LETTERS OF HELENA ROERICH 1929-1938 Volume 1 1954 Agni Yoga Society Inc. 319 West 107 Street New York 25, N.Y. Copyright 1954 Agni Yoga Society, Inc. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the publisher. Second Printing 1979 Printed in the United States of America FOREWORD The original edition of this book was published in Russian in 1939 by the Latvian Roerich Society in Riga. The publishers extend grateful acknowledgement to Mme. V. L. Dutko for her penetrative and sensitive work in rendering the first English translation. Without her devotion to this task the present publication would not have been possible. Agni Yoga Society is honored to present the Letters of Helena Roerich as an integral part of The Teaching of Living Ethics. PREFACE "When the images of great historic figures reach us from remote antiquity they are somehow assimilated in consciousness more easily. Even if they are veiled in myths and legends, they are very convincing. With the passage of time, everything seems possible. Writers and artists of all ages dedicate their best inspirations to these distant images. Whole generations are inspired by these heroes and heroines. No one envies them, and no one ponders at what cost the achievements were performed. What is preserved is purely the record of glorious human ascent. "It is not quite so with images from the recent past, to say nothing of the present time. Take, for instance, the biographical sketches of the great men of late. So much that is unessential, uncharacteristic, is mentioned regarding them! This only proves that the final essence of their lives has not yet been weighed and appreciated. The most doubtful, the least-proven details are invariably included; hence, the conclusions, if not altogether negative, tend to be depreciative. "Of course, with passing ages the scales will be balanced. The justice of the people will remove much that obscured the eyes of contemporaries. The judgment of the ages does not necessarily have to demean. Even in the short span of a hundred years we see that a great deal has attained its own balance. The lengthy pages on which the great souls were disparaged have not yet disintegrated. Our grandfathers witnessed how cruel and unjust was the attitude of people toward certain manifestations which, in less than a century, were to become the pride of their country and even of the whole world. And we ourselves are now witnesses of the same. "Beautiful images are passing before us of men and women who are the true creators of culture. And it would seem desirable to recognize them immediately rather than postpone unnecessarily. Why hide them in the archives and screen them from sight until they grow into a fantasy of the folk imagination? "Here, we encounter a remarkable contemporary figure, an outstanding Russian woman. Revealing unusual qualities even in childhood, she is seen as a little girl secretly carrying away a heavy volume of Dore's Bible. Bending from its burdensome weight, hiding it from the grown-ups, she has taken the treasure in order to study the illustrations, and eventually (when she teaches herself to read) to study the Testaments. "From her father's bookcase, at an unusually early age, she also took volumes on philosophy. Amidst the noisy, and it seems distracting, environment she was able to develop a profound contemplation of life, as if she had possessed it long ago. Honesty, justice, a constant search for Truth, and love for creative work-all this actually transformed the whole of life around the strong young spirit. And the whole house, the whole family, became directed by the same benevolent principles. All difficulties and dangers were endured under the same stoic leadership. The accumulated knowledge and striving to perfection brought a victorious solution of problems, and this led the surrounding people toward the luminous path. Ignorance, darkness, malice were always acutely sensed. Wherever it was possible, both physical and spiritual healing was performed. Life became full of true labor. From morning till night everything was performed for the benefit of humanity. The broadest correspondence was carried on; books were written; works of many volumes translated; and all this was done in an amazingly tireless spirit. Even the most difficult circumstances were conquered by true faith which became real straight-knowledge. Surely, wonderful accumulations are necessary for such knowledge! All young people should know of this tireless life as a vital example of austere achievements, benevolence, and constructiveness. When the difficulties of this inspirational work are known, it will be particularly helpful toward the realization that incessant advancement can be made. Often, one thinks that everything is hopeless, that good is defenseless against evil, so great are the delusions resulting from human despair. Therefore, real vital examples are indeed most important; and we may rejoice at the encouragement such an example as this provides for all beginners in constructive work."* So speaks the authentic witness! We, friends and admirers of the works of Elena Ivanovna**, can receive fiery flashes of her broad and wise contemplation from her letters, for is not her whole life imbued with fire? The Women's Movement, cosmological researches, the Living Ethics-all these can be found in her letters to friends. Elena Ivanovna was opposed to the publication of her letters, but, we, her numerous friends, have been exchanging copies of what were for us their most precious indications. Eventually we came to the conclusion that, considering the demand for these letters by an increasing number of friends and co-workers, it was necessary to publish them in book form. We applied to E.I. herself, and at last received her permission. Of course, the first volume consists only of a relatively small number of letters, or rather fragments of letters, which in most cases are just the answers to various questions of co-workers. The names of the co-workers and even their places of residence are not mentioned, as what is important is the subject dealt with. As to the correspondents, they themselves know whom the letters concern and on what occasions they were written. Through the gradual publication of these letters, the breadth of thought of this remarkable Russian woman will be revealed. In Russia as well as abroad during their world travels, she always gave herself in service both to her own country and to humanity. The Russians have contributed quite a number of remarkable women in various fields of life. One can think of the names of such heroines as Kovalevsky, Blavatsky, Dashkova, Volkonsky, Morozova and many others. From the remote past until now, they have served humanity with their unusual talents and knowledge. The activities of women have been recognized only recently, but already we can see the influence of woman in all spheres: art, literature, philosophy, medicine, education, industry, aviation-in short, wherever the new world is being built. Elena Ivanovna has always been hoping to publish a worthy book, a bibliographical work, dedicated to woman. Moreover, she has never had in view any estrangement from the world; on the contrary, she always thinks of the broadest, closest cooperation, which would forever remove the conventional limitations of ignorance. Being privileged to present these thoughts of a wonderful woman thinker, the publishers take great pleasure in giving to all seekers of truth and culture the possibility of becoming acquainted with the profoundly penetrative letters of Elena Ivanovna Roerich. PART I LETTERS TO AMERICA 1929-1932 1 1929 MY YOUNG FRIENDS: From far-off India, the country of beauty, of achievements of the spirit, and of great thought, I send to you who are gathered in the name of the great labor and structure of the future-greetings of the heart! I call you to self-perfection and unlimited attainment. The book of new discoveries and the light of daring is open before humanity, and you have already heard about the approach of the New Era. Every epoch has its Call, and the calling foundation of the New Era will be the power of thought. That is why we call you to understand the great significance of creative thought, and the first step in this direction will be the opening of consciousness, freedom from all prejudices and from all tendentiousness and forced concepts. Let us glance at the entire immensity of the night sky. In our thoughts let us fly over the innumerable worlds and the hidden depths of infinite space. Thought in its substance is infinite, and only our consciousness attempts to limit it. Therefore, without delay, let us start the next step-broadening of consciousness. The most ancient wisdom of India says: "Thought is the primary source of world creation." The Great Buddha pointed out the meaning of thought which builds our essence. He taught his pupils to broaden their consciousness. Lao Tze, Confucius, Christ-all Teachers of spirit and great thinkers taught the same thing. The Great Plato said: "Thoughts rule the world." And modern scientists, as for instance Professor Compton, have expressed the probability of an active, rational force in every phenomenon of nature, and of the influence of thought upon matter. He concludes with the following remarkable words: "Possibly the thoughts of men are the most important factors in the world." With such broad understanding let us become acquainted with the history of the development of thought. Putting aside all prejudices of place, time and nationality, we, like the bees, shall collect the precious honey of human creative thought! After placing into the foundation the powerful achievements of those great creators who molded our consciousness, let us begin the third step-the development of our own thought, our own creativeness; and from the new combinations we shall hew sparks of the fire of thought, this crown of the Universe. Let us remember that a thinking being is never lonely because thought is his greatest magnet and brings similar response from space. Therefore, if we want to receive a beautiful answer we should send into vibrating space our striving thoughts saturated with the pure fire of the heart; only the thought which is spiritualized by striving, nourished by the heart, can create and attract as a powerful magnet. Thought without the striving and flaming quality is sterile. Thus, let us long for knowledge, for broad thoughts, and in our striving we shall dare, as only daring thought molds new ways. You, my young friends, who have approached art and creation, you should be able to utilize your gifts as a condensation of your forces; for sound and color, thought and rhythm are the foundations of the Universe and of our existence. Sound and color, knowledge and creation are the chalice of Amrita, the Chalice of Immortality! Eternal, continuous creation of the universal Life surrounds us, and we, being part of this great creation, should create every moment of our life-create by thought, by word, by action. My young friends, fill up the treasury of your spirit. Absorb all the sounds, all the colors, all the rhythms from the fathomless source of space. These finest vibrations, consciously absorbed, will refine your receptivity and your thought. The refinement of receptivity will give you the possibility of penetrating into the Sanctuaries of Space, and will open the joyous path of achievement and continuous, endless ascent. My friends, labor with all the tension of your forces because only by reaching the limit of your tension do new possibilities come to you. The laws are alike in everything. We know that sublime energies are born of the greatest efforts. Therefore, only increased activity and intensified strength will bring the achievement of beauty. And I beg you, do not fear difficulties. Display readiness to meet all obstacles, for each obstacle strengthens you and leads you to the future victory. Try to love the difficulties, and say, "Blessed be the obstacles, through them we grow." Courageously, inspired by striving, realizing the majesty of the endless perfecting of creative life, strive toward the calling Infinity-infinity of lives, infinity of achievements, infinity of knowledge, infinity of construction, infinity of beauty! My young friends, hearken to the Call of Creative Infinity! 2 1 March 1929 The approaching great epoch is closely connected with the ascendancy of woman. As in the best days of humanity, the future epoch will again offer woman her rightful place alongside her eternal fellow traveler and co-worker, man. You must remember that the grandeur of the Cosmos is built by the dual Origin. Is it possible, therefore, to belittle one Element of It? All the present and coming miseries and the cosmic cataclysms to a great degree result from the subjugation and abasement of woman. The dreadful decline of morality, the diseases and degeneration of some nations are also the results of the slavish dependence of woman. Woman is deprived of the greatest human privilege-complete participation in creative thought and constructive work. She is deprived not only of equal rights but, in many countries, of equal education with man. She is not allowed to express her abilities in the building of social and government life, of which, by Cosmic Law and Right, she is a full-fledged member. But a woman slave can give to the world slaves only. The proverb "great mother, great son" has a cosmic, scientific foundation. As sons mostly take after their mothers, and daughters after fathers, great is cosmic justice! By humiliating woman, man humiliates himself! This explains today the paucity of man's genius. Could the terrors and crimes of today be possible if both Origins had been balanced? In the hands of woman lies the salvation of humanity and of our planet. Woman must realize her significance, the great mission of the Mother of the World; she should be prepared to take responsibility for the destiny of humanity. Mother, the life-giver, has every right to direct the destiny of her children. The voice of woman, the mother, should be heard amongst the leaders of humanity. The mother suggests the first conscious thoughts to her child. She gives direction and quality to all his aspirations and abilities. But the mother who possesses no thought of culture can suggest only the lower expressions of human nature. The woman who strives to knowledge and beauty, who realizes her lofty responsibility, will greatly uplift the whole level of life. There will be no place for disgusting vices which lead to the degeneration and destruction of whole countries. But in her striving toward education, woman must remember that all educational systems are only the means for the development of a higher knowledge and culture. The true culture of thought is developed by the culture of spirit and heart. Only such a combination gives that great synthesis without which it is impossible to realize the real grandeur, diversity, and complexity of human life in its cosmic evolution. Therefore, while striving to knowledge, may woman remember the Source of Light and the Leaders of Spirit-those great Minds who, verily, created the consciousness of humanity. In approaching this Source, this leading Principle of Synthesis, humanity will find the way to real evolution. And woman is the one who should know and proclaim this leading Principle because from the very beginning she was chosen to link the two worlds, visible and invisible. Woman possesses the power of the sacred life energy. The coming epoch brings knowledge about this great omnipresent energy, which is manifested in all immortal creations of human genius. Western woman is awake and realizes her powers. Her cultural contributions are already evident. However, the majority of Western women-as with all beginners-start with imitation; whereas, it is in original self-expression that real beauty and harmony are found. Would we like to see man losing the beauty of manhood? The same is true about a man who has a sense of beauty. He certainly does not wish to see a woman imitating his habits and competing with his vices. Imitation always starts with the easiest. But we hope that this first step will soon be outlived and that woman will deepen her knowledge of Mother-Nature and will find true, original ways of self-expression. The Cosmos manifests unity of law, but there is no repetition in its variety. Why then does humanity alone strive toward uniformity in everything, while at the same time it violates the fundamental unity of law? Uniformity of perception, uniformity of life, and especially uniformity of thought is cherished by man. It is forgotten that uniformity of expression leads toward stagnation and death. Life and its power are in perpetual change of form. It is necessary to apply this life-giving principle in all expressions of our life. Let us collect the most beautiful, heroic images of all times and countries, and with creative imagination let us apply their achievements in our life, taking into consideration the peculiarities of our epoch. Only such imitation will give the correct foundation for further progress. I shall finish my address to woman with a page from The Teaching of Life: "When nations started disunity, the result was self-destruction. And only a return to balance can stop this self-destruction. Humanity does not apply the principles of creativeness in right proportion and thus violates the foundations of Being. When by the law of the Cosmic Magnet the lower forms are subordinated to the higher, this concerns only the energies which should be transmuted. But when the Origins are called to create and give life, it is impossible to remove one of the Origins without self-destruction. Therefore, humanity will start its real evolution only when both Origins are affirmed in life. All principles which do not include the understanding of the dual Origin can only increase the lack of balance. Humanity must understand the law of the Cosmic Magnet. Much can be done for evolution by the realization of the grandeur of the dual Origin which is the basis of Life." Even this simple truth still does not find its place in the consciousness of man! Our scientists-biologists, chemists, physicists-should know the truth about the dual Element, or polarity, but they are silent. And such truth, in its most sacred and vital application, is scorned, and the rights of the strong selfishly dominate. The trouble is that the mind of man is disconnected from it source-the Cosmic Mind. Being part of the Cosmos, the human being yet does not see his solidarity, his unity with the Cosmos. And his observations of the manifestations of nature do not suggest to him any analogies. However, only in observations and comparisons with human nature is it possible to find the keys to all the mysteries of life, and therefore the solution to many problems of everyday life. People, like parrots, love to repeat the favorite ancient formula "Macrocosm is microcosm"! Much is said, much is repeated without the proper attention to its meaning! The enforced dogmas, human laws, and the standard of life have caused humanity to neglect the process of thinking; and the human mind, with rare exceptions, has become an automaton. Everybody is preaching various freedoms, but the most opposite schools of thought agree in one thing-they all are afraid of freedom of thought! Therefore, woman must defend not only her own rights but the right of free thought for the whole of humanity! Through the development of thinking, our abilities will expand. Let us think with the broadest, the purest thoughts. It is said: "The kingdom is not made up of royalties or of subjects, but is created by cosmic ideas. Let us create our own cities, our countries, our planets! But let such thought be created by the heart, as only thought born of the heart is vital. The heart is the greatest Cosmic Magnet. All cosmic energies are attracted to the heart, and the heart assimilates them. The heart manifests in life all aspirations. The fire of space is attracted to the heart and the whole cosmic process lies in this principle. Therefore, the Cosmos exists in the attraction of the heart. Only the energies which are based on the attraction of the heart are vital. Thus, infinitely, the chain of life is forged by the heart." Have you listened to your heart? Does it beat in rhythm with the Perfect Heart which embraces all of you? Thus, I shall finish with the words about the heart. Let woman affirm this great symbol, which can transfigure the whole of life. Let her strive to transmute the spiritual life of mankind. The mother, the life-give, the life-protector-let her become also the Mother, the Leader, the All-Giver, the All-Receiver. 3 19 October 1929 Today, I write using the words of the Great Teacher about the Sacrament of Hierarchy. Truly, this is a sacrament because it is based upon the immutable and exact law of the Cosmic Magnet which leads all beings to perfection. It is necessary to realize the Hierarchy clearly, precisely, and broadly as the only way toward progress. We must realize the whole chain of Hierarchy, holding strongly to our nearest link. Woe to the one who tries to skip this link and thus loses his connection. It is impossible to catch up again, as the rhythm of the movement of the whole chain will carry away the saving link. Grave indeed is this error! How much time will be lost in trying to recover the vibrating link which responds to the call. But the new link will be different in sequence and tension because the previous one has been carried away in the rhythmic striving of the whole Hierarchical chain. "Subordination of the lower to the higher represents the foundation of the whole Cosmos. Subordination of the lower to the higher will bring purification. But humanity subordinates to the lower that which should lead. When the higher leads, the transmutation of the lower occurs. This transmutation creates a valuable sequence which grows infinitely. By transmutation we mean the subordination of the lower to the higher, and we want to confirm the consciousness of mankind in the process of infinite progress." Therefore, let us not delay the transmutation of our consciousness. Let us remember the leading Hierarch, and let us honor the nearest, the earthly Guru. "The earthly Guru is given for reverence, for progress, for unity, for construction." By neglecting the Guru, by depreciating the Guru, one neglects and demeans the Great Teacher who confirmed the Guru because the Guru is the representative of the Great Teacher. Let us remember how the Lords of Light hold sacred the Sacrament of Hierarchy. The Hierarch carries the Synthesis of the Chalice and, therefore, He holds both obedience and command. The one who does not know the art of obeying will not attain the art of commanding. Beautiful are these two concepts. Conscious subordination approaches command. After the firm realization of Hierarchy, we shall with all our heart begin a deeper understanding of the Teaching of Life. It hurts the heart to feel how little understood are those treasures which the Teacher bestows so generously. On these treasures will be founded the new race. Ponder over the majesty of what is given! I feel frightened when I think of the responsibility we take upon ourselves when we accept these treasures, knowing that among us are those who still fail to realize all their value for humanity. And what is given for distribution as the most essential food for starving souls, that which should lie in the foundation of the new evolution, remains with them without appreciation. Do feel the call of my spirit! Reread as often as possible your treasures; collect all the crumbs, and with all your being merge with them. They will give you such broad and clear understanding of the most complicated problems of existence. The only way will be by absorbing it, and the austere joy of infinite progress will fill your hearts. My heart longs to inspire you with the joy of majesty and beauty which the Teaching of Life opens to you. New souls are coming and will multiply. We must be able to hold them. It is necessary to give to everyone according to his mentality. Nothing attracts people so much as the necessary word which liberates their minds and gives them new possibilities. All beings are drawn toward Light. This is the first law of the Cosmos. The Teaching and the ability to give it in full commensurability is the magnet which attracts people and all possibilities. It is that armor which can withstand all attacks, that source which brings endless joy. But it should be accepted by the heart and not by the head alone. Love each other, respect each other, but let the inner life of each one of you be his own Holy of Holies. You are united by the Teacher, the Teaching, and by actions; but you are not the judges of each other. The judge can easily become the judged one in the eyes of the Teacher. Their measures are not our earthly measurements. This we must always remember. And a stone thrown at one's brother will weigh one down like a heavy burden. After accepting the Hierarchy, absorb the Teaching; for the only indestructible joy is the joy of that broadening of our consciousness which forces us into the higher Sacrament of Being, where all our most sacred, most holy strivings find their materialization, as the Higher Reality is above all human imagination. 4 13 October 1929 Lately, I have been thinking a great deal about the members of your group. Once more, I am convinced that no one can be replaced and that everyone is needed. And how simple it is, in such circumstances, to achieve the complete harmony which guarantees victory in all directions. But my heart feels that there is something that prevents this unity. What is the remedy? Of course the only solution is comprehension of the Teacher and the Teaching by the heart and not by the head alone. Therefore, we must pay attention to the development of our heart, that amazing organ which includes in itself, in its numerous centers, all creativeness and psychic life. Without development of the centers of the heart we are sterile; there is no creation of psychic life; there is no life in the higher spheres; and the crown of the Arhat is unapproachable. Only with our heart are we able to approach the consciousness of the Arhat, of the Teacher, as his consciousness is in the heart. Humanity has an obscure understanding of the Arhat, but without this understanding it is impossible to advance. In the book, Hierarchy, it is said: "It is customary to think of an Arhat as a dweller of the clouds. The records of the drift of thought are dreadful and grotesque. Verily, We Brothers of Humanity do not recognize Ourselves in the concept of humanity. The images of Us are so fantastic! We deem that if people applied their fantasies precisely conversely Our Images would assume true form . . . . Everything takes on a new scale. Everything becomes improbable. Everything becomes uncorrelated to reality. On the way to the higher worlds, let us say, 'an Arhat is without limits in all manifestations.' . . . an Arhat proceeds carrying the power of the Cosmic Magnet in his heart!" But let us see how this Image is expressed by the Higher Consciousness. "The heart of an Arhat is like the heart of Cosmos. The heart of an Arhat is like the fire of the Sun. Eternity and the motion of Cosmos fill the heart of the Arhat. Maitreya is coming, radiant with all fires. His Heart flames with compassion for destitute humanity. His Heart flames with the affirmation of the new Covenants. "Among people there exists the concept of benumbed Arhats, and poor yogis feed the imaginations of men with their own images. But when humanity realizes that the Arhat is the highest manifestation of Materia Lucida, it will be understood that there is no difference between Materia Lucida, which emits Light, and that matter of love enveloping all with Light. Humanity invests the Arhat with an austere image, but Materia Lucida radiates love . . . . When will it be possible to enlighten man with Our Image? "The mind with difficulty realizes the purity of the higher spheres. To him who is aware of the path to Us, let us say, 'Walk by the path of love. Walk by the path of labor. Walk by the path of the shield of faith!' To him who has found Our Image in his heart, We shall say, 'Walk by the way of the heart, and the Chalice will affirm the path!' To him who thinks he has attained the path through conceit, We shall say, 'Go and learn from the spirit who knows consummation.' Conceit stops all progress. "All creation is contained in the call of the heart. The entire cosmic expanse is permeated with a call, and the heart of Cosmos and the heart of an Arhat are permeated with the call. The call and the answer comprise a combination of cosmic fires . . . . The Heart of Our Brotherhood safeguards for humanity the path toward the General Good." * ------- Each one must find the key to the Teaching in his own heart. The understanding of the Teaching of Life should inaugurate the creativeness of the spirit. The Image of the Teacher can give an enlightened path toward cosmic space. Thus, when we accept within our hearts the chosen Image, do not our hearts become aflame with love toward all beings? The creative Materia Lucida serves as embodiment for the high spirit, but this energy is attracted through love. The whole Cosmos is upheld by love. Love is the greatest magnet. My love for all of you, and my eagerness about your progress, tells my heart to point out the necessity for improvement . . . . Now one general suggestion. In applying this suggestion, you must remember the ordainment of the Teacher: "Severity to yourself and an open heart for your brother. Only the benevolent eye can create." The Teacher always advises to apply the Teaching first of all to your own self; otherwise you will remain on the same step. "It is sad when the spirit, after making its life circle, returns to the same point. It is sad when the spirit sets for itself the same limits, and its brood, as faithful fellow travelers, await at the gates." Above all, develop the sense of justice and co-measurement. Both these qualities are measured by the heart. Therefore, begin to think about the heart so that you can remember about it and then hearken to its call. The magnet of the heart grows with sincerity and striving. There is nothing abstract in this because all the finest cosmic energies pass through the heart-all the finest energies, the most powerful and creative ones. But in order to attract these creative energies one must kindle one's own fires. Thus, build up all your fires! But do not mistake sentimentality, that weeping kindness, for the severe, wise manifestation of the heart. Remember what the Teaching says about compassion and pity. Love each other, take care of each other, and give joy to each other. 5 11 February 1929 Each of you is writing about his striving toward unity. What then prevents it, if you fully realize this necessity? I shall answer: lack of spiritual discipline, lack of ability to apply the Teaching, first of all, to your own self. When one needs to show tolerance, the old habit of uncontrollable antagonism, or not-outlived atavism, rises in all its strength, and then all the best intentions are immediately forgotten. Of course, it is difficult to eradicate all the bad habits at once. Therefore, let us start to rooting out with the most urgent-the driving away of intolerance. Let us write with fiery letters in our consciousness this testament of the Teaching, and let us remember it beginning and ending the day, at work and at rest. Let us remember how the Lord Buddha taught his pupils, how He demanded that they should first of all learn how to control their temper. Only after the bridle of spirit restrained all the feelings of the pupil, only then did the Blessed One lift a little the veil of the sacred Teaching. The path of the Teaching is the same now as it was then. For coming closer and for the highest confidence, the very same foundations are necessary: reverence for the Hierarchy and the discipline of spirit. By applying the gifts of indications and possibilities bestowed by the Generous Hand of the Teacher, we can build a great deal, elevating ourselves in the eyes of the world and in this life, completing the good karma by obedience to the guiding indications. But what will be put into our real treasury if we do not transmute our inner motives and feelings into the highest strivings? In spite of all our work in the direction pointed out by the Great Teacher, the Tower will remain inaccessible. All this sounds so complicated and difficult; and, at the same time, all is so easy and simple. If the heart burns with love and enthusiasm for the Teacher and for the beauty and breadth of the Teaching of Life, these sparks could so easily be fanned into the flame of unquenchable striving which carries us above all and everything. Strive, my friends! Is it so difficult if you have before you the Image of Beauty? Is it not the highest joy to bring every bit of yourself to the service of the General Good? The achievements are so beautiful, and there are no limits to them! But all the possibility, all the joy of it, is only in ourselves. No one can take more than he can contain-otherwise destruction will follow. The laws of Cosmos are exact and immutable. The highest joy for one may cause intense anguish in another, if assimilation is not there. Do understand this! The Rays sent to us by the Teacher in the greatest joy of his Spirit will call forth our anguish and may even ruin our organism if we are not prepared to receive them. Do understand this, my dear ones, and give access to the Rays of the Great Teacher. Each ray in Cosmos can be either creative or destructive. It all depends on correlation and assimilation, as "Man, being part of the Cosmos, is subject to all its laws." Let me quote from the book, Infinity: "The cosmic creation uses all vital impulses, tensing the levers of life. Of all the impulses the most powerful one is unity, which contains all the manifestations of life and by which are created the combinations of life. Why then not apply in life this principle? When unity struggles with differentiation, then comes a strong explosion and the fragments from the explosion are often blown far away and these particles lose their mutually attracting power. Thus, by rejecting the forces with which he is tied by karma, man causes a powerful explosion. The law can create only by unification. The element of attraction marks out the path for all the propelled energies. The Brothers of Humanity mark out the path for everything confirmed by evolution. So the force of attraction is meant to be the law of Existence. This cosmic power of unification confirms the power of Cosmic Mind." ------- Again let me quote: "Let us consider the revolt of a pupil. When the pupil hides his revolt against the Giving Hand of the Teacher, it means he is hiding a handful of stones. We shall remind such a pupil that the anger will be turned back upon him. Let the pupil who is counting his offerings turn toward the Giving Hand-great will be his deficiency! The pupil who considers himself more important than the Guru breaks off connection with the Teacher. In enumerating his offerings the pupil is already rewarded. It is unworthy to affirmone's own importance. From his light-minded remarks one may assume that his listing is incomplete. If these debts are not out-lived, the journey will be long. Self-conceit is a plague! One can deplore one's own deficiency, but the revolt against the Giving Hand is similar to an arrow thrown against the Shield. The pillars of the Teaching uphold the actions! Thus let us remember." Rightly is it said about the Hierarchy: "Of course the spiral of life is built only by this principle. The creativeness of the Teacher is also manifested in eternal motion. Therefore, the saturation of a pupil must proceed through the creativeness of the Teacher. The pupil who is counting his achievements throws himself outside the boundaries of Truth. Thus, I shall say that the Hierarchy is the only Shield. Therefore, the pupil who considers his soft chair higher than the throne of his Guru, verily, must remember the Giving Hand. I grieve when the self-assertive pupil acts arrogantly. We consider arrogance against the Guru as the height of self-conceit. Thus let the pupil remember in all his steps." Someone is wondering, "Are not the results counted first of all?" To this I shall answer, "Could this someone count them already?" The counting may not come up to expectations. Carry the Treasures entrusted to you by the enlightened spirit and sow the seeds of spiritual creativeness, fully striving and realizing the significance of the great Gift. The result depends upon striving, which brings spiritual creativeness. Someone is exasperated at the severity of the foregoing. But, may I ask, is it possible that this someone still remains on the first step of the call when so many pleasing things are given? Are we still at the stage of childhood when the salutary but bitter medicine is offered in chocolate-coated pills? Courage and patience must be found for throwing away the old shell to be reborn in joyful, luminous spirit. All of us have experienced the plungings of spirit. It is almost unavoidable, but it should be carefully watched because it is dangerous if the last plunge is deeper than the previous one. To rise again will be difficult, and much will be lost. Let us hearken to the voice of our heart. Let the heart whisper what great, loving Hearts live in the Stronghold of Light, and how the inaccessibility is changed into the strongest magnet for the striving heart. Nothing can stop this attraction if the spirit has transmuted its inner fires. You are all so dear to me, and I would like so much to have all of you around me, to whisper a gentle cheering word and, above all, to grow with all of you in the joy of understanding the infinite Teaching. Often your calls reach me. I feel it is not easy for you, but so much bigger will be the victory. My heart often talks and calls, as the great labor is ahead of us. Let us make it easier by applying the ordainments of the Teaching. I know your firmness and devotion, but everything can be refined, and in this is the joy of our existence. To the strong spirit the difficult time shows the shortest way. Let us welcome all the difficulties. The joy is destined, but it is necessary to withstand the attacks of the dark forces. We shall remember that "will and energy are the rulers of karma." Let us apply our will power to the transmutation of our fires. Let us attract the pure fire of space. All joy will come with pure fire. Let us remember that the essence of the pure intense fire contains the quality of unification. Therefore, where unification is not manifested, there is no pure fire. But only the pure fire leads to the Tower. I am sending all my love and support in this difficult time of the struggles of the spirit. You are surrounded by constant care. Do not doubt it. Every pupil is dear to the Teacher. Every movement of your heart echoes to the Great Heart. Not always can the projected rays reach our physical consciousness; but every minute they dispel and annihilate so many hostile sparks around you. Help these invaluable messages by your striving and by your conscious, solicitous attitude toward them. They are sent by the Perfect Heart and the Perfect Mind. ------- Are you convinced of the complete insolvency and dubiousness of the manifestations of the "spiritual order" of the majority of mediums? Each one sees only in his own sphere, no more and no less. Are you going to look for knowledge from a person only because he knows the alphabet? Look for the accumulations of the Chalice or for the great Synthesis. You have the Highest. Do not overload your aura by contacting the imperfect spheres. 6 17 December 1929 I quote to you a page from the book, Infinity. This page, with its close analogy between the seven cosmic and human manifestations, will help you once more to ponder over the seriousness of events. "Only in tension, only when all the strings are vibrating, can the cosmic task be realized. Only when the task assumes the tensive form may the predestined take place. When the foundations of Cosmos support the firmament by their attraction, the firmament can withstand. But when the foundations impede the mutual attraction, the dome is subject to unbalanced tremors; thus, the foundations can either affirm or destroy the work. The foundations can always unite the most diverse energies. Cosmos directs its energies according to polarity. Negative and positive give the manifestation of combinations." Think over the depth of the above-mentioned, and do not impede your mutual attractions; do not evoke the shaking of the foundations. How can you estimate the results of tremors? In a partial explosion, a new foundation can be carefully built up, but often a single explosion, by the force of detonation, strikes the nearest hearths. Everywhere is the great law of analogy and similarity. Also, you should remember to ". . . avoid turning useful forces into a jar of scorpions." The possibility was foreseen a long time ago and warning was sent. Let us learn how to apply the indications. Let us be imbued with the seriousness of the present time. Each light-mindedness is on the borderland of crime. When we shall replace the limiting concept of "I" with the powerful, creative and joyous "we," all the possibilities and wealth of the spirit will blossom immeasurably; our power will be increased exceedingly. People are afraid of the concept "we." "I" can always be checked, while "we" is unknown and therefore threatening. The great time predicted long ago has come. Do you not feel it in all the tension of cosmic and human explosions? All the crust of the earth is aquiver, and a great change is approaching. This time it is not the comparatively harmless tail of a comet but our own emanations which, by their discord with the approaching higher fiery energies, may evoke-or rather will evoke-an unexpected change. It is good during such perturbations to be on the solid indicated rock, under the Umbrella of Dukkar. Our tasks will all have room under this cover! One more indication: "When you create a new step, when Uranus is collecting the sixth race, then it is necessary to be imbued with the affirmed great time, and all the interfering worries should be discarded." We must welcome all the dear ones, close in spirit; but all the destroying ones, those who bring division, must be either driven away or put in their places. We labor and create not for self-aggrandizement, not for individual personalities, but for the great General Good. And so, remember the unprecedented, beautiful and threatening time. Not one minute should be lost! Do strengthen unity with all your forces of the spirit, and commit to strictest ostracism the petty concept of "I." I send you all the strings of my heart; let each one of you find a resounding one. 7 11 September 1929 People will come to you with questions and indications about various psychic and mediumistic phenomena, considering them as manifestations of Agni Yoga. Therefore, I shall try to clarify this difference by quoting from the talks and books of the Teaching: "The spirit of Agni Yoga links us with the higher spheres and connects us with the currents of the Cosmic Magnet. The quality of fire is confirmed by the tension of the magnet. The magnet of the spirit determines that step which can be manifested. The same principle guides the kindling of the centers. "The spirit whose consciousness is on the lower planes cannot ignite the fires of the higher centers. Only the highest attracts the highest; therefore, where there is only physical striving there will be a corresponding receptivity and result. In the approaching epoch of Agni Yoga, it is necessary to know the principle of forcibly sent messages. In nature there is also direct accordance which has its limits. Only the finest can assimilate the finest, and this is the principle of the magnet. Just as the principle of the fine energies is characteristic of the highest Agni Yogi, the physical receptivity determines corresponding manifestations. Everything that is forced, everything that is ostentatiously crude, everything that is physically manifested is inferior to the subtle principle. "An Agni Yogi possesses the highest balance; the self-denying creativeness of his spirit leads to the balance of universal correlation, and thereupon the imbalance and disharmony of the centers ends in equilibrium. The Teaching refers often to these subtle differences. Therefore, in order to progress to the next degree, it is important to understand the imbalance of the lower manifestations and the beauty of the highest harmony. The nature of an Agni Yogi is so high that comparison with any mediumistic manifestation will be like a muddy drop of water in a fiery chalice. Therefore, I shall say that the understanding of the higher fires will bring one to the pure fiery heights. The Agni Yogi is the collector of a new race. He works in the higher spheres, gathering the spirits of a new race. The manifestation of the Agni Yogi's fire has its purpose on this Earth, just as in the higher spheres. Therefore, the Agni Yogi is the connecting link between the worlds. "The exact differences in human instruments given for different aims and confirmed by the motive power of evolution should be assimilated by the consciousness of people. When we speak about the transmutation of the fires, the confirmation of the most tensive fire of the Cosmic Magnet should be accepted. When humanity understands all the creative power of the spirit of an Agni Yogi, only then can it be said that all his centers are vibrating, responding to cosmic events. The human instrument which is used for the simple visual impress could not possibly be compared with the manifestation which reflects every breath of Cosmos. Therefore, let all those who are striving toward Agni Yoga find the highest understanding of the opened centers. "The medium, truly, has no opened centers, and the psychic eye is also not in contact with the higher worlds. Humanity has a false idea about the power of a medium, and often We are distressed seeing how people are deluded by psychic manifestations. Physical materializations attract as a magnet." Thus, if it may be so expressed, it is usually the lowest centers of the medium that act by their primitive tension. Often it is a forced phenomenon, which does not lead to the opening of the centers but merely toward their temporary irritation. But the fires of the Agni Yogi are due to the kindling of the highest centers, which really are opened. Strictly speaking, there are no lower centers, and the high Agni Yogi has his "lower" centers transmuted by the finest fires. But this transmutation takes place after the kindling of the highest centers, and then all the "lower" centers are subordinated to the solar plexus. We must also remember that the gradation of these fires, or rather their quality, is infinitely perfected, just as everything else in the Cosmos. But one principle is beyond doubt in determining the Agni Yogi-it is the principle of synthesis. To kindle the fires without the Synthesis of the Chalice is impossible. By this principle you can already determine the quality of the fires. So you have the main indication by which you can distinguish the manifestations of the ignition of the centers from the lower psychic manifestations. "An Agni Yogi is the carrier of the Synthesis of the Chalice-by this indication you can judge." Therefore, fill your chalices with the realization of beauty, with the true knowledge of the wisdom of the Teaching of Life, and with the assimilation of it in your heart, and remember that the heart is a great magnet which attracts all knowledge, all possibilities, and all achievements. You should remember also that there is nothing forced in the manifestations of an Agni Yogi, as the Agni Yogi is his own laboratory. He, himself, by the force of his spirit, transforms his fires. The Teacher gives the Indications of the Teaching for broadening the consciousness, but the pupil himself must apply it. The Teacher watches over the process of igniting by covering the centers with layers of soma when the ignition threatens to become a conflagration. But without the participation of the spirit of the pupil no transmutation is possible. Of course, you should be careful in your answers, and particularly in the definitions given to the questioners because it is always necessary to remember the principle given by the Teacher: "The answer must be as the ray of a physician, not as the nail of a coffin." It is necessary "not to interfere," taking into consideration the level of people's consciousness. By carefully broadening it, it is possible to achieve the true understanding; but often this is a very long process, and then it is necessary to show the same kind of patience as the Great Teacher shows toward us. In the beginning, everyone needs encouragement and recognition of his abilities. It is easy to scare away and much more difficult to hold, but the Great Teacher instructs us to retain the newcomers. Moreover, sometimes a spirit with great accumulations may receive a mediumistic structure of the organism for some definite purpose, and then, through the development of a strong will, with the assistance of the Great Teacher, he can conquer the unconscious manifestations and subject them to his will. But it is not easy. ------- We are experiencing a difficult time, but we shall recall it with joy, as only in difficult action can strength be developed. The technique of a musician also develops only through constant exercises after which all the fingers ache. 8 15 January 1930 Sometimes I feel so much like being with you physically, so that I might share the joy of your creative tension. You know already that the attraction of possibilities is inevitable when all the forces are strained. The law is one in the whole Cosmos. And we have already learned to love the obstacles, and we know that "the obstacles which produce weakness of spirit will produce failure, while the obstacles which call forth all the fire of spirit to battle act like a creative element." The ancient wisdom says: "Welcome the day of battle; do not turn away from obstacles." When there is deviation there is only detention, not salvation. The one who is not afraid to become a participant of eternal and infinite motion, truly, can accept the part of a fighter. The readiness, the undeferred rhythm will rush him into the radiance of Cosmos. Notice: "Fear and hesitation are as dams to the spirit." We must become accustomed to the constant battle and try to love it. Each atom of Cosmos is fighting! After one victory is achieved, we must be ready for the next still greater one, for in proportion to the growth of our consciousness our actions also grow, and the battle grows wider and becomes more responsible. In the whole of Cosmos the endless battle is taking place, and all of us, visibly and invisibly, are involved in it. It is time to realize this because by realizing, by strengthening our spirit, we shall become the real victors. Directed by the High Wisdom, which indicates to us the right direction, we shall cross over all abysses! And without being dazzled by the vision, joyously and luminously we may look into the future. Where are other similarly fortunate ones who can say this? Think of the advantage this knowledge gives us! What an assurance it gives to all our actions and decisions! Is it not the greatest happiness to be able to move ahead to the indicated goal, fully realizing the events and knowing that our destiny is to achieve a maximum broadening of our consciousness for the best service to the Common Good? The threatening time is very near. Do not the heat-lightnings already flash out, and are not the ominous messengers of the awakened subterranean fire breaking through? And we who know about it must urgently transmute our inner fires in order to assimilate the approaching fiery storm, as only this will give us stability in the battle, will bring us near the Hierarchy of Light, and will help to fill the chalice. Thus, let us transmute all our energies. We should start from the most stubborn energy, which is egoism (that furious dragon of selfishness with its long tail); self-conceit; love of power; self-love; touchiness; irritability; fear; doubt and other similar decorations. And we should replace them with the wings of affirmed unity; complete solidarity with all the co-workers; acknowledgment of Hierarchy; joyous strengthening of the given tasks; tolerance and gratitude for the right directions. We should conclude with-trust to the very end. All this transmutation is so simplified when hearts burn with devotion and love to the One who calls to construction and who points out the way to the Tower. Let everyone crucify himself. Let him severely judge himself and be most considerate to all co-workers. It is necessary to crucify only oneself! We shall grow immeasurably by practising this severity upon ourselves. If someone has not finished something that was entrusted to him, do not blame him, but if possible finish it yourself. And I do beg of you, do not criticize each other. From continuous repetitions of condemnations, calluses will appear on the brain, and then how can one achieve the broadening of consciousness? Every spare moment must be utilized for progressive action, for the enrichment of the treasury, for the assimilation of the Teaching, which is still so little understood and applied. Every line evokes so many questions, comparisons, and requires immediate application in everyday life. And what is applied? The Teacher wants to see us united, wants to look at us as one heart, one spirit, one organism. If one part of the organism is ill, do not the healthy parts fulfil their work, giving the sick organs an opportunity to recover? You must act similarly. It is said, "We offer the best armor; therefore, if they do not wish to substitute the old habits for shining armor the approach to the Tower is closed! Yes, yes, yes! It is necessary to realize the threatening time and not to continue with old habits." It hurts me to write this, but I feel that it is timely, otherwise something irremediable may happen. Superficially, things may appear as they were, but what is not seen and cannot be replaced will depart. The sorrow of the Teacher is so evident, and my spirit knows and sees the sculpture of the spirit of the co-workers. Who will be the first to emerge from this very painful battle? But remember-there is no other way. If the spirit be too slow in awakening, will it not be terrible to wake up in front of closed doors? In the spiritual world as in the subtle one, the laws are still more immutable; the limits of relationship are immeasurably finer than on the physical plane because the great selection takes place there. Take all the above-said courageously; courageously crucify yourself, remembering the pressing time. In addition, I shall quote a page from Infinity: "In the cosmic creation the energies are combined in the greatest tension. The combinations of united energies grow with the force of tension. The synthesis of tension is confirmed by the power of higher fires. In all cosmic creation the law of tension can create a new combination. With the growth of tension new and different energies are attracted. When the energies joined to the combination of the magnet attract similar currents, then it is possible to establish harmonization of the energies. But when the energies move in different directions, a wasting of the energy of the magnet takes place. It is similar with human actions. "Why is the spirit of humanity attracted toward the disharmonious currents? Of course, the currents which are diverted to the spatial fire may give a better formula, but this formula must be created independently. Initiative should be understood as the basis for synthesized activity. When the spirit can find its seed and can cognize the coverings which surround it, then the beauty of the Cosmos can be realized. The husk which accumulates upon the human spirit has closed the way to affirmation. Therefore, Our co-workers must understand that these husks do not belong among Our requirements. It is necessary to understand that it is unfitting to manifest the garment of spirit like a husk when We honor so much the radiance of the garment of the Mother of the World. Thus, remember and strive after the Teacher! Only in this way will you succeed. Self-activity of the centers is being built like an ascending spiral." Let us discard all husks, let us show initiative, let us strive toward the refining of the quality of thought, and we shall succeed! The care for quality in all things is the most necessary care. The high and the low differ only in quality, showing similarity in everything else. 9 24 February 1930 Truly, only the small consciousness can be annoyed by the authority of the Guru. For what is the authority of the Guru but the authority of the Hierarch? The authority of the Hierarch does not mean domination over the aspirations of everything inferior. The authority of the Hierarch and Guru is not a tyranny. This authority is the highest knowledge. It is said: "The Hierarch uses the power for cosmic progress. We Brothers of Humanity possess this power of acting in unison with the Cosmic Magnet." The Hierarch and the Guru are those experienced Pilots who, during the violent storm, are guiding through the destructive waves, through all the rocks, the boat entrusted to Them, the boat in which we, as the "precious" cargo, all have our place. Therefore, let us not forget this; let us not leave the Hand which is out-stretched in salutary Leadership! Power and domination are two different things. Domination is the lowest form of consciousness because it is caused by fearful, all-excluding egoism; while power, blessed by the highest knowledge and strained by the heart, is the highest sacrifice. Let us remember the book about "Sacrifice." Heart was always considered to be the symbol of the Leader. Try to feel with your heart the power of joy in devotion and love to the Leading Hand. I affirm by the knowledge of spirit and heart that you have not a greater Friend and Guardian. We should realize how small are all our offerings, if there are any such, compared to the salutary power and pricelessness of this dispensation. The broadened consciousness will understand it. Nobody is demeaned, all are honored, the way to the highest achievements is opened to all, if only we ourselves do not throw away the possibilities. There are moments in difficult mountain-climbing when the only possibility is to move ahead; every hesitation threatens disaster. A loose stone cannot support the one who delays for long. At the moment we must ascend, and the only open way is the path ahead, without doubts, without regrets and recounting of the small knots of offerings. Each thought of this kind will mean extra weight for the legs and will complicate the dangerous ascent. We need the wings of love and trust in the Leading Hand, the wings of joy in the Great Service. Every application of the words of the Teaching to life will relieve our burden immensely. I beg you from my heart, do discard all self-conceit, every thought of exclusiveness in your offerings, every thought of doubt and suspicion, as the time is too ominous and heavy with responsibility. And is the duration of the struggle so long? Almost half is already done, and, really, nobody has lost anything. The future is so beautiful and so broad. Let your names be written down among the names of the great co-workers of evolution. What can be higher and more beautiful than cooperation for the General Good of the culture of nations! Pages from Infinity: "Great unity in Cosmos holds sway like a powerful law. Only those who accept this law may truly participate in the cosmic cooperation. The unity of essence in everything directs humanity toward creation. When the consciousness draws from the treasury of space, then the Cosmic Magnet exerts its influence. The manifested treasury contains the affirmation of energy saturated with unity. Therefore, each seed of spirit must feel similar unity. Each seed of spirit belongs to the cosmic Unity, in which all cosmic creation is contained. Man deprives himself of this truth by adopting the way of isolation. The law of Unity is immutable in all its variety. Only by this law is it possible to construct because when the attraction creates, then in the power of action lies unity. All affirmed Be-ness is founded on unity. The administering law is so powerful that cosmic construction is upheld by this principle. In all its manifestations this law gathers its particles, unifying all which belong together. This great law is the Crown of Cosmos! "In the eternal creation of life, the law of Unity acts. The cosmic creation moves onward like a fiery, manifested edict-an edict which destines unification; an edict which destines a designation; an edict which destines the replacing of one by the other; and edict which destines a crowning; an edict which destines immortality; an edict which destines life to each atom; an edict which destines the approach of new energy; an edict which destines the New Era. The creativeness of Cosmos is expressed in this way by the magnet of life. How is it possible to disunite the cosmic creation? How to disconnect parts which belong together? How to disunite what, verily, issues one from the other? The Cosmos in its saturation impels toward fiery unification. Only the Cosmic Mind can give humanity the Image of Unity. This Mind gives to humanity the highest Image of the most fiery Heart! This Mind collects in sacredness. Therefore, in Cosmos this law is created by life. Where is the end, if all the cosmic manifestations issue from the dual Origin? When the spirit comes into contact with the highest spheres, then the cosmic creation is revealed in the law of infinite unification. "The spirit is terrified by the thought about death. But when the consciousness penetrates into the essence of Life, then the concept of Unity is affirmed. When the spirit realizes how endlessly all the manifestations of life are flowing, then it will be possible to point to the continuousness of all the chains: the chain of thought, the chain of action, the chain of results, the chain of strivings, the chain of lives. One chain predetermines another. The creativeness of the magnet of life consists of these chains. And the spirit must be terrified not by death and dissolution but by the very thought of breaking the chain. If one could investigate the records of these broken chains existing in space, verily, the spirit would be terrified! When the great shifting has been confirmed, only those can succeed who accept the unity of evolution." Let us not break the chain which connects us with the Leading Hand. How else can we approach? Let us draw more from the same book: "The cosmic dates are determined by the assertion of the subterranean and supermundane fires. This correlation is connected with the spheres of human actions. When the date is approaching and comes into action, it is always possible to watch how, together with the cosmic perturbations, the human consciousness is shifted. Of course, the immutability of the law unites all the spheres, and the communion of all the cosmic forces becomes the assertion of rational action. Thus, the date is filled by all the events and is not limited to only one sphere. "Now, truly, the fires of all the spheres are very much strained, and the cosmic decision turns the events. The magnetic currents attract intensively the subterranean fire. "Just as the conductor of electricity depends on various conditions, the human aura forms up receptively for the cosmic messages. When the spheres of men need certain shocks, then the cosmic sendings are in accordance. Only those elements which can penetrate into the confirmed auras join those spheres. When the sphere requires strong shocks, then it is impossible for the sphere to accept the flowing messages of Cosmos. Therefore, the darkness, which surrounds the planet, will not admit the assertion without the manifestation of explosions. These purifying forces will enlighten humanity. The cosmic fires attract the confirmed dates. "The purifying fires of the Universe are penetrating into all regions of the planet. The sparks of fire spread over all the channels of the actions of karma. Like volcanoes the affirmed fires flash out. The force of karma shifts and moves the power from hand to hand. The cosmic flow rushes toward the purifying fires; and hence the comet, hastening through the Infinite. The tension of the currents is very marked, and the effect corresponds to the fires of the planet. The centers of the Agni Yogi record all cosmic currents." ------- How many warnings and signs are sent regarding the approaching threatening time! But great is the ignorance. I remember reading in a scientific magazine that a northern scientist had investigated the activity of volcanoes and found that the present volcanic belt revealed a period of unusual tension, and all the so-called extinct volcanoes were awakening once more to fiery life. Unexpected eruptions are being seen in new places. The most dangerous disturbances are at the bottom of the oceans. The scientist concludes his deductions by admitting the possibility of a gigantic, planetary cataclysm, and even in the very near future. The following paragraph from Infinity partly explains it: "If humanity would but understand the meaning of existence, it would join the cosmic creativeness. How is it possible to advance without realizing the eternal cosmic shiftings? Only when strivings beyond the boundary drawn by our life are manifested, only then will it be possible to perceive the cosmic creativeness. The wall of stupidity has blocked the way, as has also the fog of contentment. When it becomes possible to enter the spheres of true cosmic creativeness, then the cosmic consciousness will come. "Those are right who speak about human ignorance. When we approach the threatening time it is necessary to exert all strength for such a powerful step. The epoch of Maitreya is already predicted, and the signs are already scattered like fiery seeds. Therefore, for those who follow the Cosmic Magnet, the threatening time will be full of Light. And for those also who struggle for the significance of the New Epoch, the threatening time will prove to bear the Light of the future." But people still do not want to understand how uneasy life is on our planet now, and where and into what one must look for the cause of the imminent danger. 10 24 June 1930 In your last letters you emphasize how happy you are to have responsibility, with which every co-worker is charged in his management of the department entrusted to him. The realization of personal responsibility is quite correct, but I would also like to hear something from you about cooperation. I am afraid that my understanding of responsibility will be somewhat different from yours. Personal responsibility is not only connected with the broadest cooperation, but, truly speaking, this cooperation or collaboration is the basis of personal responsibility. The Cosmos is built upon cooperation; and man, being part of and a reflection of the Cosmos, cannot exclude himself from this law if he does not wish to destroy himself. Each institution, with one of the co-workers at the head of it, must cooperate as much as possible with all other departments or institutions. All the sections work according to the same plan, and we must see that they work together like the fingers of the same hand, not disturbing, but helping and complementing each other. The withdrawal of one of the sections from cooperation is similar to a gangrenous process, and will cause general disintegration unless a salutary operation is performed in time. If you think that responsibility means withdrawal and independence of action, you reveal a well-concealed sense of ambition and possessiveness. And we know how all such feelings are disapproved by all Teachers. If we do not destroy within ourselves the sense of ownership in all aspects, we cannot easily reach the next step. It may be that we consider possessively not only our own section but even our pupils and acquaintances, and we would become hurt if some of our collaborators also evinced an interest in them. The slave-holding attitudes arises from the sense of ownership, and you know how difficult it is to eradicate such feelings. But are such atavisms permissible in the epoch of the Mother of the World, the epoch of utmost cooperation? The societies and institutions do not exist for our personal aggrandizement. We must, therefore, work according to the general plan for the development of all of them. By elevating their significance we elevate ourselves, but if we think primarily of enhancing our own personality we shall weaken the societies and institutions and ruin ourselves. I fear that my directions may be disliked by some, and I have reasons for thinking this. But, as it is said, "The Teaching is not soothing syrup, neither is it silver jackstraws. It is a severe crucifying of self and a tense transformation of one's lower nature through the finest fires. Soothing syrup perhaps may be appropriate on the first step, but the Teaching requires the severe and beautiful flowers of self-denial. Those who prefer soothing syrup had better not touch the fiery food prepared for those who choose self-denial." Yes, all the dark corners should be lighted up, and the dust of yesterday should be cleaned out. Otherwise it will be impossible to build the next step. Please forgive my severe remarks. I write with all my heart. I want to help you and to give you a new understanding. Sweet speeches put our consciousness to sleep and deepen our ignorance, but ignorance is stagnation and retrogression. Give joy to the Teacher. Let Him see your ardent desire to comprehend the joyous ascent. Tread this new path with severe self-control. The foundation of the higher joy is full of suffering. "Suffering precedes joy"-let us remember this. The souls united by the same striving comprise one whole chain. United by the same Teaching, this chain is unbreakable. 11 17 August 1930 With all my heart I agree with the Teacher's Edict about the pressing necessity to commence a new step. What does this new step mean? Not just exclamations and enthusiasm about the wisdom and beauty of the Teaching, not just assurances of devotion and a new understanding, but action according to the new comprehension of the Teaching. Thus, let us apply the Teaching in life, let us honor the Hierarchy and let us begin a friendly and sensible cooperation. Let us attentively and carefully carry out the given tasks; let us strive to understand all the majesty of the plan of the general Good and our own responsibility. Let us put into the foundation all the given confirmations of the last ten years. Gather together and read them with all your heart. Everybody's place was clearly indicated because only in such a way could there be achieved the greatest and the most beneficial results. Also, beginning with the very first days, some of the co-workers showed certain characteristics in their natures which should have been immediately eradicated. But what was done regarding the fulfillment of these useful and salutary indications? Was not the most unpardonable light-mindedness shown toward this most urgent problem? Verily, it is most urgent, and only honest effort to eradicate our faults can advance us on the path of Service. Let each one look into the depth of his own consciousness; let him awaken his heart; let him give to himself a severe accounting of all the motives which direct his actions; and let him start immediately the eradication of all bad accumulations, as time is short! The Teaching points out vices, namely, ambition, self-conceit and selfishness, suspiciousness and light-mindedness, which should not be allowed to grow up among the co-workers if they wish to build the foundation of a new step. Let us become firmly aware in our hearts that the Teacher disapproves of the tendency toward bossiness. As I have already written once before-domineeringness and true leadership are antipodes. While the former is the offspring of darkness, the latter is of the light of knowledge in the eternal striving toward perfection. First of all, bossiness is vulgar; that is why it is so easy to fall into this attitude. "Domineeringness is the main obstacle in the path of discipleship." Self-conceit and bossiness are inseparable and lead to spiritual impoverishment and destruction. The Teacher does not use force. He acts according to the intelligence of the co-workers. Often, the leader sees a short and simple plan of achievement, the very simplicity of which is above the consciousness of the co-workers. Then the wise leader will not insist upon his own way, but, after considering the abilities of the co-workers, he will select a line of action which is of easy access for the majority. Not tyranny but true cooperation is necessary. Broadest cooperation is inscribed upon the Banner of the New Era. The main quality of a leader is to be able to assemble co-workers of the most diverse natures and unify them in the same striving. Is not our unification achieved by our devotion to the Teacher? Thus, let us remember that the Teacher directs our advancement by magnanimous cooperation, not by force. Wise concessions in small details to the consciousness not fully grown may not give completely satisfactory results, but at least it will not breed a ruinous atmosphere of irritability and disagreement. For the sake of benevolent cooperation in the creation of a new step it is most necessary to assimilate the significance of thought. It is necessary to create a better atmosphere in our daily life by the purifying of thought. In such a way we shall attract better possibilities. In all the books of the Teaching so many discourses are devoted to this question, but until now we have not been able to realize the foundation not only of our welfare but even of our very existence. Cosmos is built upon thought. Both happiness and destruction are based upon thought. Thought brings life, but it can also bring death. When will this be understood by people? There is no stronger lever in the Cosmos than thought saturated with psychic energy! Thought is a magnet, and each dark thought creates a stratum of heavy fluids which is attracted and gathered by similar consciousnesses. "Joy may, by a magnetic current, attract joy from space." Remember that thought acts as a boomerang; therefore thought, upon being sent consciously to a person whose vibrations are not identical, will return to the one who sent it, reinforced with identical vibrations which are oscillating in space and are seeking reunion. It is easy to imagine what destructive results a thought may bring to one who sent it evil-mindedly. Also, during the temporary weakness of the defensive auric net in the case of illness, the malicious sendings will complicate the struggle of the organism and in such a way cause irreparable harm. Will we not be foolish in breeding such dark thoughts? Chase away every impure thought; replace it with a thought of benevolence. Hasten to purify the spirit by broad creative thoughts about the wonderful future. Also, it is necessary to remember constantly the ruinous effects of irritability. "Irritability makes our vessel fragile." The poison of irritability, with all its consequences, is pointed out in Agni Yoga. This poison corrodes the precious precipitations of psychic energy. And what can be achieved without the accumulation of psychic energy? Stupidity and destruction will be the results. Of course, everyone has the free will to destroy himself, but it is criminal to spread this dreadful infection. Thus, bearing in mind the significance of thought and of irritability, we shall commence the creating of a benevolent atmosphere. ------- While building up the relations between the co-workers, you must not forget all the small workers. The real leader will be very careful not to offend by word or action the least of the workers. Only treachery must be severely condemned. Our atmosphere and all our possibilities will be considerably improved if we are surrounded by friends. It has been mentioned many times how you should appreciate each devoted heart and how important are the small helpers connected with our daily life. Even the kindly treatment of animals improves the atmosphere around us. The Teaching provides the most vital and practical advices. We must make an effort to absorb the Treasury of the Teaching entrusted to us. Let us remember the donkey under the load of grain-mentioned in the Teaching-and let us not be like unto it. So many disappointments, so many failures would have been avoided had the Teaching and all the indications been applied in a literal sense in everyday life. By giving us understanding of life, understanding of the foundations of existence, the Teaching brings us, if there is application in full consciousness of all that is given, to fiery purification or transmutation of our centers into the higher fires, and thus gives us the chalice of Amrita. Only this fiery purification opens the way to the Tower. But this transmutation may come only when the spirit has conquered selfishness. It is said: "Selfishness is the breeder of all grey accumulations; therefore, when selfishness obscures the spirit it can be positively said that the transmuting fire cannot reach us . . . When the spirit surrounds the manifested power of its essence with burdensome accumulations, it departs from striving. The burdens are so heavy that the spirit loses its approach to the Tower. That is why those who know this affirmation move ahead by transmuting their ego. When the spirit does not strive to outlive its burdens, it attracts the affirmed obstacle. Thus, there is a balance between striving and consequences. The wings of spirit bring the power of soaring to the higher spheres, but the heaviness of selfishness draws one to the lower spheres. . . . Only those surrounded by the wall of selfishness may affirm self-conceit. Therefore, an obstructive wall remains on the way, and only the destruction of this wall will bring us to the first step of transmutation. If the center of ego exists separately, it will be destined to solitude. Only cooperation of heart and spirit leads to the keys of the Teaching." Self-conceit is bred by ignorance. Self-conceit closes all the ways to knowledge. Self-conceit deprives man of the wonderful striving. What remarkable definitions of striving-this key to all the Gates-are given in the books of the Teaching! ------- It is necessary for each one to give account to himself as to how and in what way he passed the probations of the last seven years. Let us recall all the probations which were given to those who came into contact with the Teaching in the first days of the Call of the Great Teachers. Everyone had a chance to show his nature completely. Read attentively the letter about "Probation and Chelaship" in the book, The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett. They are very edifying. I have mentioned it already, but a useful exercise of memory is always good. The Teacher follows a system of continuous probation. Otherwise, how can the deeply concealed accumulations be revealed? How can they be burned over the fire of devotion and striving? Many psychological ways are used by the Teachers for probation and guidance of the pupils. The ardent pupil, who appreciates every hint of the Teacher, who is severe to himself but benevolent to other workers, will successfully pass all the probations. But woe to him who confirms himself in his own importance and considers himself a pillar of the Teaching; frightful will be his downfall! I may as well warn you against low, vulgar suspiciousness. He who suspects others proves that he himself possesses similar accumulations. By suspecting, we show that we are inclined to do the things of which we suspect others. Let us be ashamed to unveil our nature so openly. Let us ardently destroy even a hint of this vulgarity. A slave to suspicion will suspect everybody. The king of spirit sees all as beautiful and thus calls to life the best there is. The law of the magnet is everywhere. All words and hints which come from the Guru have deep significance. There is no effect without a cause. Every indication of the Guru, if precisely fulfilled, brings good results, not only to the work but also to the one who did the work. By rejection or careless fulfillment we often deprive ourselves of irreplaceable possibilities. And later, when our intellect has grown, we shall realize how irremediable is the situation, and we shall moan with acute distress, "The happiness was so near, so possible!" Inscrutable are the ways of karma, and we never know which link, which string may bring us the expected happiness. Therefore, let us not lose a single knot, wisely woven by the hand of the Guru. Let us drive away all the dark shadows. They stand behind our back and whisper, and so much happiness may fly away! ------- Most human faults and vices are developed from light-mindedness; therefore, by getting rid of this greatest evil we shall approach perfection with the steps of a giant. ------- One more request. Write your letters to me with a copy, and before writing your next letter reread your previous one. In this way you will understand the design of your own spirit better. There will be fewer contradictions and moods in your letters. And if you write about the new comprehension, point out what actions confirmed and strengthened this comprehension. I would also like to see more questions about the true understanding of events but not the selection of favorable circumstances. Show more sincerity, more concentration, show a broad consciousness. From not a bad (but a wrong) desire to cause me joy by good news, your letters often do not reflect reality. "Too little time is left for burning oil in your lamps." Please realize how serious is this Indication. Those who do not approach the Hierarchy of Light during this life may forever lose this connection. You know how I dislike to frighten, how all my being is striving to bring only joy, but you also know about the limited time. Do not break the wonderful connecting thread. After the break, the fall would carry you far away. Be of good cheer and courage, and find joy in the salutary Indications of the Hierarchy of Light. Let us firmly remember that the most powerful force, which transmutes various energies, is the magnet of the heart. "All currents are transmuted by this magnet. The human being is attracted to this magnet; that is why the transmuting power is in the heart." Let us try to develop this power in ourselves. This will give us the highest joy of existence. 12 7 October 1930 The idea of creating the unity of women the world over is more than timely. In the difficult days of world upheavals, of human disunity, of the neglecting of all the higher principles of Being, which are the only true givers of life and which lead to the evolution of the world, there must be heard a voice calling for the resurrection of the spirit and for the bringing of the fire of achievement into all the actions of life. And, of course, this voice must be the voice of woman, who during millenniums has drunk the chalice of suffering and humiliation and has forged her spirit in the greatest patience. Now, let woman-the Mother of the World-say, "Let there be Light," and let her affirm her fiery achievements. What will this Light be like, and which of her achievements will be the great fiery ones? The banner of spirit will be raised, and upon it will be inscribed "Love, Knowledge and Beauty." Yes, only the heart of the woman, the mother, may gather under this Banner the children of the whole world, without distinctions of sex, race, nationality and religion. Woman-mother and wife-witness of the development of man's genius, can appreciate the great significance of the culture of thought and knowledge. Woman-inspirer of beauty-knows all the strength, all the synthesizing power of beauty. Woman-bearer of the sacred power and knowledge of spirit-can indeed become "The Leading One." Let us, therefore, without delay raise the great Banner of the New Era-the Era of the Mother of the World. Let every woman enlarge the boundaries of her hearth to encompass the hearths of the whole world. These countless fires will strengthen and embellish her own hearth. Knowing that limitation leads to destruction, and that expansion gives creation, let us strive with all our forces toward the expansion of our consciousness, toward the refinement of thought and feeling, so that with the resultant creative fire we can kindle our own hearth. Let us lay into the foundation of Woman's Unity the striving toward true knowledge, that which knows no human demarcations and limitations. But we may be asked how the true knowledge is to be reached. We shall reply, "This knowledge exists in your spirit, in your heart. Be able to awaken it!" Striving toward beauty will be the key to it. This knowledge is in each striving toward the General Good. It is indicated in all the Great Teachings which have been given to the world. It is in every manifestation of nature. In forgetting to observe the cosmic manifestations, humanity lost the key to many of the mysteries of Being, and it is just these mysteries that could provide understanding of all the reasons for the present upheavals and miseries. Therefore, while gathering the warriors of spirit, let us direct them toward an awakening of this sacred knowledge. Humanity should realize the majestic cosmic law of equivalency, the law of the dual Origin, as the foundation of existence. The predominance of one Origin over the other has created a lack of balance and destruction, which may now be observed in all of life. But let not the woman who has realized this law, and who strives toward equilibrium, let her not lose the beauty of the feminine image; let her not lose tenderness of heart, subtlety of feelings, the self-sacrifice and the courage of patience. Woman, the bearer of sacred knowledge, can become a calling power, kindling with fiery words the souls that are ready. It is necessary to give to every woman according to her consciousness and without impeding her natural and individual growth. It is necessary, with careful touches, to broaden the mind on the foundation of the Teaching of Life. Let every soul develop in a natural way, bringing out the best she can according to the level of her consciousness. Beauty is in variety, but all should have one general foundation-the foundation of striving toward the General Good. The broadest cooperation is inscribed on the Banner of the Mother of the World. Therefore, let us display the utmost tolerance. Sisters of the Golden Mountain, a dangerous but beautiful time is ahead of us-a time of great achievements. I send you the call of my heart. Let us arm ourselves with flaming striving and with courage, and over all obstacles we shall carry the Banner of the Mother of the World-the Banner of Love, Self-Sacrifice and Beauty-so that in the hour of victory we shall plant it on the Summits of the World. 13 13 October 1930 I have received a series of letters which give me an idea of the course of your work and also of your attempts to apply some of the laws of the Teaching to life. I was happy to see your penetration into the Teaching. The thoughts you quoted from the book Agni Yoga are very timely. It is indeed necessary to affirm the great usefulness of creative activity, together with courageous striving and firm faith in final success. We must face the enemy with complete presence of mind. The enemy is often nothing more than a repulsive but harmless beetle on a sunlit wall, and only neurotic individuals will be frightened by it. Some enemies assume the guise of yaks, but we use yaks for crossing the most dangerous mountain summits. A wolf, too, will sometimes assume sheep's clothing, but we have already been warned against excessive confidence; and we know that we must suit our weapons to each individual case. We would not, for example, oppose a tiger with an arrow designed for a sparrow. Fearlessness and striving are two of the foundations of the Teaching. It is almost impossible to stop something that is in striving motion. Similarly does striving thought surmount all obstacles. You will have received by now the new book of the Teaching. You will find many wonderful formulae in it. Assimilate them and apply them to life. Note all that is said about the qualities of action. Only knowledge of the Teaching will bring you the presence of mind for your answers because the Teaching foresees every situation of life. Also, it is useful to remember what was said about daring, and how reproved were all standardized concepts-these destroyers of ascent in small things as well as in large ones. You can speak about the necessity of new ways, but do it tactfully and carefully because immobility and dullness resent being disturbed. "Better to move to the cemetery than to be limited by dead laws." All the laws are in the depths of our consciousness. Thus, by deepening our consciousness we comprehend the laws. From this comes great mobility. But what do we see in reality? Criminal stagnation of mind! Countries maintaining dead laws decay because they oppose the laws of evolution. Look around "with the eyes of a hawk." Study the present situation and approaching events on our planet! Verily, one may say that coming events already cast their shadow upon the Earth. It is impossible to arrest the awakened force of the new consciousness or understanding among the masses. All delays will only cause greater destruction. But we are not destroyers. We are creators. Therefore, let us ardently build the bastions of culture, knowledge of the Living Ethics, and Beauty. Knowledge and Beauty are the foundation and crown of cosmic evolution. How I wish to strengthen you in courageous patience, fearlessness and resourcefulness! Only thought and a great consciousness will conquer everything. Therefore, use all means to broaden your consciousness by absorbing with all your essence every line of the Teaching. A profound and many-sided consciousness and the application of the Covenants of the Teaching into life will give you the key to everything because you will possess a synthesis. ------- By comparing all the given indications with the current events, we shall see how wisely and timely every one of them was given. How considerately, how carefully was our consciousness prepared for the next step. Blessed is the Hand which lightened the burden! Years of stubborn but beautiful struggle are ahead of us, but the result of this battle is predestined. Therefore, we should examine our armor and temper the steel of our swords. It is necessary to have the given shields always ready because we must raise the right shield for the right occasion. Write down and recall in your memory as often as possible each encounter, each defense, and the protection given to you by each shield. The number of the shields exceeds that of the institutions. Your entire activity is covered and protected by them. Exercise together! Every co-worker can show resourcefulness and can display the strength of the shield from a new, unexpected point of view. It is extremely useful to conclude discussion by such exercises. You may even imagine the hostile questioners and then prepare and practise your answers to them. When defending the work of our societies and communities, let us not forget our scientific expeditions and the great idea of the Banner of Peace, our international contacts, and, finally, our struggle against the cruel and ignorant attitude toward cultural creativeness! Often, it is difficult for us to comprehend the whole significance of our constructive work, and in urgent moments the most significant data and proofs are not evident to us. It is not always that our memory can muster the necessary thought. That is why it is so important to practise the reviewing of our tasks, together with the inspection of our shields and general accumulations. To begin with, let us firmly realize that we are constructing a great work of world importance and that we are invulnerable beneath our shields. Perhaps the concept of a City of Knowledge is less clear in the consciousness of the co-workers than the other ideas. Therefore, I shall give you-rather, will repeat to you-a few ideas for your outer protection. As to the inner one, you already have it. The center should be developed into a city of knowledge. In this city we wish to create a synthesis of scientific achievements. Therefore, all branches of science should eventually be established there. And, since the source of knowledge lies in the Cosmos, the co-workers of the scientific center should belong to the whole world-that is, should include all nationalities. And, as the Cosmos is indivisible in all its functions, the scientists of the world should be indivisible in their achievements. In other words, they should be united in closest cooperation. The location of the center, in the Himalayas, is selected quite deliberately and purposefully, as innumerable possibilities are open there, and the attention of the scientific world is being directed toward these heights. The discovery of new cosmic rays, which bring to humanity new precious energies, is possible only on the mountain summits because all the finest and most valuable energies are found only in the pure layers of mountain atmosphere. Are not mountains the greatest of magnetic stations? Would it not be appropriate to explore their magnetism and electricity? Would not the study of magnetic currents bring safety into aerostatics? In the sphere of magnetic currents science is still in its infancy, and modern instruments are nothing but toys, while "great discoveries could take place with proper study and research." The reason we wish so much to begin this research at our center is because the conditions of this locality are particularly favorable. Would it not be timely to pay attention to all meteoric precipitations which fall on the snowy summits and which, by the force of the mountain streams, are carried down to the valleys? For astronomical observations the conditions here are exceptionally good, and in nearby Little Tibet it is possible to establish a section of the main station. Geologically, the Himalayas are also very interesting, and their caves hold many mysteries for archaeologists, zoologists and anthropologists. There are a great number of hot springs. Also, other unexplored springs and salt lakes, which have various properties according to the statements of local inhabitants. As for botany, zoology, and ornithology-you have already learned from the letters of our botanist-zoologist how pleased he was with the results of his work. On these mountains the rarest medicinal plants and grasses are centered, and the variety of botanic species is unexcelled. In archaeological respects our valley, of course, is one of the richest and most ancient. There are traces of ancient Buddhist culture. Quite remarkable is the number of local dialects among the mountain tribes. Two neighboring villages frequently do not understand each other. Fiery atmospheric manifestations also could be observed here, and the so-called "Himalayan lights" may often be seen. It is most desirable to establish here a meteorological station to start studying and observing the magnetic currents, with the idea of broadening it eventually, bearing in mind the favorable local conditions. In connection with this, let me quote certain indications: "Further movement of magnetic currents over the surface of the earth manifests the lines of the atmospheric changes. Observation stations should be established in various places, and collaboration between them should be as close and precise as possible. It is true that the trouble lies in the absence of synthesis and that much energy and valuable studies are lost. Therefore, an organization of true cooperators is necessary on Earth." Let us think of broad possibilities. "Breadth of thought and consciousness will be your test." Have you noticed that all pessimists usually possess small consciousnesses and poor imaginations? The establishment of a city of synthesized knowledge is a problem of world significance, and that is why we must not ask for help but should demand it. We work not for ourselves but for humanity. Everyone of us is ready to apply his best efforts for the General Good. Let other people also understand this pure striving, and they may become aflame with the desire to advance humanity further toward synthesized knowledge. Thus, insist that your co-workers examine and cleanse their shields. Search for those shields in every indication, every thought given in the books of Living Ethics. We must have the beautiful, constructive formulae ready. With all our imagination we are unable to embrace the significance of present events which gather around the cultural activities. Therefore, let us absorb the idea that a great world task is being performed and, striving ceaselessly, let us continue to carry the stones for building the Temple of Knowledge. Once more, I ask all participants to think what great cooperation means. I quote an example given by the Teacher: "Forces which act against each other are mutually destroyed. Forces which act along parallel lines in the same direction manifest the sum of these energies, and forces which act separately are weakened, according to the angle of their divergency. People cannot realize that this fundamental law of physics is also a fundamental law of cooperation." Therefore, straighten out your divergencies so that your forces move in the same direction. Consider the consequences of divergencies. In true cooperation, no one is belittled, and he can help the better who knows and sees more. The more ignorant a person or a nation is, the less cooperation is in evidence. But who would wish to assign to himself the label of stupidity and ignorance? The saying, "I know nothing of it, I meddle not," is very characteristic. But he who knows nothing may never know anything. 14 3 December 1930 We are so happy about the development of your cultural activities. Each cultural thought applied in life is a precious treasure! And we have an immense fund of such thoughts ready for practical application. Those who approach this fund may draw upon it and use it in accordance with their striving. Therefore, our main problem is to awaken striving in the newcomers. Each one, becoming aflame, will discover his own potentiality, will develop it in his own way, and thus will enrich the communal treasury. But in order to inspire one another, we must carry this inextinguishable fire in ourselves. We should keep it in complete purity and should struggle with the welter of petty thoughts born of selfishness. You may be assured that thought created selfishly can never be harmonious with the great plan of cosmic evolution. Therefore, in all your failures, look for this worm which gnaws all the foundations. Look just for this. Verily, selfishness is narrowness, but narrowness leads to stagnation and death, while the Cosmos exists by the principle of Infinity. How to destroy this worm? Only by tolerance, broad-mindedness and understanding of the great law of co-measurement. In other words, by the broadening of our consciousness. Therefore, let us ardently strive to broaden our consciousness. All the contributory steps toward this liberating aim are given in the books of the Teaching. Let us enrich our life with these treasures, remembering that the striving of spirit and will can transform life. The spirit which seeks to kindle its energy by striving is a fuser of matter. After fusing matter, he will refine it, and then the finest perceptions will be reached. These are the only possibilities for true life and immortality! The spirit of striving must be the foundation of one's life. Thus, strive toward the greatest because those who draw a small circle are doomed, and their possibilities will be limited according to the radius of their circle. A limited consciousness attracts imperfect energies or small possibilities. And even if by reason of karma the orbit of spirit catches broader possibilities, a small consciousness will try to build a chicken coop out of them! Only the consciousness that apprehends the world in its greatest actions may cooperate with the Cosmos and with the Great Brothers of Humanity. Realization and concrete understanding of the existence of the magnet that connects our spirit with the higher energies, which carry the broadening of consciousness, can bring us closer to the consciousness of the Cosmic Magnet and will actually draw us into the current of Cosmic Evolution. This will lead us to the great Sacrament-the consummation of Being, which is called the Crown of Crowns. Hasten to light the guiding fires of your spiritual magnet by the awakening of the heart. Only in joining the fires of the heart with the fires of the spirit can we attain creativeness and great results. ------- All your motives should be checked by your heart. Your heart is the only judge, accumulator and guardian of the acquired precious energies. The structure of these acquired and accumulated energies is our individuality and destiny. The law of correspondence is a basic cosmic law. Therefore, each acquired energy will attract an identical energy from space and also will evoke a corresponding reaction from the people one contacts. Here is an explanation of sympathies and antipathies, and also the reason why one person can find contact with many people while another, in spite of all his efforts, creates only antagonism. But, as all possibilities come from people, the significance of the quality of energies we accumulate is quite clear. The accumulation of the precipitation of energies does not take place in just a single life. Thousands of years are necessary for filling the Chalice. So essential are the continuous, never-interrupted, benevolent strivings, which deposit the priceless treasures in our treasury. People possessing great accumulations of the Chalice are the treasures of nations. Sometimes very little is needed in order to complete the filling of the Chalice, and this little could be completed in one self-denying life. But by carelessness people postpone the achievement, and by this they throw themselves back. Nobody and nothing can stop eternal movement and the transmutation of energies. There exist only two possibilities: either to strive ahead or to fall back. But who would want to vow himself to retrogression-in other words, to unite himself with cosmic waste? Striving is the great moving power for all beings! Now as regards Agni Yoga. How can we interpret Agni Yoga if we do not broaden our consciousness? All the words about it and about its achievements will be void of conviction if we ourselves do not light the fires of our own hearts. Someone writes about the necessity of tolerance toward every interpretation. This idea is correct. It is, however, necessary to learn how to make each individual interpretation correctly understood. Otherwise, such bushes may be planted that the instructor himself will be lost! Often a false interpretation is more harmful than none at all. Each instructor must realize completely his responsibility for making a correct interpretation of the first principles. He should exercise the maximum caution not to give thoughtless explanations of some statements of the Teaching which are not clear even to himself but which, nevertheless, he might wish to interpret in order not to lose his authority. In perplexing cases it is better to admit honestly, "I shall forbear any interpretation, as I would like to consider the subject carefully." As for myself, I shall always be glad to explain with the help of the Great Teacher everything that is not clear to you. You write beautifully about your striving for harmony. Apply it in life, as everything is of worth only in life and for life. Show the finest discrimination; avoid hypocrisy. Patches are better than holes, but everyone would rather have strong fabric; so let us try not to make holes! Let us practise severe discipline of speech. Let us consider every word and remember that "the consequences of a word cannot be destroyed even by an Arhat." Let us broadly apply the indication that "each word should be like a ray of light and not a nail in the coffin." Know in your spirit when it is goal-fitting to tell the truth, even if it is bitter, and when it is better to be silent. But flattery and exaggeration, as well as belittling, are inadmissible. Each one of you has his particular qualities; nobody has been set aside. Therefore, you must not envy each other. But of course it depends on each of you to develop your capabilities. And the only lawful competition between members of the group may be a competition in the best direction of striving and understanding of the thought for the General Good. Each one should understand that this capacity in each individual consciousness is the only indicator of progress and that the spirit stands on a corresponding step-not higher and not lower. I would like to quote the Teacher's words: "When it is mentioned about selfishness, it may not be interpreted individually. Everything in life, everything for life. The Teacher sees. The Teacher knows. The Teacher will not affirm anything without life. The one who repeats his own formulae does not know the formulae of the Teacher. The old formulae will not lead toward new ways. It is necessary to say: 'The channel of selfishness builds its dams everywhere.'" Also, it is indicated to explain that the channel of selfishness cuts the conduit of communication. Let us remember that the quality of a motive will either move us toward the Teacher or thrust us far from Him. There is no place where one can hide from the all-seeing Eye, which penetrates into the most secret recesses of our heart. It is necessary to manifest the power of spirit and to strive tirelessly to eradicate the persistent, heavy accumulations, as otherwise no refinement will be possible. Only refinement of all feelings brings the best possibilities. My heart is longing to see growth of understanding of the Teaching; growth of sincere striving, free from any expectation of reward; growth of self-denial; the offering of practically everything for the benefit of the General Good; growth of a correct approach to entrusted work; and, above all, growth of the sense of co-measurement. It must be understood that one may exhaust oneself in action and tension; but, without commensurability, action and tension will result in an accomplishment similar to that of a squirrel which runs continuously in the same circle. Action not balanced by commensurability, action without the creative fire of the heart, will never create a worthy step. ------- I welcome very much the method which is being used for developing attentiveness among children. It is very good to use art gallery pictures for this purpose. So much can be seen in these treasures of art. Attentiveness is a foundation for accumulating knowledge. Attentiveness is a first step in the refinement of receptivity, and we know that only refinement gives broadening of consciousness and that creative power is affirmed by the centers of fine receptivity. The finer, the higher; the higher, the more powerful! Nothing holds back evolution so much as coarseness of receptivity! If we want to approach the High Consciousness, we must first of all refine our own receptivity. Only where there is equilibrium, as is found in a balance, is true cooperation manifested. That is why the structure based on the principles of harmony is so greatly valued. The subtle perception of thoughts will lay a foundation for an alert action. The creation of the beautiful is based on this principle. The reason there is so little beauty in people's creations is that even the best ideas are executed only partly, and therefore the beauty of the original intention is distorted. Remember that you are surrounded by possibilities, but they will materialize only if your consciousness will realize them. Every thought is born from contact with the reservoir of space. Just imagine how many unapplied thoughts are flying in the higher layers of space! Try to seize them by refining your receptivity. That is what we call cosmic cooperation, but first you must kindle your inner fires. There is no greater joy than the joy of a growing consciousness! In the waves of consciousness lies all the joy of Being! Once more I call to you. Please have an open heart for all the qualities of your co-workers. Learn to be tolerant without showing too much indulgence. By the fire of your heart inspire your co-workers to display in life their best qualities. Try to unite them in the highest feelings of devotion and gratitude to the Teacher who has given them so much. Make haste to learn how to love and appreciate each other. But nothing requires such delicate and attentive care as love! Oh, if you could manifest at least a small amount of that tolerance and care which is manifested by the Great Heart who called us to build unitedly the Temple! Hearken to the call of the heart! 15 17 December 1930 In the days of victory I wish to greet you and prepare you for new and more strenuous battles! In the days of victory I wish to remind you of the words of the Great Teacher: "Know the thrill of the battle." In the days of victory let us thoroughly examine our weapons and prepare our shields, for our enemy is ready, and with vigilant eye he watches our weak spots, so that he can strike through them. He knows how victory lulls the mind and lessens striving and watchfulness. Therefore, after each victory we must strive with redoubled force toward the next, still greater battle and victory. A slackening of striving results in defeat. Truly, only a broad consciousness will be aware of the danger of the lessened watchfulness that results from the first victories. Thus, let us acquire the joy of constant watchfulness and striving. They are among the foundations of the Teaching and of life. Only striving carries us toward the next steps. Only vigilance enables us to overcome successfully all obstacles. The Teacher calls us to pressing labor for the sake of victory. All victory depends upon the strength of our striving. Therefore, if striving decreases either because of the short-sightedness of a limited consciousness or because of internal discord and disunion in the actions of the warriors, defeat will be unavoidable. Therefore, I ask you not to weaken yourselves by internal discord when approaching a dangerous passage. It is also fatal to push each other because the one who pushes may very easily share the fate of the one pushed. It is also necessary to manifest maximum discrimination when you give responsible positions to new warriors. Give them tests and do not hurry to promote them to the first ranks. Imagine what complications may be caused if a worker falls short of meeting an occasion! Do not allow outsiders to criticize and condemn any of your co-workers in your presence. Always try to find worthy words with which to stop evil-speaking and condemnation-for this you will receive respect. Remember that as long as you are united you will be able to pass through all obstacles, but the least disunity in your actions will create a rift to the very foundation. And what structure can be built upon a cleft foundation? The first storm would ruin such an edifice. Come closer together and strive to fulfill the smallest Indications of the Teacher. This is the only way to victory. You must remember that the Guru has not a single personal thought; absolutely everything is directed and given to the service of the General Good. Therefore, the one who alters the indication, or allows himself to doubt, should lay the blame on himself. All that is done in a halfway manner will bring halfway results. We know that a full dose of a salutary medicine brings life, while but one-half gives only temporary relief which may end in death. Hence, let us accept completely the precious indications, in order not to lose a single bit of life-giving energy. Complete obedience to the indications and the precise execution of them gives health and leads to great victory, to great Light. In ancient times obedience was a step toward the next ordainment. The one who was unable to realize entirely the discipline of obedience could never reach the higher degrees. Only the one who knew how to obey and to execute could take great responsibility and understand all the immutableness of the order. With all this, one must firmly understand that all the given orders can never enslave the spirit of a disciple because there is always left the freedom of individual expression, and we know how endlessly we may refine the quality of the fulfillment of every task. Only a slave of yesterday may revolt against an order. Only a petty consciousness is afraid to lose its individuality by fulfilling the plans of his Guru. To rely only upon our own accumulations, rejecting all that which we can assimilate from the high consciousness of the Teacher, means to reject any new accumulations. Individuality is formed from these new assimilations combined with previous accumulations. Extremely happy is the one who can draw upon the Treasury of the Great Consciousness. I wish to quote from the book, Infinity: "The idea of obedience to the Teacher seems to be alien to people. But how can the spirit lose when the Teacher is the Leading Light? How can the disciple lose his fire when the Teacher lights all fires? How can the Shield of the Teacher hold back the pupil if he is already inspired by his Teacher? How little does humanity desire to strive toward mutually beneficial work! But humanity must learn to act interdependently and to materialize all the thoughts affirmed by the Teacher. Thus, the Cosmic Mind fulfils evolution. Thus, humanity must learn to construct by higher measures. Verily, by following the Teacher you assimilate his Image. "How can we achieve comprehension of the magnet if we doubt the Indications of the Lord? How can we conquer an enemy if we doubt the power granted to us? How can we expect to build anything strong if we do not admit the ineradicable Indications of Hierarchy? It may seem that I repeat myself, but because of your hesitant pace in action there is need for an attentive study of the Indications. Remember how the Teaching promotes the progress of work." I also advise you to give a positive tone to your speeches, remembering that only positiveness leads people. And only the unusual approach to action attracts attention. Many people may see even "lack of tact" in such unusualness, but by this they would only show their denseness. Only unusualness attracts and holds strong and courageous people. All great events were created not by the masses but by individual strong personalities, and time will mark them out. Many are called, but few are chosen. Thus, work out an unusual language, a language of power and affirmation, a language of builders, as only such a language is appropriate for the entrusted task. All gushing, sugary words are the words of incompetent sentimentality and of ruinous mediocrity. Do you remember how all of you used to admire the lectures of a certain person? At the same time, however, you correctly noticed that he only criticized and attacked. But we must be creative, and we shall confirm and indicate the right direction. You must remember that all the Teachings condemn lukewarmness. Therefore, let us be fiery. Let us become aflame, manifesting the most careful discrimination in order not to create a conflagration when it is but necessary to kindle. A broadening of the consciousness will lead to the right way. A broadening of consciousness will change the quality of thinking. A broadening of the consciousness will bring the power of Victory. But drive away petty thoughts. Avoid belittling because the belittling of the entrusted work is equal to the belittling of your Teacher, which would be traitorous and would injure the foundations on which your own welfare as well as the General Good is based. Drive away all doubts, for where there is doubt there is an arresting of the development of consciousness. The one who doubts, who does not trust, cannot hope for the confidence of the Teacher. Therefore, it is impossible for him to move ahead. I would like so much to teach you to treasure every Indication, every hint of the Teacher and Guru, as they are so precious! Find within yourself the fiery impulse of striving toward the great task, carrying the light of culture. Imagine that you live in a house of glass and must be careful in all your words and actions. Imbue all your work with the beauty of Service. Remain joyous in battle because of your knowledge of the victory that is predestined provided you are full of self-sacrificing tension. 16 7 January 1931 The one who belittles or distorts the Will of the Teacher ruins himself. The one who belittles his Guru resembles a man who tries to cut off the branch of a tree on which he is sitting. The greater our Guru the greater are we, but this simple axiom is not comprehended. The whole history of humanity proves that the great historical figures, the true leaders and philosophers, had reverence for their Gurus, whose leadership helped them to become giants of spirit and doers of great deeds. Hierarchy is soon to be published. Verily, the immutable cosmic law of Hierarchy is so much ignored at the present time. But humanity must once more recognize this law. The principle of Hierarchy is a leading law, verily the giver of Life. Therefore, we must imbue our consciousness with understanding of this law if we wish to grow and to contribute our share to the General Good. The law of the chain of Hierarchy is most firm and is strictly maintained by the White Brotherhood. Nobody can avoid the nearest link because this link has been created by long approach and by the accumulations of thousands of years. Therefore, let us firmly hold the nearest link, so that we do not lose union with the whole chain. There is so much beauty in devotion and gratitude toward the Guru! In the Teaching it is said that the flame of devotion and gratitude is above all other fiery offerings. But alas, these two qualities are particularly rare among the inhabitants of this planet. But precisely possession of these qualities helps greatly toward the creation of the giants of spirit and will. The spirit gifted with brilliant talents but not possessing these two qualities will never be allowed to approach beyond a certain limit. It is useful to point out everything that is said in the books of the Teaching about the relationship between the Teacher and the disciple. It is said that each reverence shown to the Teacher indicates a right understanding of the Teaching. But for the one for whom guidance is burdensome there can never be any approach to the Teacher. The Teaching is not abstract but gives most practical suggestions for application in life. Therefore, let us hold in our hearts all that is said about Hierarchy, and let us watch the purity of our thoughts, for the maintenance of the purity of thought is similar to ozone. I quote from the book, Hierarchy: "Mean thoughts have been compared to crawling reptiles. Nothing is more analogous to this scum of the consciousness. Can one sit calmly in an armchair, knowing that beneath him crawl poisonous snakes and scorpions? One must free oneself from reptiles, and first of all along the path to Hierarchy. Condemnation and blasphemy against the Lord are irreparable. Thus, each one who condemns the Hierarch must remember that his levity and crime will infect his karma for many ages. Verily, if there is only one way-through the Lord-to the one Light, then only extreme ignorance will allow destruction of this single path. One must assert striving to the Highest as the essence of life and assume a reverent attitude toward this striving for salvation. By diminishing the Hierarchy one may condemn oneself and inflict perilous harm to many near ones. It is time to remember this!" Verily, it is necessary to hold the connecting thread, which brings both well-being and blessing. "One cannot expect success when the very foundations are rotting! Of course, We shall do what is needed, but it is important to arrest light-mindedness and treachery. Treachery takes many forms, but are they not all similar? It is essential to ponder who has the right to complicate the already-predestined path. So much of the beautiful is destined and the dates are already approaching. Let the connecting thread radiate! "When space is being clouded by the mist of non-understanding, then it is certainly difficult for the creative rays to penetrate. Each layer is permeated in conformity with the complex of its striving. Therefore, the earthly layers are so impenetrable. Hence all manifestations of the quest of spirit must proceed in a tense tempo. The quests of the spirit must attract it to the Magnet of Hierarchy, since each power has its correspondence upon Earth. Thus vitally must the law of Hierarchy be applied." * "It is also necessary to know that the dark forces are trying to penetrate into the foundations. Therefore, it is necessary to be attentive, to watch with the greatest care. The dark forces may even use a Shield of the Teacher. They will outwardly praise the name of the Guru while insidiously undermining it. Therefore, it is necessary to stand on guard and to manifest resistance. If a victory is to take place, it is necessary to realize all the importance of the Stronghold. Therefore, let us strengthen all positions. Thus, it is necessary to learn how to treasure the Name of the Teacher. The power of victory comes only when the foundations are strong. Thus let us guard the foundations. It is necessary to affirm victory; that is why caution is so necessary." All the indications are full of concern about the broadening of consciousness. Be watchful; exert all your caution, for the enemy may enter the house under a mask of friendship! Close ranks more tightly and watch carefully the attempts to disunite you! The ways of flattery and the fanning of ambition are the surest ones, as who does not love to hear good reports about himself? This is common to everyone, and all weak points will be taken advantage of by the dark ones. Puffing up our pride, they may imperceptibly belittle the highest we have and that by which we live. Be on guard! 17 15 January 1931 I shall answer the questions about service. Service to the Hierarchy of Light is service to the General Good. Of course, striving to the General Good opens the gates of higher knowledge and Service. But I would like you to realize clearly what qualities you must first of all develop in yourself for advancement on the path of Service. Many people are dreaming about the General Good and even are ready to work for it as long as it does not interfere with their habits and prosperity. But true service to the General Good, which leads to the gates of the Stronghold of Light, requires sacrifice and complete disdain for everything personal, in other words, the complete abandonment of selfhood. When the consciousness is broadened, when all feelings and comprehension are refined, the law of sacrifice will be accepted as the highest achievement. There will be no room for self-pity, fear for the future, offenses and envy because with every breath will sublimity, beauty, and the highest joy of service be realized. The mature spirit who consciously chooses the path of Service knows the joy of a broadened consciousness and the fiery striving to the Highest Consciousness; he knows the joy of fulfillment of the Higher Will; he knows the joy of discovery and the destination of life; and in the appointed hour he will learn the sublimity and beauty of the final sacrament. And so, after understanding and accepting with our heart the significance of the great liberating and crowning sacrifice, let us strive to develop in ourselves love, devotion, gratitude and obedience to Hierarchy. Let us be ready to take any burden, remembering that the heavier the burden the shorter will be our path. Truly speaking, from love and devotion issue all the other qualities which help our advancement. Thus, let us cultivate them as the most precious flowers; and, since these flowers of spirit grow and nurture each other, the greatest love will bring the greatest answer. Therefore, let us surround the Great Teacher with the fire of love. Let us guard our respect for Him. Let us evince the most careful, the highest understanding of the Teaching and the Indications, and sacredly, reverently, with the tremor of the heart, face the beauty and the majesty of his creativeness. Remember, those whose understanding is higher will ascend higher. And now to quote from the Teaching: "Some people pour a daily gruel over the Image of the Teacher and imagine themselves to be in the Great Service. The Teaching and Service first of all presuppose the expansion of consciousness on the basis of adherence to the Teaching and reverence to the Teacher. In studying Infinity one should first of all realize the limitlessness of love and devotion. It is not wise to say that love has overflowed and devotion has withered because the consequence will be disintegration of one's self. One should understand the limitlessness of love and devotion as the first steps toward Service and Yoga. One should set oneself this task at least as a means of self-progress. One should advance only in the direction of the Teacher. Then only does relief come. But making a daily onion-gruel out of the Teacher will not lead to success. Sacredly, limitlessly, let us sustain our love and reverence to the Teacher, as a healing remedy toward regeneration."* So, my dear friends, the vulgar conception, the scoffing at the sacred ideas by small consciousnesses because of their lack of co-measurement, and the belittling of the highest and fundamental must all be banished from our life if we wish to enter the path of Service. Some are searching for the happiness of life, but bliss can come only through the fulfillment of the Will of the Teacher. There is no other way. And one must keenly grasp these wonderful, profound words of the Teacher and constantly remember them: "In fulfilling My Will, thou givest Me the possibility to fulfil thy will." For who else, if not the Teacher, knows our sacred wishes and strivings? And by purifying and crystallizing them by the given Teaching, that is, by the broadening of our consciousness, who but He gives us the possibility of realizing them? Would one want to be so foolish as to ruin one's own happiness? Let us ardently strive to fulfil the saving Will, which leads us toward the envisioned service of the General Good! "When thought comprises striving toward the fulfillment of the Higher Will a direct connection with the Shield of the Higher Will is established." How can this Shield protect us if we only partially fulfil the indications? Therefore, those disciples who strive to guard sacredly the testaments and to practise and apply the smallest indications will develop their creativeness and will broaden their consciousness. From the book, Hierarchy: "Can one reach the understanding of Cosmos without striving to penetrate into the higher spheres? Only succession gives foundation to all strivings. The all-existing proceeds by the law of sequence. Hence, each insulation results only in the loss of the predestined. Thus, thought is generated as the carrier of the law of sequence. Thus, the law of the Higher Will creates limitlessly. "The law of the Higher Will is the creator of all goal-fitting deeds! This law saturates space and only the fulfillment of the Higher Will crowns our deeds. How is it possible to turn away from the Indication of the Higher Will without losing victory? How is it possible to find better ways when the Shield of the Teacher is affirmed by the guarantee of Hierarchy? The executors of the Will of Hierarchy are leading to victory. Therefore, the disciples must apply the most precise strivings to fulfil the Higher Will. Only thus shall we succeed. Only in such a way shall we affirm victory. "Devotion to an idea, devotion to a leader, works miracles. In all times people realized the significance of devotion, and according to their consciousness used various means, from the demanding of an oath up to the church's anathema and Inquisition. And now also, only the small-minded betrayers, full of envy and doubt, driven by fear before the extraordinary Light, rise up against the invincible power of Hierarchy. Let us tell them, 'Pitiful fools, you are afraid of everything powerful and beautiful; you are afraid of spatial thoughts and creativeness; you are not our companions. We cannot find room in your burrows, and you would not be comfortable in our spacious chambers, as our rooms have not that musty