171. To some it may seem that much of what has been said here is widely known. It is necessary to affirm concepts of different order; only thus occurs assimilation in the consciousness. One may picture two conversationalists of approximately the same development who yet do not understand each other. Perhaps between their consciousnesses only a few small links are missing, yet this small difference forces the cog-wheels of thinking to turn differently, with the result that altogether different levers are set in motion. But talking a matter over in the fullest will not harm anyone. After all, We are pronouncing no revelation, nor are We preaching. We simply are arriving at the conditions under which the consciousness can assimilate united labor. In this way, into the field of vision enter various details already pondered upon by someone but which for strengthening the chain must be affirmed in their state as of this moment!
Indeed, it is necessary to cleanse the chain of thinking. One should summon all solicitude for the successful progress of cooperation. True, in the communal consciousness there is no offense, but by untimely formulations of thought it is possible to inflame one's companion so as to bring harm to the work; therefore. We watch over the gradual growth of consciousness. It is not Our task simply to inflate the dimensions of consciousness. Only organic development and diversity of intake determines the actual capacity of the treasury.
While sitting on the bank of the brook, picture to yourself and remember Our discourses. Not one of its waves can be repeated, yet to the eye they all appear alike.
Preserve the consonance of cooperation.
172. Someone may have doubts as to how to reconcile the assimilation of consciousness with the exchange of thoughts known as a dispute. Is a dispute necessary? Will not a dispute be a manifestation of dissimilarity? With Us a dispute does not exist as such; it is expressed in a mutual enrichment of consciousnesses." Precisely, a lengthy assimilation permits transformation of contradiction into an enrichment of the store of knowledge. Contradictions are usually only different aspects of one and the same manifestation. True, when contradictions issue from ignorance, then the dispute turns into a pit of rubbish.
Let the consciousness illumine the cellar of thinking, and ludicrous disputes will turn into rational discussions, of advantage and of joy.
173. It is noted that certain people, as it were, carry success with them. Superstition calls them lucky. Science attributes their success to strength of will. We shall add that usually these people have an assimilated consciousness. They become representatives of the collective, consequently drawing in a force intensified by many participants, who at that time do not even suspect the outflow of energy. It is not at all required that the whole collective know each other. Through the nodes of transmission a wave of energy is transmitted instantaneously; therefore the presence of the international collective is much needed for actions. Hence, a wave of internationalism is needed, because the diversity of dynamics will then produce greater tension.
In Our Community one finds many nationalities and diverse specialties; this is practical for the condensation of the waves of the will. It is possible to preserve the whole potential of individuality and to attune the consciousnesses harmoniously. We are opposed to exclusive specialization; in the best construction of a collective this condition finds its place.
Not long ago you conversed about the significance of rays in wireless transmission. Rays do contribute to the unifying of the collective over far distances. Indeed, these rays, which until recently were denied, actually are weaving a new cover for the planet. The rays have a preeminence over other waves in that they pass through more readily, without disturbing the gravity and the atmosphere. Sound, indeed, attracted the earlier attention of humanity. Light and color have not attracted as much study, but, as the sound is only a reaction of light, the enhanced cognition will be directed toward the significance of light and highest energy — luminous matter. "Materia Lucida" has attracted all the best minds, and even it they did not find its conscious application, yet they have considered recognition of its significance inevitable in the forthcoming evolution.
Rays and light waves carry the solution of the next evolution.
174. Exteriorization of sensitivity has long been known. It has been attained either mechanically or by order of the will, and has served as a most sound reason for burning at the stake. Even now contemporary inquisitors, trying to discover a tail of necromancy, drive the bold search underground.
Great minds have solicitously sensed the achievements of knowledge. A community member must be open to all new possibilities.
If the principle of a manifestation has been found, its dimensions depend upon technique. Thus, transference of sensitivity can take on the most diverse dimensions. Let us say — in a certain location there must be founded a new community. The place may have all the necessary signs, but surrounding conditions may temporarily constitute a grave danger. Then let us take a new location and transfer to it the possibilities of the first. In our consciousness we have not broken away from the possibilities of the first place, and we experience the effect of the first decision in laying the foundations for the future structure. Whether something is to be on the fiftieth parallel or twenty degrees farther south, it is essential to preserve the enlightenment of constructiveness.
The tale about an invisible city with the ringing of bells recalls the man who was not aware of an important sensation, as a result of a transfer of sensitiveness. Perhaps My example is not yet clear to you, but the principle of transference of sensitivity can be amplified to include entire nations. Through this principle many dangers may be avoided. If it be admitted that the human organism is a most powerful psychic instrument, then it is impossible to attribute the same power to the physical apparatus. The physical apparatus is subservient to that higher energy which we call psychic construction. This energy may be compared qualitatively with light alone.
We have just spoken about the power of rays and about their new application; it is impossible to neglect the possibilities of the human organism. How can we study the far-off worlds if we pay no attention to our own functions? With difficulty do you discover rays, but do you study their action upon the brain and other centers?
175. You know of many experiments in thought-reading. Western people, being told about it, have no idea how inherent to the East is this psychological quality. In their ignorance they even call it superstition. Whereas, if thought is an organic creation, then it can be laid open. Even meagre physical apparatuses can catch the tension of thought. Even the thermometer and electrical apparatuses react to the rising of thought. Thought even changes the temperature of the body. To such an extent does the psychic apparatus dominate the physical that it is even correct to identify the psychic apparatus as a part of the physical. There exists an apparatus which writes down the flow of thoughts; this flow also is reflected in a radiation and may be detailed by the comparative method. This system is pleasing to Western thinking.
There are few attempts to connect mechanics with the psychic. Whereas, you know how a scientific attitude toward the psychic alleviates and transforms all existence. I have said that the community is impossible without technics; in this concept is included both physical and psychic technics, as otherwise the community members will begin to resemble mechanical toys.
I reiterate that attention to the possibilities of the psychic apparatus is undeferable.
176. Psycho-mechanics will be a true determinant of the application of psychic energy. One may observe interesting experiments in connection with factory work. Each experienced workman knows that machines require rest. It is difficult to explain more in detail this fact, but it is well known even to those who have no conception of psycho-mechanics.
We used to perform experiments in textile factories, where there were hundreds of looms and up to a hundred more or less experienced workmen. The looms, irrespective of the experience of the operator, demanded rest beyond the apportioned period. By submitting the operators to a psychic test, it was clearly perceived that in the hands of those possessing psychic energy the looms were less in need o£ rest, as if a living current were communicated to the loom and prolonged its vitality. This living coordination between worker and machine must be applied in the communities of labor. It is possible to attain this advantageous condition only through study of psycho-mechanics.
It is the task of the government to bring into life the most productive conditions, by taking necessary measures and by directing scientists to facilitate the life of the collective up to the point of anonymity.
We know that sometimes the symbol of an individual personality is important for nations, but, for all that, anonymity remains the ideal of true evolution. This is one of the conditions of realization of the brevity of earthly existence, and it is the best way to successful cooperation. The antipode of anonymity will be the self-delineations of ancient kings unknown at present to anyone. These inscriptions evoke nothing but a smile, and most often have nothing to do with the intention in behalf of the Common Good. To avoid such an antipode, the community will indeed strive for anonymity. But without psycho-mechanics such anonymity will be ugly. Only he can become anonymous who has established his own place among manifestations and objects. He can give up his "I" who has become conscious of space.
Thus can the communities approach indestructibility.
We do not value communal moths. Do not forget that drunkenness is the enemy of psycho-mechanics. Do not think that psycho-mechanics is only for chosen ones; it is the property of a prudent collective and is tested upon all daily manifestations.
177. Is it possible to acquire psycho-technics without a Teacher? It is impossible. This technic is accompanied by dangerous processes. Do you send your children into a physical laboratory without a guide?
How to find the Teacher? Let us not forget that the laws of the will possess the property of attracting the attention of whomsoever the call concerns. One's Teacher is not necessarily discovered in a neighbor's house; it is possible to guide at a distance. But moments occur when an experienced forewarning is unavoidable.
A series of psychic manifestations is closely connected with atmospheric and astrochemical events. There exist invisible but perceptibly deadly magnetic storms; the physical guide will give useful advice on how to avoid the danger contained in each metal. There are psychic storms in which the hand of the Teacher becomes indispensable.
You know that physical manifestations react on large groups of people. This cannot be called insanity, but is a particular manifestation of collective unity. One may visualize the reaction of subterranean gases and the dust of atmospheric bodies. Some paralyze psychic actions, but on the other hand there are such exciters that the Pilot must take urgent measures. Speaking about the possibilities of psycho-technics, We have no intention of destroying anyone's apparatuses. We, as Members of the Community, pursue the task of true economy, and each psychic apparatus must be safeguarded. Carefulness is the more needed because often the potential of psychic energy does not coincide with intellect, and it is necessary to determine the quality of psychic possibility. Forcing psychic energy into a direction foreign to it will be a most dangerous aspect of compulsion.
Precipitations of luminous matter and astrochemical rays communicate to psychic energy an unusual sensitivity and saturate it periodically with rays. Indeed, the quality of the consciousness will provide the determining factor, therefore let us treat psychic energy with solicitude.
178. Let us recall the qualities absolutely inadmissible in the community; ignorance, fear, falsehood, hypocrisy, cupidity, usurpation, drunkenness, smoking, and obscenity. Someone may say, "Do you wish to collect angels?" We then shall ask, "Are all those on earth liars or drunkards? We know many who are courageous and sincere." Again they will say, "The requirements are too high." We shall reply, "Can it be that you have only foul-talkers and self-seekers? All these requirements are frightening only for the lowest citizen, who hides his wealth under his threshold. In the Himalayas, We have long ago found people to whom the above stipulations are no bugbear."
I advise to observe the community members. If someone cannot contain all the conditions, let him be deprived of all possibilities of cooperation. Let him act as a beast until he feels drawn toward humankind.
As long as the consciousness has not accepted the community, the smallest thing seems insurmountable. It is possible to renounce every weakness if the task of the future is clear. Think about being annexed to the future and fear of the present will dissolve. Do not take what has been said as a pompous phrase, but, masons, square up your stony hearts. After the heart the brain petrifies.
Can one doubt that you would want to conquer your defects? For a beginning, do not lie, be not afraid, and learn each day. It is not necessary to repeat this to community members, but there can be pseudo-members, and these must be isolated as if infected with syphilis.
I wish that My counsels might reach the schools. I wish that children might remember the Friends who have dedicated themselves to the Community of the World.
179. Let us imagine that you see a man doing harm who yet has a spark of psychic energy. You naturally will begin to speak to him about the better qualities of man, who is in the process of evolving. Your interlocutor, as it usually happens, will immediately agree with you without thinking it refers to himself. It would be of no avail to tell him that he is acting wrongly, but it is possible to say that his action does not follow the trend of evolution. It is not a matter of bad or good, it is only that his conduct is not goalfitting, and therefore not practical. If your companion pretends to be a community member, the conversation becomes simpler. For then, as adherents of the community you may demand the guarding of the foundations of evolution. Even for breeding pigs there are required definite conditions of life. How then can a man who decides on achieving the social life remain in his former vulgar haunts? How can falsehood or cowardice live under the mask of cooperation?
Least of all does verbal affirmation interest Us. The significance for Us lies in the state of consciousness and action. As physicians observe the inner sensations and the fluctuations of the patient's condition, and pay no attention to his whims, so do We pay no attention to verbal assurances but weigh the quality of action. Ancient methods of testing are used by Us. The testing is of long duration and unexpected. Do you remember the exercises of Buddha with his disciples relating to unexpectedness?
Could unexpectedness test tear or falsehood? Precisely, unexpectedness. Necessity will not be the deciding factor. A thief before a judge seems a model of honesty. Look at him not before the judge but in the darkness of an alley. Do not reject testings, for the solution of life's achievement must be tested by the fire, as steel. Those who trust words are either inexperienced or are not steadfast. Experiment can pass into immutability only through unalterable striving.
Do you know how to strive?
180. Whether I am hurrying on or motionless, still I am striving. Whether I am learning or giving out knowledge, still I am striving. Whether alone or in a crowd, still I am striving.
How to intensity striving? Where are its roots and conditions? About quality of labor and action you have already heard. These are the conditions: full overburdening and the realization of the insecurity of life. Overburdening sets the body in the direction of tension. Realization of the danger of each hour of life will provide sensitivity and the knowledge of irrevocability.
If a mote in the eye turns into a beam, then a feather from the wing of a bird in the space produces thunder in the far-off worlds. How then to explain, to occidental minds, the sensitiveness of the cosmic apparatus? How to explain that forced explosions are more ruinous than the destruction of a heavenly body, for the destruction of a heavenly body takes place in conformity with all the surrounding conditions. You yourselves do not place a factory over a dangerous cavern, but select a better place— and We also speak about the best conditions.
It is possible to create a symphony of explosions, and it is possible to create harmonies of machines. Even those with defective hearing notice that sometimes they hear a low voice better than an outcry-it means that the quality is important, not tension alone. Indeed, the quality of each action imposes a deep responsibility and is full of the danger of irreparable harm.
One should become used to the brink of the abyss, in full consciousness of the surrounding depths, and one should not be afraid to act under overburdening. Thus, experienced coolies carry their burdens up the mountain with songs. This song, washed with toil, will not disturb space.
We have been in your theaters and We see little need for them. Song, color and sound must not be shut up in artificial hot-houses. These values must accompany life, anonymously surrounding people with the caress of beauty.
The great artist Asvaghosha preferred the bazaar and the public square, in order to find the way to the people's heart. Beauty teaches aspiration.
You know and understand the lofty concept "Avatar," but in order to attain it, it is needful to become "Avakara"—the fierily inspired.
181. True, true, true—precision in time must be observed. Let us look at it not only from the standpoint of integrity of principle but also from that of practicality. He who sets a definite date sends out a spatial command; the one who agrees to this date closes the current. A stream of energy of the will fixes, as it were, an astral form of the decision. To this bridge approach boat-loads of possibilities, strengthening and supplementing the original proposition. It is easy to imagine what happens if one side of the bridge disappears. Spatial dates are far more precise than the mechanism of your clocks; splendid possibilities may crumble away like sand and, being not repeatable, disappear.
Reflect on what a problem it would be for statistics to compare the success of opportune decision with the failure of tardiness. Obviously, instructive results would be obtained, and the ignorance of tardiness would be regretted. True, very many people live like pigs, devouring precious blossoms. One cannot but protect space against their thoughtless ignorance. If they could catch a glimpse into space, disfigured by them, they would themselves say: "Prohibit this defilement!"
Guard the purity of space. Be responsible for co-measurement. You must not set fire to alien currents! So many beautiful "sacred vessels" have been lost because of carelessness! And you yourselves will shake space with lamentations when it will be already irreparable. Whereas, there was an hour when a single gesture would have preserved for you the needed and wished for.
Teach every child to understand the significance of dates. Otherwise, one more generation of flabby and spineless ones will devour each other.
In the community exactitude of dates is established as a fundamental.
182. True, true, true—people must settle themselves in tested localities. Even a bear shows greater care in selecting his den. Plants will indicate the better possibilities. Look for cedars and pines, heather and oak, grass and flowers of vivid color. Natural electrification in a locality is necessary. Large, long needles of evergreen are the best condensers of electricity. Heights above eleven thousand feet, devoid of vegetation, provide useful prana.
183. What more nearly compares with Our Community—a choir of psalm-singers or an armed camp? Rather the second. One can imagine how it must conform to the rules of military organization and leadership. Is it possible to establish the paths of advancement of the Community without repulse and attack? Is it possible to take a fortress by assault without knowing its situation? The conditions of defense and attack must be weighed. Needed is experienced knowledge and keen vigilance. They are wrong who consider the Community a house of prayer. They are wrong who call the Community a workshop. They are wrong who regard the Community as an exclusive laboratory. The Community is a hundred-eyed guard. The Community is the hurricane of the messenger. The Community is the banner of the conqueror. In the hour when the banner is furled, the enemy already undermines the foundation of the towers. Where, then, is your laboratory? Where is your labor and toil? Verily, one patrol left out opens ten gates. Only vigilance will provide the rampart for the Community.
Victory is only an obligation. Strengthening of forces is only a manifestation of a new vortex. Realization of power is only a test. Challenge is only lightmindedness. As an ocean wave does the Community advance. As the thunder of an earthquake resounds the Teaching of immutability.
Before the rising of the Sun let us proceed in ceaseless vigil.
184. Often community members ask whence come the assaults of anguish which they sometimes experience. One must know that without these spasms of anguish no progress is possible. After crossing over a precipice you feel a weakening of the leg muscles. During the expansion of consciousness you cross over many invisible precipices. Nodal growths of the consciousness result in leaps, and psychic spasms contract the nerve centers. One should not be afraid of these spasms, a brief rest will right these contractions. Growth of the consciousness is more difficult to trace than the growth of a hair. The consciousness conquers and eradicates. The burning of crossed bridges does not reveal the progressive sign-posts, but it leaves open the one possibility of assault. It is valuable not only to strive forward but also to destroy the rubbish behind one. Just now you perceive how the majority of people could have advanced, but they cling to age-old rubbish. Guard both My signs — the sign of Service and the sign of Community. One is a breaking away from the old, the other is evolution.
One may discover aspiration — do not close the door!
When you are writing books, see that each one is complementary and independent of the others. So too in action, see that each member individually can express the whole group.
185. What to consider a manifestation of work is a difficult question. We know that the answer is in the quality, and not in volume and quantity. But new people often do not see the quality, and for them the sign of external volume overshadows the substance. Because of light-mindedness they are occupied with blowing bubbles, and then' take the rainbow of decomposition" for the light of illumination. Even sufficiently experienced minds are busying themselves with mechanical calculations instead of confronting the substance. How to tell them that only quality will illumine and affirm them? Distinguish great works from corpses.
186. Every community is in need of defensive resources. We are not conquerors by force, but nevertheless We keep an account of Our enemies, and We are not deceived about their numbers. Rays, gases, and aerial out-posts will be the best external measures, but the "most effective resources will be in the products of psychic energy. By no means do We intend to present a spectacle of defenseless sheep! Real knowledge is ever ready to reply! We are not interested in frightening anyone, but We must issue the warning: "Beware, ignorant one!" Now is the time to whisper to all those who are united in community, "Be conscious of your psychic commands." There are and will be instances when in full consciousness you can take upon yourselves the responsibility for a decisive order. But intensity at that time all keensightedhess, in order to perceive clearly the circumference of your target. A most ugly consequence will issue from a misdirected order. On the way the most unexpected manifestations may be touched, and who can control the consequences of an ill-sped arrow? Long ago did I say to the enemy, "I will receive into My shield all thy arrows, but I shall send thee only one." In these words is Our entire Advice.
It is necessary for each community member to know the technique of battle, and particularly it is important to distinguish pseudo-members and to expel them beyond the wall. No length of beard, no counting of chains, no lameness, no assurances, no casual signs are of value as testimony. Only full consciousness, clear in its daily vigilance, sincere in sleep, can present the countenance of true longing. Often sleep is more sincere than wakefulness. Each sincerity has the right to be armed. And an unalterable command both engenders and smites.
187. How is it possible to feel oneself protected to the utmost? Only by establishing the closest bond with the Teacher. Only in active cooperation and in reverence is concealed the best possibility of passing through the dangerous spheres. The bond with the Teacher is a living penetration into the future.
There are earthly ancestors and cosmic ancestors; sometimes these concepts coincide, but because of imperfection they are often separated. Thus, there is a chain of earthly ancestors and also a rainbow of cosmic ancestors. It is not difficult to discern which manifestation will be the path of evolution.
Indeed, each Teacher has His own Guide, and the evaluation of thought ascends into the far-off worlds. Reverence of the Teacher and the constructiveness of striving to the far-off worlds are as a rainbow unified by the essence of light.
Learn to understand how lofty is the concept of the Teacher. Draw this line from horizon to horizon, from arrival to departure. Know how the Teaching of Light has been revealed to you, and remember the silvery thread of the bond. The bond with the Teacher is light as the eagle's wing, and the eagle's eye looks ahead. What else could you prefer, if your consciousness has been opened? The building of the community can help in gathering thoughts. Of course, not caravan donkeys but eagles have been indicated in the comparison.
The hand of the Teacher summons to the threshold of the community. And from the mountain We see where the wheel of necessity is flying.
188. He has been called a victim of misfortune who entered the community out of desperation. Suffering complete failure, a man has offered up his misfortune, and the wage of failure has been unhappiness. But indeed, he who brings forth failure regards himself as the greatest depositor: he has sacrificed, he also has renounced, he too has chosen, and he is waiting and presenting a bill.
We prefer the sacrifice of success. He who has much to renounce expects payment least of all. Thus, lay out the community following the land-marks of sacrifices.
189. The fisherman returns joyfully with his prize catch. Mankind was not made for misfortunes. Man is this same joyous fisherman with a multiform catch. True, the catch is different, but the joy is the same and inalienable — the joy of thought about the future. Neither fish nor birds nor animals know of the future. But man definitely knows the unavoidableness of a future. In this call of space is contained immense joy. He who is afraid of the future is still in an animal state, and the world feast is not yet for him.
To learn to enhance and to uplift thought about the future means to occupy a place in it which will grow together with the consciousness. He who does not await external aid knows the value of his own hammer. Whoever knows the path into the future can carry his catch without fear. Whereas, a part of humanity does not even see the thread into the future. Broken loose and swept about like autumn leaves, they raise the dust from alien bazaars. A cloud of dust will veil the gates of the community, and dusty thinking will turn all into rubbish.
When it is dark and threatening, then keep the consciousness upon the future. We call the future a flying carpet. Teach children to fly high. Replace the legend about the ark with one about the air-ship.
190. One may ask how to know a newcomer. Indeed not by words. Better take the old method of the East — by the eyes, the gait, and the voice. Eyes cannot deceive, and, though gait and voice can indeed conceal the truth through a particular skill, the combination of all three is unmistakable.
Can people naively think that they are able to conceal falsehood merely by arrogant words? Words are not worth a nod of the head. Flight reveals the species of birds. The bird of prey reveals itself from afar. The cry of the eagle does not resemble the nightingale's song.
What then to do, when some people insist that all Hindus look alike — that it is impossible to distinguish Chinese, Mongols, and Arabs, one from another! Is it possible to trust these people to distinguish the differences in eyes and walk? For them all people walk on two legs and all stare.
Lack of analysis can offend the most patient guide. Many cannot even determine the occupation of a person by peculiarities of his dwelling. The lack of observation is striking. People are unable to notice objects which threaten the crowns of their heads. They cannot enumerate ten objects about them. They cannot point out the simplest details of their surroundings. For them everything is nothing — nil, naught and nowhere. This is not even a degree of indifference, but is the stupidity of ignorance. Walk away from such bipeds!
One should develop observation in children from the earliest days. Indeed, the consciousness of children is alive from the first hour, but not for those to whom all Hindus look alike.
Power of observation, or rather keen-sightedness, is the beginning of the eagle eye, about which you have long known. To hear about keen-sightedness for some already means to foresee, and to foresee means to perceive the path of the world toward community.
191. Analysis, diagnosis, control, cooperation, prognosis, appear to be favorite subjects in the West. We also pronounce these terms. One might wonder wherein is the distinction. The distinction is great: for the West these themes constitute table-talk and, at best, stipulations which are observed by no one. In Our Community these terms are not uttered but are applied hourly in life.
Can the above-mentioned concepts be applied in city life? Just now We were speaking about the absence of observation power, without which diagnosis is impossible. We spoke about lack of patience, and this means analysis is impossible. Lack of courageous steadfastness excludes control. Falsehood and hypocrisy will not admit cooperation. Fear will be-cloud any prognosis. There remains to set the longest tables and to repeat in chorus half-understood words.
Better to leave to corrupt cities this privilege of apishness; quite opportunely have these townsfolk begun to graft on themselves monkey glands. Indeed, each one receives according to his merit. No one has told them about a more goalfitting means of restoring strength, which is to place the patient in a lengthy bath and subject him to an alternating current and a certain composition of mineral water, the treatment being accompanied by definite suggestion. Rational means will be disclosed when the community will take on a conscious character, and nothing will be borrowed from the monkeys.
When the banner of the community is unfurled as a realization of necessity, then life will become winged in each day's action. As long as it is thought that the community is an experiment, so long will the community be found in the alchemist's jar. Only a firm realization of historic necessity will bring the community into life.
Think, ponder sternly on the immutability of the community. The best joy emanates from austerity.
192. The development of the power of observation will permit due attention to surrounding conditions. Anyone will understand that if the walls of your room were covered with an arsenic substance, or with a preparation of sulphur, or of resin, or mercury, or musk, then such coverings would have an influence on the condition of the organism — this is a crude example. But now ask your biochemists and technologists what influence the material of dwellings has on the physical and psychic foundation. What is the difference between a house of brick and one of basalt, or between one of granite and one of marble, between an iron and a wooden one, between an oak and a pine one? To what kinds of organisms is an iron bed suitable and to what kinds a wooden one? Who needs a woolen carpet and who a wooden floor? About many conditions technology will be as uninformed as was the cave age. And yet, who would not agree that wood and minerals have an important medicinal significance? It means that essential analysis is at a standstill in the absence of observation. Investigation has gone along a channel of usualness, and for overzealous investigators somewhere a bonfire is already prepared. You may be sure that the spirit of the inquisition is still not very far away; the difference will be in the garb and in the means of eradicating new quests.
193. The Teacher Milarepa often conversed with animals. Near his retreat bees nested, ants built cities, parrots flew about, and a monkey was accustomed to perch himself in imitation of the Teacher. The Teacher said to the ants: "Tillers and builders, no one knows of you, yet you raise up lofty communities." He said to the bees: "You gather the honey of knowledge and of the best forms, let no one interrupt your sweet labor." He remarked to a parrot: "By your screeching I see that you are preparing yourself to be a judge or a preacher." And he admonished the mischievous monkey: "You have destroyed the ants structure and have stolen another's honey. Perhaps you have decided to become a usurper."
Who, if not the usurper, appropriates another's labor and casually wrecks structures under the heel? Many centuries have passed since the time of the Teacher Milarepa, but usurpers, with the psychology of monkeys, live as before. In the basis of such vegetative state lies a frightful irresponsibility. What then lies in the basis of irresponsibility? Precisely the very same ignorance and fear of the future. No punishment, no restriction will make amends for ignorance.
Large and small usurpers, it is needful for you to learn to recognize the curative power of the honey and of the ant's sweat. It would seem that this thought is old enough, yet certain joints of the human consciousness have become so rusty that scores of centuries could not turn them.
Over dessert you will talk about prognosis, but the stars seen through the window will attract less attention than a moth near the candle.
Destroy the worthless wherever it be concealed. Uncover ignorance under any mask whatever. The world is divided according to the quality of consciousness, and the degree of ignorance is the measuring rod. Indeed, you know that ignorance is not cured by leafing through books, but by the synthesis of containment.
194. Visiting your countries, I noticed that the word "control" is much feared there. Whereas, this concept is quite readily acceptable to Us. The hand which knows its work is not afraid to share it with a friend. This means that good-will and knowledge are needed, and it can easily be perceived that then psycho-mechanics could exercise control over any concealed action. Already it is possible to see through walls, already it is possible to record all sounds and thoughts. For concealment an unusual courage of consciousness is needed, and it is impossible to attain it without lengthy preparation. The attainment of equilibrium of conditions is possible only through raising the quality of labor. Then each one can apply self-control. Then each one can ask any outside controller to show personally what is better. The voluntary controller must himself know how to work more thoroughly. Therefore, it has been established with Us that every criticism must be based on better knowledge. This experience creates a convincingness which is spread tar and wide.
You yourselves know what missions mean. Authenticity creates power, authenticity does not fear. Following authenticity one may be assured as to timeliness of decision and amplitude of means.
Poor is the leader who puts into practice a plan only for a day or for a night. One cannot proceed with confidence thinking about the mediocrity of the leader. Security may be verified, for the Community does not fear control. The needed solution comes not by falling into darkness but in the smile of expectation, regardless of appearance.
In knowledge is the end of fear.
195. Write down about psychic infection. It is an old theme, yet up to now unapplied in life. As before, people fear physical infection even to excess, forgetting the main channel of all infections. Is it possible to keep on killing, cursing and raging without spatial stratifications resulting? All is precipitated solidly and heavily, creating above the site of an event a shroud similar to harmful gases. Can it be expected that the poisonous radiations of malignant energy will be dispersed? On the contrary, they will become condensed and will affect the prana. Never settle on bloody places.
New works must be on a new place.
196. Manifestations must be accepted in full reality. For materialists this condition is especially obligatory. But indeed, materialists more than others tint various manifestations with their own color, thus impeding the evolutionary process. We, as experienced Builders-realists, can see the harm of intolerance, based on the coarsest ignorance. Where then is reality when thinking is constrained? Instead of a thousand formulas only five are known! Affirmation becomes distortion if beforehand a stereotype of conventionalities has been forged. The smile of knowledge breaks open the flood-gate of deliberate obstruction. The builder cannot have fantasies about the ground under the building. Such an attitude is criminal, since the material point of view gives unlimited lawful possibilities.
Fetishism by its very nature is limited. But precisely matter manifests victory through understanding of freedom. Realists must be free, as otherwise the light of realism sinks into the darkness of fetishism. Penetration into the nature of spirit-matter as the radiant crown of humanity creates the jewel of life.
Hasten to discard worn-out things!
197. It will be asked, "What care are you taking of the established communities?" Let us consider the most recent. What can be said on its anniversary? No one has fallen back, yet the general results are weak. Cooperation by leaps and bounds hinders understanding of co-measurement. A particle of dust occupies more attention than a rock. Noticeable is conflict about precedence, therefore it is better to select a temporary chairman. The matter of the attraction of new ones is worse. Words about the Teaching are not found, and there is no defense against slander. One may open to those who knock, but the sword of the spirit must be kept always sharp. One may regret the lost coworkers. It is necessary to work more compactly, otherwise you will postpone dates. I would be glad to summon you nearer — provide the opportunity. My Hand is with you in each courageous action.
198. In the recent past, in accordance with the plan of My Friend, We often visited Western cities. At that time We encountered casual individuals who suspected something about Us. The most persistent inquiries were addressed to Us — about the methods of psycho-mechanics and demands for the most precise biochemical formulas. Besides, with the conceitedness of the West, these people were never concerned about their own consciousness and did not attempt to learn whether they possessed the corresponding physical qualities. It is sad to contemplate that this importunity was unaccompanied by any aspirations for social welfare. As the caveman with his club hastened to gather colored sea-shells as his exclusive property, so did these dwellers of stone palaces try to appropriate for themselves qualities foreign to them. Moreover, the caveman adorned himself with the shells, but the contemporary wiseacres degraded knowledge into after-dinner coffee talk — it was a spectacle of shameful lightmindedness.
In accordance with the plan of My Friend, We had enough patience to spend time even on correspondence. But it was impossible to attract anyone to constructive work.
He cares least of all about his consciousness who can place it in a little purse with copper coins. Is it possible to forget about the state of consciousness, when we come in contact with the subtlest energies? Indeed, We do not ignore the methods of Western science, but We place psychic energy as the basis.
After establishing the fact that psychic energy is necessary both for oneself and for experimental processes, We are primarily concerned about the creation of favorable conditions for the accumulation of this energy.
He who wishes to plow must have his plow. He who wishes to attain must understand his weapon. The people of the West have overshadowed their consciousness with the weightiest thoughts, but the joy of knowledge has become something almost indecent. Joy of realization must become the prerogative of the New World.
199. It may be asked: "How is it that in Your Community there is a place set aside for ancient structures and books? Why does not this antiquity have an influence on striving into the future?" There are two reasons: first, the propelled consciousness does not look back; second, structures were created and objects gathered together only for the advancement into the future. The stratification of striving into the future fills the whole existence of the Community. The entire attraction of objects is drowned in the current of aspiration. Pillars of basalt do not evoke past events, but by their stability they affirm their fitness for the future. The books do not carry thought back into the past but bear testimony just for the future. Transference of the whole consciousness into the future can affirm the existence of the Community. I shall not tire of repeating that community must be accepted by the consciousness. No external assurances serve to convince Us. Indispensable is that quality of the consciousness which sleeping or waking speaks the same; for any other solution is inadmissible even in the form of a jest.
The future of humanity, the future of the Cosmos — is there anything more sacred? Yet this exultant sacredness is not in a gilded enclosure but in the arrow of striving, in the point of the rhomb by which the completeness of the square has moved into the future.
Among aeroliths there is one metal which possesses the quality of condensing electrical energy. Possession of this metal gives the possibility of receiving strong splashes of sparks and even a flame. This saturated flame must light up the consciousness, being strengthened and growing brighter. Purchased fireworks of illumination are not needed. Better paucity of number than falsehood in the name of the future of humanity.
200. Community — cooperation — is the sole rational means of human living together. Solitude is the solution of the problem of life outside the community. All intermediate manifestations are different steps of compromise and are doomed to dissolution. People speak about an inherited theocratic power — the very construction is absurd. The words heritability and Theos are incompatible. And who will define the degree Theos? Only consciousness of cooperation — community — affirms the evolution of the biological process.
He who wishes to devote himself to the true community acts in agreement with the fundamentals of Existence.
The conscious community excludes two enemies of society: precisely inequality and heirdom. Any inequality leads to tyranny. Heirdom is a compromise, and it brings in corruption of the foundations. Needed is clarity of construction, a dislike of conventionalities, and faith in children as a symbol of the progress of mankind.
Only from within the community can we think about the future. Let us shift the consciousness to the betterment of all life, and the struggle for existence will be replaced by the conquest of possibilities. Thus think about the community. Improve your consciousness.
