

Further, I could not take Blavatsky's writings as a Gospel, regardless. We are meant to think for ourselves. To experience, to reason and rationalize. I doubt "parroting" was part of the intent. Beyond that, we are meant to apply the scientific method to our beliefs to prove them, this makes our philosphy what it is. Citing what someone says does not accomplish this, but rather, turns Theosophy into dogma. Experience seems to be dropping through the cracks of our system. For this, I have to give Leadbeater and Besant some credit. They did try and experience and learn for themselves, using Theosophy as a basis. As a result, they drew some different conclusions sometimes. I can certainly attest to some of these, and have reason to suspect a number of other differences in neo-Theosophy and the Philosophy of Blavatsky have merit.

Beyond the cautions that Blavatsky herself gave, encouraging us to use our brains to think, reason and experience, recall that the Mahatmas themselves have suggested flaw a number of times to Blavatskys chosen communication. They, as well as Theosophists that follow make it rather clear that some teachings are deliberately left obscure. Our virtually foundational septinary system if a very good example. Seven Planes are what it was thought mankind could understand and accept. Current thinkers realize most could not accept and understand five other unmanifested Planes, or an infinite number of them.

Your points are understood, and I can accept you having your own views. If you chose to bow to the wisdom of Blavatsky, then so be it. Such is the way of Theosophy; we can accept choices in belief when they are repeatable and proven by scientific method, survive sound reasoning, and issue forth from the applications of our minds. Further, they should reflect the unfolding process. Our truths are something 'rediscovered," we should be able to let them out of US, not have to repeat the truth of another because we respect them.

I often find it important to remind that Blavatsky brought an existing Ancient Wisdom to the westernized world. She was not the source of it. There are limites to her understanding of it. Further, Theosophical thinking existed before Blavatsky, even in Europe. It was not true in all aspects to the philosphy of Blavatsky.

I hope we can all personally apply ourselves to our beliefs, and realize there is basis to the understanding of others; none of which reflects on the quality of our individual beliefs.

No problem, Kh7, with your choices of colors. I was just suggesting an openness to the perspectives of others who have followed in Blavatsky's wake. I would suggest following the Theosophical scientific credo and prove the colors for you. They are not arbitrary, however, there are some common differences in perception. The proving is repeatable, too, you will find. It has been done for ages. Your perception of the color of lead will remain the same always for you. And others, who put the proving to practice, will get the same results. I believe this method, over the eons, is why we have a color correspondence, it is not just a myth or custom, or archaic scribble.

Have fun. Love your posts, and respect yours and everyone's rights to do so and explore their views.

Christian

Christian,

We all have our tendencies built up over lifetimes; spiritual, intellectual, aspirational etc. As is clear, I have no attraction or interest in the lower lives. My practice & experience is focused (feebly) on the buddha nature within and the arya sangha without. All for the altruistic purpose of replacing self-cherishing with selflessness, in all beings.

I just worry over folk like you who look toward the gnomes. How, (or why) in this life, did this attraction manifest?

Christian,

First, I have a question for you. You have examined the state of things on different planes and sub-planes of existence. How many planes have you observed?

Perhaps this refocus on your own words will help you understand, Nicholas. Do you have any problems with rocks? Or trees perhaps? How about the air about you, and the planets and stars. What about light? Where do you draw your line in all of these manifestations? Did we mention animals yet? Angels? Gods, Logos, Mahatmas? Where exactly does the light end and darkness begin? Are you perhaps placing your imaginary slide scale over unconsciousness -- semi-consciousness -- full consciousness. Or, is it self-awareness, say "Man" where your favor starts. Might be some good questions to take to Buddha. Seriously. How do you feel about Buddha, by the way? I don't imagine you see, hear, feel or otherwise experience him, so you are going to have to help me understand how you find your knowingness.

Don't misunderstand me, now. I think your pursuit, especially how you expressed it, to me magnificent. But, conversely, and something to consider, most things that I don't find magnificent have in some way been touched by Man. I try to allow for that.

What about thought-forms Nicholas? Now, those are interesting. They can be something really good, and supportive and loving, can't they? Especially, when they are our own. But, quite often they are not? Those that are not good, which is by far the most, are "Man" created. These thought-forms affect us a lot in our lives. Some are directed at us, for sure, but most, or the most effect at least, comes from those we ourselves create. We build them up continually over our lifetimes. They tend to support all of our greatest fears. They reinforce our minds, our thinking. They exist with this purpose, I think your many studies of Blavatsky's writings, God love her, has explained all of this. Well, Nicholas, at some point in time we learn to work on those thought-forms, the ones we ourselves create, and not so much those we keep blaming on others throughout our lives. We see that it is we ourselves who create what we are, what we feel, fear, love, etc. And, hopefully, we start working on those. We try to clean up the old and think with a renewed enlightenment. We replace the old with something new. Something more expansive. Something more appreciative, more loving. We again feed off of our own thought forms and learn to eschew old fears, and artificial influence from others. We see that when we ourselves take responsibility for raising our own consciousness, take responsibility for our "purification," that it is gosh darn hard not to see happiness, harmony, love, fulfillment and enlightenment wherever we set our attention. Some, perhaps even Buddha might agree, things were pretty much great before WE started mucking things up. Thank goodness there is Karma, so much a Human thing -- don't you think? -- to help us appreciate all the perfection in all things was there to begin with. We learn to "unfold," yes, and find that our greatness, our perfection was in us. We learn to bring 'this' out.

I think Buddha would agree, that man's fears are a manifestation of man. More so, the more physical self of man. To appreciate other things, other realms, other planes requires one to step out of this physical-ness somewhat. Very little, if anything, in existence, if I can use that inappropriate word, is naturally bad. But it may certainly seem so to the physical man's mind. In the background of things we attract what is intrinsically in us. This would seem a logical reason for raising one's consciousness. To do so is to know a better world than that which we are physically limited to, not a worse one. It cannot be any other way, as I am sure many of Blavatsky's writings would have communicated.

One's level of enlightenment, or the degree to which one raises his or her consciousness, or has achieved perfection, will always dictate what we have to face and experience; whether this realm, or the others. The laws work the same everywhere. With the right heart, there is no fear to be experienced from sitting amongst the rock, walking through the trees, experiencing the remarkable happiness of gnomes, glimpsing one's own Higher Self -- even if briefly -- in even higher planes. Or, connecting with the Buddha for that matter.

You have to let go of fear to do any of these things we speak to, Nicholas. The things to be afraid of will always directly relate to man. We naturally have the ability to see and sense gnomes, or fairies. They look and act pretty much like everyone else, only they have "none" of the qualities that evoke fear in man. Only man's internal fears of the unknown bring this about. They (Nature People) have not evolved to man’s consciousness in this Manvantara, with the same fifth-rounder vs forth-rounder exceptions as in humankind. Frankly, Nicholas, they have not YET “learned” any of the derogatory traits that man might attribute them (reflections, actually), as such is not yet their Karma. Remember, they are Ætheric. We are physical. One day they (the Ætheric Nature People) will learn the hard lessons of the physical world (and Karma) and will be worthy of your scorn; but right now, that is and can only be, reserved for HUMANKIND. When that time comes, however, you and I will no longer be so physical anymore. Yes? We will be more appreciative, enlightened, spiritual and loving.

Perhaps we will all look back on the Nature People consciousness that is now human consciousness and say, “Geesh. You should have just stopped while you were loving, untainted little gnomes. ”I imagine by then we might look back with a touch of shame at the ethic of the all-important, the self-important man. Maybe we will bring our subtle influence to bear and allow the current Man to better hear a giggle from out of nowhere, or sense a fleeting blur off to our right, or left, so that He might open his awareness to the new Elementals of the world, and cut them some slack. Intuition, after all, is an influence from the Devachanic.

God, Divinity etc., such as it is, did not create a bunch of crap, then SUDDENLY stumble on the miracle of Man. WE are the being that is at the bottom of the globe (our dearest Blavatsky espouses much on globes, rounds and races, you should be able to find this information easily.) We should look to our Ætheric left and our Spiritual right and say, “Yikes, I’ve sunk as far as I can go.” For, nothing is more true. The Ætheric worlds are a wonderful and beautiful thing, and they have unselfishly contributed to our wellbeing for many more lifetimes than we could ever remember. As have the kingdoms behind them. They could not do otherwise if you adopt any of the fundamental Theosophical teachings. We set our sights Higher, yes, but that does not mean that what is behind us in evolution is “below” us. That is absolutely incorrect. WE are as below as it gets. What exists out there beyond this physical world is either to our innocent Ætheric left, or enlightened spiritual right. Perhaps we should stop calling names!

Congratulations on your choice of pursuits, by the way. Buddha is a great thing. So is the consciousness that enjoys its involution through Nature, I think he would say.

Run this by him at your earliest convenience and see if he senses any arrogance in that statement.

In all sincerity, and love.
PS: Please forgive any grammatical errors, it was a lengthy reply.

Christian

Jeez Christian - relax!

I have no contempt for, nor arrogance toward the non-human realm. Nor is humanity so dear or anything to write home about. I simply mean that at this stage I am not interested in mah jong, sand, the south pole, computers, rap music ... it is a long list and elementals are on it. Not for some nefarious or sneering reason, just that of simple magnetism. Some perceptions, thoughts, feelings, etc. attract, others do not, as you said.

There is little to disagree with in your post, for it is all covered in the teachings of Buddha, HPB & her gurus.

As for "in all beings" - of course it means elementals eventually, but the bodhisattva path requires a solid grounding in our highest human nature before trying to work with our lower nature - which are elementals, as you know.

Hi Nick. I appreciate your openness in trying to explore the nature of things.

This could be a very big answer, or a direct one. I will offer the most direct and say I can reach my Higher Self.

Although this is a high plane, and not discounting there are sub-planes to consider, I believe we all have a birth-right to be able to do this. It is part-and-parcel of our 'unfolding', and is the essence of what our path is. Therefore, I am saying this should be obtainable by everyone who has the intent and dedication.

Interesting, and perhaps this was part of the question you were asking, it is easier to go to certain planes, and even certain sub-planes within them, then others. You will likely find that you tend toward the 3rd and 4th sub-plane of the various planes.

Many people find it difficult to perceive the upper sub-planes of this physical one we reside on, but that is a lower-mind protective thing. Actually, it is very perceivable, as it is OF the physical. Takes some changes in the way we use our physical faculties to perceive, but these are learnable.

The Astral, is easier for females, because of the feminine connection. Regardless, most people of this world, and in this Manvantara, will likely pop in around the 3rd or 4th, and pretty much stick to these. It is sort of a "car wash" as far as planes go, so I don't imagine many Theosophists are going to spend much time there unless there is some research purpose.

The Mental Plane, 1-4th sub-planes is also obtainable by those that can meditate, or enjoy a yoga equivalent. I mean that typically, not that there is not other way. Men will find a more natural affinity to this plane, again, as it is a male plane (refer to the alternating male/female plane theories.) This is the place I first set my focus on, and I think it has helped me greatly. It is beyond all the form and issues going on in the astral. As the seat of the many Heavens of religions, one will experience it differently, depending on your views. Although, as you expand, your perception does too. In classes I dip a toy bubble wand in soap bubbles and blow to explain my perception of the first 3 or so sub-planes of the mental. There are a lot of groupings of spirit, but with no particular draw to form. The spheres within it tend to group us with similar spirit. Therefore, your perceptions may differ from another's. I find there is much "support" that comes to us from this realm, and inspiration. It is a great place to work towards exploring.

Because we can be in touch with our soul, and our Spirit, we can enter the Buddhic, and somewhat, and to some degree the Nirvanic. I am always drawn to "myself" so to speak, which makes some sense if you consider it is the place of the reincarnating ego of us. This draw seems to be a natural thing as we tend to want to fully experience or otherwise know ourselves.

If you are going to explore, consider focusing on the 3rd & forth of the Planes, as it is an easier process. What gets in the way of ones progress is their mind. More specifically, your "thoughts." That is a stronger energy to you than your perceptions of the other planes and sub-planes. And, this is why meditation can help. If you can quite and empty your mind, but hold a focused intent on the mental plane, or reaching your Higher Self, WITHOUT "thinking" (and that is an objective) you can achieve success.

I am deliberately not going into any detail of the experience or else you would “think” about it, and that would only get in your way. I just expressed some short-cuts in case it was your desire to explore your potentials in a safe, joyful and fulfilling manner. Do not be surprised if you experience your Higher Self as having personality of sorts. It is just a reflection on what your past lives have been. You will likely experience “humor” at this time too, something that is reported often.

Just as our journeys at night wane, and we can’t remember them, you will find your experiences have too. Do not let this be discouraging, you are simply re-immersing yourself back in the physical. Then you will feel like it never happened. Just par for the course. You have to venture out a number of times and achieve comfort, and you will retain more of the “stuff” of these planes about you. You will tend to then be more connected to them, and things will seem more natural and familiar in time.

This is a rather fast answer. Don’t form any hard expectations and take what you get. And, above all, know that you are just as much a part of these other Planes as you are of this Physical one. Part of you is already in them, so to speak. It is all natural. You will simply be experiencing short-term, and with considerable limitation, more of the realms your human consciousness will naturally resonate with in terms of Globes and Rounds, and over time. I would suggest always having the mindset of “intent” when undertaking such, so that you can clearly set the intent of NOT doing so when you are through. This will keep you out of the upper Ætheric sub-planes, and all of the Astral, although, those will have a more “real” feel to you because they have more “form.”


------

I have some travels of the real world kind to attend to for the next couple of months, but will check in now and then to see where your interest has taken you.

Regards,

Christian

Christian,

I am not sure of the definition of some of your terms.

Are you using "soul" and "spirit" as defined by Blavatsky?

Which Higher Self are you referring to? The Reincarnating Ego? The higher Mental Plane only? Atma?

What are the "issues" going on in the Astral Plane?

You said the Mental Plane (1-4th sub-planes) is beyond all form. Are you saying they are Arupa?

When you say 1-4th sub-planes, are you counting from the top or bottom?

You sound like you are trying to help us have psychic experiences. Unfortunately, for us non-psychic folks, we have no conscious experience with such things, and it will probably not happen soon. (We would need a teacher like you, and the vast majority of us do not have access to a teacher like you.) All we can do is meditate, and worry about achieving psychic abilities later.

We have been warned often against trying to have psychic experiences, especially without a teacher. Why is that?

Will you be appearing in the L.A. area this month (January)?

I'll have to get back to you on your question's Nick, I have to pack up now. Yes, I am in Los Angeles the week of the 12th, and Santa Barbara the week after. I will send you the info when I get reconnected.

Happy New Years to all.

Christian

Question before they pull the plugs: Buddha, isn't he a 6th-rounder?

"... Gautama Buddha, it was held, was a Sixth-Rounder..." (SD vol I p. 161)

Where will you be appearing in L.A. and Santa Barbara, in case someone is interested in attending?

I would just like to add that most of the practical advice I give in that article has been tested by myself. I have done the experiment of finding my own color (yellow - which in hind-sight corresponds to my dominant planet: mercury - I'm gemini).
I'm sensitive enough to need this kind of protection and feel the difference if I don't live by these rules.

Nick the Pilot: the reason why we are discouraged from developing clairvoyance actively (as opposed to naturally) is that it's a distraction to general spiritual growth. It can lead to one-sided development, just like university education can lead to one-sided development in the sense of developing the mind over the body and the emotions (let alone the intuition).

Nick,

RE: Los Angeles/Santa Barbara tour stops

Thank you for the interest, and invite. I am all over the country on tour this year, so I will be in California a couple of times. Below is some events Jan - Mar. This weekend I will be at the Body Mind Spirit Expo BMSE for book signings, lectures and Mediumship Readings (offering short 10-min readings.) Longer readings can be booked for the LAX Hilton for those desiring such. The lecture is about 1hr but goes over another 1/2 usually. It will be on Nature People. I've given a link to my events page as we are just putting together 2007's schedule.

EVENTS


One of the things that I do at the start of any Mediumship Reading is to view the aura. This is very insightful, and would be helpful to any Theosophist, particular the followers of CWL. I also show an exercise to raise the consciousness very quickly (it makes it easier for me to see the Aura and do the reading), which one can use at home. I also explain the viewing technique at the Reading in a way that one can practice seeing their own aura - (black & white results the first day, and color within 3 days, but usually sooner.) This is a technique that works for anyone. It can be observed by others watching, too, which is intriguing. What is key is that colors are visible in the vibrancy as described by Leadbeater. All of this adds creadibility to the concept that we are sheathed in energy, and information about us is impressed upon the Aura. From here I am able to go into Mediumship; it's a great introduction, and very real.

Regards to all,
Christian


March 18-19, 2007: Book Signings, Readings, and Lecture 6PM Saturday. Chicago (BMSE)

March 17, 2007: Barnes and Noble Store - Book Signings and Lecture 12PM and 3PM Chicago

March 16, 2007: Barnes and Noble Store - Book Signings and Lecture 12PM and 3PM Chicago

March 15, 2007: Barnes and Noble Store - Book Signings and Lecture 12PM and 3PM Chicago

March 14, 2007: Barnes and Noble Store - Book Signings and Lecture 12PM and 3PM Chicago

March 12, 2007: Borders Book Store - Book Signings and Lecture 12PM and 3PM Milwakee

March 10-11, 2007: Book Signings, Readings, and Lecture 6PM Saturday. Milwaukee (BMSE)

March 3-4, 2007: Book Signings, Readings, and Lecture 6PM Saturday. Raleigh (BMSE)

March 2, 2007: Private Hotel Readings - Raleigh, NC

Febuary 3-5, 2007: INATS East - Orlando, FL

January 20-21, 2007: Book Signings, Readings, and Lecture 6PM Saturday. Santa Barbara (BMSE)

January 16, 2007: Bodhi Tree - Lecture and Book Signings. 7:30-9:30PM Los Angeles

January 13-14, 2007: LAX Hilton. Book Signings, Readings, and Lecture 6PM Saturday. Los Angeles (BMSE)
http://www.bmse.net/home.lasso

You said the Mental Plane (1-4th sub-planes) is beyond all form. Are you saying they are Arupa?

YES. Formless, that is, without a definite form. The Arupa to my view are very whispy and cloud-like with only a vague shaping of human. Shades of white. However, this is a manifesting world, and much of its objects are very distinct because of a common interest; for example, structures.

When you say 1-4th sub-planes, are you counting from the top or bottom?
(From the bottom - Devachan)

Christian,

I checked out your website, and listened to your four audio files, about your book about gnomes, fairies, etc. Two things regarding Theosophy came to mind regarding your research.

You said that gnomes and fairies are in the involution stage, while we humans are in the evolution stage, which are two key theosophical concepts. Will these gnomes and fairies become minerals in a future world-period?

You work as a channel. Are you able to channel for any of the Mahatmas, such as Master M. and Master K.H.?

By the way, thanks for having the discussion-leader lady mention Theosophy in the audio tapes, although you were not able to discuss Theosophy.

[/QUOTE]You work as a channel. Are you able to channel for any of the Mahatmas, such as Master M. and Master K.H.?

By the way, thanks for having the discussion-leader lady mention Theosophy in the audio tapes, although you were not able to discuss Theosophy.

You said that gnomes and fairies are in the involution stage, while we humans are in the evolution stage, which are two key theosophical concepts. Will these gnomes and fairies become minerals in a future world-period? [QUOTE]

Involution and evolution differ mainly in direction, but both are an 'evolution'. Nature People have ALREADY been minerals. More accurately, they were the conciousness that was mineral (actually, earth, air, fire and water.) Even a rock has life and conciousness now, and bonds and reacts. Plants have feelings. This conciousness evolves. It evolves to a point of individualization. Nature People as I have known them tend to be "paired," so they are very close. They function mostly as two people, and sometimes more in the case of fairies.

Nature People are right behind us in evolution. They will become physical world inhabitants of the earth, at a time when we will become mostly spiritual in form. It should be noted that even WE were "elementals" as is all conciousness when it starts out.

G. de Purucker has spoken on Elementals, now and then. He gives some of them some credit for being Nature People, but still plays his cards safely. Actually, Nature People are a bit farther along than he would imagine them to be. Still, the following article has a lot of truth to it, in my opinion, but is also remiss in that, like so many Theosphists, have much difficulty in separating elementaries, elementals and nature people. I quote him below so you have a past Theosphical perspective, which at least, is more expansive than most to-date:

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November 14, 1933
Elementals
This is indeed a very difficult theme; and yet, Companions, I have often wondered why it should be found to be so difficult. Let me try to explain very briefly just what elementals are. According to our esoteric teaching, which is the doctrine taught in the Mystery-schools, the universe is built up of elements, i.e., of fundamental element-principles. As the entire universe is animate, full of life and lives, these fundamental elements or element-principles are compacted and builded of lives -- not merely living in them, but these lives verily form or compose these fundamental elements. Now those entities or lives of these elements, which are the first remove from homogeneity in any of the elements, are what are called elementals -- in other words entities just beginning to evolve into greater complexity of consciousness and structure. They too are beings growing from unself-conscious god-sparks in order finally to reach self-conscious godhood, and thereafter to take a self-conscious part in the labor of the universe.

Now then, the elementals really can be looked upon as the building bricks, or individualized substantial particles of energy-substance, belonging to the seven ranges of prakriti, and therefore of the universe. Everything in the prakriti or substantial side of the universe reposes on the three kingdoms of the elementals. From this point of view the elementals correspond to the life-atoms in our own bodies, because these life-atoms themselves are of seven or ten different classes corresponding to the seven ranges of prakriti, and therefore to the seven or ten cosmic elements. These life-atoms in our bodies build our bodies, and are used by the various monads composing the sevenfold, or tenfold, constitution of man. Hence, there are elementals which compose or are the foundation of every one of man's seven principles.

The elementals, therefore, in the aggregate are the forces of nature as well as the substances of nature. When acting aggregatively as energies they are forces, and when acting aggregatively as bodies they are the substances of nature. It is quite erroneous to look upon the elementals as beings merely living in nature, and as not forming nature; and it is also erroneous to consider them in a weird or spooky way, as mere little ghostlings flitting around us. The elementals are the inhabitants of the elements; and all beings more evolved than the elementals use these elementals for everything that these more evolved beings do or are.

The elementals may be also called the nature forces, or nature spirits, because all nature being conscious in greater or less degree, whatever takes place however seemingly unconscious, actually is brought about by the deliberate or unconscious action of elementals, either acting for themselves or as the vehicles of higher intelligences.

Therefore is it said that some of the elementals in the universe are friendly to man, because man happens to be at the certain point of his evolution where these particular elementals aid him. Other elementals are said to be unfriendly to man -- not because the elementals themselves are evil, or wickedly wish to do evil to man, but simply because man happens to be in such an evolutionary position at the present time that these elementals automatically react unfavorably on him. As an instance, a draught of cold air may give a man a chill. This is not the fault of the elementals involved, but the fault of the man who remains in the cold draught thus exposing himself to this particular type of automatic elemental action. But there are elementals on all the planes of prakriti, and therefore on all the planes of man's constitution. Consequently there are manasic elementals, and kamic elementals, etc.; and some of these elementals belonging to the higher grades of prakriti can do man great injury unless the man is watchful and resists their action which he can always do by reason of his masterful will and high intelligence.

Now there are also elementals which have reached a point in their own evolution where they seek and can have imbodiments on our earth; and these are the classes of elementals which are much more evolved than other classes. Consequently they form the various orders and families of the animate beings below man, commonly spoken of as the higher vegetables, the insects, and the beasts. They are imbodied elementals, all of them; the beasts are highly evolved elementals; the insects are less evolved elementals. We humans also at one time in our far past evolution passed through the elemental stage, and obviously then were elementals.

The elementals of fire can be very friendly to man when he uses them properly; but they can become bitter foes of his, most dangerous enemies. The fire elementals can burn down his house, or burn the man's body; but it would be foolish to say that because the fire elementals automatically act according to their nature, they are wicked, or that they are fundamentally unfriendly to man. Taking the elementals of the four lower and best known classes, the salamanders, the sylphs, the undines, and the gnomes, it is probably the sylphs, the elementals of the air, which to man in his present state of evolution are the most dangerous of all, because for some strange reason they seem to have a peculiar psychological effect on the kama part of his constitution.

Finally, the elementals, being the inhabitants of the respective elements, themselves exist in orders, in families, and in various species. They actually compose the seven prakritis or elements of nature; and these seven cosmic elements are the great reservoirs of beings who in these elements begin their evolutionary march upwards to divinity. The elementals are therefore again partially individualized entities, baby souls in the school of life. Ordinarily they work in groups or in waves or flows; but quite frequently also there are manifestations of the action of individual elementals. It is wrong to look upon the elementals as quite individualized little sprites, in the manner in which European folklore regards the brownies or the pixies or the fairies or the kobolds or the leprechawns. All these are names for different kinds of elementals; and even the medieval descriptions of them are accurate enough, provided they do not induce the belief that the elementals are as intelligent as man or as having man's freedom of will or conscience, because all this last is not true. The elementals are quasi-individualized nature sprites, and actually perform all the physical work of the world. They may also be correctly looked upon as life-atoms in a certain stage of the latter's evolutionary progress.

Remember also that the elementals are monads imbodied through their rays in the respective prakritis or elements of the universe. In consequence, every elemental is on its way to become a man, and finally a god. Further, as every one of the seven or ten prakritis of nature, every one of the seven or ten element-principles of nature, is composed of these lives or life-atoms, therefore there are elementals of all these seven or ten different grades of ethereality or spirituality. These different grades of elementals slavishly copy the pictures in the astral light of past events, including of course the pictures of forms in all their multimyriad types. Furthermore they slavishly follow and try to emulate, although unconsciously, the orders or families or species of beings more evolved than themselves. Hence it is that the elementals of the higher prakritis or elements sometimes have a human shape or quasi-human shape, or have the forms of beasts, whether patterned after humans or beasts now on earth, or after the pictures in the astral light of human beings or beasts who lived in past manvantaras.

The elementals of the fifth cosmic plane, counting upwards, or what we may call the mahatic or manasic elementals, tend to assume the human shape; but this is merely a maya, the appearance of form, because although they may have as semi-individualized entities the human shape, they are soulless because without a human soul. It is merely the form in the astral light that they copy blindly, slavishly, automatically. This is one of the reasons why the kama-loka and the astral light are filled with elementals in various degrees of advancement, who take on, assume, or disguise themselves in the appearances or forms of human beings who have lived. Mark these words because they are important. But all these appearances are soulless because they are merely elementals in the human shape or form. The elemental has as yet evolved no human soul, and therefore from the human standpoint is without conscience or moral principle.

Thus it may be seen once more how elementals of this type can be friendly to man or very unfriendly, in fact even malignant, not because of any evil in themselves, but because of the mischief that they can work by reason of their mayavi or illusory appearance and the effects they can produce.

In conclusion -- and to draw a comparison which may be helpful -- there is somewhat the same difference in evolution between an elemental and a man that there is between a life-atom and a man; or to put the matter in another way, between a human embryo in its first stages of growth and a full-grown man, as there is between an elemental and an animal.
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Christian

Kh7. Great for you. I would presume, from what I know of yellow when I see it in a person's aura (which I would very easily see in yours given that you resonate with the color) the following:

----

You are one who has a lot you would like to say. You would be one who as accumulated the knowledge of things, most likely a particular area has captured your attention and you would like to be out there giving up and sharing that knowledge. Likely, as well, you are already working in some area of 'communication.' Still, you still struggle with a confidence factor. This would tend to make you hope you get recognized, or are given opportunities commensurate with the knowledge you have amassed. What you have learned has taught you there is so very much more to learn; this causes you to yield to others for you give them credit in advance for possibly, or probably, knowing something that you have not yet mastered.

Likely, as well, you have a fondness or tendency towards blue, likely dark blue. This should indicate an attraction to intellectual men, whose accomplishments as it relates to information, you respect.

You find yourself in a growing situation, which is itself admirable. You are progressive but have not a clear definition of when it is, or will be, that you have become a master of your field or interest.

You practice, and enjoy doing it. Speaking, or communicating that is. It could be actual speaking, or might be advertising or writing (but to a lesser degree.) You would do this to train yourself and achieve your personal goal or objectives, which may not be those of any particular employer. Your effectiveness at communicating, conveying your thoughts, articulating your view, or expressing what your feel (could be artistic) is particularly important to you.

-----

The above is simply a collective of “senses” I have gotten from other people who have considerable yellow around them in their aura. It does matter, however, if someone is left or right-handed, and if the colors appear on their left or right side. What I have expressed tends to be true for a right handed person, where the yellow might be on either side. If you are right-handed, and the above is true for you, then this information will relate more strongly to your vocation in life. If you are trying to express yourself solely in a personal area of interest, then the yellow will tend to glow about the left-side of you (if you are right-handed.) If a person whole resonates with yellow, then it is all about them, and communication is a factor in both their vocational and creative interests.

I thought you might find this interesting since you find yourself strongly drawn to yellow. Take it as a fun curiosity. By the way, communication is a correspondence with Mercury. You may find yourself mixing yellows with orange and blue. As well, you may find yourself having either throat or ear difficulties during your life, noticably so. You may frequently clear your throat, for example. You may have a definite difficulty hearing out of one of your ears (these mean something, by the way.)

Hope this was fun. Take it lightly, I am just sharing some things that come up in the work I do.

Christian

Well, thank you Nick. That's a lot to expect from a Theosophist, so know that I appreciate the interest. I have an hour TV segment that runs in the New York/Boston/Vermont area every now and then. I would expect that I will be doing a number of radio or television specials this year too as there is usually interest in such that comes out of the tour.

It would be really great if some Theosphists got out there and spread some of the knowledge around. Yourself, Nicholas and Kh7 are all so knowledgeable on the subject, and would be great at sharing the information with the new generations. You should all consider putting yourself out in the mainstream. It is a great learning experieince as it is not something we normally do. And, you will find persons genuinely interested in what you have to say.

Think about it.

Christian

Christian,

You said,

"Involution and evolution differ mainly in direction, but both are an 'evolution'. Nature People have ALREADY been minerals."

--> Then I do not see how they are part of an involution. According to Theosophical theory, Involution means spirit that is traveling from the Absolute down to the physical. Evolution means spirit that has already traveled down to the physical, has made a u-turn, and is now traveling "upward", from the physical, back up to (and returning to) the Absolute. Nature People seem to part of evo- (not invo-) lution.

"It's just that I can normally tell who or what is trying to communicate with me, and get a visual as well. I get no visual on this."

--> It is this non-verification of the source of psychic information that Blavatsky has warned us about. I hope that you are comfortable with it.

"Yourself, Nicholas and Kh7 are all so knowledgeable on the subject, and would be great at sharing the information with the new generations. You should all consider putting yourself out in the mainstream."

--> I am not sure how we would do that. (I do not see a big market for non-psychic Theosophical speeches....)

"...you will find persons genuinely interested in what you have to say."

--> That is one of the reasons this Forum was started -- to make Theosophical concepts more availble to the average person.

Blavatsky said that Theosophy would not be popular, and she was right. Theosophy asks too much, and too little in return. Unfortunately, it is not what the average person is looking for.

This is a little off-topic, but we do have Theosophical conventions. You would be a popular (non-paid) speaker at a convention, should you ever feel like dropping by. I am sure you would enjoy the experience.

"Now, I have seen Buddha once. Just once, and the conversation was more personal than worldly. Totally out of the blue."

--> It would be fascinating if you could repeat the experience. Let us know if you attempt it.

"I have an hour TV segment that runs in the New York/Boston/Vermont area every now and then. I would expect that I will be doing a number of radio or television specials this year too as there is usually interest in such that comes out of the tour."

--> Keep us notified of the dates, times, and locations.

---

You are very much into the New Age and psychic thing. I will watch and see if you are able to bring more Theosophical concepts into your presentations. It will be fun to watch.

The period of time devoted to the attainment of self-consciousness and to the building of the vehicles through which the spirit in man manifests, is called "Involution": to slowly carry the life into denser and denser matter for the building of forms, till the nadir of materiality is reached. From that point the life begins to ascend into higher Worlds: this succeeding period of existence, during which the individual human being develops self-consciousness into divine omniscience, is called "Evolution".

So it sounds like gnomes and fairies will skip the mineral, plant, and animal stages, and go directly from elemental to human. Is that right?

Yes, quite comfortable. "non-verification" is much too strong a word, and conveys the wrong connotation. Psychic sense is a "set" of abilities. It is quite possible to discern that a connection is of a High order, even from which Plane, without knowing its true identity. Further, a professional medium tends to establish a threshold, barrier or type of filter which regulates at which level one is willing to communicate (something like setting a tuning dial). I focus mine at a default level coincidental with the Mental Plane. I will receive Mental level and above (although, that above will not be totally clear unless I "tune" into that Higher frequency.) But, that is the "trick," so to speak, tuning in. Tuning in tends to mean tuning out everything else, even our own thoughts, so that what remains is clear. Not so easily done, but it is the process. The Higher we reach, the more difficult the process.

Blavatsky was so prone to anger, and had a tendency to Hash-hish. Both are going to make the thought-forms that SHE herself creates which play to her fears and paranoia. Without a release TOO someone, or somewhere, they will, by their nature, work on her OWN psychic aura. SHE will feel the effects of her fears. This will draw from the lower Astral Plane those entities and forms that find attraction in such things. "Elementaries" would be a very likely expectation in her case, given her number of real or imagined enemies. Thought-forms, half-consciousness and lower consciousness are also very much to be expected because of her frequent mind-set. In fact, I am almost forced to believe her connection with the Mahatmas was TOTALLY at their cause and initiation, as she would be naturally predisposed to connect "low." Regardless, that she was predisposed to connect low is why she most often TRUELY experienced the lower-side of life. And, to that subject, she would be correct to express concern to the non-inititated.

Had she understood Elementals (the Nature People type) better she would also have understood how [they] could have helped relieve the psychic pressure she put on herself (the reverberation of her own fears, and the subsequent attraction to lower consciousness, thought-forms and elementeries). Nature people not only are the "builders" of the elements distinctly, but the elements that keep up our bodies. An effect of this is that they tend to "keep our energy up, or more literally High."

The effect of this is also visible to the human eye. Nature People energy (that Aetheric matter/energy of their makeup) is still of the physical plane, so our perceptions work to see it, with a bit of training. To be short, the body-double is also called the Health Aura, and this relates to the healthy building up of energy matter 'about' us. We have matter of different planes about us and this collects in our auras - although it is all mixed up, (until we die) there is matter/energy of all planes. Nature People, especially gnomes, work to build up the health aura on the matrix that is known as the body-double.

I said it is visible, it is. It looks like a glassy gray/blue haze around our body. It is most easily seen around the arms and fingers, (and then the legs and feet). Simply staring between two fingers for a short while on a spot marked on a white piece of paper (without moving the eyes) will allow the blurry hazy health aura to be visible. THIS is also the appearance of Nature People when first seen - kind of hazy like seeing glass in water. Discernment, as already indicated takes time. In this paragraph here, discernment will allow you to see vibrant color (millions of shades) in a few days of practice. As pertains to the earliest paragraphs above, discernment allows one to tell what frequency we are sensing (i.e. what Plane, as each has a different matter/energy, that is considerably different from plane to plane. Same is true for sub-planes. There is a fine energy barrier that separates these, but more basically, energy matter outside of the very unique human auric sheath tends to layer -- similar matter on its own plane or sub-plane.

Hope that sheds some light on why I have no concerns, nor should any professional.
Christian

It wouldn't be about market size or share. It would be about doing what one can to reach those younger minds that MIGHT sense there are "answers" in the Theosophical philosophy (to use the short definition.) I would have just loved learning about Theosophy 10 years sooner. Someone, some few perhaps, would find interest. There is not noteable effort going on to reach the newer generations in my view.

Regardless, it was only a suggestion. You all have so very much information which you have internalized. It seems a good thing if you could reach out to others in additon to building a stage and hoping they will come.

Again, was only a thought.

Christian

Well, I guess Metaphysically we are going to go right on re-manifesting that truth. Obviously the answer is not to seek poplularity. If we can all just get out just a concept or two, every now and then, someone, somewhere, is going to ask a question. Then, some momentum will start. Eventually, they or someone in their contact will follow it up in greater depth. Its sort of a question of are we willing to just let Theosphy drop of the face of the Earth? I am certainly no great Theosophist of philospher of any kind, but I do actively seek ways to introduce the concepts whenever I can. Imagine what you scholors on the subject could do?

Christian

OK. As a rule, I don't run around specifically trying to connect to anyone, unless I am doing a session for someone, of course. Rather, I take moments of meditation, and allow myself to "receive". Usually, the way this works (even in a session) is the most important 'messages' come in first and strongest, from whoever may be the source.

I do however occasionally focus an intent to connect specifically. I will record the session, if I should enjoy the pleasure of Buddha.

Thanks for asking.
Christian

Not according to original Theosophy.

There was a Blavatsky pre-1863 (or so); then a Blavatsky after 1863; then the inner HPB, an Adept; then when used by a member of the Occult Brotherhood; then her own Higher Self etc.

There was a reason for her temperment, but it was not her character. Suggest you study more deeply. Have you read Cranston's biography of HPB?

Blavatsky biography

"So it sounds like gnomes and fairies will skip the mineral, plant, and animal stages, and go directly from elemental to human. Is that right?"

--> I thought it would be fun to take a look at Jinarajadasa's ideas as to where fairies and gnomes fit into Evolution.



The above image is part of the book The First Principles of Theosophy, by C. Jinarajadasa

Jinarajadasa says fairies and gnomes are part of an evolution track which does not go through the human experience. This, as Nicholas has pointed out, goes against what Blavatsky said. However, I keep myself open to ideas I have not heard before, such as these.

Correct, and Yes, Nick to the diagram, except that they will go through either water or mineral. Leadbeater presents it this way, or very similarly, as well, but I do not have my sources with me to quote as I am traveling. The New Age has followed this concept as well, as it tends to bear out under investigation.

Thanks, I was sensing you would find this illustration. ;) .

Christian.

Hi everybody!

I did want to follow up on Blavatsky's idea that non-human evolution does not exist.

"The Doctrine teaches that, in order to become a divine, fully conscious god, -- aye, even the highest -- the Spiritual primeval INTELLIGENCES must pass through the human stage. And when we say human, this does not apply merely to our terrestrial humanity, but to the mortals that inhabit any world, i.e., to those Intelligences that have reached the appropriate equilibrium between matter and spirit, as we have now, since the middle point of the Fourth Root Race of the Fourth Round was passed." (SD vol I p. 106)

Theosophy teaches that every Being of the universe, great or small, has gone through, or will go through, the human experience. This means traveling through the levels of Arhat, Adept, Chohan, Maha-Chohan, and beyond. However, "beings" like fairies and gnomes do not seem to fit into this category.

This is exactly what Theosophy is all about -- trying to "fit the pieces together", and understand the true nature of the universe, not bound by limitations of dogma.

Whoa there Nick! HPB did not (nor did her gurus) say "non-human evolution does not exist".

The teaching is that there are no parallel evolutions. All life waves go through all stages - elemental to Buddhas. So all the pre-human life waves will go, when they are ready, through the human soul stage and beyond.

I just happen to be getting a quick read in on Man: Whence, How and Whither by Besant and CWL. Paragraph 32 might be of interest.


32. When we turn to the mineral kingdom, we are among those some of whom will become men on the Moon Chain, and some on the Earth Chain. The consciousness asleep in these minerals is to awaken gradually and to unfold through long stages into the human.

At the Higher Etheric level and the Kama Deva level of your chart there is a cross-over opportunity for Nature Spirits. It is discussed, but not illustrated in the charts. All such Etheric spirit may not chose to cross, but they can. In which case, they start at the lowest level of human consciousness, with individualization and a soul. When I get back I will look for the passages for you.

By the way, there are two types of gnomes, but this is very seldom mentioned in the literature. As well, the word fairy is often confused as Faerie can be used to refer to most of the evolved nature people of the "earth" type, and the "air" type.

"CAN," "MAY," or "MIGHT," should probably be in that sentence, not the implied DO or MUST, is my understanding.

I have not found Theosophy to be "perfect" nor "complete." It is even directly and indirectly defined that way. To the extent others find this to be true as well, allowances should be made, and an open mind is called for. Especially in the face of experiment, observation and experience that the last 200 years have provided. Many great Theosophists have delivered countless lectures. These renowned folk greatly expand on areas that seemed to have fixed limits in the earlier works. Dimensions and Planes for example. The lecturers say the SD was intended for an earlier audience but really supports infinate Planes both up & down, for example. Humans, at this stage (when SD written) could not readily contemplate much more than the volumes' wording seemed to be implying. I wholehartedly agree.

Seems like we have a substantial discussion going on here. :lol: ;) :o :D :P :ph43r: :huh: :rolleyes: :angry:

Christian