Join the A.R.E. Staff in Meditation Every weekday the A.R.E. staff meditates from 12 noon to 12:30 p.m. (E.T.). We invite you to ob- serve this special time with us, focusing on these affirmations from A Search for God, Book II, used in the A Search for God Study Group program. To find a Study Group near you or to download a FREE Starter Kit on how to start your own, visit EdgarCayce.org/studygroups, call 800-333- 4499, or email [email protected].

October Affirmation Wisdom Our Father, our God, may the light of Thy wisdom, of Thy strength, of Thy power, guide—as we would apply ourselves in Thy service for others. In His name we seek. (262-102) November Affirmation Happiness Our Father, our God, in my own consciousness let me find happiness in the love of Thee, for the love I bear toward my fellow man. Let my life, my words, my deeds, bring the joy and happiness of the Lord in Jesus to each I meet day by day. (262-106) December Affirmation Spirit Father, God, in Thy mercy, in Thy love, be Thou with us now. For we know and we speak of Thy love. And help us then to put away, for the hour, the cares of this life; that we may know in truth that the Spirit and the Lamb say, "Come." Let them that hear also say, "Come." Let all that will, come and drink of the water of life. (262-113)

GET INVOLVED! Join our international prayer list, request prayer for yourself or a loved one, become a pray-er for those in need, host a prayer healing group in your area, or simply request our booklet: Edgar Cayce’s Meditation for Everyone. A.R.E. Prayer and Meditation Services, 215 67th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, 800-333-4499; [email protected] • EdgarCayce.org/prayer

2 EdgarCayce.org Features

OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2017 Volume 33, Number 4 Sidney and Nancy Kirkpatrick /Managing Editors Lewis Lesansky /Research Associate Cindy Stone, Jennie Taylor Martin, Susan Lendvay /Editorial Team Kim Cohen /Layout Cassie McQuagge /Production 5 Customs, Rituals, and 30 Healing Body, Mind, Jo Adamson, June Bro, Lynn Sparrow Christy, Traditions and Spirit Simone Gabbay, Doug Knueven, Jerry Lazarus, Eileen Malo, Raye Mathis, Gladys T. McGarey, By Jack Rosen Henry Reed, Mark Thurston, Kevin J. Todeschi, A lecturer on Cayce health treatments John Van Auken /Contributing Writers 6 Readers’ Favorite must now use those treatments to Traditions heal himself • Visit our websites • A.R.E.: EdgarCayce.org The Invitation of Ritual ESP: Not just Good, but A.R.E. Member-Only: EdgarCayce.org/members 10 42 By Corinne Cayce Atlantic University: AtlanticUniv.edu Good for Something! Ritual helps us to celebrate, create, By Henry Reed A.R.E. Health Center & Spa: AREHealth.org and connect to the unfolding world ® The sixth installment in the Paranor- Cayce/Reilly School of Massage: around us mal Research series explores psychic CayceReilly.edu guidance Association for Research and Enlightenment The Edgar Cayce Story Chartered by the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1931 14 Kevin J. Todeschi /Executive Director and CEO of Christmas 46 a.T. Still: Father of BOARD OF TRUSTEES By Mark Finnan Osteopathy William Austin /Chairperson By Ken Allego Donald B. Carroll /Vice-Chairperson 18 The Origin of Festivals and A biographical sketch of the father of Gorg Alonzo, Pat Bishop, William Brown, Leslie Cayce, osteopathy, the treatment approach Dan DeMar, Doug Knueven, Claire Levy, Lora Little, Sacred Days most recommended in the Cayce Martha Loveland, Paul Mazza, Penny Sanchez, By John Van Auken readings Lou Umscheid /Trustees Mercy Martinez /Corporate Secretary The Festival of Onam Ruben Miller /Trustee Emeritus 24 50 Soul Survivor Revisited: By Jerry Lazarus The Reincarnation of a Venture Inward (ISSN 0748-3406) is published In Kerala, India, the festival of Onam quarterly by the Association for Research and is similar to Thanksgiving, only WWII Fighter Pilot Enlightenment (A.R.E.) for its worldwide members and grander! By Bruce Leininger affiliates, Edgar Cayce Foundation, A.R.E. Press, Atlantic How our family accepted the truth of University, and the Cayce/Reilly® School of Massage. Opinions expressed are those of the authors, not reincarnation necessarily of the Association. Send inquiries, change- 26 Treasures from the Vault of-address notices, or requests for back issues c/o A.R.E. Celebrating Thanks-for-Gladys Day! Customer Service at 215 67th Street, Virginia Beach, 54 leaping Forward on VA 23451-2061; email [email protected]; call 757- 428-3588 or 800-333-4499; or visit EdgarCayce.org. My Life Path Copyright © 2017 by the Association for Research 28 a Holiday Remembrance By Jim Pyra and Enlightenment, Inc. The Edgar Cayce readings By Sidney D. Kirkpatrick A recent graduate reflects on his © 1971, 1993-2010 by the Edgar Cayce Foundation. The Cayces’ financial plight comes Atlantic University experience Reproduction by permission only. into sharp focus on Christmas Day in Founded in 1931, the mission of the Association for Dayton Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) is to create profound opportunities for personal change in body, mind, and spirit through the wisdom found in the Edgar Cayce material. Columns and DEPARTMENTS Edgar Cayce (1877-1945) has been called the “sleep- 4 From the Desk of 32 A.R.E. News 58 Calendar of Events ing prophet,” the “father of holistic medicine,” and the Kevin J. Todeschi most-documented psychic of the 20th century. For more 36 Prison Outreach 61 A.R.E. Tours than 40 years, while in an unconscious state, Cayce gave over 14,000 psychic “readings” to thousands, diagnosing 8 Personal Transformation illnesses and outlining treatments, revealing lives lived in 38 Enlightenment Series: 62 A.R.E. Catalog the past and prophecies yet to come, and untangling the 9 Astrologer’s Corner Meditation mysteries of history, nature, spirit and the universe. 66 The Readings Say Medical disclaimer: The content of this magazine is 12 Doc in the House 40 PSI Digest information only and should not be considered as 67 HQ Conferences a guide to self-diagnosis or self-treatment. See a 13 Holistic Pet Care 45 Women’s Wellness physician for any medical problems. - Printed in USA - 17 Art of Living 53 Path of Processing

October-December 2017 3 From the Desk of Kevin J. Todeschi A Message for the Holidays

t became a tradition during Brother, the Christ, IEdgar Cayce’s lifetime that indi- his God, the Father, viduals seeking readings would ask do unto him… Let the sleeping Cayce for a personal it never be said, then, message during the holidays. of a single member of the Since many were coming from a group that ye offended the Christian perspective, the message least of any of His little ones... generally requested was a “Christ- Show ye mercy and love one to another, then, if mas message.” Some of the groups ye would have love and mercy shown to thee. For this is the who received readings (such as beginning and the end of wisdom. (5758-1) Kevin J. Todeschi the original Study Group #1) also Executive Director and CEO requested messages. Taken together, Two weeks after the bombing of Pearl Harbor amidst this information provides a beau- the growing fear of a world at war, the Glad Helpers Prayer tiful thematic overview of our opportunity to bring peace on Healing Group asked for a seasonal message that could be Earth and good will toward all during this very special time sent to everyone; it was eventually sent to all A.R.E. members of year. as well as all individuals on the prayer list and included the One of my favorite messages was given to the first study following: group (Norfolk #1) five days before Christmas in 1936. The group asked for a reading to better understand Christmas and And though there may be abroad hate, avarice, selfish- the birth of Jesus. In part, Cayce responded: “For time never ness, and those things that make men afraid—be still within was when there was not a Christ and not a Christ mass.” thine own heart, thine own consciousness, and know that The reading goes on to say that any individual who had He is with thee... been a seeker and had been located near the birth of Jesus in Let that heart, that mind then be in thee as was in Bethlehem had been able to hear the angelic choir sing; it then Him—“that ye love one another.” adds that the angels sing for every birth because: It is not in the tempest, not in the roar or the lore of the might of battle. Though there may be the destruction of life, For this, then, is in every birth—the possibilities, the glo- of property (as is known materially)—no one can destroy ries, the actuating of that influence of that entrance again of the soul but self! no one but self! god-man into the earth that man might know the way. God hath not willed that any soul should perish, but hath Thus this comes at this time to bring to the hearts and given even His Son, that brought even into the world that minds of those of that Glad period the fact that not only spirit of Christmas. 1900 years ago but today, He may be born into thine own Let thy message be: consciousness, thine own understanding… (262-103) There is hope in Him. For there is the promise through, “Lo, I am with thee always, even unto the end of the On another occasion, through the efforts of study group world.” (281-59) member Florence Edmonds, members of the Park Place Methodist Church in Norfolk received a group reading in And finally, during another of the study group readings, which Cayce gave each individual person messages, as well as an 18-year-old woman [2468] asked for a personal message a collective group message that included the following: appropriate for the holidays and received the following: “Let patience, love and mercy be thy watchwords. Practice them in This should be the first premise, then, of each individual; thy daily life. For in so doing ye bring into thy experience all less and less condemning of others and more and more of the joy, all the expectancy, all the anticipation of a closer walk self-manifesting that love shown by the Father through the with Him—which is indeed the Christ-mass spirit.” (262-116) Son in the material world; that man, through this pattern, On behalf of all of us at A.R.E., we wish you and your fam- through this picture of God, may become a living example, ily every blessing as, over the months to come, you celebrate may walk closer in that way of less condemning. your personal holiday traditions! For as each individual realizes, as these tenets may be analyzed, if God had condemned—what opportunity would there be for man to find his way back to God? Thus each individual must do unto others as he would have his

4 EdgarCayce.org Traditions Special Supplement

he Cayce readings remind ends away from the family. Yet another may build a fruitful life.” (1797-1) A Tus that the essence of family and driver of tradition is education, as seen in brilliant five-pointed star is a reminder holiday or seasonal traditions is kind- Freemasonry and Rosicrucian traditions that “ye have a duty, ye have an obliga- ness and helpfulness to others, a shared where passages from sacred texts and tion, to be ever a shining light to others.” appreciation of family and culture, and a entire books are memorized and recited (3037-1) recognition of the God within us. in elaborate lodge ceremonies. That the study of tradition is im- This was the message put forth in a Cayce also makes clear that tradi- portant is clear from a life reading for reading on the meaning of Thanksgiving tions have been practiced since souls a woman who made this her vocation conducted for the Glad Helpers healing first incarnated. The priestly class in in past lives and is encouraged to do so prayer group: Atlantis, for example, were charged with again. She was advised to recognize the performing rituals whose purpose was similarities of the various traditions, “Thanksgiving is thy opportunity to to raise the consciousness of the popula- “Not as to what it does but the why show thy appreciation to thy friend, thy tion to a greater relationship with God. of same in the experience—and the home, thy mother, thy children—yea, The Egyptian legacy of Ra Ta—Edgar emotions created by same…Not their dif- most of all to thy God...For it is in Him Cayce in a previous incarnation—was ferences, but their overlapping. And what indeed that ye live, that ye move and have to establish customs, rules, and regu- these teach in the many varied sects, the thy being. Let thy heart then be glad.” lations that raised his people to a new many varied cisms—not their differences (3976-21) * level of consciousness. Pyramids were but their unity. These will not only enable constructed not only in Egypt but in the entity to give to others but in the giv- Traditions can be as simple as reading what is today Mexico and Guatemala, so ing, in the seeking, in the understanding, books aloud each night to a child before that hundreds and thousands of peo- broaden—yea , magnify—the vision and bedtime and as complex as a wedding ple could witness rituals performed by the ability in spiritual things.” (1473-1) or baptismal ceremony. They can be priests and royalty on their behalf. The No matter what the tradition, Cayce practices or beliefs handed down from “Lost Hall of Records” might be nothing advises the practitioner to be mindful generation to generation, or new patterns less than a compendium of the beliefs, of how it influences or informs the way that come with a marriage or childbirth. traditions, and practices of these ancient we live and work. The important thing Some will be based on commandments civilizations. is that they conform to one’s ideal and and righteous principles, others may One thing that traditions all have in are performed or practiced with thought evolve from one’s cultural, national, common is their cyclical nature—wheth- and intentionality. As Cayce tells us in or family heritage. They can involve er something is practiced daily, yearly, or 3285-2, “It is the spirit with which ye do advance planning, special dietary require- once in a lifetime. The cycles of nature, a thing, the purpose that brings weal or ments, costumes, and could involve only such as the waxing and the waning of woe in its effect in the experience.” ourselves or hundreds and at times thou- the moon, planting and harvesting, the sands of people. But regardless of their rising and setting of the sun, or coming of *The 3976-21 Thanksgiving reading is reprinted simplicity or complexity, and whether a age, determine how and when traditions in this issue’s The Readings Say, page 66. tradition is new to an individual or has have evolved and are practiced. Such been practiced in the family for gener- cycles were the purpose of the great ations, Cayce tells us that the engines cosmic time-clocks—from Stonehenge in which drive them are both timeless and England to the Pyramid of the Moon in universal. Peru—and why traditions are intimately About the Cover Image A primary driver of tradition is the tied or have their roots in astrology and of Sky Lanterns desire to teach and reinforce family, numerology. Man is subject to univer- Sky lanterns are small hot-air paper bal- cultural, or religious values. Prayer sal cycles and laws. Tradition is their loons often used for holidays and festivals before eating, for example, teaches the handmaiden. in several places around the world includ- value of gratitude for the meal and other Just as traditions are cyclical in nature, ing Asia and South America. For instance, blessings; putting one’s hands together many employ universal symbols or during the Yee Peng festival in northern and bowing upon meeting or greeting archetypes to nonverbally convey a mes- Thailand, Buddhists launch a multitude of another is a sign of respect. Tradition also sage. A wreath of holly, Cayce explains, sky lanterns into the night air to celebrate connects one generation to the next, as is symbolizes the circle of life that spans the letting go of the ills and misfortunes evident in rites of passage such as the bar- the “distance between body, mind, soul.” of the previous year. Tradition holds that and bat mitzvah ceremonies in the Jewish (3053-3) A fir tree hung with decorations if you make a wish when you set off the tradition, or the Rumspringa in Amish is emblematic of human life and the fruit lantern, it will come true—but only if you tradition, when a youth turning 16 is that can come of it. “No man may make do good deeds the following year! permitted to enjoy unsupervised week- a tree,” Cayce tells us. “No man alone

October-December 2017 5 Readers’ Pics of Favorite Traditions.

In Denmark, there’s a small cedar Christmas tree (freshly cut from a children’s park our pasture), candy in our shoes, and sometimes where children go to even a puppy awaited us. The puppy was so hang their pacifiers anxious as we rushed to grab and pet him, he from branches on a often piddled on the floor and on us! You can ceremonial tree. It’s a imagine the excitement and happiness that filled way of saying good- the house that evening!! bye to a trusted friend, —Ms. Lou Umscheid, N.C. and moving on. The Pacifier Tree Photo by Stan Shebs —V.K., by email Family traditions are the glue that holds a via Wikimedia Commons child’s identity and sense of belonging in place. I have lots of little rituals, that I never realized It certainly was for me, who grew up in a house- Every Christmas we put Santa hats on our cats were that until you asked! hold that celebrated a traditional Pennsylvania and pose them for photos (see above). Since we First thing every morning, I open all the blinds, Dutch Christmas don’t have kids, I buy gifts for kids at a local shel- step out onto my garden deck, and say hello to Eve. The center ter. We go to the candlelight service at church on God and thank Him/Her for all my blessings. Then of activities was Christmas Eve and make my mom’s chip dip with I say hello to all the birds, trees, flowers, plants, a country farm garlic and onions to eat Christmas morning. No bugs, and butterflies; I greet the sky, clouds, and celebration one likes to cook, so for all holidays, if we aren’t especially the rising sun. I walk into the dew-wet with a hand-cut invited to a friend’s house, we order pizza. grass with bare feet and try to get grounded for Christmas tree —Alison Ray, Va. the day ahead. from the forest Have you ever pet- surrounding the I’ve been a gypsy for so much of my life that ted a bumblebee? farm. My grand- most traditions I may have had have fallen by the I do it whenever one father would cut wayside. The only thing I can think of at this point is close--they always the tree a few is that for the last 28 years on January 1, I have let me touch them on hours before Christmas eve, and my sister and read the first 168 pages ofAlcoholics Anonymous. the fuzzy shoulder part I decorated it with strings of cranberry and —Anonymous, Va. while they feed on the popcorn garlands. A very small creche was the flowers. Fun! center of attraction on the floor underneath the Our family tradition is that we keep our grand- I was inspired by a talk I heard by Elisabeth tree. Bing Crosby singing “Silver Bells” filled the children overnight on New Year’s Eve. I’m sure our Kubler-Ross, who told of a patient who had been air. A piece of pie or cookie would be placed on son and his wife see it as a needed break from the in a car crash and “heard” a passing motorist the kitchen table. When all was in place, and kids, but we love ringing in the new year with the praying for him as he was being transported in the preparations completed for Santa’s anticipated next generation. ambulance. I now pray and ask God’s blessings arrival, the entire family went down to the barn —Doug and Judy Knueven, Pa. when I hear a siren or see an ambulance or fire to sing “Silent Night, Holy Night.” The black engine pass by. angus cattle, cats and horses eyed us comically. Inspired by a mantra I read in the Course in We all sensed a spiritual oneness with the great Miracles, I repeat the phrase, “My only goal is Creator. It truly was a holy night. the peace of God,” when I’m annoyed by a traffic —Betsy York, Va. situation or discourteous driver as I’m traveling down the road. It really helps to keep me calm —Susan Lendvay, Va.

Growing up in Kansas we lived on Image by David Broad via Wikimedia Commons an active farm. As On every major holiday throughout the year, we German Catholics, take a walk in Seashore [now called First Landing] we would excitedly State Park in Virginia Beach—friends and fami- await St. Nicholas’ ly—a kind of walking meditation. In years past, day on December during the holiday season, when it was cold, my 6. On that night, An Austin family gathering son and I (when he was small) would decorate a before dinnertime, For as long as I can remember we’ve held tree in the woods with berries and popcorn for we would hear a loud knock on the front door hands and taken a moment of silence before the birds. We also had a bedtime ritual of castor of the house. A “Ho, Ho, Ho” would be heard as each meal. Though a blessing or grace is rarely oil pack, peanut oil spinal massage, and sleep the front door closed. We would then be led into spoken, a squeeze of the hand followed by a short suggestions. (How’s that for a Cayce tradition!) our unheated and closed off front parlor (this affirmation, confirmation, or acknowledgment is —Judith Stevens, Va. was wintertime, of course, and our front parlor often shared. Our family and guests seem to like wasn’t heated). We would excitedly enter this the peace that it brings—though kissing your For many years, July 4th was our favorite frigid room knowing that St. Nick had sneaked neighbor’s hand has sent a few over the edge. holiday for our family and friends! Grounded in to leave us gifts. There we would always find —Bill Austin, Va. in the great Declaration of Independence, here

6 EdgarCayce.org was by word-of-mouth; we invited a few peo- Morbid as this may sound, our family tradition ple and told them to bring their friends…and was to spend Sunday afternoons with our extend- food…and instruments. All we did was hold the ed family at Druid Ridge Cemetery, which is where space, and did so every month for 11 years! We many of my relatives are buried. The place was had anywhere from 15 to 70 people show up right out of a Stephen King novel! While the adults each month! Little did we know how important tended to the graves and distributed flowers, we this monthly tradition would become in these children would run and play among the tomb people’s lives! Couples who met at RendezVous stones. Before leaving, one of our grandparents ended up dating and making families! Over the or aunts would invariably take us by the hand years, hundreds of A.R.E. Camp friends came and, standing in front of a particular grave, tell from around the country to see each other and us stories about the person buried there. Walking surrounding our own Statue of Liberty (see pho- dozens ended up moving here! Even though we among the graves, hearing all the family stories, to), we sing patriotic songs, eat tasty treats, and ended RendezVous a few years ago because of made the past a living thing for me. I have since shoot off fireworks. We came upon this particular our travel schedules, Charlottesville has become gone on to become a professional biographer. Statue of Liberty one day when we were driving a real hub for A.R.E. activities, in large part be- —S.K., Canada on Hwy 105 out of Boone, N.C., and bought her cause of the strong base of loving, Camp-related from the owner who delivered her to us in Glen- people our RendezVous parties helped attract One of the most memorable traditions of my dale Springs. She has been a wonderful treasure here. And our lives are so much the richer for childhood was in early spring, just after the snow since. We just love having our representative Lib- having created this joy-filled tradition. melt. Mom and Dad would rouse my sister and me erty in our yard! She seems to be an embodiment —Patrick and Jane Belisle, Va. out of bed before dawn, bundle us up in blankets, of both our celebration and of the Word, as rooted and take us to the beach, and we would sit on in II Corinthians 3:17: “...where the Spirit of the My French-Canadian, Catholic dad grew up on lawn chairs and watch the sun rise. Afterwards Lord is, there is Liberty.” a dairy farm in Wisconsin. As an additional source Dad would fire up the camp stove and make us —Bebe Anderson, N.C. of income in springtime, pancakes. —S.K., N.Y. his family would tap the In 1991, our study maple trees to make For over 40 years, my husband Alan and I prac- group attended a maple syrup, and from ticed a personal ritual each New Year that helped program where that annual family ac- us to put the past behind us and look to the future. John Van Auken tivity, a tradition was We would set the stage by cleaning the fire- reviewed the born. To this day—near- place, add fresh wood and kindling, arrange flow- Cayce readings on ly 70 years after Dad ers, candles, and special objects around the hearth, 1998 as a signpost moved off the family farm—every Easter, he puts and place a special ceramic bowl on the mantle. of a coming shift a pan of pure maple syrup on the stove, gets it We would then light a fire and sit side by side on in consciousness. simmering, and cracks in two or three fresh eggs. the couch facing the John emphasized And then he eats it. Yep! Eggs boiled in maple hearth. After a con- there was no time syrup. Nature’s best fats and sugars in one special templative medita- like the present to treat. The perfect Easter food. tion, we would then work on ourselves before the “shift” happened. —Patrick Belisle, Va. take up pen and Our group decided to focus on our individual paper, upon which meditation practices and also join with global Growing up, I always had a fascination with we would sign our meditators for world healing the following New dressing up. I would take walks dressed as a bal- names, and then list Year’s Eve. The readings also identify the healing lerina, dine as a princess, and play in the backyard the previous year’s power of simply being in Nature, especially in as a fox. I think even events. We would certain places around the world. Since then, then I subconsciously include both the good and bad, triumphs and I have combined the two: meditating for the realized the sense of failures, things we were proud of, and what we world on New Year’s Eve and then exploring a freedom dressing up regretted. When the list was complete, we would natural setting on New Year’s Day. This January, created. Not only do we say a prayer for our blessings and ask forgiveness 2017, marked my first New Year’s walk along the see the world differently for any unintended hurts. Then we would set what American River in Sacramento, Ca. (see photo) The when we change our we had written on fire and place the burning pag- American River was home to the Maidu people appearance but we also es into our special bowl. In this way, we would be long before the Gold Rush; their archeological and have the power of being sending the words up with the smoke and could energetic presence, found in many spots along the able to change others’ perceptions of us. And, imagine them being received into heaven! Then river, made for a glorious New Year. when we don a mask, self-doubt and fear can we would focus on the new year ahead by writing —Gorgiana Alonzo, Calif. disappear and our inhibitions are freed. our goals and hopes for the future on another Naturally, Halloween was, and is to this day, my document. These pages we would also sign be- W hen we first moved to Charlottesville, Va. favorite holiday. Every year as Halloween neared, fore setting on fire, depositing into the bowl, and (where we live today), we dreamed about the my anticipation grew. I’d spend weeks deciding saying a prayer. (Only in this case, we copied the things we wanted in our lives: good friends, on who I wanted to be for the night and my mom list for future reference before burning.) good food, music, and laughter. After some and I would then spend weeks making a costume. This hearth-fire ritual was important for us, brainstorming about how to attract all that into As an adult, I continue the tradition of dressing up because it was a way to end one cycle with our lives, we decided to create a monthly potluck on Halloween. It’s refreshing to still have a night purpose and satisfaction and begin a new one dinner followed by a sing-along jam session: we when I can feel the freedom of being a kid again. with hope and resolve. called it 2nd Saturday RendezVous. Invitation —V. T., Calif. —Heather Preston, Calif.

October-December 2017 7 Celebrating the Pattern This Holiday Season

n an age like our own, the spir- 37-year-old artist during the holiday season of it of inter-faith celebration and 1943, “Know that there are those strengths, ecumenical openness seems to have those assurances that may be found in the given way to divisiveness among the closer walk with the Christ Consciousness. Ye religions—at least if we are to believe can make this very real, very personal in thy the political news. However, the approach experience. This doesn’t imply that you are to to spirituality and personal transformation become a recluse, or that you are to become described by Edgar Cayce challenges us today long-faced. It’s the opposite! You must become to stretch and recognize universal themes. cheerful!” (3578-1) Edgar Cayce’s idea is that there has always been a Christmas, a Christ-Consciousness, Rest and Rejuvenation—Practicing self- which is accessible in the mind of each per- care is an important part of every personal son no matter their faith tradition. As Cayce transformation process. Rest is an important The approach to described it in a reading to a 36-year-old feature of the pattern. Without “down time,” spirituality and personal bakery salesman in December of 1943, “For we don’t get the rejuvenation we need—phys- the Master...is the pattern for every man in the ically, mentally, or spiritually. As a 29-year-old transformation earth, whether he be Gentile or Jew, Parthenian woman was advised by Cayce, “…there is described by Edgar or Greek. For all have the pattern, whether too much work and too much worry to the they call on that name or not…” (3528-1) amount of play and relaxation [she’s] taken! Cayce challenges us Maybe we can look upon the holiday season as Better divide it up! Did you find the Master to recognize universal essentially a celebration of that pattern. A pat- worked continually, or did He take time to tern that was lived fully by the historical figure play? and time to relax? He is a good example themes. Jesus, but also a pattern waiting to be awak- in everyone’s life!” (528-13) ened in each and every soul, irrespective of the faith tradition employed for its awakening. A Sense of Humor—We can find it within Let’s consider the very nature of that to just say “It’s no big deal” when faced with pattern. Rather than lapse into theological a frustration or a disappointment. And, laugh disputes over religious doctrine, the human at human foibles, especially our own. Let’s family would be better off examining deeply cultivate laughter and play in ourselves and (and living!) the elements of this template. others. When we do, we’re living a signifi- Here are just five aspects of the nature of this cant aspect of the pattern. As Cayce told a pattern, according to Cayce. 25-year-old bookkeeper in 1941, “See the funny side—don’t be too serious. Remember, Balance—So much about daily, modern He even made the joke as He walked to the living can throw us off kilter. It can be a real garden to be betrayed. Remember, He looked challenge to maintain our center. Whenever with love upon His disciple that denied Him, we intentionally make a move toward being even as He stood alone.” (2448-2) balanced and establishing greater equilibrium as we go about our day, then we are connect- Be Sociable—A fifth and final aspect that is ing to the pattern of Christ Consciousness. As perfect for the upcoming season is to be socia- mark thurston, phd, is an Cayce told a 53-year-old housewife in 1934, ble! As Cayce tells us: “Jesus is the man—the author, psychologist, and educator “Hence keep, keep thine balance in all ways, activity, the mind, the relationships that He who worked at A.R.E. and Atlantic all things, even as He.” (489-2) bore to others. Yea, He was mindful of friends, University from 1973 through 2008. He was sociable, He was loving, He was kind, He is now a faculty member at George A Cheerful and Joyful Outlook—approach- He was gentle…” (2533-7) Mason University’s Center for the ing life with positivity as the core. There will Advancement of Well-Being where he be times of discouragement and sadness; that’s Let us make this year’s holiday season—no teaches courses about consciousness, just part of being human. But do we get stuck matter what our faith—all about celebrating meaning, mindfulness, and spirituality. there, or can we find a way to reconnect to these five elements of the pattern—elements More about his work can be found at the pattern and return to a default posture that live as vibrant potentials in the mind of markthurston.com. of cheerfulness and joy? As Cayce said to a each one of us.

8 EdgarCayce.org Solstice Rituals

he cycles of the Sun and Moon Ancient traditions from Persia and Egypt are the origins of, and deeply con- were the basis for the great feast of Saturnalia nected to, many annual celebrations. in Rome. Saturn was the ancient god of plant- Ancient cultures were supremely depen- ing and harvesting, and was directly associated dent on the seasons of year, since the po- with the growing of food in preparation for the sitions of the Sun and Moon regulate numerous famine months. Saturn is the ruler of Capricorn, processes necessary for life, including mating, the zodiac sign of the Sun on the day of the planting and harvesting of crops, waters’ tides, solstice in December. Saturnalia was a period and so much more. when there was a relaxation of social customs, Many rituals or traditions hinge on or around and anger and quarrels were forgotten for the the winter solstice—the darkest moment in the moment. Slaves were treated as equals and it year, when the “sun stands still.” In the northern was a time of great revelry with a carnival-like The path of the Sun, hemisphere, the winter solstice is the shortest atmosphere. There were feasts, decorations of day and longest night of the year. Early cultures greenery, and much gift-giving. Sound familiar? Moon, and Stars feared that the Sun might completely disappear The Saturnalia celebrations were popular even across our sky have during solstice. To avoid this catastrophe, they into the 3rd and 4th centuries, and our celebra- developed several religious rites and made sac- tions around Christmas and the New Year’s sparked celebrations rifices to the Sun god in hopes the Sun would remain greatly influenced by these seasonal we continue to honor return, and they would again have warmth, celebrations. light, and the ability to grow food. In addition, the Romans had a festival on throughout the seasons Since an estimated 10,000 BC, Neolithic December 25th called Dies Natalis Solis Invicti, of the year. cultures were the first farmers who also built “Birthday of the Unconquered Sun,” which was many structures around the world for the also celebrated as the birthday of the Sun god, practice of rituals and Mithras. In the year 273, this Roman solar feast worship of the Sun god. day became a Christian celebration when the Stonehenge in England, Christian church selected this day to represent Newgrange in Ireland, the birthday of Jesus. Karnac in Egypt, and Christmas and Chanukah are considered Machu Picchu in Peru celebrations of light, and although Kwanzaa is all contain structures a more recent holiday celebration, it is connected in alignment with the with ancient harvest celebrations in Africa. The solstice that focus the major Islamic holidays are based on a lunar Sun’s light and use it as calendar and are not connected with the solstice a moment of religious time of the year. There is also some disagreement worship and celebration. among Jewish scholars as to why Chanukah, a At the winter solstice, festival of lights, is celebrated during the dark- some 5,000 years ago, est part of the year, since it is tied to the lunar the Egyptians set 12 days and not the solar calendar. One Jewish source of celebration reflecting suggests a pagan celebration was used in order the 12 divisions of their solar calendar (and the to show God’s victory over paganism. Since the Raye Mathis, MSW, LSW, did 12 signs of the zodiac.) This 12-day celebration winter solstice was celebrated as the death and post-graduate work at the Jung was in honor of the wheel of the year. The rebirth of the Divine Sun long before the rise Institute, Zurich, and has been an as- mid-winter celebration was also in honor of of Christianity, it is also believed that Christian trological counselor for over 45 years, the birth of Horus, son of Isis, the divine moth- leaders chose these pagan celebrations as the having studied astrology with Frau er-goddess. This celebration took root in the birthday of Jesus, the Divine Son, in order to Baumann-Jung, Carl Jung’s daughter. Western world as the 12 days of Christmas from attract pagans to Christianity. A former A.R.E. board member, Raye December 25 until January 6, the Epiphany. The Across multiple cultures, ancient, pagan, or mentors on-going astrology-based Epiphany marked the arrival of the Three Magi, modern, the path of the Sun, Moon, and Stars online courses and serves as faculty the astrologers who saw an omen in the sky, across our sky have sparked celebrations we at Atlantic University. Contact: raye. possibly the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn continue to honor throughout the seasons of [email protected]. in Pisces that occurred in 7 BC. the year.

October-December 2017 9 The Invitation of Ritual

By corinne cayce, ma

he summer before my final year of graduate school, my classmates and I went T on a ten-day wilderness retreat high in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The central purpose of this retreat was to prepare for and take a three-day Looking for forest greenery backcountry solo. On our own, we were to each find a spot in the wilderness where we were to stay with- are moving slowly through their great circle. Rituals—daily, weekly, or yearly—can allow us to pay attention to our place in out food or shelter for three days and three nights. the great, ever-changing mandala of life. Before I left on my solo, I worried that the lack of food might When I became a mother, I discovered that ritual quickly interfere with my decision-making. I worried that I might have became vital. While my children were very small, you would a panic attack or get sick. Conversely, I imagined that the experi- probably have heard my husband describe this love of routines ence could be relaxing, that I might even feel bored. In reality, and ritual as “impossibly tied to a strict schedule,” but in the once I was alone in the wilderness I did not feel bored or have face of keeping another human being alive, my rituals became a panic attack; I felt pretty sure I was going die from a bear or lifelines. Now, as the mother of growing children, my rituals are mountain lion attack. I had no house or tent; no weapons, no simple and based on ideas in the Cayce readings—allowing for fire; I had nothing to protect myself. I was totally unprepared imaginative play, lots of time outside, and stories. The readings for how scared and vulnerable I felt in the wild. I was amazed encourage parents to establish routines with their children. In by how quickly all concerns of my normal life disappeared as several readings Cayce noted that when a child is in a healthy my focus homed in on survival. How could I save myself? rhythm, weaknesses can be corrected. Routines can build con- In that new and vulnerable place, I found myself turning structive actions that become natural and habitual and lead to instinctively and entirely to ritual. helpful thoughts and wise decisions. I followed the sun or shade around the small meadow I had One that will ever be found to be inclined to be neglectful at chosen for my three-day stay (a meadow, I was now certain, that times. This may never be corrected by scolding, but by giving bears would come from long distances to eat the small blueber- routine work, or routine formulas, that may bring coordinated ry bushes along its perimeter). I set up small altars with flowers unison of its thinking. (3204-1) and items I’d found. I prayed and meditated, sang and danced. Tiny rituals nurture children and their sense of place in this And each night as I lay down under the stars, I would acknowl- great world, just as bigger, grander rituals do. My four-year-old edge that this night I might die; I might wake to a bear’s giant recently asked about circles. Each day creates a circle as the sun face and that would be the end of me. moves across the sky. And just so for our family—from morn- At the end of the three days, back in warmth and safety, I ing cuddling, to talking about dreams en route to school, to marveled at what a creature of ritual I had become during those afternoon story time while swinging on the swings, to snack and days. What had ritual offered me in my fright and uncertainty? garden weeding, to sweeping after dinner—these dependable And what did ritual have to offer me in my life away from the rhythms ground us and help us feel the circle of our day. Some bear meadow? During the holiday season, I find it particularly days are rushed with new activities, or we are traveling, or have helpful to revisit these questions. visitors, each of which brings its own excitement and special- In our daily lives, it is easy to feel insulated or distant from ness. But when we are in our usual daily rhythm, sometimes I death. For most of us, there is hardly ever an opportunity to notice a sacred relationship to time. It is then that I realize anew feel utterly defenseless in the face of, for instance, a wild animal how our simple routines are in fact deeply grounding. I define attack. Yet all the same, underneath all the layers of busyness in and describe time in terms of these rituals. Our rituals are an our lives, we know that time is passing. We know that we are offering that celebrates what is meaningful to us. I am reminded getting older; that life will unfold before us and before those we that I want to choose these rituals, to create our family rhythm, love in ways we cannot possibly anticipate or control. Whether skillfully and with intention. we pay attention or not, the sun is rising and setting, the seasons In our home, more defined and exciting rituals are shaped

10 EdgarCayce.org turned to ritual in the wilderness, why it is so central to my mothering, and why I am happiest when held in the circles of our family rhythm. For the home is the nearest pattern in earth…to man’s relationship to his Maker. For it is ever creative in purpose from per- sonalities and individualities coordinated for a cause, an ideal. (3577-1) Making pancakes in the early morning light, returning to the same prayer before sleep each night, picking azaleas and lilac for birthday bouquets each spring, finding forest greenery for a Christmas wreath— there is familiarity to these daily, weekly, and yearly rituals that invite us to step out- side the bustle of our lives for a moment May Day Festival at the Waldorf School Story time while swinging and to remember our shared family ideal by our children’s Waldorf schools and by to leave ample time to enjoy it. In advance of loving one another the best we can. their founder Rudolph Steiner’s funda- of a celebration, we begin singing songs When I was alone in the wilderness mental belief in human beings’ natural for that particular celebration, gather- with the very real experience of feeling attraction to and appreciation of rhythm. ing items from nature that are available as though my life could be taken at any He wrote in Signs and Symbols for the during that time of year, baking special moment, ritual was all I had to rely on. Christmas Ritual, “Rhythm holds sway foods, telling the stories we know so well. I could not control what would happen in the whole of nature, up to the level I try to look for that moment when all the out there, but I could bring rhythm to my of man. Then, and only then is there a preparation and hard work pays off, to time. In that rhythm, I discovered I could change. The rhythm which through the remember to feel that moment of stillness celebrate, create, and connect to what I course of the year holds sway in the forces when it all comes together. At a birthday, love about being alive. of growth, of propagation and so forth, it is usually when we sing. I hear the Ritual is my treasured reminder, with ceases when we come to man. For man voices of those who love my child and are my children, family and friends, to pause is to have his roots in freedom; and the watching her grow. I see that her shining time—to stop and notice what is unfold- more civilized he is, the more does this face is a sparkling reflection of the bright ing around us. As we return to activities, rhythm decline. As the light disappears at star she is in our life. And I think, “Oh stories, and places each day, each month, Christmas time, so has rhythm apparent- yes, I remember now: we are here to love. and each year, we can mark how we’ve ly departed from the life of man. Chaos We are here to enjoy this time together.” changed, and how we are holding each prevails. But man must give birth again Rituals offer us these vital glimpses into other through those changes. We can to rhythm out of his innermost being, his how the moments of our lives are grand celebrate for a moment that we are here own initiative.” pieces in a larger tapestry. together right now. Within our rituals, we Steiner’s Waldorf schools mark the Joseph Campbell, who could well be acknowledge, “Look at what is happening change of seasons and holidays with the greatest authority on mythology and right now. Look how we are able to love festivals. Parents, teachers, and children its place in contemporary culture, writes each other no matter what. Look at how come together for simple performances in Thou Art That, “another function bountiful is this earth and how precious by the children, stories, music, and snacks. of traditional mythology is to carry the our time together!” As these festivals and simple birthday cel- individual through the various stages ebrations have become part of our family and crises of life—that is, to help persons About the Author life, I can see how they help my chil- grasp the unfolding of life with integrity. corinne cayce, ma, is dren—as well as my husband and me—to This wholeness means that individuals a life coach, A.R.E. speaker adjust to change. They help us to let go will experience significant events, from and writer, and a great-grand- daughter of Edgar Cayce. of current seasons and the way things are birth through midlife to death, as in ac- Applying Cayce’s readings is right now, and welcome what comes next, cord with, first, themselves, and secondly, at the heart of her personal to feel safe in the face of the reality of with their culture, as well as, thirdly, the and professional life, and constant change and uncertainty. universe, and, lastly, with that mysteri- brings fresh meaning, pur- With the traditional rituals— um tremendum beyond themselves and pose and joy to her clients’ lives. Corinne’s Master’s degree is in Environmental Leadership and studies Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, all things.” This insight into one of the focused on mindful conflict resolution, authentic birthdays—much of the rhythm and ritual roles of mythology—of which ritual is a leadership, and organizational learning. Corinne can is in the preparation, so I try to remember part—helps me better understand why I be reached at [email protected].

October-December 2017 11 Doctor in the house By Josephine B. Adamson, MD, MPH, CMT

Turkey Teachings love celebrations. Gathering together in remembrance health. Five years ago, I hosted my siblings, spouses, our chil- Iand gratitude anchors us in shared ideals and joy—except dren, friends, and my father for the first Thanksgiving after my when it doesn’t! Various surveys report that money is the pri- mother’s death. I had taken time off from work, prepared the mary source of holiday stress, but other top stressors include house, and baked for several days. A hit-or-miss cook, I had health concerns, time and scheduling issues, and family drama. asked a generous neighbor to fry a turkey for us. The cooked Dr. Marie Hartwell-Walker, a clinical psychologist and author, bird was gorgeous. Thirteen of us sat around the beautiful table, humorously describes the recipe for holiday disaster: and my father said a heartfelt prayer of thanks. I carved into Don’t get enough sleep. Eat nothing but sugar. Don’t move the turkey—raw pink flesh and bright red blood! I grabbed the except from car to store to car to door. Decorate every inch of turkey platter and ran to the kitchen. Alone, I surprised myself the house. Dig up memories of past holidays where you were by bursting into tears. In the other room, however, the adults neglected, mistreated, or ignored by someone or maybe by sev- poured more wine and the kids began a board game. A dear eral someones. Focus on what you don’t have and can’t do. Try friend followed me into the kitchen and gently moved me aside. to get to too many places in too short a time. Overspend. The She sliced the raw turkey, microwaved the pieces, and put it all PTA needs cookies? You agree to bake 6 dozen. The church on a clean platter within minutes. Though my festive guests needs folks to staff the holiday fair? You take two shifts as a barely noticed the delay, it took me most of the meal to regain favor to your friend the committee chair. The Cub Scouts need my equanimity. a place to have a party? You volunteer your house.* Later that Thanksgiving evening when the dishes were done, Just reading Dr. Hartwell-Walker’s description raises my the same friend reminded me of a birthday party I had forgot- blood pressure! Listening to our bodies and noticing manifes- ten. Our beloved elderly friend had planned to serve her special tations of stress, such as muscle tightness, headaches, difficulty North Carolina grilled chicken, and had engaged her adult son breathing, fatigue, anxiety, constipation, diarrhea, and trouble to cook the meat and apply his mother’s secret method. Fifty sleeping can alert us to the need to simplify our holidays. When hungry people of all ages were gathered ready to eat. The host Dr. Charles Thomas Cayce was working with adolescents early carried the carefully marinated chicken from the refrigerator to in his career as a child psychologist, he used the Cayce readings the secluded grilling area, where half the chicken in the flimsy to develop a protocol that successfully helped one group elimi- tray slopped out onto the concrete. She hastily scooped it up, nate their psychiatric medications. The Cayce protocol included rinsed it, and returned to the tray. Despite the careful attention of recommendations that we can all use to de-stress: spend time her son, the charcoal flames flared up and charred every piece of outside each day, exercise, eat a healthy diet, get massages, use chicken he had put on the grill. At that point, the host threw up castor oil packs, hang out with a friend, practice prayer/med- her hands and laughed—and sent my friend and me on a stealth itation, and use a Radiac® appliance. Though it’s difficult to mission to the closest fast-food restaurant to buy every piece of stick with a healthy routine during the holidays, keeping these fried chicken they had. We returned quickly with several large recommendations as goals will help us navigate stress and enjoy buckets which the host spread onto decorative platters, sprinkled the season more. with reserved marinade, and served. The unsuspecting guests Enjoying rituals with friends and family is at the heart of raved about the “special North Carolina chicken.” Everyone, celebrations. The holidays are an opportunity to focus on our including our beloved host, had a great time at the party. ideals and what we hold most important instead of what the Remembering the chicken incident brought a smile to my face. media and marketers emphasize. This time of year can be a time My wise friend had given me the moment of grace I needed to to renew and recommit ourselves to health in body, mind, and refocus on my ideal of relaxing and connecting with loved ones. spirit. One of my favorite Cayce readings addresses the interplay Acknowledging that my emotions were raw from continued between health and our relationships with self and with others. grief and missing Mom—not from undercooked meat—enabled The body renews itself according to the mental attitude it me to adjust my attitude. I hugged my friend, went over and holds towards ideals, and in the light of the application of hugged my Dad, and, silently giving thanks, joined the loud relationships to others. And this applies as well in the rela- competitive after-dinner Scrabble® game. tionships of self. (2081-2) May your holidays be a time of acceptance, joy, and nour- Staying healthy physically and mentally is especially chal- ishment. lenging during the holidays; time commitments multiply and memories intensify. Though I eagerly anticipate the season each *Hartwell-Walker, M. (2016). 8 Ways to Take the Joy Out of the Holidays. Psych year, there have been holidays that taught me important lessons Central. Retrieved on July 11, 2017, from https://psychcentral.com/lib/8-ways- about balancing expectations with my mental and physical to-take-the-joy-out-of-the-holidays/

12 EdgarCayce.org Making Holidays Safe for Pets

s we gather for holiday cele- might also be hidden in unexpected places brations and join in our traditions, like peanut butter and toothpaste. If eaten by we can become so distracted by your pet, xylitol can lower the blood glucose decorating and entertaining to dangerously low levels and damage the that we might forget the many liver. Be sure to keep all candy out of the ways our holiday festivities may adversely reach of your dogs and cats. Other foods that affect our pets. cause problems for pets: grapes, raisins, garlic, For example, many young or curious pets onions, and macadamia nuts can be toxic to like to experience new things in their envi- dogs and cats. ronment by chewing on them. This can be Do not feed your dog fatty table scraps or a real problem when it comes to decorative cooked bones. This practice can be life-threat- plants. The beautiful Poinsettia is mildly toxic ening and often leads to severe vomiting and and may cause vomiting when ingested, but diarrhea. GI upset is the most common rea- Pets are an important is not deadly. Mistletoe and Holly are more son for emergency veterinary visits around part of the family and dangerous. Besides causing severe vomiting the holidays. In fact, the lower intestinal and diarrhea, if enough of their leaves or ber- eruptions caused by such dietary indiscretion should be included in ries are eaten, seizures and death may result. has led veterinarians to rename the day after holiday traditions. Lilies of all varieties are highly toxic for our Thanksgiving “Brown Friday.” feline friends. Consuming even small amounts If your pet does manage to get into some- can lead to death from renal failure. Even the thing harmful, call your veterinarian or poison Christmas tree itself is considered mildly toxic. control center right away to find out what you Fir tree oils irritate the mouth and stomach can do to help. It is a good policy to keep these causing drooling and vomiting in both dogs numbers readily available since the best time and cats. to plan for an emergency is before something Holiday decorations can sometimes be bad happens. tempting play things for dogs and cats alike. As you entertain guests for holiday fun, Be sure to read the warning labels on products realize that visitors, especially children, may like spray-on snow. Also, never put ribbons not understand how to best interact with your around your pet’s neck or allow them to play pet. Also, be responsive to the possibility that with plastic or foil wrappings. Icicle type tinsel your animal companion may not appreciate and ribbons are especially dangerous for cats dealing with strangers in the house. If you mix because in the course of playing with them, these ingredients together and add a dash of Santa’s Helper stands ready! they will often swallow the decoration, which adult distraction, you have a perfect recipe for can lodge in the intestine causing a blockage. holiday disaster. (A dish best left unserved.) Even the additional electrical cords we run ev- In some cases, it is better to keep your pet in erywhere this time of year are hazardous; their another room, away from guests, depending sharp teeth can easily puncture the insulation, on your animal’s needs. causing electrocution. Pets are an important part of the family Doug Knueven, DVM, is a Be aware that some foods and treats that and it is wonderful to include them in holi- practicing veterinarian in Beaver, are safe for people can be harmful to pets. day traditions. Many people these days even Pa. He has earned certification in Chocolate contains both theobromine and caf- give their dogs and cats presents to unwrap veterinary acupuncture, veterinary feine, which can cause hyperactivity, tremors, with everyone else. May a word to the wise Chinese herbal medicine, and and even death. Baker’s and dark chocolate be sufficient. Before the celebration begins, I veterinary chiropractic, and has are the most toxic but milk chocolate can be invite you to take time to consider the holidays advanced training in natural dangerous if large amounts are eaten. It takes from your pet’s perspective. Understanding nutrition, massage therapy, and only eight ounces of milk chocolate to sicken a your four-legged friends and taking a few pre- homeopathy. He is the author 50-pound dog where just one ounce of baker’s cautions will lead to a safer and more joyful of The Holistic Health Guide: chocolate will have the same effect. holiday season for all. Natural Care for the Whole Dog. Another toxin from the food category is For more information, go to xylitol. This artificial sweetener is commonly Send your vet questions to Dr. Doug at BeaverAnimalClinic.com. found in sugar-free candies and gums but [email protected]

October-December 2017 13 The E dgar Cayce Story of Christmas By Mark Finnan

The Virgin of the Lilies (1899) by William- Adolphe Bouguereau via Wikimedia Commons

he addi- Cayce source elaborated tional on the deeper meaning and T details significance the birth has for that the Cayce read- each of us. ings bring to the story In one such reading Cayce of Christmas combine to said, give us a more complete and “Much has been recorded as comprehensive picture of the respecting this by the writers of the sweeping cosmic drama involved Gospel, especially by Luke; but little per- with all its interplay of supernatural forc- fect concept may be gathered except ye as es, dedicated individuals and extraordinary individuals seek to experience what such circumstances, all leading to its joyful and And it also has the potential to awaken an advent meant or means to thy life as glorious conclusion in the birth of Jesus in us the awareness of our own need to an individual. For knowledge of a thing Christ. In its totality, it is an informative give birth to the highest within ourselves, or a condition and the wisdom that is pre- and inspiring account of the power and that we too may become as He was, an sented in that happening are two different presence of Divine Love coupled with hu- expression of God’s love in the ways and things… As these changes come and as ye man faith, self-sacrifice, courage, and com- days of our lives. make known that as has been the raising mitment to a spiritual ideal that spanned A series of readings given in the late of that consciousness of His Presence in ages past. Yet it is also imbued with a 1930s and into the early 1940s for the thine experience, by thy dealings with, by timeless dimension and a transcendental Norfolk #1 A Search for God study group thy conversation with, by thy life with thy nature that can nourish all who seek His (262), and other readings given to indi- fellow man, so may ye hasten the day when light in the present. viduals who in past lives were involved in He, Christ, may come into thine own heart, The sacred history revealed in Cayce’s the preparation for and arrival of Christ, unto His own peoples, to reign; yes, in the telling of the story of Christmas can cre- provide many of the descriptive details of hearts and lives!” (262-103) ate a greater appreciation of the purpose the birth of Jesus that are not mentioned The readings make specific reference to behind the birth of Jesus and that soul’s in the Gospel accounts. It was in answer- the spiritual education and preparation eventual role as the fullest expression of the ing questions posed by the first A Search that Mary, from age 4-16, underwent in true relationship between God and man. for God study group in Norfolk that the the Essene community on Mount Carmel.

14 EdgarCayce.org The Essenes, we learn elsewhere, were a As the time of birth drew near, the couple leave. What Sarapha didn’t know was that reclusive Jewish religious sect of men and traveled to Bethlehem. It was a journey of her father was an Essene, a member of women that embraced the teachings of several days and delays due to Mary’s ad- the same Jewish sect as Joseph and Mary. the Jewish prophets from Elijah onward vancing pregnancy. They arrived on a cool This was why the family had gone to this and accepted astrology, the study of solar evening on what would be either January particular inn. cycles, numerology, and reincarnation as 6 or March 19, in the year 4 AD. The dis- To protect Mary and Joseph from fur- part of a broader understanding of the crepancy in the dating given in different ther abuse and the disturbing conditions interaction between the Divine and the readings is due, apparently, to the several inside, the innkeeper felt it best to turn the human experience. changes in the accounting of time since couple away. As Cayce described it, the inn Essenes were aware of the cyclical then, along with what Cayce describes as was not the right place anyway. time-frame associated with the “No room in the Inn!” ancient prophecy concerning For no inn, no room, could the coming of the Messiah and “Hold fast to that, O contain that as was being of the necessity for creating Daughter of the Inn given in a manifested form! those conditions conducive to Keeper, O the Beholder of (262-103) its fulfillment. For that purpose, His Glory; O the joyous, Immediately those with they undertook the instruction gracious feelings that fill the couple and who were of a chosen group of young thy soul and being with aware of the urgency in- girls who were offered by their the richness of the earth volved looked for a place parents with the intention that poured out at His feet, where shelter and privacy one of them would become with those that experi- could be quickly found. As a enced the lowly shepherds the vessel through which there result, Mary and Joseph took that came to see that might be the birth. In Mary’s refuge in a stable or grotto Joseph and Mary Arrive at Bethlehem by glorious sight, and they— case, she was 4 years old when nearby. William Hole via Wikimedia Commons too—were not hindered her mother Anne presented her from beholding the face “Then—when hope to the Essenes. Mary, and some of their Savior. And ye, too, O Daughter, may know His face—but turn seemed gone—the herald an- of the other novitiates, later within! For there ye may meet Him, as so oft ye did in those days, those gels sang. The star appeared, freely choose to dedicate them- weeks, those months, those years ye recounted in thine inner self those that made the wonderment selves to this. It is estimated she glorious experiences, those glorious happenings of that day when the to the shepherds, that caused was about 12 years old when Babe, the child Jesus lay in thy arms. For He is very nigh unto all that the awe and consternation she was chosen. As Cayce de- call on His holy name. He has promised and His promises are sure, to all of those about the inn; scribed it, this happened as the to you—to you—to you; and in you may you know! Not listening to some making fun, some girls climbed the steps leading those fears, but listening to those things even as ye heard during those smitten with conviction that to the altar on Mount Carmel days when those wonderments were so close a portion of thine expe- those unkind things said rience. Embrace him now, even as ye did upon that glorious day when in preparation for morning must needs be readjusted in the earth saw and heard and felt her King, her Maker, had taken on prayers: the earth and become a part of same. So may ye, too, take on God—in their relationships to things “On this day, as they mount- Him, and become a part of His dealings with man!” (1152-3) coming to pass. All were in ed the steps all were bathed in awe as the brightness of His the morning sun; which not star appeared and shone, as only made a beautiful picture but clothed variations resulting from the soul record the music of the spheres brought that joyful all as if in purple and gold. As Mary of the individual seeking the information. choir, ‘Peace on Earth! Good will to men of reached the top step…then there were We are told that the road to Bethlehem was good faith.’ All felt the vibrations and saw a the thunder and lightning, and the angel quite crowded with shepherds and others great light—not only the shepherds above [Gabriel] led the way, taking the child by coming in from the hills of Judea to be that stable but those in the Inn as well. To the hand before the altar. This was the registered for taxation. Mary and Joseph be sure, those conditions were later to be manner of choice, this was the showing did not travel alone but were accompanied dispelled by the doubters, who told the of the way; for she led the others on this by some of Joseph’s assistants and others. people that they had been overcome with particular day.” (5749-8) Upon arriving at the inn in Bethlehem, wine or what not. Just as the midnight hour It was not until Mary was 16 that her the inn had become crowded with an as- came, there was the birth of the Master.” marriage to the older Joseph, who was sortment of other travelers whose presence (5749-15) an Essene associate, took place. It also and behavior made the inn unsuitable for The shepherds, who had seen and heard occurred on Mount Carmel. The Cayce the birth of the blessed baby. Laughter and the unusual occurrences, soon arrived as account also confirms the Gospel version jeers greeted Joseph on his arrival with his did the innkeeper’s daughter, Sarapha, who of the visit of the pregnant Mary with the much younger and very pregnant wife. was similar in age to Mary, and who would pregnant mother of St. John the Baptist, This was particularly upsetting to the inn- later become her friend. her much older cousin Elizabeth, in the keeper’s daughter, Sarapha, who couldn’t “As the entity walked into the open upon hills of Judea. Here the angel Gabriel again understand why her father seemed to be that Eve, the brightness of His Star came appeared to her. so cruel as to ask the pregnant Mary to nearer and nearer. And the entity heard [the

October-December 2017 15 Angel], even as the Shepherds, ‘Peace on as that expressed in those strange tongues ask ourselves some leading questions. How Earth, good will to men.’” (1152-3) to the entity, though the entity knew and are we preparing spiritually, mentally and Sarapha was so was overcome with awe thought and felt and experienced the rev- physically for the Christ child within us? at what she heard, and at the sight of the erence and awe as shown by all.” (1152-3) Do we try to purify the body, discipline the newborn in Mary’s arms, that she asked if We learn that although all kinds of mind, and bring about a holistic balance she could hold the child. The request was assistance was offered, Mary preferred to between the spiritual, mental, and physical, granted. remain in the stable until after there had so that we may become better vessels for “As this became a reality, there were been the circumcision, and the customary God’s presence? Do we take part in daily those feelings, those experiences—Oh that 30-day period of purification had passed. meditation or other practices that allow us the world might know the beauty, the joy, Cayce draws us into a more meta- to become more attuned to the Divine? Are the glory of the experiences of His Life in physical interpretation of the event. After we engaged with a group or church that their own hearts and minds and beings!” acknowledging the historical account as by its nature draws us closer to the Christ (1152-3) depicted in Luke’s Gospel, Cayce stresses Consciousness? Do we seek God by draw- Holding the infant Jesus would have a that the perfect concept of what the birth ing close to nature? Do we pay attention profound impact on Sarapha’s life, as did means can only be known by those who to those dreams, inner promptings, and events in the days ahead, when she stayed seek to experience what such an advent intuitive insights, and angelic influences by Mary’s side and cared for her and the means in their own lives. Mary and Jesus that beckon us to follow the light—the newborn’s needs. both desired to give the more perfect con- heavenly star that shines within us? “There [in the stable] the entity also saw cept of the relationship of mankind to the Time and again, the individuals in the the shepherds gather, there the entity also Creator. The lesson for all of us is to be will- study group who sought this information saw on the morrow the Wise Men—with ing to become a channel for the expression were advised and encouraged to seek to be their ladened beasts or camels, with all their of God’s love in the world. In this way, the channels, each according to their abilities, praise for those who had kept the faith, in preparations for the coming of Christ are for the loving expression of the universal making and preserving, in keeping and pointers to us of the work required to bring Creative Forces. helping those that were in need, that were about, in ourselves, the birth of that same “Then what are ye doing about it in thy alone—yet God with them! There were Divine Consciousness. daily life, thy daily conversation? For not those experiences of the presence as well Drawing from this story, we may well by might nor in power, but in the still small voice that speaks within, ye may know as He hath given so oft—‘Peace—it is I! Be A Christ-mas dream at the A.R.E. not afraid, it is I,’ thy Savior, thy Christ; By Mark Finnan yea, thyself meeting that babe in thine own While visiting the A.R.E. some years ago, I had a dream in which I inner self that may grow even as He to be a was clearly shown that the real meaning of the Christmas message channel of blessings to others!” (262-103) in the present lies in the birth of the Christ within oneself. The readings repeatedly remind us that I had attended a talk that day by Charles Thomas Cayce, Edgar’s the birth of the Christ did not just occur grandson. Although I had spoken to him briefly several times over some 2,000 years ago—but continues to the years, I had never heard him give a public presentation, other be a living reality in this great unfolding Charles Thomas Cayce than his remarks during board presentations at Congress, the drama that is the coming into the earth, (1942-2016) annual membership gathering. So, I was curious to hear what he through all of us, of the universal Christ had to say, especially since the subject of his talk was the Christ. Consciousness. It was a moving presentation during which he shared his personal insights and understand- “For time never was when there was not ing, reinforced with related extracts from the Cayce readings. I found his talk inspiring and it a Christ and not a Christ mass.” (262-103) reminded me that I had been initially drawn to the Cayce material because of what Edgar had As we celebrate this spiritual season, to say about the Christ; as the consciousness expressed by the man Jesus and as the spiritual may we recognize, honor, and embody that ideal for us to aspire to. commitment, dedication, and willingness That night I dreamt I was walking with Charles Thomas along a hotel corridor, to the right to serve that led Joseph and Mary to man- of which there were a series of doors. I suddenly found myself opening one of these doors. ifest the love of God and man. Upon looking into a room, I was pleasantly surprised to see Mary, Joseph and the child Jesus About the Author in the traditional nativity setting, and very much alive. For some reason, I then felt compelled to Mark Finnan, a long- look further into the room. On doing so, I saw a large television screen in the far corner. On the time member of the A.R.E. screen was the same living nativity scene. However, this time I was also in it. Although bemused and student of the Cayce by this development, I felt sheer delight that I could participate in this most sacred event. Then readings, is an author and the dream ended. playwright. He teaches Ho- As I analyzed the dream later I concluded that the figure of Charles Thomas represented my listic Integration Process, and offers presentations higher self who was guiding me to where it was possible to personally participate in the birth and workshops based on of the Christ. I had simply to open the door, in consciousness, for this to manifest. For me the the philosophy in the Edgar Cayce material. To dream was an engaging illustration and incorporation of both aspects of the Christmas story. find out more about Finnan and his work visit: www.markfinnan.com

16 EdgarCayce.org Sustaining the Afterglow of Christmas

f you are like me, you wish the spell neighbor, of your foe, even your enemy, you of Christmas would linger a little longer. behold the image of your Savior.” (262-103) As I get older, that spell has come to have Sometimes we get stuck or confused and a new meaning. The true gift of Christ- maybe we don’t seem so loveable. Sometimes mas is the reminder of the real meaning we deviate from the path and appears difficult of Jesus’ birth. He came to show us the path to love. But realizing that the pattern is always back to our final union with God. Not an easy there is the least that we can do. By taking the journey, but a simple one. time to stop and get quiet, we can remember, The Bible repeatedly reminds us that God is and the feeling will become real again. We can within each of us and always with us. Jesus re- try to see this pattern in those who are being minded the Pharisees, “…the kingdom of God difficult. We can remind ourselves that they are is within you.” (Luke 17:20-21) and “I am with helping us to grow. We can choose to focus on Help the spell of you always, even unto the end of the world.” the beautiful pattern that lies within all of us, (Matthew 28:20) just waiting to be recognized. Christmas linger Edgar Cayce reminds us in several readings There are so many ways we get help with a little longer by that the Christ pattern is within each one this, especially during the holidays. There are of us. It was put there acknowledging the at the moment of our divinity within. creation. To experience it, we “need to seek to by Domenico Ghirlandaio via Wikimedia Commons experience what such an advent meant or means to our life as an individual.” (262-103) The possibility of acting, thinking, and loving like Jesus is in our genes, deep down in our con- sciousness, in our need to love and be loved. The message from the Bible is clear—it’s all the high musical vibrations, the word and the about learning to love. And the pattern, the truth in the Scriptures, the example of the life of ideal, lies within us. As we follow this pattern, Mary, Jesus, and even the choir of angels who our love is born again. Each time it becomes proclaimed His birth. a little more personal in my heart and yours. The fulfillment, the afterglow, of holidays is The Jesus pattern begins to awaken as the the growing realization that each new day can music of the season plays its message of love be December 25. Every morning we wake with over and over again. Accepting others seems the assurance that the Jesus pattern within us is easier as the love vibration moves through real. We can decide daily to start with the angels the air we breathe—it contains the “messiah.” singing “Glory to God in the Highest.” Jesus The carols and other deep compositions hope- foretold that we would do greater things than fully make it easier to love, even if just for the his miracles. “Whoever believes in me will do moment. the works I have been doing, and they will do The Reverend June Bro is a The Christmas story becomes more intimate even greater things than these…” (John 14:12) long-time A.R.E. member and friend and more my story as the years go by. Loving Help the spell of Christmas linger a little of Edgar Cayce. She is an ordained becomes easier—whether it is loving God or longer by acknowledging the divinity within Disciples of Christ minister. loving my brothers or sisters—for we are all one and choosing to use power to be a co-creator —Join June Bro for a free “Chat” family. Everyone has that Jesus pattern planted with God, to grow more like Jesus. The true gift every Tuesday morning at A.R.E. within them; which makes them ultimately of Christmas—and each day—is the possibility headquarters in Virginia Beach loveable. The Cayce readings remind us, “For of acting, thinking, and loving like Jesus. The from 10:30-11:30 a.m. as you behold the face of your friend, of your pattern, the ideal, lies within.

October-December 2017 17 Ancient MYSTERIES By John Van Auken The Origin of F estivals and Sacred Days From Nature’s Cycles to Modern Holidays

fter the long era of Lemuria and Atlantis ended, marking the end of the the birth of at least the spirit of the Son ev- First Creation as recorded in Genesis 6, the Children of God (called the Morning ery year, and on one occasion, the physical AStars in Job 38:7) re-peopled the earth. But this time they did so as souls encased birth of the Son. in physical bodies, not as spirits or ghosts or light-beings. In this more-earthly form they were now vulnerable to the forces and cycles of nature. Consequently, their survival Summer Solstice depended on knowledge of nature’s cycles, especially signs of change to the physical The summer solstice has a distinct environment, such as the seasons. For example, recognizing the first day of winter and feature most everyone notices; this is the the first day of spring were critical, as the days for planting and the days for harvesting day when shadows are at their shortest were significant dates if one was to maintain sustenance. The most striking indicator of because the Sun, at noon, is at its highest nature’s cycles is the position of the Sun. point overhead. The short shadow of summer represents the feminine, Yin, and Cycles of the Sun: Solstices and Equinoxes the long shadow of winter represents the Solstice means, “Sun is still,” or holding its position (Sol-sistere). In the earth’s orbit masculine, Yang. In ancient China at the around the Sun the planet’s axis is pointed most directly toward or away from the Sun summer solstice, the earth, femininity, and twice each year. One is when the Sun, at noon, reaches its highest (and warmest) point yin energies were celebrated. Its comple- and the other is when the Sun is at its lowest (and coldest) point in the sky, also at noon. ment was the winter solstice when heaven, These two positions mark the longest day (summer) masculinity, and yang energies were cele- and shortest day (winter) of the yearly cycle. In the brated. You may think shadows are minor northern hemisphere, the Summer Solstice occurs with- things, but shadows were important to the in a few days of June 21 and Winter Solstice around ancient Mesoamericans (Mayans, Toltecs, December 21. Quite naturally, festivals were celebrated and Aztecs), who built their pyramids and around these two annual events. monuments with much consideration as to how their structures cast shadows. Winter Solstice In ancient times, shadows on sundials The winter solstice was seen as the end of the earth’s marked the passage of time in a day as tilting away from the Sun. This progression appears well as the changes in seasons. Winter to be the Sun’s descent in the sky. And since the winter shadows are longer than summer shad- solstice is the end of this descent, it was understood as ows, because the Sun is lower in the sky in the beginning of the Sun’s ascent again. And so, this winter and higher in the summer. solstice was associated with the birth of the Sun once Since most ancient cultures considered more. “Yule” came from an ancient word for infant the summer solstice to be feminine, it or baby, and “Yule time” was the birth of the celestial was the season of goddesses: Juno (June baby. From ancient Egypt to Mesopotamia, the winter 2); Athena and Minerva (June 13); the solstice was perceived as the birth of the Sun. Our three Fates, Anna, and Egypt’s “Night celebration of Christmas fits perfectly with the Sun’s of the Teardrop” (all June 16); and the birth and the Son’s birth. Since there is an ultimate oneness, the Universal Forces may “Great Mother” (June 21). June 23 have had to synchronize the birth of the Son with the celestial birth of the Sun. But, honored many, including Aphrodite and keep in mind that the Christian festival of the birth of Christ wasn’t celebrated until 336 Ishtar (Babylon), Midsummer Bride AD. Prior to that date, the festival celebrated the Sun’s birth (or rebirth). Edgar Cayce’s (Sweden), Day of the Fairy Goddesses readings support this claim: “For time never was when there was not a Christ and not a (Aine, Ana, Anu, and Danu in Celtic Christ-mass.” (262-103) This reading appears to synchronize the birth of the Sun with lore), Epona (Celtic), Aestas (Roman

18 EdgarCayce.org goddess of summer), and more. Summer into India. Of course, the Mesoamericans (Mayans, Toltecs, and Aztecs) and ancient solstice is also the season for marriages, Egyptians in Northern Africa were also Sun-worshipers. Their understanding of the as in “June brides.” It wasn’t until the Sun’s movements and its importance to survival is revealed in their practices, architec- Christian era that this season shifted ture, and ceremonies. They strived to live in cooperation and coordination with nature. toward the masculine with St. John’s Day And it is their festivals that have become our holidays! and the Knights Templar Day (June 24). These cycles of the Sun’s movement were calls-to-action each year, and festivals were Of course, some ancient cultures always created to gather and alert the community of changes in their environment. But many had it as a masculine holiday, namely the were also Moon watchers who lived by the Moon’s cycles. Aztecs’ “Feast of the Sun” (June 24); and India’s “Shiva Day,” celebrating the divine Cycles of the Moon: The Lunar Calendar cycle-of-creation dance by the Hindu god The Moon was almost as important to ancient peoples as the Sun. In these cultures, Shiva. (June 29). calendars divided a year into 12 months using the cycles of the Moon. The sighting of the New Moon marked the first day of each month. This is the day when the Moon is in Equinoxes conjunction with the Sun and is invisible from Earth (no Moon, creating a dark night). Equinox, “equal night” (equi nox), oc- Then, as the days pass, the Moon makes its way around the earth, with the full moon curs at the time of the year when the Sun being opposite the Sun’s position and thereby reflecting the Sun’s light brightly on the appears in the sky at the intersection of earth (a bright night). The Latin word calare means the “announcer” or “caller,” and is the ecliptic with the celestial equator. The the origin of our word calendar, derived from the act of announcing the sighting of the ecliptic is the Sun’s apparent path during New Moon each month. The oldest lunar calendar is believed to be on a 17,000-year- a year when viewed from Earth, and the old cave painting at Lascaux and Marshack, a complex of caves in the Dordogne region celestial equator is a projection into space of southwestern France. of the earth’s equator. This intersection Lunar calendars had 360 days, 12 New Moons with 29.530588 days between them, occurs twice a year: the vernal (or spring) rounded off to 30 days. (Curiously, the normal menstrual cycle is around 28-29 days, equinox (roughly March 21), marking the again linking the feminine with the Moon.) With 30 days per month resulting in only start of spring; and the autumnal equinox 360 days per year, each culture had to add 5 days, and every 4 years they had to add 6 (roughly September 20), marking the start days to the 12 months to sync with the Sun’s cycles. The exception to this is the “Blue of autumn. At each of these times of the Moon,” that occurs about every 2.7 years, adding a 13th New Moon which appears year the Sun rises and sets more directly in in various months. Each of the New Moons revealed important events, and they were the east and west, and day and night are given names according to these events. Here are the names for New Moons: of equal length. • January—Moon after Yule (after the birth of the “baby”) The pyramid of Kukulkan at Chichén • February—Snow Moon Itzá in the Yucatan is aligned so that • March—Sap Moon (tree sap is running) the spring and autumn equinoxes cast a • April—Grass Moon (grass is sprouting) shadow on the northern stairway, creating • May—Planting Moon a pattern representing the undulation of • June—Honey Moon (time for “honey beer” a snake’s body as the Sun sets. The effect and June brides) is enhanced by the huge stone snakeheads • July—Thunder Moon (most frequent time carved at the bottom of the stairs. Clearly for evening storms) the builders constructed this amazing • August—Grain Moon (wheat and corn pyramid with an understanding of the harvest) movement of the Sun and how it cast • September—Fruit Moon (harvesting fruit shadows at these specific times of the year. and nuts) • October—Harvest Moon (final harvest Sun-Worshipers before first frost) Among the earliest nature watchers on • November—Frosty Moon (first frost) Earth were the Sun-worshipers, which • December—Moon before Yule (before the birth of the “baby”) included societies we know today as the These lunar calendars worked very well for all, except for one culture: the Egyptians. Celts, Norse, Greeks, Romans, Slavs, the The Moon cycles failed to predict a critical event in ancient Egyptian lives, and that was Germanic peoples, and the Indians of the coming of the Nile’s flooding season. The Egyptians discovered that this major event India. All are considered to be descended began on the first day that the star Sirius was visible just before sunrise. The appearance from the Proto-Indo-European society of this star marked the beginning of the flood season. Because of this discovery, the originating in and around the Caucasus ancient Egyptians adopted what may have been the first solar calendar, so they could and Carpathian mountain ranges, which observe “heliacal rising” (stars rising near the Sun, especially Sirius). The Egyptians de- then spread to Europe and later down vised a 365-day solar calendar known to have existed as far back as the year 4236 BC.

October-December 2017 19 The Origins of Favorite Spiritual Holidays Here are some of humanity’s special holidays and the origin of each:

• New Year’s was always the first New of the fasting period known as Lent, Moon of the New Year. In Babylon, which begins 47 days before Easter this was the first New Moon following Sunday but is considered to be a 40-day the vernal equinox (late March) when period because Sundays are not counted there was an equal period of light and and it actually ends on Holy Thursday dark in a day. In ancient Egypt, the year (Maundy Thursday). Holy Thursday began with the annual flooding of is the evening of the Last Supper when the Nile River, coinciding with Jesus created the mystery of Holy the rising of the star Sirius Communion, the eating of (June). The Chinese bread and wine as a symbol New Year began with of the sacrifice of body the second New Moon and blood for spiritual after the winter solstice ideals. Lent has been (February). But it was called “Bright Sadness” endar (named after Julius Caesar who creat- because it is the suffering Pope Gregory XIII, ed the Julian calendar and that precedes a great celebra- who introduced it established January 1 as the tion, as a woman in the pains in October 1582). first day of the year in honor of Janus of labor that will result in a new the Roman god of beginnings, Janus, child. It is associated with the sadness • Ascension Day Caesar’s namesake. of the 40 days in the Wilderness that is 40 days after eventually led to the Promised Land Easter (after the • Twelfth Night is January 5th, for the Israelites, and the 40 days that Resurrection) that last night of the twelve days of Jesus spent in the desert after receiving and is when Jesus Christmas (these 12 days are known the Holy Spirit and his ultimate victory ascended into Christ Ascension by Gebhard as Christmastide). Twelfth Night ends over Satan’s three temptations. Heaven. Fugel: commons.wikimedia.org on the eve of Epiphany Day, January 6. Around the world, special pastries are • Easter and Passover originated as rites • Shavuot falls 50 days after Passover baked on Twelfth Night, and eaten the of life’s resurrection in springtime from and originally celebrated the grain har- following day for the Feast of Epiphany its death in the winter. For the Jews, it vest of winter wheat (May to June) but celebrations. In English and French was the time the Angel of Death passed in modern times it celebrates Moses’ custom, the “Twelfth-cake” was baked over their homes as it struck down receiving the law from God on the to contain a bean and a pea, so that Pharaoh’s people, forcing Pharaoh to Mount (in May). those who received the slices containing let the Israelites go free. For Christians, them should be designated king and it was the time when Jesus rose from • Pentecost is 50 days after Easter and queen of the night’s festivities. Epiphany death. commemorates the descent of the Holy Day marks the beginning of three major Spirit upon the holy women and the moments in Jesus young life, before his • April Fool’s Day may be traced back disciples (June). ministry began: (1) the arrival of the to the bad luck many associate with Magi with their honor and gifts, (2) his the unlucky number 13! In • Ramadan com- baptism by John the Baptist, and (3) ancient Persia, the festival memorates the first the day of the miracle of the water into of Sizdah Bedar (meaning, revelation received wine. Epiphany comes from the Greek “getting rid of thirteen”) by Mohammed, and epiphaneia, meaning “manifestation,” was and remains a day of involves 30 days of actions that make the abstract a reality. celebrations in the outdoors day-time fasting. with family activities, one of Exactly when this • Valentine’s Day is in these activities was playing period begins depends mid-February because it pranks on one another. In upon the sighting of was originally observed as the modern Solar Hijiri the New Moon on the the birds’ mating season, calendar (a Persian calendar ninth month of the and therefore became a tied to the equinox and Islamic calendar (the celebration of romance. based on astronomical observations) name of that month is, not surprisingly, the day is celebrated on the 13th day of Ramadan). • Carnival or “Carnival Day” and the month of Farvardin, a date which Mardi Gras (meaning, “Fat Tuesday”) is typically corresponds with the 1st or • Eid al-Adha is the “Feast of Sacrifice” a party feast that precedes the beginning 2nd of April in our own Gregorian cal- on the first of September, commemo-

20 EdgarCayce.org finest clothes, adorn their homes with • Halloween lights and decorations, give treats to October 31 children, and enjoy visits with friends marks the begin- and family. As the month draws to a ning of winter close, Muslims share their blessings by and was celebrat- feeding the poor and making contri- ed with bonfires, butions to mosques. The actual date is masquerading determined by Ramadan. (wearing cos- tumes), and All Saints’ Day in Mexico coin- cides with the Day of the Dead • Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New telling ghost and it honors deceased children Year (September) and begins the “Ten stories. and infants. Days of Penitence.” The New Year begins with Rosh Hashanah and ends • All Saints Day November 1 celebrates with the conclusion of Yom Kippur. all the people who have lived good lives, The centuries-old Chinese New Year Tradition is celebrat- The Ten Days of Penitence are seen as sacrificed their lives for others or for a ed at the turn of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. an opportunity to change for the better. good cause, and are being recognized rating when God appeared to Ibrahim During this period, a person can write for their deeds. (Abraham) in a dream and asked him to sacrifice his son, Ishmael (Ibrahim’s • Thanksgiving Day (U.S.A.) commem- first-born son—some have this to be his orates the Plymouth Colony in New second son, Isaac; the Quran does not England having a good harvest and sur- name the son), to demonstrate his will- viving the coming winter with the help ingness to obey God. When it became of a Native American named Squanto, a clear that Ibrahim was going to obey member of the Pawtuxet tribe, and with God, God intervened by sending his the help of surrounding tribes (the 3rd angel Jibra’il (Gabriel), who then put a Thursday in November). sheep in his son’s place. Thus, lamb is often eaten and shared with the poor on • Mawlid al-Nabi celebrates the birth this holiday. Eid al-Adha (pronounced of Mohammed, the founder of Islam. eed-ul-ah-dah) is one of the two most their name in the Book of Life or in It is the 12th day of the month of Rabi’ important Islamic holidays (Eid al-Fitr the Book of Death by changing their al-awwal. is the other). thoughts and actions. It is a period of testing one’s heart and mind, of repen- • Advent is the tance and prayer. season to prepare for the “advent” • Yom Kippur, also called the “Day of of baby Jesus on Atonement,” marks the end of the “Ten Christmas. It be- Days of Penitence” (September). It is gins four Sundays the most important Jewish holiday, the before Christmas. so-called “Sabbath of Sabbaths.” On this Traditions vary day one fasts, refrains from work, and/ but it is common to have an Advent or attends synagogue services. For the wreath and an empty manger (awaiting devoted, it is a 25-hour period of fasting the baby’s coming). The highlight of and prayer for forgiveness of sin and Advent is St. Nicholas (Santa Claus in • Muharram begins the Islamic liturgical misdeeds. many cultures) Day (December 6) and year (September). Liturgical comes from has become a time of gift-giving. Baking liturgy, meanings “public worship,” and • Thanksgiving (Canada) celebrates a was a big part of Advent, and baking refers to the annual cycle of religious successful harvest (the second Monday traditionally began on December 20. holidays. September begins the Islamic in October). Decorating a tree has been a part of cycle of religious holidays for a year. Advent but traditionally it would have This holiday began when Muhammad • Shemini Atzeret (pronounced been a Tree of Jesse, an image of a fam- emigrated from Mecca to Medina (July sha-meeni–at-zer-et, and meaning, ily tree symbolic of baby Jesus’ ancestry 16, 622). “Assembly of the Eighth Day”) joyous- that helps to tell the story of the Bible ly celebrates the Torah (Five Books of from creation to the Christmas story. • Eid al-Fitr – The period of Ramadan Moses)—October 12. In the Diaspora fasting ends with this holiday, rightly (Jews living outside of Israel), an addi- • Hanukkah (“Festival of Lights”) is an called the “Festival of Breaking the tional day is celebrated with dancing eight-day celebration of the purification Fast.” At Eid al-Fitr people dress in their and singing. of the Temple of Jerusalem (December)

October-December 2017 21 dating back to our communities. (5) Nia (Purpose), 165 BC. Unlike means restoring our people to their tradi- the seven-can- tional greatness. (6) Kuumba (Creativity), dle menorah using all our talent to create more beau- in the Temple tiful and beneficial communities than (mystically repre- we inherited. (7) Imani (Faith), means senting the seven “believe in ourselves” and the goodness spiritual centers that will come. or chakras), this menorah has • The Twelve Days of Christmas is a lost nine candles. holiday. Traditionally these would be Technically, this is not the menorah but the 12 days after Christmas leading to a candelabrum with one master candle Epiphany on January 6 and the arrival in the middle (the Shamash) with which of the Magi to see the baby Jesus. They to light the eight candles, and it is these were days for reflecting on what the ”Der Sabbath” by Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld (1860) eight that honor the miracle of the oil incarnation means in our lives. During burning for eight days in the Temple this period, there were three feasts have been many variations of this song when there was actually only enough dating back to the late fifth century. (1) and the version we sing today was creat- oil for one day. Of course, the timing of December 26 was and is the feast of St. ed in 1909. this festival is so close to the Christian Stephen whose generosity gave food holiday of Advent and Christmas that Many of our holidays have lost some the two often share similar activities for of their sacred intention, commercialism children. turning them merely into shopping days. Christmas now is often just a time for • Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus buying trees, decorating the tree and (December 25). house, shopping for big dinners and Santa’s gifts, and piles of presents under • Kwanzaa is a seven-day celebration the tree. Valentine’s Day has become of African people and the “Nguzo a time for buying—chocolates, candy Saba” or “Seven Principles” to live by commons.wikimedia.org hearts, jewelry, flowers, and special (December 26). These seven principles cards—instead of honoring romance comprise Kawaida, a Swahili word and love. Easter baskets are filled with meaning “common.” Each of the seven candy eggs and chocolate bunnies. days of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one Thanksgiving is more about feasting and of the following principles: (1) Umoja First published image of a Christmas tree, frontispiece scrambling for Black Friday bargains (Unity), meaning unity in the family, to Hermann Bokum’s 1836 The Stranger’s Gift than sharing gratitude for a bountiful community, and nation. (2) Kujichagulia and clothing to the needy, and was a harvest. Despite all of this, many families (Self-Determination), meaning to day for giving the feast’s “leftovers” to strive to highlight the spiritual and the identify ourselves and speak for our- the poor (as in the carol “Good King sacred above the profane and perhaps selves, not how others see us or speak Wenceslas”). (2) December 27 was and simply putting time aside to be together of us. (3) Ujima (Collective Work and is the feast of the only Apostle not to be to share meals and gifts is of value in our Responsibility), related to developing our martyred, John the Evangelist, author busy lives. communities and solving our problems of the Revelation. It is his gospel that together. (4) Ujamaa (Cooperative opens with the profound words of how Sabbath Economics), African-American enter- the Word (the Logos) became flesh and A journey through sacred festivals and prise—developing businesses that profit dwelt among us. (3) December 28 was traditions should rightfully conclude and is the holy day for remembering with the all-important Sabbath. The best the “Holy Innocents,” the babies who English word to translate this Hebrew were two years of age and younger and word is “intermission.” Sabbath is an pulled from their mother’s arms and intermission from the everyday movie of murdered by Herod, causing Rachel to life. This special day originated during weep for her children (Matthew 2:18). the Creation in the biblical book of The Christmas carol “The Twelve Days Genesis: “Thus the heavens and the earth of Christmas” was a gift-giving song that were finished, and all the host of them. began on Christmas day and continued And on the seventh day God ended his for 12 days. It was first published in work that he had made; and he rested England in 1780 but is known to have on the seventh day from all that he had been an older French folk song. There done. And God blessed the seventh day,

22 EdgarCayce.org ancient mysteries, allow me to point out was changed to huan or xún (every tenth the ancient practices of a “holy” day or day) in the Tang Dynasty (618–907). “rest” day in so-called “pagan” cultures In 1961 the Supreme Court of the and the secular world. United States held that “Blue Laws” The Babylonians celebrated the 7th, (Sunday rest laws) were not just reli- 14th, 21st, and 28th of each month as gious but were intended to promote the “holy days”—actually, they were called secular values of “health, safety, recre- Attribution: “evil days,” meaning they were un- ation, and general well-being” through suitable for certain activities and those a common day of rest, and that this V ia Wikimedia Commons ia Wikimedia activities were prohibited. But they were day coinciding with majority Christian also considered to be rest days. Tablets Sabbath neither reduces its effectiveness from the reigns of Cyrus the Great for secular purposes nor prevents adher- (600–530 BC), and his son, Cambyses of ents of other religions from observing Persia, indicate these dates were based on their own holy days. the lunar cycle of 29 or 30 In Russia and other (for- days and basically con- mer) Soviet republics the and sanctified it; because on it he had tained seven-day weeks. subbotnik was originally rested from all his work which God Important to our study is a weekly day of volunteer created and made.” (Genesis 2:1-3) Then that each of these weeks work on Saturdays and in Exodus we find this commandment: contained a Sabbath day. had been observed since “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep In ancient Rome, there 1919. But it is now month- it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do was a nundinae every eight ly. However, Sundays V days (pronounced nun-dee- Commons ia Wikimedia continue to be considered nigh). It was a market day, a “volunteer teamwork” during which children were day (voskresnik). exempted from school and From the biblical sabbat- laborers rested from work ical year came the modern in the fields or practiced Archangel Michael or ‘Sabbathiel’ concept of sabbatical, a religious rites. The French Revolutionary prolonged, often one-year, hiatus in the Calendar had ten-day weeks called career of an individual. A sabbatical is décades and each included a décadi, a often taken because of some goal, such leisure day. as writing a book or traveling extensive- Shabbat (Sabbath) at the Western Wall in Jerusalem is The Zoroastrian calendar, which ly for research. Scientists, physicians, or often described as a magical experience. contributed to the Jewish calendar, held academics at some institutions receive a all your work; but the seventh day is a every “seventh day” to be a holy day. paid sabbatical as an employee benefit. Sabbath [intermission] to the Lord your The Uposatha (pronounced oooo- In some cases. it is an unpaid sabbatical God; in it you shall not do any work, poh-sah-tah) has been observed since to simply take a break from one’s career. you, or your son, or your daughter, Siddhartha Gautama Buddha’s time Finally, I must share that the your manservant, or your maidservant, (500 BC), and is still being kept today in Archangel Michael has another name or your cattle, or the sojourner who is Theravada Buddhist countries, such as (actually all the angels have many within your gates; for in six days the Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, names), and that name is Sabbathiel, Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and Burma (Myanmar). It occurs every meaning “he who guards the intermis- and all that is in them, and rested the seven or eight days in accordance with sion,” that is the Sabbath break. This seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the four phases of the Moon, and is a important leader of God’s army of the Sabbath day time of giving alms angels also has the task of keeping a day and made it holy.” and withdraw- of rest for incarnate souls. Photo Dharma from Sadao (Exodus 20:8-11) ing from one’s About the Author For the Jews the normal activities. JOHN VAN AUKEN, is Sabbath is Saturday, Buddha taught that a long-time A.R.E. staff for Christians Uposatha is for member, international tours Sunday, and for “the cleansing of leader, current director at Muslims it’s Friday. , Thailand the defiled mind,” A.R.E., and one of our most popular teachers of Technically speaking, resulting in inner meditation and mystical Islam’s Friday service The Uposatha Night via Wikimedia Commons peace and joy. spirituality. He has ap- is not a day of rest but of gathering for Laws of China’s Han Dynasty (206 BC peared on several television programs and is the congregational prayer; they can and do – 220 AD) required imperial officials to author of dozens of books, audios, and DVDs. work on that day. rest on every mu (fifth day), within a ten- —For a complete listing of John’s upcoming special Since this column is focused on day Chinese week. However, the rest day activities visit EdgarCayce.org/johnvanauken.

October-December 2017 23 The

By Jerr yFestival Lazarus, MA of Onam

Legend has it that the sage Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu of the Hindu Trinity, threw his axe toward the sea, and the water receded to where the axe landed— creating an enchanted new land, Kerala, for his devotees to live in peacefully. Creative Commons CC0 pxhere.com

24 EdgarCayce.org The Festival of Onam

Lower left: National Geographic Magazine named Kerala as one of the “Ten paradises of the world” Photo by Shijan Kaakkara creativecommons.org) Top middle: Traditional dancer celebrating the Onam festival Lower middle: The traditional 26-course Onam feast is served on banana leaves Courtesy of Sharmilee Jayaprakash at sharmispassions.com Rght: The perfume of flowers fills the air during Onam

grew up in Kerala, a state netherworld, which made the deities mandala-like floral arrangements are located on the southwestern coast (devas) fearful of his growing powers. displayed in front yards and verandas I(Arabian Sea) of India. The name Aditi, the mother of the deity Indira, everywhere. This is to give a royal means “the land of coconuts,” which sought Lord Vishnu’s help to stop welcome to King Mahabali. Onam is appropriate because coconuts are Mahabali. Vishnu disguised himself as celebrations can last ten days, but most everywhere in Kerala. So too are a vaamana (Sanskrit for dwarf) and celebrate for three days. The three- monkeys! Our tricked him into agreeing to give him day festivities are marked by Hindu most celebrated whatever amount of land he could temple celebrations with elephants tradition is cover by taking three steps. Having and religious rituals, a wide variety of Onam, a festival godly powers, vaamana expanded to traditional games, regatta, folk songs, indigenous to gargantuan proportions. His first step and dances. Kerala, which covered the heavens; his second covered Everyone buys new clothes and these is similar to the earth. Having nowhere to place his are given as gifts. But it is the third day Thanksgiving, third step, he asked the King: “Where that is most anticipated as this is when only grander. shall I put my foot?” Knowing now a sumptuous feast is shared with family Though the that the vaamana was an incarnation and friends. festival is rooted in Hindu mythology, of Vishnu, and there was nothing he How well I remember those feasts! Onam is celebrated by Keralites could do without risking the lives of his Usually there are 11 essential vegetarian irrespective of religion, caste, or creed. people, he said: “Place your foot upon dishes served, and sometimes as many as You’ll find Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, my head.” Vishnu, having recognized 26 items (see photo). As the traditional Buddhists, Jains, Jews, and atheists alike the humility and noble self-sacrifice meal is served on banana leaves, it was celebrating with the Hindus. At Onam, of the king, granted him a last wish my task to harvest the leaves from the identities fall away, and we celebrate before the third step would banish him banana trees in our yard, cut them to as one people. That’s why I love it so to the netherworld. Since the king was size, wash and dry them, and lay them much. so fond of his people, his wish was to out as serving platters. I didn’t mind the The first record of Onam celebrations return once a year to visit them. Thus work knowing the scrumptious feast dates from 800 AD, though the was born Onam, when the beloved that was about to follow! tradition goes back much further and king returns home and brings with is based on a story found in Bhagavata him peace, equality, justice, truth, and About the Author Purana, a sacred Hindu scripture. prosperity for all. Jerry Lazarus, MA, is a According to the text, there was a Growing up, I looked forward spiritual teacher and counse- golden age of Kerala when the righteous to Onam more than any other lor with a master’s degree in King Mahabali ruled a utopian celebration. Traditionally, it is held religion and meditation. He land where there was no dishonesty, in August or September at the end of leads seminars, workshops, deception, or unfair practices. the monsoon season, which is also and small groups in South- port, N.C. Jerry is the author Mahabali, however, was not satisfied the time of rice harvest in Kerala, and of Dreams: Listening to the with this paradise. He went to war and the start of Kerala’s traditional New Voice of God, and Saint John Bosco—Dreams: The extended his rule to the heavens and the Year. Flowers bloom profusely and Guiding Voice. Visit his website: JerryLazarus.com.

October-December 2017 25 “In January 1946, shortly after my return from overseas, I began talking with Trustees and other members of the Association regarding the creation of a department, to Treasures be known as the Edgar Cayce Foundation, which would insure the systematic preserv- ing, indexing, and extracting of the readings. From the This, everyone agreed, was the very heart of our future activities—the key to the services Vault we are capable of rendering.” —Hugh Lynn Cayce Hugh Lynn Cayce was serving in Europe during WWII when his father, Edgar Cayce, passed in 1945 Thanks-for-Gladys Day! The Archival Work Gets Underway alone 14,306 of them—and translating it into else could have accomplished. She re-created In the early 1950s, at the request of well-defined search terms! Furthermore, once every event from when she was hired in 1923, A.R.E. Director Hugh Lynn Cayce and Robert the readings were categorized and assigned and went back through the existing archive to Adriance, volunteer and future president of numbers (for confidentiality), whole series capture the substance of readings that were the Edgar Cayce Foundation (E.C.F.), a survey of readings (such as on earth changes) had lost or not under her purview. No one else of the foundation archive was commissioned to be identified and re-organized under new could have done that. Every record forms the to outline a system whereby the Cayce numbers—and all of this without the aid of a whole of the memories of her life as record readings could be indexed, classified, computer or the internet! keeper. When you take in the larger picture, collated, and photographed, and made readily Among Davis’s helpers were Jeanne when you really get into the readings and accessible to researchers. Special efforts were McCullough, who typed up the index sheets wrap your mind around that accomplishment, made to maintain Gladys created, secretary Cathey Lucas who you realize that what was created is a spiritual the confidentiality of double-checked their accuracy, and Ann Ran- script for life in the earth, organized and made reading recipients. dall, who spent seven years typing index cards useful by one individual: Gladys Davis.” On January 3, for the card files, one for the E.C.F. and one for After the last reading was processed in 1960, Gladys Davis, the Library. Other helpers included librarian September 1971, former secretary to Mae St. Clair, who worked for several weeks E.C.F. president Edgar Cayce and on her own family’s readings, as many as six Robert Adriance archivist, officially Gladys Davis at work in one-time typists, and a team of Remington delivered the in- began the monumen- the E.C.F. archives in the Rand technicians who helped conduct the dex, catalog, and a tal task of carrying 1950s survey and then photographed the completed complete record of out the recommendations. During the 11-year index and accompanying readings. the readings on 23 project, each of the 14,306 Cayce readings For Gladys Davis, this endeavor was the rolls of microfilm Gladys Davis in the would be analyzed, supplemental background culmination of her life’s work. So accurate and to the Library of archives in the 1960s and correspondence selected and attached, comprehensive was the final product that, in Congress for copyrighting. A celebration was and the data classified and cross-referenced over four decades, few corrections have need- in order! At a “Thanks-for-Gladys Day” gala for inclusion into a massive readings database ed to be made. Previous to this project, the dinner held that November 27, more than 130 and card catalog to be made available in the readings themselves had only been studied by A.R.E. friends gathered to honor Gladys with Foundation vault to researchers, and in the a handful of people who had been privileged speeches, songs, and holiday cheer served in A.R.E. Library to the public. to have access to the vault. Subsequently, style at the Marshalls Hotel, just down the hill The challenges went far beyond studying tens of thousands of students and researchers from where the E.C.F. work took place. fading copies of decades-old readings and worked with the readings using the index in attaching background material that didn’t the A.R.E. Library, and many thousands more compromise the identities of the 5,700 worked with the readings when they were individuals who received readings. The more made available on CD-ROM in 1993. Today, formidable difficulty rested in handling the the readings are available on-line to members content of the readings themselves. Some throughout the world. contained as many as 50 reference terms Davis’s successor and long-time E.C.F. in a single reading, and could cover such archivist Jeanette Thomas has said, “The diverse subject matter as life in Atlantis, indexing and selection of the correspondence bone density, and child rearing. Imagine the was solely on Gladys’s shoulders, and she put difficulty of analyzing even one reading—let those readings together in ways that no one “Thanks-for-Gladys Day” Gala Dinner in 1971

26 EdgarCayce.org Left: The original 9 ft. x 9 ft. vault was located within the Cayce home on Arctic Crescent with seven file cabinets on each side;M ae St. Clair assisted Gladys. Center: Researchers at the A.R.E. Library use the new index and readings card catalog. Right: Gladys Davis, inside the vault after it was relocated into an expanded space when the campus Visitor Center was built.

The Work Continues linear feet of audiovisual materials, 60 linear Over the years, the physical vault has had feet of photographs, 17 linear feet of artifacts, many incarnations. During Edgar Cayce’s lifetime, and 12 linear feet of framed artwork. The the records of the readings were the family’s majority of these materials were deemed to be personal property and stored in the Cayce home stable and in good condition, although there and office. In February 1948, the Edgar Cayce was minor evidence of deterioration consistent Foundation (E.C.F. or “the Foundation”) was with age and use. chartered to provide sole permanent legal and The assessment contains a prioritized set physical custody of these historical resources and of recommendations split into short-term and for many years were housed, first in the Cayce long-term actions. The first action consists of Hospital Building and then in the Visitor Center developing a foundation of best practice stand- at A.R.E. headquarters in Virginia Beach. ards. (History Associates is currently working Now, most of these archival records are with the E.C.F. staff to develop the guiding stored in the new, state-of-the-art Don and documents for supporting the archives, such as Today, historical photographs, records of the readings, Nancy de Laski Education Center building. the collection scope, roles and responsibilities, and similar Foundation treasures reside in the Don and Nancy de Laski Education Center building. Historical, aging, sensitive, and fragile materials acquisitions policy, and even a proposed fee are further protected within the Foundation structure to monetize elements of the collection vault in that building. Microfilm copies of the for commercial use, where appropriate.) original carbon copies of the readings and relat- Future planned projects include processing ed correspondence are stored in a climate-con- the many collections within the archive, trolled facility off the premises. Today, Director including digitizing the historical photographs of Support Services and Outreach Cassie at a high-quality resolution and watermarking McQuagge; Library them to make them available for many forms Manager Laura Hoff; of future use. (The photographs accompanying and Archivist Karen this article are from the collection.) Davis, continue to History Associates and the A.R.E. believe this manage the foundation valuable collection is worthy of recognition and archives. on a much broader scale than it currently Archivists Kelly Lathrop, Megan O’Hern, and Mark Evans In January 2017, receives. With proper policies, procedures, of History Associates at work in the archive in 2017 Laura Hoff (foreground) more than six decades and a cohesive intellectual arrangement with with Karen Davis at —Venture Inward editors extend thanks to Claire since the original sur- the foundation’s card its rich potential for digitization, the E.C.F. Gardner and Barbara Zoeckler of the E.C.F. for vey was conducted, the catalog can successfully promote and provide access their help preparing “The Cayce Family Postcard Foundation received the results of an archival to the unique contents of this collection and Collection” (Jul-Sep 2017 Treasures from the needs assessment conducted by History As- Edgar Cayce’s important work, to ever greater Vault). Also, a very special thanks to Conferences sociates, a corporation in Rockville, Maryland, numbers of people around the world, and for Manager Allison Parker Hedrick for her research that specializes in historical consulting services centuries to come. and contribution to the creation of that article! and preserving and managing archival records and artifacts. The assessment team, consisting To learn more about E.C.F., please contact Laura Hoff at [email protected], of archivists Mark Evans, Kelly Lathrop, and 757-457-7223, or visit EdgarCayce.org/vault. If you would like to know how you can Megan O’Hern, evaluated approximately 575 contribute to the preservation of materials in the vault, contact Patrick Belisle in our linear feet of paper records in addition to 193 Office of Development at [email protected] or 757-457-7126.

October-December 2017 27 A Holiday Remembrance: Christmas in Dayton, 1923 By sidney kirkpatrick ugh Lynn Cayce, Edgar Cayce’s eldest son, expected Hto see his entire family when his train from Selma, Ala., arrived in Dayton, Ohio, on Christmas day 1923. Waiting to embrace him at the station, he thought, would be his mother and father—Edgar and Gertrude—his 5-year-old brother, Edgar Evans, and 18-year-old secretary Gladys Davis, who, just two years Hugh Lynn’s senior, was practically a part of the family. But as the train pulled into the station, and he stepped out of the Pullman into several inches of new-fallen snow, there was only his father, looking tired and gaunt, to greet him on the train platform. This was the first of several unpleasant surprises awaiting Hugh Lynn on this school vacation in Dayton, where his fami- ly had relocated while he finished his junior year at Selma High. The next surprise came when Hugh Lynn caught his father in a bear hug and discovered that he had stuffed newspaper under his clothes for, as he would learn, insulation from the cold. His father couldn’t afford an overcoat—nor, for that matter, could his mother or Gladys. That’s why they hadn’t come to the train station to greet him. The truth of the family’s financial plight came into sharper focus as Hugh Lynn accompanied his father by trolley to a neighborhood in Dayton’s poor West Side, then followed him up a flight of ramshackle stairs to a second-floor, two-bedroom rent- al. Back in Selma, his family had an entire house with a parlor, dining room, and guest quarters (not to mention a lawn and shade trees). In Dayton, Hugh Lynn would be sleeping in the living room; Gladys was Thanks to the generosity of Morton Blumenthal, six-year-old sharing a bed with little Edgar Evans. Edgar Evans Cayce would finally get to enjoy a Christmas Christmas dinner was the next dis- bounty after a lean holiday season the previous year appointment. The Cayce’s routinely celebrated the holidays at one of his uncle’s

28 EdgarCayce.org farms in Kentucky, where there would be interested in his work. In Selma, in contrast, ed to stick it out in Dayton! They weren’t the likes of roast turkey, heaping platters where Edgar had been a church deacon and going to return to Selma and try to get of pickled vegetables, sausage, and mashed had the best-attended Bible study class in their photo studio back, or try to open potatoes. In Dayton, the cupboard was anyone’s memory, his services had been another photography studio. Nor would bare without even a bottle of his father’s in great demand. In Selma, many families they return to Kentucky and rely on the homemade wine or jars of his jam. Dinner turned to Cayce for help even before seeing charity of family. for the five of them was a chicken so small, a doctor—but not in Dayton. “That’s what made the big difference,” as Hugh Lynn later remarked, that he could The blow that hurt the most was the Hugh Lynn would later say, reflecting on cup the entire bird in the palm of one hand. sudden disappearance of Arthur Lammers the events that Christmas, and how, in ret- Tension was in the air. Hugh Lynn felt it from their lives. Lammers was the wealthy rospect, what seemed like the end of their as Gladys and his family bowed their heads owner of a Dayton printing and photo- work as he understood it, was actually the in prayer, and then in the strained conver- engraving company who had promised beginning. sation that ensued. He repeatedly asked Gladys and the Cayces a steady income if What Hugh Lynn referred to as “the what the problem was. “Dad avoided any they relocated to Dayton. Not only this, he big difference” was his family’s steadfast questions by saying they were getting along had pledged to build a hospital where pa- commitment to doing spiritual work by all right, people were getting readings, and tients would receive the benefit of Edgar’s putting the readings first in their lives. things were going to work out. And then unique counsel. This would-be benefactor No matter where his father’s unconscious he’d ask, ‘How is everything in Selma?’ to had dropped from sight. It was not until the mind took him, the family had faith they keep me away from what was going on.” new year that the Cayces discovered that were doing God’s work. Come what may, Hugh Lynn had been shielded from the Lammers was in a protracted legal battle they were in God’s hands and at his mercy. truth. His mother and father had spent the and would declare bankruptcy and move Out of that commitment had come the last money they had—a gold coin which to Cincinnati without ever once calling life readings, which forever changed the was all that remained of his mother’s them. Aside from Edgar’s promised salary, Cayces’ understanding of the dynamic laws dowry—to buy a round-trip train ticket so money that Lammers owed them for back of the universe. Hugh Lynn could visit them for Christmas. rent on an office and apartment would also Everything had indeed changed, though Nor was there money to reimburse the not be forthcoming. Edgar, in fact, still kept the Cayces and Hugh Lynn didn’t yet know family friends back in Selma who provided an office at the Philipps Hotel in downtown it. Arthur Lammers was out, but another Hugh Lynn room and board while he fin- Dayton, simply because he could not pay financier, Morton Blumenthal, was about ished school, or money for Gladys Davis, the bill due upon check-out, and feared for to show up on their Dayton doorstep. And who had given up a well-paying job as a his arrest if he tried to give it up. thanks to Morton, “the work” would have bookkeeper in a Selma hardware store to There were no gifts under the Christmas a new home in Virginia Beach, and there come to work for the Cayces as a stenogra- tree that year—at least not the kind that would be gifts under the tree on Christmas pher. She hadn’t received a single paycheck Hugh Lynn and Edgar Evans had grown Day, 1924. and was wearing the same brown dress that accustomed to receiving. Under the tree for Spiritual blessings aside, young Edgar she had worn on her arrival to Dayton four Hugh Lynn was one of his father’s readings, Evans would receive a model train, toy bat- months earlier. So impoverished was the a new type of reading that Gladys and his tleships, a cannon, and a red scooter. Gladys family that the readings themselves were parents were calling a “life reading.” Hugh Davis was hosted to a shopping spree in being transcribed on wrapping paper that Lynn, of course, was familiar with his fa- New York. Edgar and Gertrude would was courtesy of the butcher who had sold ther’s health readings; one he had received get a brand-new automobile. Hugh Lynn, them the Christmas chicken. a decade earlier had saved his eyesight. But who was despairing his family might never The family’s financial plight was actually what were these life readings about? What be able to afford to send him to college, re- worse than Hugh Lynn could imagine. did the movement of planets have to do ceived just that. Morton paid for his college Income from the sale of the Cayce’s photo with one’s career and vocational interests? education at Washington and Lee, one of studio in Selma, which had supported the And what was this sacrilegious nonsense the finest private colleges in Virginia. There family for over a decade, hadn’t arrived about past lives? was, Hugh Lynn would later remark, no in time for the holidays nor would it ever. Christmas 1923, was shaping up to be finer a Christmas for the Cayce family! Poor management by Edgar’s father, who the worst ever. The family’s great experi- had been left in charge of the sale, resulted ment—his father giving up his career as a About the Author in unexpected fees and tax penalties. photographer to turn his life’s work over Sidney D. Kirkpatrick, Income from giving readings, which to giving psychic readings—appeared a co-editor of Venture Inward with his wife, Nancy, is a had long supplemented earnings from the failure of colossal proportions. They had New York Times best-selling photo studio, had also proven unreliable. lost everything they had on the grandiose author. His books include This was because few people in Dayton promises of a businessman who now Edgar Cayce, An American knew about the readings or what Edgar wouldn’t so much as return their phone Prophet and True Tales from did. He had no reputation in Ohio, and calls. And what made everything worse, the Edgar Cayce Archives, co- written with Nancy (pg 63 and ARECatalog.com). fellow members of the Christian Church so far as Hugh Lynn was concerned—his Join them on a Valentine Cruise to Mexico, Feb. 11-18, that they attended proved cordial but un- father, mother, and Gladys too, had decid- Call Regina Mata 281 374-7351 or 832 289-9201.

October-December 2017 29 Healing Body, Mind, and Spirit By jack rosen

If there is that attitude of bringing help and of keeping helpful forces through the periods when the applications are made, we may eradicate almost entirely this deficiency that is called the Parkinson’s Disease. (4085-1)

Jack and Mary Rosen

hat I call my “spiritual with pain. I was always very cold and is where Cayce encourages us to begin adventure of healing” began could not get warm. When I would go to examine illness—I had a fairly Wwhen I was having dinner for a walk, the tips of my fingers would good idea of how I had brought these with my son and his wife, and they turn white. symptoms upon myself. I had recently pointed out that my hand was shaking, Eventually the pain in my hands and lost my wife. Her mother and father which I hadn’t noticed. I had recently feet got so bad that I had trouble driv- had also recently passed. During that been experiencing various aches and ing. Whenever I was walking, it felt as process, and for the entire previous pains—my thumb would twitch now if puddles of water had accumulated in decade, I had been in and out of hospi- and then—but as I was almost 70, I just the soles of my feet. Naturally I became tals, emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, assumed this was part of getting older. depressed and anxious, and as a result, waiting rooms and ambulances to the Within a month I developed more started making some very bad financial point where the very thought of doctors acute symptoms. I lost my senses of decisions, which included almost selling was upsetting. During this time, I had smell and taste. I couldn’t sleep through my house. To say I was in the middle of also made five trips to healers in Brazil the night because my thumb and index a “dark night of the soul” would be an in hopes of curing my wife of breast finger would shake and rub against understatement! cancer. Her condition would improve, each other. This was the scariest part of There is no test for Parkinson’s, but always came back. Simultaneously, I what was happening, as I was unaccus- only a diagnosis based on symptoms. was in the middle of an intense profes- tomed to being out of control, especially As both my father and uncle had the sional situation which brought out the over my own body. At this point I was disease, I knew the symptoms all too darkest sides of me. still able to hide most of the symptoms well and believed that this is what I had. Into this toxic environment came from my family and friends. They had I also suffered arthritis, a subject I knew long-term issues that had been per- no idea what I was going through, only about because I lectured extensively colating within me. My parents and that I was behaving strangely. on it. And though I received no formal my wife’s parents were both concen- Even so, this didn’t adequately pre- medical diagnosis, I also figured out I tration-camp survivors. I could never pare me for what came next. I could no likely had Reynaud’s disease, a blood understand how seemingly godly people longer turn over in bed without using vessel disease. The issue now was what I had allowed this to happen, and as a extreme physical effort. I was very stiff was going to do about it. consequence, I harbored a deep mistrust and had trouble keeping my balance I didn’t have to search out the Cayce of people. and getting dressed. I had trouble hold- readings because they had been dear Do I sound judgmental? You bet I ing a pen, and my handwriting became to me for over 50 years. In fact, I was do. That’s where I’m going with this. ever smaller. I had trouble swallowing; considered an expert, having given Betrayal, or a sense of betrayal, was food would sometimes get stuck in my workshops on the remedies and using an important karmic force in my life. I throat. The nails on my toes turned the treatments on my friends and family believed this karmic force, driven by my black, and one of them fell off. The joint for nearly as long. Now it was my turn personal beliefs, came together to help on my thumb and big toe became red to pursue and apply the healing. create illness that manifested physically and swollen, and would start to throb From a spiritual viewpoint—which as disease.

30 EdgarCayce.org Edgar Cayce always looked upon my lack of true forgiveness was a key treatments for neurological illnesses are illness as an “opportunity,” and would ingredient of my illnesses, and I believe, very similar in nearly all of Cayce’s read- invariably ask the sick person why they may be the main cause of much of my ings, including the recommended use wanted to get better. If they weren’t suffering in this lifetime. My “opportuni- of the Wet Cell Appliance. The only dif- willing to change and let go of anger, ty” was to practice forgiveness. ference between the treatments Delany hate, jealousy, or negative traits; if they The Cayce-inspired physical treatment and I chose was: I used the Radiac®, weren’t ready to come from a place of I chose to use was the protocol Dudley instead of the Wet Cell Appliance that love and forgiveness, and realize that Delany used to heal himself of MS Cayce more often recommended. (Both “We are our brother’s keeper,” he would years before, as described in his book, of these and other referenced products, warn that healing processes would not The Edgar Cayce Way of Overcoming and instructions on how to use them, be effective. For me, this meant for- Multiple Sclerosis: Vibratory Medicine are available at the A.R.E. bookstore or giveness of both the imagined and real (available at the A.R.E. bookstore and directly from the A.R.E.’s official manu- betrayals in my life. I came to realize that Amazon.com.) Delany writes that the facturer, Baar Products, at Baar.com.)

The first month of doing the out- lined treatment brought no discernable Here is an outline of what my results. In the fifth week, however, the treatments involved: pain in my hands and feet began to subside. My left thumb and forefinger 1. Upon arising, 5 days a week, swallowed one drop of stopped shaking, and the shaking of Atomidine in a warm glass of water the fingers on my right hand decreased 2. A complete change in diet, following the Cayce dietary in frequency. I actually started getting recommendations (available at EdgarCayce.org/diet). This some sleep! diet consists of 80% alkaline-producing and 20% acid- Jack Rosen undergoing Radiac That was just the start. Every month producing foods. I completely eliminated all sweets, fried therapy that followed, the symptoms continued foods, red meats, alcohol, and more. I strictly followed the to improve, so that by the end of one dietary guidelines. I also did a recommended three-day apple diet followed by a colonic. year I was 75% improved. As I am writ- ing this, it is now a year-and-a-half since 3. The use of the Radiac device, in cycles of four days on, two days off. I alternated the use of I have been undergoing the treatment, Vibradex® Gold and Silver solutions. and I believe that figure is at the 95% mark. I am not as strict with my diet as I 4. Use of an electric vibrator with which I could reach all parts of my body, which I used on was in the beginning, but the news here the same days I used the Radiac. Cayce recommends an actual massage to redistribute the is that if I don’t do my prescribed set of energies, but that wasn’t practical for me. exercises, the symptoms start to let me 5. Walking twice a day as well as doing a simple set of Yoga postures. know they are still there. I imagine that I will be using this 6. Use of an infrared sauna (in my house), three days a week. Cayce would often recommend protocol for the rest of my life. In infrared light for arthritis. my workshops, I refer to it as “The Fountain of Youth Protocol.” This is 7. Castor oil packs over the various parts of my body that were in pain during the first six not only inspired by my success using months. I would also massage my hands and feet with Egyptian oil (Arthro Massage Oil). the Cayce recommendations to treat 8. Use of the Violet Ray over my whole body three times a week. the above-mentioned symptoms, but an observation I made on my journey of 9. Prayer and meditation each time I used the Radiac. And, my reading material consisted of recovery. My mental clarity and memo- books related to Edgar Cayce and Eckhart Tolle. Twice a week I participated in Edgar Cayce’s ry have greatly improved. Now that’s a A Search for God study group meetings, one of which met at my house. I also reconnected blessing on top of a blessing! with the Gurdjieff organization, where my spiritual search started 50 years ago. In short, I surrounded myself with like-minded spiritually uplifting people. About the Author 10. And, the hardest part of the treatment for me: Practicing forgiveness for all the people jackos r en does consul- who I consciously and unconsciously felt had done me wrong. There is nothing to forgive really, tations and gives workshops since most of our life is spent in a state of mindful unawareness. In other words, all the people on the Cayce remedies once a month at the office of involved in my particular life drama were all reacting to each other, as was I, on an unconscious Nidia Carrero, MD, located level that manifested in a tangible way. This is karma and it highlights the importance of what in New York City. See this Cayce told us: “Watch self go by.” In other words, I had to wake up and see the larger picture month’s Venture Inward of how and why I was thinking the thoughts and taking the actions that I was. I had to make Calendar of Events, or visit conscious what was happening on an unconscious level, and make corrections. EdgarCayceheals.com and for more information on remedies and products, visit edgarcayce.org/diet and Baar.com.

October-December 2017 31 Grand Opening of A.R.E. Camp’s New Dining Hall! By Patrick Belisle early 200 friends of A.R.E. Camp flocked to Rural It’s hard to believe that just two years after a tragic NRetreat, Va., to attend the Grand Opening of the fire destroyed the original structure, the A.R.E. Camp brand-new Dining Hall June 30-July 2. Participants community has manifested this open, nature-inspired, of the weekend-long event had a lot to celebrate: The gorgeous building where campers will eat, sing, and new building is beautiful, the food and festivities were fantastic, and the heart-centered company was second play for generations to come. to none. It was a joyful celebration of a momentous achievement. A dinner reception was held June 30, at the histor- ic Bolling-Wilson Hotel in Wytheville, Va., where the Dining Hall Fundraising Committee hosted a committed group of well-wishers. A.R.E. CEO Kevin Todeschi and I, as A.R.E.’s Development Director, gave special thanks to the Committee for their successful fundraising efforts, to John and Sandy LaPrelle for their partnership on the project, and to Camp Manager Malenka Kaydan for her heroic efforts over the past two years to keep Camp thriving. July 1 saw the main event: The dedication and blessing of the new Dining Hall and Shower House at A.R.E. Camp. A tour and talk about the new building was led by architect Greg Jackson, who did a flawless job of bringing nature into the Dining Hall structure and providing a space that uplifts every visitor. Many were moved by the sign over the kitchen door which reads, “Carol’s Kitchen” in memory of longtime Camp Head Cook Carol Baraff who passed away two years ago. Next, Shower House project leaders Rich Hopkins and Hal Costley were also congratulated as they showed campers around their lovely new creation. During the Dining Hall Dedication Ceremony, many plaques and pieces of art were donated, and Camp Director Duke Miller and his staff were thanked pro- fusely for their efforts. Finally, Lois Luckett led the group in a blessing ceremony which culminated in a shout of Architect Greg Jackson brings nature inside and provides an uplifting space. “Joy!” as the group circled the building’s wrap-around porch, radiating love and blessings for a long life. What a powerful event it was! This was followed by delicious food and activities such as a pie-eating contest, a square dance, mandala drawing, swimming at the pond, and a campfire. It truly was the perfect day at Camp. Grand Opening attendees also celebrated the fact that the A.R.E. has a new 25-year lease on the Camp property! So, here’s to at least 25 more years of A.R.E. Camp community and growth. Thanks to all of you who participated in this celebration!

Note: Although the buildings have been constructed, we still need to raise a few thousand dollars to pay off the cost. If you can help, please go to EdgarCayce.org/camp to chip in what you can. Thank you!

32 EdgarCayce.org A. R.E. News Around the World

Manifesting the Cayce Work: A Message from the Board of Trustees By William “Bill” Austin, A.R.E. Board Chairman It has oft been given that this [association] is not under any schism or ism or any dgar Cayce’s dream, to build a hospital where individual tenet other than that which has been of old, “I am my brother’s keeper!” Epatients could benefit from his readings and That should be the cry that should be in the heart of every member, every individual, students could study the principles put forth in his “I am my brother’s keeper!” (254-91) work, took shape in 1927, when the Association of National Investigators (A.N.I.) was created to serve as a nonprofit research and service organization. Less than a year later, the Cayce hospital opened its doors and Atlantic University (A.U.) began hiring faculty. Unfortunately, from the get-go, A.N.I., the hospital, and A.U. suffered administrative and financial difficulties as well as personality conflicts. Operations shut down in early 1931. Shortly afterward, under the leadership of Edgar Cayce’s son, Hugh Lynn Cayce, A.N.I. reorganized and founded the Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.). A new era began with a new focus. New A.R.E. Ideal and Mission Statements! Between 1931 and 1945, direction was provided in 116 By Lora Little, A.R.E. Board Trustee readings conducted for the Board of Trustees. These readings ne of our board’s primary responsibilities is to ensure focused on how best to: develop the A.R.E., serve its mem- Oits vision for the future aligns with its core values and bers, and share and apply this potentially life-transforming original mandate. Regular review of our organizational ideal information with seekers. To succeed, the board was advised and mission statement is the foundation of that process. Mis- to work together in a cooperative spirit for the common sion statements for top U.S. nonprofit organizations average purpose of making manifest the love of God. anywhere from 9 to 15 words so that staff, volunteers, and In doing so, the A.R.E. has been a success. Though we have members can easily call it to mind, and the public can quickly suffered many trials and tribulations, we are now, in 2017, discern the purpose, goals, and values of an organization. The manifesting Edgar Cayce’s dream in ways that would have most recent A.R.E. mission statement, revised in 2010, while been difficult to conceive of 90 years ago. well written, was too long to be easily The Cayce “hospital” is, in many ways, The A.R.E.’s Ideal/Vision: memorized (70 words!). That’s why “back” in operation. The health services we went to work writing another. are thriving. Atlantic University has been Global Manifestation of Oneness Starting in 2016, the Strategic revived and is growing. Millions of seekers and the Love of God and All People Activities Committee (SAC) in- are exposed to the Cayce readings online The A.R.E.’s Mission: volved the entire Board of Trustees, and in print. And, under the leadership of our CEO, directors, and the staff The mission of the Association for CEO Kevin Todeschi, our talented directors, at A.R.E. to begin the process. In dedicated staff, and generous volunteers Research and Enlightenment is to addition, the committee utilized the from around the world, the A.R.E. is trans- create profound opportunities for participation of three at-large mem- forming the lives of people everywhere. personal change in body, mind, and bers representing our international Having had the good fortune and honor spirit through the wisdom found in volunteers, youth and young adults, to serve on our board for five years and the Edgar Cayce material. and a former board member who act as its chairman for the past two, I am had been involved with the last ideal pleased and delighted to look to our future. and mission review. The project re- How can A.R.E. best serve our members, customers, and the quired much discussion, debate, and creative wordsmithing, world in the 21st century? What profound opportunities do through 13 conference calls and three board meetings over a we want to focus on providing for personal change in body, nine-month period! mind, and spirit? Are we ready for a potential new influx of The group agreed that we wanted the statements to evoke members should a major Edgar Cayce movie be released? a deeply felt response; recognize our connection to the We will address these and other questions as we continue Edgar Cayce material; be brief, global, gender-neutral, and to explore our vision for the future. You can help by sur- easily memorized; and be accessible and understandable rounding the A.R.E., our board, staff, and volunteers with to all faiths and cultures. We are pleased to report that our light, love, and gratitude. As the readings urge: “Be glad you hard work and mutual soul-searching has resulted in new have the opportunity to be alive at this time, and to be a part and more concise statements that received final approval by of that preparation for the coming influences of a spiritual unanimous vote of the Board of Trustees at the June 2017 nature that must rule the world.” (2376-3) meeting.

October-December 2017 33 A. R.E. News Around the World Crazy Water for Crazy Times! By Sidney Kirkpatrick eople have been attracted to the healing waters Pof geothermal wells and natural springs since before Roman times. Cold or hot, drinking or bathing, everyone can benefit—so say the Cayce readings, which recommend specific locations based on the mineral composition of the water. This is what inspired me to join Texans Dennis White and Clark Wicker on a road trip to Mineral Wells, Tex., home of Crazy Water, whose products were referenced in over a dozen Cayce readings on improving eliminations. Located approximately 80 miles west of Dallas, Crazy Water takes its name from an 1881 legend in which a woman suffering from dementia started drinking Clark and I drank #3, which from a well on the property of Bill Wiggins. People slowly is described as “Pretty Crazy,” began to notice that the crazy old lady was not so crazy and ended the day with #4 anymore. Had the water from the well alleviated the lady’s (high-test), which is described “crazies”? as “The Craziest.” The only By the 1890s, visitors were camping on adjacent prop- difference between these prod- erty and buying water for 10 cents a glass from the “Crazy ucts is the concentration of 10 Well.” Mineral Wells, known as “the town that Crazy built,” naturally occurring minerals, was on the map. Among the early visitors was Ed Dismuke, which include lithium, calcium, Dennis White and Clark Wicker who was told by his doctor that there was no remedy for his magnesium, potassium, sulfate, enjoying Crazy Water ailing stomach. Dismuke began drinking the water and was and silica, with a total alkalinity (CaC03) of 621 (for #4). healed, prompting him to buy the property, open the Famous All of us experienced the benefits: a mild stress-reducing Mineral Water Company, and start distributing Crazy Water and mood-enhancing uplift and, later in the day, increased products all over Texas. Eventually, Mineral Wells expanded eliminations (especially with the high-test), followed by a very to become a spa resort town with four bath houses, seven sound sleep. I hit the pillow and didn’t stir till the morning pavilions, two sanitariums, 46 hotels and boardinghouses, sun shone in my face! Readers will please note, however, that and 123 different wells! in addition to drinking the water, I marinated in a hot tub of When interest in mineral baths tapered off in the late Crazy Water at the Crazy Water Bath House for a joint-loos- 1930s, the company turned its attention to Crazy Crystals, ening, muscle relaxing, skin-clearing 45 minutes. What could made from the minerals extracted from the water. This is make for a finer Cayce-related field trip! the product that Cayce most often recommended, but is no longer being produced. The mineral water, however, which is —For a complete history of the company, to receive their newsletter, or to still sold today and shipped throughout the country, comes learn how to obtain Crazy Water, visit DrinkCrazyWater.com. with a unique sales pitch: “Call us crazy, we don’t mind. Our all-natural mineral water has been making people feel good inside and out since 1881. Telepathy Remote Viewing Near- As the only mineral water Death Experience Precognition bottled in Texas, our water After-Death Communication Animal boasts loads of benefits that Communications Lucid Dreaming other bottled waters can only envy. Pretty crazy, huh?” Clairaudience Clairvoyance Out of Dennis, Clark, and I—all Body Experience Spirit Visitation fans of the Cayce readings— Have you personally experienced one or more of the didn’t think the claim was above psychic phenomena? Venture Inward wants to crazy, which is what prompt- know your story for a special 2018 Psychic Supplement! ed our visit to the Crazy Please write a paragraph or an entire page (no guaran- Water cantina for some bot- tees it will all be published) about your experience (and tled water. Dennis ordered include any relevant photos if you have them) and send up Crazy Water #2, which is them to us at [email protected] by December 1, Crazy Water products since the described on the packaging 2017 with “Psi” in the subject. early 1900s as “Just a Little Crazy,” while

34 EdgarCayce.org A. R.E. News Around the World Edgar Cayce Scholarship Program! Mmr e be Appreciation ach year a $1000 EEdgar Cayce Scholarship is awarded to Virginia Beach-area San Antonio, Texas graduating high school Member sinceHazel 1972; LZacharife Member since 2006 seniors who write an essay on how they plan Why I give back to to “make the world a A.R.E.: The sense of purpose better place in which and responsibility A.R.E. has given me has helped me when to live.” Created by 2017 winner Nicolette Pember with prolonged family health problems Kevin Todeschi and Kevin Todeschi became overwhelming. I hope and funded by long-time A.R.E. member Nancy Clark and the pray it can help others through George Clark Foundation, A.R.E. has awarded more than their challenges as well. My $23,000 since it began 10 years ago. The goal of the pro- support in any form has always gram is to attract young people to the helpful concepts in been directed toward keeping the Cayce readings. This year’s winner is Nicolette Pember A.R.E. active and meaningful. of Ocean Lakes High School, who wrote her essay on St. Background/work life: I was raised on an Iowa farm Mary’s Home for Disabled Children, in Norfolk, where she and attended a one-room school house for the first eight grades. volunteered for the past six years. Two honorable mentions During World War II, I was a cadet nurse at the University of of $500 each were given to Sean Burtner and Thomas Low, Colorado, and from there went on to serve all around the world. also from the same school. There were 26 applicants. Be- I received a B.A. in Education and a B.S. in Nursing from the sides their essays, other criteria included their grade point University of Colorado, and an M.N. from UCLA. I went on to averages, test scores, acceptance at a college or university, serve as a career Army nurse and retired as a full colonel in 1974. and ability to maintain a well-rounded life with sports and Gifts to a.r.e.: I wanted others to be able to attend A.R.E. volunteer activities. (A.R.E. staff members, volunteers, and conferences which I found so inspiring, so I established Hazel’s their family members are not eligible for this scholarship.) Fund. It’s an A.R.E. endowment which provides scholarships to those who may need some financial assistance. Another gift gives me great pleasure too. I honored Gladys Davis Turner and all Sierra Leone Tragedy the “Women of A.R.E.” with the renovation of the porch on the e regret to share with you that mudslides in Sierra Cayce Hospital building. It is now part of the Cayce/Miller Café WLeone took hundreds of lives as well as the Edgar and is so beautiful–with a grand view of the A.R.E. campus and Cayce Center there. Approximately 10 percent of the the Atlantic Ocean. Here is a trivia question for you: Did someone deceased were affiliated with that A.R.E. Center. Please actually fund the renovation of the Visitor Center restrooms? Yes, include the deceased in your prayers and meditations. And I did! Because we can all benefit from that one. if you are able to send a financial contribution to help them Special A.R.E. memories: In the early 1970s, I read rebuild, you can always give to the International Red Cross There Is a River. It was as though all the Bible stories and my or to the Water Bearers, which have campaigns specific to own questions came together in a meaningful oneness like a the Sierra Leone floods. jigsaw puzzle. Next, I was able to attend several conferences at Virginia Beach; Hugh Lynn Cayce, Elsie Sechrist, and Everett Irion were some of my favorite speakers. Gladys Davis (Turner) would Thank you, Team Cold Spot! spend her evenings at the Marshalls Hotel with a few attendees. r. Hollis King, co-author of the recently published Her sense of inner peace was so inspiring. That time with her DCayce-inspired epilepsy study (see Jan/March is still special to me. It is also wonderful to hear the in-depth 2017, Venture presentations given at the recent conferences I have attended. Inward) reports his And, of course, being part of the Grand Opening of all the new successful presenta- buildings in 2014 was unforgettable as well. Special thanks to tion at the 3rd Neu- Pat Belisle and Kevin Todeschi for that one, and for all their work rological Disorders keeping the A.R.E. thriving. Summit, which was Personal activities: Now at 95, I am, as the Bible says, held in San Francis- “old and full of years.” Ah! But the joy of a daily walk and talk co in July of 2017. with the Master…and friends. All is well. “We now have a scientific article published and a scientific conference Want to contribute to A.R.E.’s work? presentation on the topic,” Dr. King said. “Next step Contact Development Director Patrick Belisle at is to get our study replicated for scientific consistency 757-457-7126 or [email protected] and go for a clinical intervention study.”

October-December 2017 35 A. R.E. News Around the World Coming Full Circle: Adding Spirit to the Prison Edgar Cayce: Starring Outreach Program Spencer Tracy! By John Thomas as told to Judith Stevens n the letter excerpted below, Cayce biogra- hile working at the Kentucky State Ipher Thomas Sugrue describes his vision for WPrison in Eddyville, Kentucky, as an Edgar Cayce movie to Edgar’s long-time a Classification and Treatment Officer friend, David Kahn: (something akin to a social worker), an September 29, 1943 inmate asked me about the Edgar Cayce Dear Dave: material. It was 1975, and he wanted to It occurs to me that if and when you talk start a study group at the prison. I was a with movie men…you could ask them about member of A.R.E. and agreed to sponsor There Is a River…and tell them they are overlook- the group and obtain a special room ing a book that is more naturally a movie story where we could meet each week. than any I have seen for a long time. After contacting Judith at the Prison John Thomas and Prison Outreach Program This is not because I wrote it; I have written Program and receiving free A Search for Founder Judith Stevens standing in front of other books and God (ASFG) books, the Eddyville #1 the “Eddyville #1 Prison Group” plaque in the did not feel this ASFG group began meeting with four A.R.E. Visitors Center Main Auditorium way. It was some- participants. The group continued until 1980, when I left prison work to obtain thing I could not a Masters’ degree. While outside prison, I attended the Hopkinsville, Ky., study escape: as I wrote group with D.D. Cayce, as well as a group in Houston. Having tasted the “fruits” of the chapters, the self-examination, I found I didn’t want to be without a group anymore. incidents shaped Fast-forward a few years to my retirement, and I was needed to care for my el- themselves into Spencer Tracy was author Thomas Sugrue’s choice to derly mother who developed dementia. When she died in 2015, I put our house on scenes, and I got in the habit of seeing play Edgar Cayce in a movie the market, and when it sold, in an act of faith, I purchased a townhouse in Virginia version of his book There Is a Beach and packed up my six cats and household plants and drove to “Mecca.” Spencer Tracy in River. Image By Fox Film Corpora- Meanwhile, I was praying and asking Hugh Lynn and Charles Thomas (whom the role. I’m not tion via Wikimedia Commons I had known) and Edgar Cayce (whom I had not known) to direct me to where movie-struck…it is just that Edgar Cayce’s life I might do the most good in volunteering at the A.R.E. The first day I arrived in cries out for screen treatment… Virginia Beach and as I was unpacking the phone rang. It was Judith Stevens. She Consider what the reviewers said—that it is welcomed me home and asked if I would be interested in helping her with the an “American Protestant miracle story.” Is that Prison Outreach Program. And that is where I have been ever since. not enough? Why go to Lourdes, when the I have my own desk and workload, answering letters from inmates all over same story is here, in terms of Kentucky farms, America. I’ve even found a “niche”—helping prisoners interpret and better under- Texas plains, and the Atlantic tides? stand their dreams. So though Judith accused me of “bringing the big guns” (the Edgar Cayce’s life is the story of Everyman, three Cayces) into my decision-making process, I feel I was led right to where God magnified and projected against a backdrop wanted me to be! Supporting the Prison Outreach Program has become one of my of America. This is why I thought Hollywood’s fondest spiritual traditions. readers would seize upon it as a natural. The life of a saint or a martyr is thrilling enough in —Plans for stocking prison libraries, state by state, are in the works, along with a concentrated itself, but here is a saint and a martyr who is effort to start A Search for God Study Groups within prisons to help inmates begin to practice the just an American guy, a Protestant, a married concepts they are reading about. The program seeks your prayers. If you are interested in finding man—it is an ideal mixture of the American out how you can help, please contact us at [email protected], or call (757) 457-7120. success story matched with the SPIRITUAL success stories of the saints. See what I mean? The Prison Outreach It is a love story, too, and in all of love’s manifestations and nuances: love of a good f Program wants to woman, love of home and family, love of coun- involve more try, love of God, love of truth, love of integrity… inmates and more Think of the scene when young Edgar rides A.R.E. volunteers in from the fields on a horse which has never in its life-changing been ridden: the consternation on the faces of the men—then, as the horse’s owner mounts work. him and is thrown, the fear, the suspicion, the Devil-hatred. And the frightened boy, packing Won’t you help us by his things to go to the town… being part of this Contact Judith Stevens at Think what the camera could do with a transformative process? 800-333-4499, ext. 7120 reading: as the words of diagnosis come from or [email protected] the sleeping man the camera can envision

36 EdgarCayce.org A. R.E. News Around the World them—showing the scene of the fall from the carriage whereby Aime Dietrich was hurt… Vlteero un Appreciation I would think that reincarnation could be left aside and a simple, homespun document of a man serving God in a way not familiar to the people, could be made of this heart-breaking story. In Hopkinsville, before the bearded doctors in Bowling Green, in Selma, in Texas, in Austin, Texas Dayton, at Virginia Beach—readings are given, and the pitiful things: the Member sinceNadean 1970; A.R.E. Regional Philips Coordinator 1988-2014 lame, the halt, the blind—see, walk, and live. Yet the eyes of the multi- tude are turned away, unbelieving. What inspired you to It is, you see, a great PARABLE, a great ALLEGORY for our times: volunteer for the A.R.E.? our age of skepticism, rejecting faith, rejecting God, rejecting miracles, I attended a lecture by Elsie Sechrist where she quoted from rejecting His Sign... the readings, saying: “Many Well, why should I have to pep YOU up about Cayce? But aren’t you would be drawn to this Work but a little bewildered that the sharp-eyed folks in Hollywood haven’t seen only those meaning to carry it its possibilities? forward would remain.” At that Always, Tom moment, I knew I wanted to be among the group that would carry the work forward. In my case, service to others sounded A.R.E. Development Director noble and rewarding too. Patrick Belisle swears to Venture Inward that embracing Shirley What special memories stand out? My most precious MacLaine is part of his job memories involve working with like-minded seekers. It’s fun to plan description. (Last October at the and execute activities that have the potential to bring happiness Virginia Film Festival.) to someone or even help change a life for the better. And, those activities involving humor run a close second. For example, when I became Regional Coordinator I visited study groups and members in each state. I would fly into a city and rent a car (always the least The Boys of the A.R.E.! expensive). Once I arrived in Tulsa where they did not have the car I Rumor has it the models selected for the next A.R.E. calendar will be requested but told me to take my pick. I laughingly said, “Just give speakers and volunteers (left to right) Bill Austin, Jon Shatat, Sidney me a Cadillac,” which, to my amazement, they did. It was no ordinary Kirkpatrick, Don Carroll, Greg Little, Bob Baker, Peter Woodbury, and Cadillac, but a BIG red Cadillac, as long as a battle ship. Off I went John Van Auken. singing “Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping down the plains.” Only thing, every time I tried to lock the car, a siren would go off—announcing to the world, “Help! Help! Someone is trying to steal this car!” I got a lot of strange looks and none of them sympathetic. What events/activities have you most recently been involved with? I work with Field Conferences helping with our Austin summer program and the Texas Spring Retreat near Palestine. I have taken books to Houston for their program. It meant leaving home at 5:30 a.m.—but it was fun and always good to see old friends. I also help make books available at the San Antonio and Dallas/Fort Worth programs. Cosmic Connections! What are your personal activities right now? I continue with sincere plans to sort and pack up everything in my Q: What is the cosmic con- back room. It is stuffed to the ceiling with interesting articles and nection between Edgar Cayce things! That’s the problem. They are too interesting. I start reading and the long-running CBS and suddenly the day has passed and I haven’t done anything I had drama series The Waltons? planned. I tried to take one of June Bro’s suggestions of asking the Creative Spirit for help; but unfortunately, I start reading before I start A: Both the parents and pa- praying and it goes downhill from there. But, tomorrow is another day. ternal grandmother of actress In the meantime, I keep a ‘DO NOT ENTER’ sign posted on the door. Michael Learned (mother Ol- Nadean can be reached at 512-327-7355, or by emailing aresw@ ivia Walton) received Edgar sbcglobal.net Cayce readings, and actor Ralph Waite, Michael Learned and Richard Thomas (center) Richard Thomas (John Boy), Want to contribute to A.R.E.’s work? was the perennial favorite in the 1970s to play Edgar Contact Levan Burgin at A.R.E. Volunteer Services Cayce in a movie version of his life! 757 457-7191 or [email protected]

October-December 2017 37 Announcing The Enlightenment Series: Monthly Practices for the Soul In 2018, the A.R.E. will present a year-long special, The Enlightenment Series: Monthly Practices for the Soul. Each month focuses on a spiritual lesson, based on the A Search for God material, with complementing video lectures, lessons and study materials (accessible in the members area of edgarcayce.org). Venture Inward will take part in the year-long series, with related feature articles and content.

As an announcement preview to the 2018 Enlightenment Series, we offer this introduction on meditation.

The Importance of Meditation In Personal Transformation Excerpt from Edgar Cayce’s Twelve Lessons in Personal Spirituality

By Kevin J. Todeschi

or countless individuals, the Edgar Cayce readings have more attuned to the Divine. In the language of the readings, Fbeen instrumental in providing an entirely new understand- both are explained as follows: ing of the spiritual nature of humankind. From Cayce’s perspec- tive, that relationship is not a thing far off—or something that is For prayer is supplication for direction, for understanding. relegated to the “hereafter”—rather it is a personal connection Meditation is listening to the Divine within. (1861-19) that can be experienced right now in everyday life! Meditation Then set definite periods for prayer; set definite periods is important because it can provide individuals with the means for meditation. Know the difference between each. Prayer, for gaining a personal awareness of and connection to that in short, is appealing to the Divine within self, the Divine relationship. from without self, and meditation is keeping still in body, in mind, in heart, listening, listening to the voice of thy Maker. What is Meditation? It is not musing, not daydreaming; but (5368-1) as ye find your bodies made up of the physical, mental and spiritual, it is the attuning of the mental body and the physical Although some schools of thought contend the mind gets in body to its spiritual source. (281-41) the way of the meditator and must therefore be blanked out, Cayce suggests whatever the mind dwells upon becomes a great- For some, meditation is as natural as prayer. It is the practice er portion of the individual’s core. For that reason, the readings of quieting our physical bodies and our minds, and focusing our provided an affirmation for meditation which corresponds to attention inward instead of upon the material world around us. each of the lessons in spirituality. Meditation promotes coordination at three levels: physically, we The creative potential of the human mind is so powerful, the begin to relax; mentally, our busied thoughts become quiet and first study group was told that an individual who focused upon we become focused; and, spiritually, we can become attuned to spiritual things alone could become a “light unto the world”; the presence of the Divine. Each of these levels enables us to deal whereas an individual who focused only upon selfishness would both more effectively and more lovingly with the people and become a “Frankenstein.” For that reason, one’s intent is ex- events in our lives. tremely important when practicing meditation. Ultimately, the Although we may think of prayer as telling God what we intent of meditation is to learn how to better express divine love need or want, Cayce believed that true prayer was not so much in our interactions with one another. a petition for things as it was an expression of one’s desire to With this in mind, anyone can meditate by following a few gain an awareness of the Creator’s will in our lives. Prayer simple steps. First, get into a comfortable position. It’s probably invites God to work through us. Meditation, on the other hand, best to sit in a chair, keeping your spine straight, your feet flat is clearing aside all random thoughts so that we might become on the floor, and your eyes closed. Find a comfortable place

38 EdgarCayce.org For, ye must learn to meditate—just as ye have learned to walk, to talk . . . Edgar Cayce Reading 281-41 for your hands, either in your lap or at your sides. In order to carry over into a greater portions of your day and life. help with a balanced flow of energy throughout, the readings Sometimes certain physical sensations may occur in medita- suggested keeping your palms down against your legs or closed tion. These sensations are simply a result of the movement of against your stomach. Slowly take a few deep breaths and energy (often called the “kundalini” or even “spiritual energy”) begin to relax. Breathe the air deep into your lungs, hold it for a rising through the seven endocrine centers of your body: go- moment, and then slowly breathe it out. With your mind, search nads, leydig, adrenals, thymus, thyroid, pineal, and pituitary. your body for any obvious tension or tight muscles. You can try The regular practice of meditation creates healing on many to relieve the tension by deep breathing, imagining the area is levels. As you focus on a positive affirmation you may find relaxed, or by gently massaging any tightness with your finger- your negative habit patterns will begin to change to be more in tips. When you have become comfortable and more at ease than keeping with your positive affirmation. It is while practicing the when you first started, you are ready to move on. silence of meditation—by relaxing your physical body and by If you wish, the Cayce readings recommended a breathing quieting your conscious mind—that you can set aside your daily exercise to assist in even greater levels of relaxation and attune- concerns for a moment and attempt to attune yourself to the ment. First, breathe in slowly through the right nostril (covering spiritual side of who you really are: the left nostril with your hand or thumb, and keeping the mouth closed), then pinch your nostrils and breathe out through the Meditation is emptying self of all that hinders the creative mouth. Repeat this for a total of three times. Second, with your forces from rising along the natural channels of the physical mouth closed, slowly breathe in through the left nostril (cover- man to be disseminated through those centers and sourc- ing the right), then cover the left and breathe out through the es that create the activities of the physical, the mental, the right. Repeat this, as well, for a total of three times. spiritual man…for a greater activity in this material world. After the breathing exercise, begin to focus your mind on (281-13) one, single, peaceful, calming thought. Instead of thinking about what went on at work or what has to be accomplished with the As we take the time, each day, to relieve our thoughts and the remainder of your day, try focusing on a single thought such as countless cares we seem bombarded with, we can begin to rees- “I am peaceful” or “I will be still and feel relaxed.” You can also tablish an awareness of our own spiritual nature. In one respect, use a verse or affirmation with a spiritual focus. prayer is talking to God, but meditation can be like listening to The first “stage” of actual meditation involves thinking about that portion of our being which is in constant communication the message of your affirmation. In one of the examples cited with the Divine. above, you would think about the words “I am peaceful.” After The most important relationship we all share is the one we a few moments of thinking, you should be able to move onto the have with the Divine. In exploring that relationship through second stage of meditation, which is feeling the meaning behind meditation, we come to know ourselves as well as our connect- those words. For example, you could continue saying the words edness with one another. “I am peaceful”; however, the feeling behind these words can be much more meaningful than the actual words themselves. 2018 Enlightenment Series In this second stage, try holding the feeling in silent attention, Monthly Practices for the Soul without needing the words of the affirmation. Gently bring your January—Cooperation July—Patience focus back to the words of the affirmation every time your mind February—Reflection August—Awareness begins to wander. That is to say, first begin thinking of the words March—Ideals September—Prayer of the affirmation, and then try to concentrate on the feeling April—Faith October—Karma and Grace behind them. Don’t let yourself become discouraged when you May—Empathy November—Oneness find yourself thinking more about distractions than you are fo- June—Community December—Love cusing upon the affirmation. It will take time to teach yourself to be able to think about only one thought. Spend anywhere from 3 to 15 minutes trying to hold the affirmation silently. These About the Author longer meditation periods will become natural after you’ve had Kevin J. Todeschi is Executive Director and CEO of Edgar Cayce’s Association for Research & Enlighten- some experience. ment (A.R.E.) and Atlantic University (AU), managing To end meditation, consciously send out good thoughts or the day-to-day operations of the Edgar Cayce organiza- prayers to other people or situations in life. At this point, you may tions. As both student and teacher of the Cayce material wish to open your palms to help the energy of meditation flow for 35 years, he has lectured on five continents in front through them. If you have been focusing upon peace, try to send of thousands of individuals. A prolific writer, he is the author of more than 25 books, including the best-selling a sense of that peace to someone you’re concerned about. As you Edgar Cayce on the Akashic Records, Edgar Cayce on Auras and Colors (co-au- begin to practice meditation daily, it will become easier, and you thor), and Edgar Cayce’s Twelve Lessons in Personal Spirituality, from which this might also notice the peace sensed during meditation will begin to article is adapted.

October-December 2017 39 PSI DIGEST DID YOU KNOW? The Science of Smile Smile and the niversity of Kansas Scientists Tara Kraft in your brain that regulate a wide range of Uand Sarah Pressman, who study the links physical, mental, and cognitive functions between stress and smiling, have concluded which include sleep cycles, weight control, world smiles that smiling while doing mundane chores or and act as mood stabilizers. A neurotrans- otherwise unpleasant tasks lowers a person’s mitter imbalance can thus trigger a range with you... (1261-1) heart rates and blood pressure. They found of complications that can lead to obesity, that the effect was especially pronounced for depression, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, participants who produced a big ear-to-ear and many other conditions. Rather than KEEP thy smile of encourage- grin as they went about their chores. The ex- join the legions of people taking pharma- ment…for it lightens the heart of periment led the researchers to conclude that ceuticals to treat such conditions, a round of many. (254-101) when faced with stressful situations, it may laugh therapy might be just what the doctor be a good idea to put a smile on your face, should order! Cultivate the ability to see the if only for a moment, as this lowers stress. If this were not enough, studies reveal ridiculous and to retain the This “grin and bear it” or “whistle while you that smiling people appear more reliable, ability to laugh. For, know—only work” formula has the added advantage relaxed, sincere, and attractive. This is in those that God hath favored of tricking our brains into believing we are the conclusion of The Face Research is there the ability to laugh, even happy by unconsciously triggering memo- Laboratory in Scotland, which asked when clouds of doubt arise, or ries of happier times. (The key factor here is a group of men and women to rate the when every form of disturbance facial muscle memory. The more accustomed attractiveness of thousands of people in arises. (2984-1) a person becomes to smiling, the more the photographs and in person. Smiling people brain establishes neural links that tie happy were rated far more attractive. As this SMILE and laugh often. Seek to memories together, the easier it becomes to and other studies show, this is likely why find and read those things that smile, and the happier one becomes.) Smiling Hollywood actors practice their smiles and are…humorous. (1306-2) in the midst of unpleasantness then becomes invest in expensive orthodontics, opting for a self-perpetuating physiological response straight, white teeth. A million-dollar smile Laugh under the most straining that increases chances for true happiness. can truly translate into millions! circumstances. (1823-1) “The next time you are stuck in traffic or Last comes the matter of endorphins. are experiencing some other type of stress,” When the smiling muscles in our face Keep an attitude of helpfulness, says Pressman, “you might try to hold your contract, signals are sent to the brain that cheerfulness, hopefulness. BE face in a smile for a moment. Not only will stimulate the release of these happiness-in- OPTIMISTIC! At least make it help you ‘grin and bear it’ psychologically, ducing hormones. Laughter (especially three people each day laugh but it might actually help your heart health belly laughs) releases a sheer explosion of heartily by something the body as well!” endorphins in the brain and is one of the says! It’ll not only help the body; There are other healthy reasons to put a physiological reasons why children are hap- it’ll help others! (798-1) smile on your face. Smiling reduces the lev- pier than adults. They smile and laugh 20 els of the stress-inducing hormone cortisol times a day more than the average adult! which can lead to cardiovascular disease, How best to put a smile on your face? Smile and the world smiles with mental illness, and obesity. Smiling—or the A Swedish study reveals an important you—frown and it turns its back energetic boost that comes with laughter contributing factor: It is near impossible to on you. (1261-1) and good cheer—also strengthens the keep a straight face when surrounded by immune system which, in turn, again pro- people who are smiling at you. Thus, the motes health and increases the likelihood adage, “smile and the world smiles with of happiness. Further, smiling has a positive you,” is not only true, it could be the key to A Wayne State impact on the balance of neurotransmitters happiness itself. University study of 1950s baseball players revealed that those with the highest-octane smiles lived the longest. Among the study participants was home-run-hitting Duke Snider, who died in 2011 at age 84. The four faces of John Van Auken, renowned for producing boisterous belly laughs

40 EdgarCayce.org The Good Morning Man ommuters to the Farragut North Metro station in northwest Washing- Cton, D.C., call Larry Tutt “The Good Morning Man” because of how he greets them on their way to and from work. “Good morning!” he excitedly calls out in a gravelly voice from a folding lawn chair on the corner of 15th and K streets. “Where’s that beautiful smile?” and “Don’t you look great this morning.” What is remarkable about Tutt is that his smile and greetings aren’t considered a nuisance, but have a positive impact on the passers-by with whom he makes eye contact. As first noted in the press by Washington Post col- umnist Petula Dvorak, and Dr. Matthew Hertenstein, professor of psychology at DePauw later captured on YouTube University, Greencastle, Ind., studies yearbook and childhood photos to document a correlation between how often people videos, Washington’s army of smile and the likelihood they’ll divorce. stressed-out lawyers, lobby- ists, administrative assistants, and tourists alike momentar- Can Your Yearbook Photo ily look up from their phones Predict Happiness? and smile back at Tutt. He has ccording to happiness researcher Dr. become such a beloved figure AMatthew Hertenstein, childhood and in Northwest Washington school photographs are indeed an indicator that when he doesn’t show up of future contentment. As he has documented on his preferred street corner in his book The Tell: The Little Clues That (his morning session begins at Reveal Big Truths About Who We Are, those 6 a.m.), commuters ask him who smiled least in old photos, compared to where he has been. Children those who smiled most, were five times more aren’t afraid of him; they gig- likely to be divorced at some point in their gle and put coins in his cup. lives. Vietnam War veteran Larry Tutt holds court on the corner of As science now reveals, and Similar results were generated by a 15th and K streets in Washington, D.C. what students of the Cayce University of California at Berkeley study readings have long known, Tutt’s morning blessings and generous smile which used 30-year-old yearbook photos have both a psychological and a physiological effect on those with whom he to predict favorable outcomes in marriage, crosses paths. A few kind words, coupled with a smile, stimulates our brain’s personal relationships, and career prospects. chemical reward mechanisms in ways that even chocolate—the well-regard- Those with the widest smiles as children ed pleasure-inducer—cannot match. Research shows that in addition to became adults who consistently scored the lifting mood and reducing stress, smiling is contagious. One grinning face highest on standardized tests of well-being and helps to produce another, or as Cayce told a music teacher, “SMILING is general happiness. catching, sadness drives away.” (518-1) To the Glad Helpers prayer group, Even more revealing is the research of Ernest Cayce counseled: “Smile” that “ye become lights to those that sit in dark- Abel and Michael Kruger of Wayne State ness, to those that wander… It costs so little! It does so much good, and lifts University, who studied 230 photos of 1950s the burdens of so many!” (281-30) baseball players. They divided the photos into Equally remarkable is the fact that most commuters crossing Tutt’s path three categories: no smile, partial smile, and believe he has nothing to be happy about and little or no reason to be wish- a full-on toothy grin. They next matched the ing others well. A 63-year-old war veteran, Tutt walks with a limp and a cane player’s smile rating against his age at death, because of a truck accident, has served time in federal prison for burglary, controlling for factors such as how long the and was evicted several years ago from his tiny apartment. He has never players continued to play ball, whether they been married, had children, or held a job for very long. By his own admis- had a college education, and their body-mass sion, he is schizophrenic. Yet, by all accounts, he’s happy—incredibly happy. index. The conclusion: players who smiled fully “God makes me happy,” he tells passers-by. “And God told me to make at the photographer were only half as likely to others happy.” And so, as noted by Washington Post reporters commuting to die during any given year as those who smiled work, since 2009 Tutt has sat down at the corner of 15th and K streets, a few only partially or not at all. Those who showed blocks from the White House, and shouted, “Good morning!” a half-hearted smile lived longer than those Why does he choose this particular street corner to work his spell? “People who didn’t smile. Those who lived the longest here need it the most,” he says, and with a smile, adds, “Travel safe!” were those with the highest-octane smiles!

October-December 2017 41 SIXTH in a Series of 10 Paranormal Research Series

By Henry Reed, PhD ESP: Not Just Good, But Good for Something!* Applying Edgar Cayce’s Philosophy of Intuitive Guidance

ore than two decades to-know” type questions that we might their time, but not recommend. Mago, an article in the magazine genuinely pose if seeking the counsel of an “Any manner or form of work of any First for Women stimulated an unprec- excellent psychic. Liaros and I then worked nature [is]only given credence by the results independently with the list of psychics obtained.” (3744-1) edented number of new inquiries to wishing to audition. We each presented The significant finding from our ap- the A.R.E. The article concerned the our personal list of questions to all of the proach—the news that sparked the rewards and challenges of getting a reli- psychics, but worked with them in our own magazine article—was that Liaros and I, able psychic reading, and mentioned the preferred way. when shifting our focus from who were A.R.E. as a source for a list of psychics Liaros talked to the candidates on the the “good” or most “accurate” psychics to who had proven to be worth consult- phone, as that is how she and many psychics those who were the most “helpful” or “good conduct their sessions. She would ask one for something,” found ourselves agreeing in ing by providing exceptionally helpful of her five questions, listen to the response, our evaluations, even when pursuing differ- psychic guidance. The news flash from give some feedback, have some discussion, ent questions in two different ways. Cayce’s Virginia Beach that triggered this article and then move on to the next question. My focus on results-obtained led to a new and was, ultimately, our research method. preferred “blind target” method involved reliable method for evaluating psychics! mailing my questions to them, with each Something new and useful had been created Accurate vs. Helpful question sealed in a separate envelope. My out of the ideas in the readings, it attracted Guidance written instructions asked the psychic to the attention of the general public, and set Our method grew from our experience respond to the question before opening the an important precedent for our subsequent as A.R.E. conference attendees. As part of envelope; then to open the envelope, read research. the Edgar Cayce Legacy conference held the question, and comment on the initial for many years at A.R.E. Headquarters, response. They would record their responses Phenomenon or Service? participants would each receive two psychic on a cassette and mail it to me for review. We also focused our study on helpfulness readings by members of a panel of partici- Thus, the candidates responded to the rather than accuracy, because we already pating psychics. We based our approach on same two sets of questions, presented in two know that ESP is real. Countless labora- Cayce’s advice to seek more than a single very different formats. Listening to several tory studies, using a variety of methods, source for psychic guidance. different psychics responding to the very have accumulated an enormous amount of The selection of suitable psychics for same questions made comparisons possible. evidence that, beyond a shadow of a doubt, such an opportunity was therefore critical. I would recognize themes that kept appear- extra-sensory perception really does occur. For this task, Edgar Cayce’s eldest son, ing, although in different vocabularies. My Dream ESP, in fact, is one of the more val- Hugh Lynn Cayce, personally recruited confidence in the psychics would increase idated methods for observing paranormal the well-documented professional psychic, when they told me something I knew to be events. But what, in this context, does vali- Carol Ann Liaros, and she and I collaborat- true. Most exciting was when I’d hear some- dation mean? ed to create a realistic auditioning process. thing that created a spark within me, like an In most laboratory experiments, the Liaros had participated as a psychic in many AHA reaction. I would feel “seen” in a new evidence consists of a mathematical rela- published laboratory experiments, with way, a way that I could recognize, now that tionship between two known groups of good results, but felt that the meaningful it was pointed out. My own intuition could data: the information contained on the test was in an “on the job” setting, being recognize meaningful possibilities, and target and the information contained in the of real help to a person in need. We created after a good reading I would feel energized. perceiving participant’s responses. Being that context by each writing down a set of It was easy to decide which psychics I’d “accurate,” or getting it “right,” means that five personal questions. These were “need- recommend, and which ones I’d thank for the person’s response can be matched to the

42 EdgarCayce.org target. What’s not considered, however, is that this method produces no “new” knowl- edge or information; it only demonstrates that the perceiver could produce a response For ESP to be good that matched the target. The demonstra- for something and tion that “ESP was validated” becomes the “phenomenon.” Beyond simply proving not just good, we that ESP occurs, what good does it do? It can increase confidence in the perceiver as must find “actionable to their potential abilities, yes indeed. But intelligence” in the what happens when attempting to validate psychic guidance in a situation where the guidance, and then test answer is not pre-known? Consider this example from an exper- it through application. iment in remote viewing, a procedure that has been able to demonstrate almost anyone’s ESP ability. The remote viewer is given instructions; for instance, describe the surroundings at this point on the plan- et: 31 N 57 latitude, 35 E 11 longitude. move “paranormal” forward into public Liaros and I tried a variation on the Experimentation has proven that tasks acceptance but will truly make a difference Thurston method on two of our online such as these are quite doable. Spoiler alert: in people’s lives. circles. In what we have called an online At that point on the planet is Mt. Moriah, “What does such information as may “Remote Empathy Circle,” we obtained Jerusalem. The average viewer can describe come through such a channel produce in the similar results. Members of the circle each elements of the scene: “bright sunshine, tan experience of individuals…does such make submitted a question regarding a person- color everywhere, dry feeling in the air…” them better parents, better children, better al challenge. One question was chosen The researcher can then attempt to match husbands, better wives, better neighbors, randomly, and the author remained undis- the viewer’s report with what a camera better friends, better citizens? And if and closed. The circle participants then used the sees at that point on the planet. What if the when it does not, leave it alone!” (1135-6) “Inspired Heart” meditation (described in researcher instead asked, “What is going As one example of how to evaluate the Jan-Mar, ‘17 Venture Inward) to attune to on there, what is the focus of events?” “accuracy” of the results of an intuition the chosen (but undisclosed) question and that might be a more difficult question, circle, we have Mark Thurston’s doctoral then spontaneously recall a personal mem- as a different kind of information is being study of the Dream Helper Circle. He con- ory that was to serve as a teaching story for requested. Nevertheless, someone could ducted the experiment through the mail, the author. The participants next analyzed go there physically to see if it matched the involving more than 100 dreamers, each the memory for a personal lesson and sub- viewer’s account. However, what if the task dreaming for one of two focus people by mitted their response to the circle. Rather was, “What initiative will improve quality sleeping on an envelope containing their than compare the focus person’s response to of life there?” Now we come to a much name. To statistically evaluate the dreams actual memories versus “control” memories, more difficult question—but one truly for accurate ESP, Mark presented each focus we analyzed how the different participants worth answering—moving from identifying person with the entire dream collection, rated the memories. Could they recognize, facts, or recognizing situations, to making which also contained dreams that were not from the memories shared, whether it was suggestions. How could we evaluate the intended for anyone. Each focus person had their own question that had been the undis- viewer’s response in this case? What would to sort through the dreams and pick out ones closed focus for the circle? We asked, “On a we match it to? There is no existing reality that seemed to describe themselves, their scale from 0 to 100, how would you rate this to compare to the response. Any suggestion life situation, and especially their targeted memory/lesson regarding how well it speaks would have to be tested through actions question. Would the focus person be able to to your challenge/question?” taken. For ESP to be good for something tell the difference between the ESP dreams In the first circle, the person whose ques- and not just good, we must find “actionable intended for them and the other dreams not tion had been the focus gave an average intelligence” in the guidance, and then test it intended for them? That was the question to rating of 90.5 to the memories. The other through application. be answered by the statistics. One of the fo- players gave an overall average of only 35.8. Switching focus from accuracy to help- cus people was indeed able to identify, with That difference is certainly significant. In the fulness reflects a concern Cayce often statistically significant accuracy, the dreams second circle, the focus person gave an av- expressed: Are we interested just in the phe- that were dreamed for her. Thus, Mark erage rating of 80.6 to the memories, while nomenon, or are we dedicated to creating concluded, the information in those dreams the other participants recorded an overall something serviceable? During A.R.E. con- for that focus person were accurate beyond average of 30.2. Again, it seems that the ferences and programs, Liaros repeatedly random chance. The dreams matched the re- “matching” memories are specific enough encourages people to identify practical uses ality, and thus we might conclude that there to be recognized. for psychic ability. This will not only help was some extrasensory perception involved. These cases suggest that the memories

October-December 2017 43 that cropped up in response to the undis- things whose qualities and interactions can feelings, and the intuitive imagination. Just closed focus question were “accurate,” or be mapped onto mathematical constructs. as Cayce notes that “truth is a growing relevant. Such success at “matching” the Rather, his approach is more akin to that thing,” Native science does not assume response with the intended target is what is of indigenous people, a “Native science.” that creation has fixed laws awaiting dis- meant by “accuracy” —and which strongly The Jungian perspective on the “ar- covery through objective knowledge and suggests that ESP is at work. chetypal psyche” provides an interesting mathematical modeling. Instead, wisdom But more importantly, in follow-up, focus linkage between Edgar Cayce and the grows with experience. Rather than making people in the Remote Empathy Circle re- indigenous consciousness. Jung noted that knowledge a commodity for the material ported generally positive comments that the so-called “primitives” have a sophisticated marketplace, what folks actually have to circle provided useful, helpful information. worldview, one that is derived from the offer one another are their stories. More The most common remark concerned the unconscious mind as it interacts with nature than once did Cayce advise that referring healing experience of receiving empathy, and its abundant sentient beings. Edgar to abstract principles or published studies such as simply feeling “lighter,” or no longer Cayce seems to have attuned to that central is not as meaningful as speaking from our concerned about “finding an answer.” One intelligence, and so it would make sense to own personal experiences. person noted that the answer to her dilem- find parallels between his philosophy and “If the self or soul self comes to depend ma was now clear, but that it would take that of the natives. too greatly upon external influences...then some time before she could work herself A good resource for this comparative it is not self-development. And self-devel- up to following through. Sometime in the study is the book Native Science: Natural opment in its relationship to the Creative future, it will be interesting to find out how Laws of Interdependence by Gregory Forces... is ever the better.” (440-12) these results have evolved, to see if the expe- Cajete, Associate Professor of Education at In this spiritually-grounded scientific riences made a lasting difference. the University of New Mexico. There is a method, we can appreciate the individuality significant congruence between the essence of our experiential perspectives. “Research” The Scientific and the of Edgar Cayce’s perspective on evaluating occurs as we compare stories to draw Intuitive guidance and the Native American ap- our own lessons, and growth happens as In the study of every soul that would proach to science. we continue to test and apply our under- be a channel to make known more of the In the Native world, “Spirit” is the core standing. Cayce certainly partnered with mysteries of this journey of the soul, test reality, and its other name is “energy.” “experts” and individual professionals, but each for that which will be constructive in Everything derives from Spirit, and thus we he also relied on and participated with a thine own consciousness in the fruits of the are embedded in an energetic relationship circle of people with a common ideal who Spirit; and the work becomes helpful to with everything—all of creation. Whereas were sharing their experiences. The Native all. (5752-3) Western science idealizes mental constructs American viewpoint might recognize the Of the many approaches to evaluating that provide prediction and control over na- Remote Empathy Circle as a shamanistic our intuitive experiences, Cayce’s approach ture, the Native science seeks wisdom to live healing ceremony indigenous to the Cayce to obtaining and validating guidance is in harmony with nature, which they see as community. “scientific” in spirit, because it encourages the expression of Spirit in Earth. Anything Research methods matter when it comes a skepticism prior to receiving validation we do to the world we do to ourselves, for to validating experiments and experiences. through our application of the guidance we and the world are one. As Liaros and I learned (and Cayce knew), that comes through. Yet, Cayce’s approach Native Americans insist that paying close guidance can arrive via multiple meth- is not necessarily based on the “science” of attention to one’s experiences is crucial, ods—but what matters more is whether it our Anglo-European materialistic mythol- yet one must use all the channels of per- helps. ogy, which assumes a world of separate ception—not just the senses—including *Title based on “Be not merely good; be good for something.” (279-1)

To participate in a new series of research Subtitle Discover Your projects involving receiving intuitive guidance via heartfelt memories, Ideal Self email [email protected].

Join or Start an About the Author Henry Reed, PhD, an Call Leigh or Karen at A Search for God emeritus professor at Atlantic 800-333-4499 University, is a research psy- x7190 or x7166 Study Group! chologist by training, and the [email protected] author of several books and scholarly articles describing his research on developing ways of applying the concepts in the Edgar Cayce material.

44 EdgarCayce.org God’s Other Door As there is consciousness in sleep that is not ture.” At my surprise, she said, “That is what physical—in the sense of physical awareness— we do around here.” so there is a sense of consciousness in the same Once, Margaret told me about two of her manner when the physical is entirely laid aside. lady friends who called each other every day (1824-1) to check in. One day, one of the ladies called the other several times throughout the day and argaret was my sister. She got no answer until late afternoon. When her was there when I was born friend finally answered the phone, she said, and I always knew that her “Oh good. I thought you had died.” To which loving spirit was with me, no her friend responded, “Not today.” matter what was going on. These wonderful women lived full, fruitful, Her calm and tender love was as real to me and loving lives—and were not afraid of death. as my own breathing, and it still is, though on They accepted it, as part of life, with both grace March 8, 2017, she graciously moved into the and peace. next chapter for her soul. I am deeply Margaret was sick for only two weeks, sad but cannot grieve because the in and out of the hospital, but moved reality of her love and life still into hospice care when it became shine beautifully in my own. obvious she was ready to move Margaret lived 99 years on. All her children and grand- fully with all of life’s good children were able to spend times and hard times and time with her. Her youngest was grateful for them all. In son and his wife were with her our family, she was always at the end, as she drifted in and the calm and peaceful one out of consciousness. She began who prayed daily for each singing hymns, quietly at first, one of us. One of my nephews, but her voice got stronger and she when he was going through a dif- began singing Indian hymns known ficult time said, “I will get through as Bhajans. Every so often she would Gladys and Margaret 1934 Gladys and Margaret this because I know Aunt Margaret is 2016 stop and say, “Ayah is here.” She sang for praying for me.” two hours! Her minister came and spent a short She lived by herself after her husband died time with her, said a prayer and blessing and until she was 96, when she moved into a before she was out of the room, Margaret took retirement home across the street from her her last breath. I glory in the sight of Margaret church. In filling out the forms for the move being welcomed by a multitude of the Heavenly there was a question about whether she played Host as she, accompanied by our Ayah, sang a musical instrument. She wrote, “drums.” This and drummed their way to her “reward.” was because when we were girls in India, our Her son and his wife wished they had re- Ayah taught her to play the Dholuk (an Indian corded the singing but they were in such awe drum played with both hands). Her retirement and bliss that they just had to live it and tell home had a harmonica band and she became us about it so that we could, in our own way, part of it. experience the blessed glory of such a passing! Margaret, Ayah, and Gladys Last spring, I was talking to her on the phone Both Margaret and Ayah welcomed me into and she asked, “Do you remember Betty?” I this world. And I know they will be there when had just spent a week with her and I remem- I am ready to take that journey. Their presence bered Betty well, so she continued: “We were is real every day of my life. going to go to a wedding and I was driving, but gladys Taylor McGarey, md, Betty up and died so I had to drive by myself.” For there is no death, only transition from MD(H), a pioneer in holistic medicine While I was visiting her, she wanted us to have the physical to the spiritual plane. Then, as the and study group member since 1957, our picture taken together for the retirement birth into the physical is given as the time of uses Cayce concepts in her consulting center. When that was done she sat up straight the new life, so then, in physical is the birth into practice in Scottsdale, Arizona. and said, “Now it is time for the obituary pic- the spiritual. (136-33)

October-December 2017 45 Andrew Taylor Still: The Miracle Man from Kirksville By Ken Allego, CMT, DO (CAN)

ike many dedicated dren from disease, about which he wrote: students of the Edgar It was when I stood gazing upon three Cayce health readings, my members of my family, two of my own L children and one an adopted child, all interest began with the man. I was dead from the disease, spinal meningitis, so enthralled by There Is a River, the that I propounded to myself the serious first biography of Cayce, that I went questions. In sickness has God left man on to study the Cayce/Reilly style in a world of guessing? Guess what is of massage therapy and completed the matter? What to give, and guess the result? And when dead, guess where he 5-year training in Osteopathy with the goes? I decided then that God was not a Canadian College of Osteopathy in guessing God, but a God of truth. And Toronto, Canada. Although I continue all His works, spiritual and material, are to study the health readings as part of harmonious. His law of animal life is ab- my work, I remain deeply interested in solute. So wise a God had certainly placed the remedy within the material house in Cayce’s personal story and, in particu- which the spirit of life dwells. lar, his connection with osteopathy His children’s deaths became a turning and its founder, Andrew Taylor Still. point in Dr. Still’s life. As he searched for By studying Dr. Still and his work, an answer to his questions, he concluded you and I can better understand why that an intelligent creator had given man the cure to his ailments within his own Cayce recommended and discussed body. To better understand His ways, Dr. Dr. Andrew Still, Founder of Osteopathy osteopathy in his readings and person- Still was pushed to study anatomy in even al correspondence over 4,000 times! greater detail. He did so now by dissecting Testing Osteopathy human bodies, many of them exhumed One of Still’s most important early The Beginnings of Osteopathy Native American cadavers. With this cases was treating a child with dys- Andrew Taylor Still (1828-1917) study, he reasoned that symptoms such entery, a form of gastroenteritis, which was a medical doctor who learned his as fevers, diphtheria, typhus, liver disease, in the 19th century was called flux. The trade from his father, a frontier doctor. and sciatica were just effects, and pro- primary symptom of flux was that the By skinning squirrels and hunting, he posed that the causes originated from the patient would have diarrhea with blood. became familiar with nerves, muscles, nervous system being over- or under-stim- Other symptoms included abdominal veins, and bones. Then, as later, Andrew ulated. He also speculated that the pain and fever, which back in those days Still was quick to voice his discontent misfiring of nerves would either result in often resulted in death—as Still expected with the medical practices of his day, excess blood, causing congestion; or in the in this particular case. The child, which which made him a target of ridicule by lack of blood, resulting in starvation of he found in the street, was covered with physicians and laymen alike. Although the the organ. This is what he proposed might bloody “flux.” Standing nearby were the criticism affected him emotionally, Still be the cause of disease. He then experi- child’s mother and the boy’s two siblings. believed that it ultimately strengthened his mented by manipulating and adjusting the The mother and her children appeared resolve. “When a man has a truth, abuse body, and found upon occasion that if the to be of limited means. Troubled by the does him good,” Dr. Still wrote in his strain from the vertebrae was normalized, child’s condition, Dr. Still offered to help. autobiography. the body was restored to health. On June When he touched the boy, Still noted An abolitionist, Dr. Still joined the 22, 1874, Still was so confident in the cu- that the child’s lower back was very Union Army and served as a surgeon rative power of his new-found discovery warm, while his abdomen was cold. during the Civil War. Before the war’s end, that he gave it a name, osteopathy, from Although he had not understood the he would see the death of three of his chil- the Greek word osteon, meaning bone. whole process of the disease, something

46 EdgarCayce.org The American School of Osteopathy intuitively or instinctively led him to Andrew Taylor Still’s Spiritual manipulate the boy’s spine. He reasoned Interests and Philosophy that through pressure and rubbing he Although osteopathy is a science- Dr. Andrew Still, left, demonstrating osteopathy could realign some of the vertebrae from based profession, there is no doubt the “really hot places, back to the cold that Dr. Still had an interest in spiritual places.” He started at the base of the subjects and philosophies. He respected accounts involve Al Layne, the hypnotist child’s head and continued to do this God’s wisdom with the human body who helped Cayce overcome aphonia down the child’s entire spine, working and its ability to heal itself. He was also (voice loss) in 1901. As the story was told, on him for several minutes. When he had fascinated by the soul and obsessed in Layne had learned osteopathy through a finished, he asked the mother to let him discovering its physical location in the correspondence course, and after helping know how the child progressed. The next human body. Unable to find a physical Cayce, started treating patients who came day, the mother reported that her sick location within for the soul, he began to to him. Due to his lack of formal training, child was alive and well! In his autobiog- search outside of the body, or “beyond as well as complaints from the medical raphy, Dr. Still said that he recalled that the grave” as he put it. Although Still community, he shut down his practice he treated “…seventeen severe cases of never acknowledged that he was influ- and enrolled in the Southern School flux in a few days, and cured them all enced by theosophy and other spiritual of Osteopathy, in Franklin, Ky. Here is without drugs.” philosophies, there are unmistakable where the story takes a delightful twist: parallels in some of his published and two of Layne’s classmates, with the help The Founding of the American unpublished works. Canadian osteopath of their professor, plotted to embarrass School of Osteopathy Jane Stark, in her thesis entitled Dr. Still’s Layne and Cayce by exposing them as The popularity of osteopathy grew Fascia, has written extensively on this frauds. The plan was for Cayce to give a over the next two decades. With that subject. Stark mentioned that Still may reading in one of the unused classrooms, popularity came students wishing to learn also have been influenced by writings of while next door a lecture was being given from Dr. Still. First came his own family the famed mystic, physician and philos- by the esteemed Dr. Robert Browning, the members, and then former patients and opher, Emanuel Swedenborg, as well as school’s dean and one of the most highly interested laymen, and by 1892, they the American-born spiritualist Andrew respected osteopaths in the country. incorporated the American School of Jackson Davis. Additionally, Still seemed While the reading was being given, one Osteopathy in Kirksville, Mo. Included to have interests in channeling and student was to open the door between among those students were women. automatic writing. (An unpublished diary the classroom and lecture hall so that Dr. Regarding his support for women and with philosophical information, allegedly Browning would overhear the reading, their equality, Dr. Still said, “To me they obtained by automatic writing, was said find the diagnosis to be fraudulent, and have proven that if man is the head of the to have been destroyed family members.) throw Cayce and Layne out on the street. family, his claim to superiority must be in Charlie Still, Dr. Still’s grandson, said that The plan backfired. Dr. Browning, and the strength of his muscles and not in his A.T. also tried to contact an Indian spirit his colleague, Dr. Percy Woodall, were brain.” named Matah, asking her philosophical so impressed with Cayce’s diagnosis and With osteopathy flourishing, the once questions. Ultimately, however, Dr. Still grasp of anatomy that Cayce was report- small town of Kirksville found itself busy came to trust his own intuition and did edly invited back to the school so that his with patients who traveled from near and away with advice from others. prodigious talents could be studied. far. To accommodate the influx of people, a railroad and a train station had to be Edgar Cayce’s Introduction to Cayce and Dr. Still Meet built in Kirksville. Also, with the increase Osteopathy Still and Cayce met in Kentucky, of student registration, a new building Cayce’s autobiographical writings tell though the circumstances and date are was constructed which housed specialty the story of how he was introduced to not clear. In all likelihood, the meeting departments, such as surgery. Dr. Still and other pioneer osteopaths. All came after the incident with Layne at the

October-December 2017 47 Southern School of Osteopathy, where Cayce in trance offered an explanation this praise “the highest honor” that had Dr. Still was known to have lectured. why this might be, but the reason could ever been paid him. Cayce claimed to have been treated by well have been—as the director of the The greater picture of the relationship Still. Further, he may have given Still Osteopathic Museum in Kirksville has between Still, Cayce, and osteopa- a reading, but no reading is on record surmised—that Dr. Still’s school was thy, however, is yet to be written, for (this was before a dedicated stenogra- likely the most open to Cayce and the although modern-day osteopathy is pher joined the Cayce staff). Whether or advice from the readings. used for pain management, there can be not a reading was given, their meeting Some of the other historic osteopath- no doubt that its pioneers and greatest left a big impression on Cayce, who ic doctors Cayce recommended also champions—Cayce and Still in par- later described Still as one of the most endorsed his psychic and diagnostic ticular—saw the benefit of osteopathy remarkable men he was honored to abilities. Most notable was Dr. Percy in healing all disease, and that the real have met. Woodall, the professor who was origi- miracle of the human body is that it is nally involved in the plot against Cayce uniquely capable, given the right condi- Dr. Still’s Death and the and Layne. He would later sign a testi- tions (and with God’s help), of healing Continuation of Osteopathy monial of having witnessed the readings all medical conditions. In 1914, at the age of 86, Dr. Still and acknowledging that Cayce indeed suffered a stroke that made it diffi- had a very special gift. Dr. Hildreth, the About the Author cult for him to speak. Three years founder of the prestigious Still-Hildreth Ken Allego recently completed his dissertation, later, on December 12, 1917, he died. Sanatorium, which treated mental pa- “Edgar Cayce’s Connection Osteopathy, of course, continued to tients through osteopathy, also thought to Osteopathy and the flourish, thanks in small part to its highly of Cayce. In correspondence Soul’s Influence on Disease,” frequent reference in the Cayce readings, between Hildreth and Cayce, Hildreth for the Canadian College along with the special deference in the had nothing but praise and encourage- of Osteopathy. Currently he works as an osteopath readings and in correspondence that ment for the Virginia Beach seer, whom in Montreal, Canada, and lectures to the general Kirksville grads were given over other he acknowledged was greatly helping public regarding health, mind, meditation and schools. Neither Cayce the man nor people with his ability. Cayce considered spirituality.

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October-December 2017 49

KC-Fullpage_0717-01.indd 1 8/1/2017 3:11:13 PM Soul Survivor Revisited: The Reincarnation of a WWII Fighter Pilot

By Bruce Leininger Lt. (junior grade) James M. Huston, Jr., VC-81 FM-2 Pilot

My wife and I did not set out to prove reincarnation when we published Soul Survivor: The Reincarnation of a WWII Fighter Pilot. We represented the facts as we knew them to be. With absolute certainty, the spirit (soul) of James M. Huston Jr., whose body died in WWII on March 3, 1945, reincar- nated in my son James M. Leininger, born on Good Friday in 1998. Since then, my world of belief has changed and continues to evolve to a more beautiful and complete understanding of eternal life.

The Reincarnation Reality I also hope that it opens people’s eyes up James’ outcries as he flung his head back Early on in our research process, I had to reincarnation. I hope it opens people’s and forth caused fear and trepidation in rejected reincarnation, because I was afraid eyes up to the fact that reincarnation can me. I have four other children and noth- of the unknown. How can a soul come happen, it is a possibility, it’s not a lie.” ing like this had ever occurred with them. back? Upon much reflection, I determined Our family’s drama has shaped within What was happening to our son? James’ experience was not inconsistent me a new spiritual ideal. It has brought me My repeated thought was from the with my faith. God tells us our souls go to an attunement of energy and thoughts movie The Exorcist. I truly wondered if on forever. The events of James’ past life that honor the “I AM” through my I might have to get a priest to help James. memories have been verified and provide thoughts, words, and actions in the cur- But thankfully, over the months ahead, a glimpse of this proof of eternal life of the rent dimension of my eternal existence. It the nightmares were not as frequent and soul. The corroboration of all these facts has also brought me to the A.R.E., and the James relaxed, sharing with us things that were beyond coincidence, accident, or study of reincarnation that so many others were on his mind—which is what sent his probability. We are all part of a plan, and before me have undertaken: finding insight mother and me searching for answers. my spiritual acceptance of this was, and in the Cayce readings. On August 27, 2000, Andrea was in remains, the impetus for my soul’s growth. our bed reading a Dr. Seuss book to James My vigilance has always been to observe Crashing Planes and Beliefs when he said, “Mama, little man’s airplane the fruit our story bears. Soul Survivor was Our family’s odyssey began in late April crash on fire…” published in June 2009, and continues to 2000, when our 2-year-old son, James, By this time, we had so many questions be fully alive in fourteen countries, where began to awaken several times a week for James that we didn’t know where to it positively touches the spiritual lives of thrashing and shrieking from nightmares. begin, but every time we tried to raise the readers. This includes atheists who have This process continued for several months. subject, James had stonewalled. He would told us that they need to rethink their He would lie on his back in bed screaming only talk on his terms, when he was ready. beliefs because of our story. We have not as he kicked and clawed the covers as Andrea said, “Let me go get Daddy, okay?” encountered a single instance in which the though he was trying to kick his way out as she hurried to me down the hallway. story has not had a positive impact on the of a box or coffin. “James is talking about the little man.” spirits of those exposed to it. About two months into this violent rou- Instantly, I was out of my chair and in That vision comes full circle to eternal tine, his shrieks became discernible words seconds we were sitting on the bed trying life for each of us, as it has our son. After when, one night my wife, Andrea, woke to keep the strain out of our voices. our book was released, he revealed a me with great urgency saying, “Hurry, you Andrea asked: “Who is the little man? wisdom beyond his years when he told have to listen to what James is saying.” “Do you remember the little man’s a reporter, “I hope our story helps people I stood in his doorway and began to pick name?” understand the meaning of how precious out the words. “Airplane crash! Plane on “James,” he responded. life is, how fast it can just blow away. And fire! Little man can’t get out!” He didn’t understand, I thought. He was

50 EdgarCayce.org James M. Huston, age 21 James M. Leininger, age 18 Andrea, Bruce, and James Leininger repeating his own name, as a two-year-old “That sounds pretty Japanese to me.” through the book when James sauntered might if asked his name. Andrea became James said, “No, it’s American.” He gave down the hall wanting to watch cartoons. frustrated because she didn’t know how me another annoyed look, as if I should I invited him to look at pictures in the book to push him into answering our questions know such things. with me instead. We reached a page that more fully without upsetting him. Little As Andrea put him to bed, I retreated to showed an aerial photograph of Iwo Jima, did we realize that he was referring to a my office where I logged onto the Internet and James immediately pointed to it and fighter pilot who shared the same first in search for “Natoma.” After reading sev- referenced the WWII battle. name (and for that matter, the same middle eral pages of hits on the word “Natoma,” “Daddy, that’s when my plane was shot initial)! I found something that shook my world. I down.” I took over the questioning. “Who is the was staring at a black-and-white picture of “What?” little man James?” a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. Natoma Bay “That’s when my plane was shot down.” “Me.” There was no hesitation. No had seen action in the Pacific in World War “James, what do you mean?” pause or dramatic flourish. He was talking II. Andrea came in, and I showed her what “That is when my plane got shot and with no emotion about something he was I had found. We stood stunned in front of crashed!” remembering. the screen. Just the thought of that moment After settling James in front of the TV “Son, what happened to your plane?” still makes the hairs on my arms stand. watching cartoons, I quietly regained my James replied, “It crashed on fire.” The following October, James presented composure and rushed to my copy of “Why did your airplane crash?” a second puzzle piece when he gave us the Natoma Bay’s history. She had been in “It got shot.” name of another man in his dream: Jack the battle and supported the U.S. Marines “Who shot your plane?” Larsen. “He was a pilot too,” James said. invasion by of Iwo Jima in February and James cocked his head and looked at me Through the Internet, I found the names March 1945. as though I had a hole in mine, and said, of 170 men named Larson or Larsen who In December, yet another piece of the “The Japanese,” with a disgusted look as were killed in WWII. Assuming our Larsen puzzle fell into place. Leo Pyatt, a member though I should have known the answer. was one of them, I then focused on World of the squadron (VC-81) serving with I felt as if the air had been sucked out of War II aircraft carrier combat deaths and Natoma Bay during the war, confirmed the room. found a website with 89 pages of over Jack Larsen had indeed been a fighter pilot “Do you remember what kind of an 7,000 names. The printer ground out the attached to the Natoma Bay squadron, airplane the little man flew?” pages at a pace that seemed to be moving and had fought in the battle for Iwo Jima. “A Corsair,” he answered without in slow mourning for the dead. Leo had seen him take off from the carrier hesitation. I had two points of reference—the ship and never saw Larsen again; which I as- I flinched, as if I’d been punched. How and Larsen’s name. There were other facts. sumed meant Larsen had been one of the could James even know the name of a Natoma Bay had been commissioned casualties of war. World War II aircraft, much less say with October 14, 1943, so the lost Larson or How could James know this man’s certainty that it was the aircraft in the Larsen would have to fit into the time- name and on what carrier he had served? dream? frame ending in August 1945. I also had It was another startling moment where I “Do you remember where your airplane the aircraft, the Corsair, which did not was baffled and infuriated by this blazing took off from?” enter Naval service until about June 1944, enigma. How could this possibly be a James said, “A boat.” as another narrowing window. Now, all I coincidence? How could our young son Hesitantly, I asked “Did your boat have had to do was link them together. know such things? a name?” On the morning after Thanksgiving It was shortly after this that my mother- “Natoma.” came the triangulation point. I had ordered in-law suggested reincarnation was the “Natoma, huh?” the book The Battle for Iwo Jima as a answer. Now this was just too much! The “Natoma,” he repeated. Christmas gift for my father. I was paging very thought of it repulsed me.

October-December 2017 51 Y et, in the days ahead, I couldn’t stop by James. I did not want to panic; children thinking about what she said, because it always have bad dreams—but those darn answered questions that made no sense facts again. How did James know the any other way. Getting to the point of ac- names of WWII airplanes, an aircraft carri- cepting reincarnation as a reality, however, er, and a fighter pilot? As these connections was no easy thing. came into ever sharper focus, I struggled with resolving my belief system with Resolving Mysteries the facts and was forced to consider the My goal was to reach a logical resolu- possibility that reincarnation was indeed tion to the drama that was unfolding in real, and that somehow or someway, what James with his soul sister Anne Huston Barron, our household. Reincarnation was not was taking place in our family was part of 2004 Natoma Bay Association Reunion going to be part of that resolution, because God’s plan. Once we opened our hearts I didn’t believe in it. No right-minded and minds to this reality, so much else young man’s face in the cockpit. Christian would, or so I thought. The began to fall into place. Miracles can and The only seeming contradiction to our Christian promise was a trip to heav- do happen if we open our hearts to them. child’s account was the type of plane. Our en—not a periodic reappearance of the As it turned out, Jack Larsen hadn’t died James identified a Corsair. According to immortal soul in some random future in- in the war. He was the only fighter pilot official Natoma Bay reports, Huston carnation. The soul did not make selective from VC-81 that was a member of the was in an FM-2 Wildcat. This presented cameo visits back to our realm. To think Natoma Bay Association. Leo Pyatt had quite a conundrum until we visited James otherwise was to leap into flakey“New been correct when he said Jack flew off Huston’s living sister. She presented us Age” speculation. one day (to another assignment); it was with a photograph of her brother on the My uncertainty about what was hap- my mistaken conclusion that Leo meant Natoma Bay standing astride a Corsair. pening to my son caused a gut-wrenching he died. There were other WWII airmen This was photographic proof that Huston internal struggle that took me searching who, we learned, gathered for annual re- had flown a Corsair, while assigned to VF- for answers in C.S. Lewis’ book, Mere unions. With their help, first by phone and 301, on an earlier assignment. An official Christianity. Perhaps if I followed Lewis’ then in person, and with a lucky response record that accompanied his insurance path of questioning, I could sustain a to a query I posted on a veteran’s web- papers had been incorrect. solid, unshakable foundation of faith as site, Andrea and I continued to add new If I needed any further corroborating ev- I confronted this challenge. What I came pieces to an increasingly complex puzzle. idence of reincarnation—and at this point away with from reading Lewis was that There was only one pilot who flew off the I didn’t—our son’s conversation with his the Bible is full of mysteries. Reincarnation Natoma Bay whose plane crashed and now elderly sister from his previous life could actually be one of them, because, burned in the battle for Iwo Jima. He was was the most convincing of all. Our James like it or not, this was precisely where the Jack Larsen’s squadron mate and friend, recognized his sister immediately, called facts of my son’s story were taking us. 21-year-old Lieutenant James M. Huston, her by her childhood name, and knew Like my wife Andrea, I love my son who lost his life March 3, 1945. such details as a portrait her mother had James dearly. Our primary concern was Among other airmen who had flown painted of her as a child. for his well-being. We wanted to protect that same day and witnessed the event was I am certain the spirit of James M. him from harm. If indeed this strange Jack Durham, who flew with squadron Huston Jr. was reincarnated in my son business of reincarnation was the truth, VC-83 from USS Sargent Bay. We eventu- James M. Leininger on Good Friday in how would this effect James’ life? How ally interviewed four airmen from VC-83 1998. And that fact has broadened my would it effect the loving and Christian who corroborated the nightmare details world of belief to a more beautiful under- household we sought to maintain? described by my son of being trapped in standing of eternal life. The words “I’m back” came repeatedly a burning plane. John Richardson, one I’m embarrassed to think how ignorant to mind, as demonstrated by scores of of the four witnesses, was close enough I initially was about the miracle that each articulated memories, facts, and behaviors to Huston’s aircraft that he could see the of us embody. We are truly a community of one, living in a fountain of eternal life that is wondrous to behold. Nurture your THE RADIAC® soul, for you are on an eternal journey!

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52 EdgarCayce.org Effort and Surrender ay and night. Active and passive. yesterday and today and forever.” The reading Work and rest. Doing and being. goes on: “These things, these words, to many These are just a few examples minds become contradictory, but they are in their of the divine dynamic from the inception not contradictory…” (276-7) In some mysterious, unmanifest Source of all traditions, this seeming contradiction between things. This same dynamic is at play within us as an “ever changeable” and an eternally changeless we choose to consciously align with our deepest Universal Consciousness has been addressed in impulses to heal, grow, and evolve. There are terms of “Being” and “Becoming.” As Being, God times when commitment to conscientious effort is changeless and formless. As Becoming, God is will make the difference between growth and fully present as both the evolving world of form stagnation. But there are also times when our and the consciousness that is awakening within it. greatest breakthrough will come only when we cease the constant effort, and surrender to what Rev the Creative Engine of this Paradox In surrender we accept is. To be or to do; we must find our own balance Our existence, like that of our Source, involves we are already one between these two poles. this great paradox. We exist in the state of pure, formless perfection, where we have never been with the Creator. Effort and Surrender anything other than one with God. But we also There is nothing to do, Effort is the domain of work and commit- share our Source’s presence in matter. We are here ments, the things we are willing to do in order in a world of form where things change, grow, nothing to accomplish, to change ourselves, our lives, or the world. We and evolve. Divine Presence permeates this realm, nothing to change, may use affirmations and guided meditations to too, but that Presence is not yet fully conscious in reach desired goals or “build” new qualities into matter. It becomes conscious as it wakes up within nothing lacking. All is our nature. We work consciously with the law of us. From this point of view, our active processing perfection. cause and effect. We frame our choices and prior- of earthly experiences allows us to awaken and ities around the process of becoming something become carriers of consciousness that transforms greater or more whole than ever before. This is this world of form, even as it transforms us. the active side of our role as co-creators, where In the state of surrender, we dive into the well the divine is bringing forth something new in of perfection and wholeness that already exists. this world of form and we are active partners in This can happen during meditation, where we that process. put aside the habit of trying to do anything— By contrast, surrender relates to the realm of even meditate “well!”—and instead just soak up pure Being. Here, God (by whatever name we call the Presence within. Surrender can also happen that Source or Ground of all Being) simply is, we when we let go of resistance to situations and simply are, and that is enough. Where the effort circumstances that cause us frustration or worry Lynn Sparrow Christy, the author mode actively seeks to remove obstacles to our or hurt. This is not a passive surrender tinged with of this issue’s column, will alternate awareness of oneness, in surrender we accept we despair, but rather an active surrender where we with Eileen Malo. They co-direct Path- are already one with the Creator. There is nothing trust that there is a deeper current to the stream of ways to Integration, A.R.E.’s newest to do, nothing to accomplish, nothing to change, events in our lives. And then, precisely because we offering from the Tarsia Center. Lynn’s nothing lacking. All is perfection. At this pole of have dipped into the renewing well of effortless experience as a growth mentor our experience, we learn to simply step into an surrender, we find ourselves empowered with includes work with thousands of ever-present “okayness” to be found underneath greater motivation, energy, and insight concerning clients as a hypnotherapist/life coach every mental-emotional state. And when we do, the efforts we make. and more than 40 years presenting we encounter grace. We cease trying to make As we process the “stuff” of which our growth the Cayce material. She is the author anything “happen.” We fully release ourselves and healing is made, we get increasingly better at of several books and courses based into “beingness” and let go of any inclination to navigating this polarity of effort and surrender. on the Cayce readings. be less than satisfied. We hone our ability to discern when to renew our Eileen Malo has also been a discipline—and when to stop trying so hard. We student of the Cayce work for over 40 The Great Paradox find a rhythm between times when it is important years. She is the principal of Emerging These two poles reflect a great paradox at the to put forth more focused effort, and times to Edge, a life coaching and consulting heart of existence. One Cayce reading expressed surrender to the embrace of ever-present being. It firm. She also serves on the faculty at this paradox by presenting the idea that God is in this dynamic flow that we participate in the Atlantic University. is “ever changeable” yet also “ever the same, divine pattern of Creation.

October-December 2017 53 ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY Leaping Forward on My Life Path: An AU Student Retrospective By Jim Pyra

To strive is to find. personally and professionally. For me, of my father in July 2015, and my last To be is to succeed. the Master of Arts Program has played a interactions with him, brought some of Success and failure are part of the joke. powerful role in my journey of personal the transpersonal material I was studying HARD lessons to learn. development. into sharp focus. I had experienced some Years prior, I studied in a Soto Zen fascinating encounters with memories of A Creative Course Buddhist monastery, training in the my father in different roles within past came to Atlantic University (AU) Shambhala Way of the Warrior, and life regression sessions, and some of those in 2013, intrigued to study creativity practicing zazen (sitting meditation). Like experiences were emphasized by his last I and curious about the holistic nature many, I have searched for something that words to me, even though I had never of transpersonal studies. resonates with me on a level that goes discussed my regression experiences with I had been running a couple of family beyond religion, and yet is greater than him. Past life regression can provide fasci- businesses, keeping up with chores on mere self-indulgence, a subject that Cayce nating insights into one’s relationships as our small horse farm, and still trying to touched on in several readings. well as one’s own subconscious and super- have some time to spend with my family Individuals need never to attempt to conscious minds, regardless of whether we when I enrolled, so I chose a slow pace justify themselves for their hope, their believe in reincarnation. of study with only one course each term. desires, if they know the author of that In my case, the connections and alter- Completing only three courses per year they desire, and know whether it is for native aspects of my relationship with meant that it would take self, self indulgence, self aggrandizement, my father were too powerful to ignore. me four years to complete or for the glory of God and the honor of This led me to conduct a highly personal the program, but it was a self! (2775-1) directed study as part of my AU program, comfortable pace for me. While I was studying, it was a time of in which I used my own experience with I completed my stud- many transitions. I changed jobs multiple the regression symbolism of my karmic ies in 2017, having not times before settling at a company that family relationships to develop an ana- only learned about and builds eLearning systems similar to the on- lytical approach for helping other people become intimately more line distance programs that I experienced through hypnotherapy, and especially familiar with these spe- as a student at AU. My wife also took regression work. As Kevin Todeschi Our Spanish cific areas of interest, but a new job, we decided to sell our farm, [A.R.E.’s executive director and CEO] mare Flamente also having grown both and my father passed away. The passing has noted, switching roles between par-

The founding principle of the Master of Arts in 1) To encourage students to personally test and apply these core Transpersonal Psychology at Atlantic University (AU) is concepts in order to grow toward integration of body, mind, and the recognition of the existence of a dimension to human spirit; and nature that is greater than the individual. At the basis of 2) To encourage students to transform the growth they experience into this philosophy is the belief that connecting with this deep and meaningful service to others. larger part of one’s self is instrumental in heightening and invigorating creativity, health, and one’s full human This unique experience is available to those seeking profound personal potential. Therefore, the curriculum in the Master’s growth and enrichment through Master’s level instruction. The academic program focuses on the nature of humanity, the nature program is an innovative learning experience that expands the student’s of the universe, the nature of reality, and holistic living. vocabulary and knowledge in this field of study, while also augmenting This principle is expressed through twin goals: various professional career paths.

54 EdgarCayce.org ents and children seems to be frequent broadened my perspective. I have gained iconic but rather, humbly, as Cayce would among many reincarnation case histories new and deeper knowledge, but more than have preferred. described in Cayce readings. that, I have not only enjoyed but also grown Exploring Coursework from my interactions The Introduction to Transpersonal with fellow students, Studies was an effective foray into the many of whom have discipline. Courses such as The Inner Life, diverse backgrounds Spiritual Crisis, Creating a Meaningful and experiences I Life, and The Psychology of Creativity would never have been exposed me to various strategies for enter- exposed to outside of ing into mental states that allow contact AU. All of these expe- between the conscious and unconscious riences have fueled my minds. Creativity held a special place in personal growth and Cayce’s readings as his description of understanding of my- Walking the labyrinth in front of the old hospital building was rejuvenating. the Creative Mind was “ever the build- self, and have answered er.” (2265-1) The Integrated Imagery my original questions about creativity and My first Integrated Imagery residential Regression Hypnosis series also provided how it works. visit made me want to better understand me with practical instruction and experi- variations in client responses to hypnotic ence as both a hypnotist and as a subject The Importance of Presence induction techniques. I researched hyp- undergoing regression sessions. As an elective part of my studies, I notherapy training programs and found Courses on research methods and para- took the Integrated Imagery Regression the most applicable to my questions to psychology helped to put a real-world Hypnosis series of courses, all three be the program offered by the Hypnosis perspective on some of the more esoteric of which required a residential visit to Motivation Institute (HMI), founded by aspects of transpersonal studies. At the Virginia Beach and at which time I was and based upon the work of Dr. John residential sessions when we would come exposed to the Cayce readings and the Kappas. Determined to better understand to Virginia Beach in person, having the op- greater work of the A.R.E. Attending the incredible powers of hypnosis and portunity to interact with other students residential sessions seemed like a siz- to be able to use them to help people, I and the volunteer teaching assistants was able expense and inconvenience at first. enrolled in the HMI’s year-long advanced invaluable. At the first session, volunteer However, I cannot overstate the benefits program of study and completed my Bert Carlson unwittingly provided me that I received from them. Not only were certification as a hypnotherapist as I with a mature male role model who had they more intensive and personally inter- continued my AU studies. I subsequently successfully integrated a technical mindset active than distance learning in general, took additional training in Transpersonal and career with his own transpersonal but I also gained a greater appreciation Hypnotherapy before launching my own explorations and engagement in helping for the work of Cayce and those who have private hypnotherapy practice. So, I could others. I am grateful to Bert for his open studied him. use my directed study project to not only discussions about when things may seem I took some extra time around these explore my own relationships, but to also “too woo-woo,” which helped me to sessions to allow more time on campus, examine ways to support my hypnothera- remain engaged with the transpersonal including many enjoyable hours brows- py clients, based upon my own regression experiences of myself or others without ing in the bookstore with its eclectic mix experiences. feeling that I was “losing my grip.” of offerings, or attending survey lectures I have been able to use what I learned In all courses, whether online or in and workshops. The library was a great from the diversity I experienced through person, interactions with other students resource, with its Circulating Files, collec- my interactions with AU’s faculty and through discussions and class exercises tions of compilations of Cayce’s readings students from all over the world; they were important for broadening my per- on specific topics. The meditation room each have different ways of thinking and spective and enriching the pure academic overlooking the ocean was satisfyingly different spiritual beliefs. I find that I am experience of reading source material and peaceful and walking the labyrinth in more accepting and open to the concerns writing essays. I applaud the style and front of the old hospital building was re- and belief systems of hypnotherapy clients structure of the program as being highly juvenating. The campus facilities, in their and other alternative healers who some- effective in making transpersonal subjects historic setting with original prints and times have unique spiritual perspectives. I come to life, and allowing each student pictures of Edgar Cayce and his family, have always considered myself a person to draw upon their personal experiences help remind everyone of the influence and tolerant of the beliefs of others, but now and beliefs. Participation in the program amazing abilities of the founder of the I apply that tolerance in a practical way. did more than advance my education—it school, without being overpowering or As the readings tell us: “As He has given, it

October-December 2017 55 will ever be found that Truth—whether in exercises, interaction, and inspiring activi- rected study, and my culminating project, I this or that schism or ism or cult—is of the ties that have led me to grow and broaden have not passively absorbed information, One source. Are there not trees of oak, of my thinking in ways I could never have but rather I have lived it, created from it, ash, of pine? There are the needs of these predicted. I have advanced on my personal and expounded upon it. I completed my for meeting this or that experience. Hast journey, and explored aspects of myself fourth and perhaps strongest novel to date thou chosen any one of these to be the all and my relationships in ways I never ex- and have a plan for my work ahead. The in thine usages in thine own life? Then, pected from a distance education program. completion of my degree is far from being all will fill their place. Find not fault with “First, analyze thyself. Know thyself, for an end point. I am employing those new any, but rather show forth as to just how he indeed that knows himself knows his skills to help people use these amazing good a pine, or ash, or oak, or vine, thou God also.” (3004-1) healing techniques. art!” (254-87) “So does it behoove every soul to so And, it is a launching point to a great live and so act, in its contacts with its fel- new personal beginning. Or, at least, it P ersonal Growth & Outcomes low man in its business and commercial has been a leap forward along my life’s In July 2015, the death of my father life, that it will not be afraid to stand on path. put my father-child relationships in my the corner and watch self pass by—in About the Author present and past lives into a new perspec- relationship to its activities with its fellow tive. The background work I had done man.” (531-1) Jim Pryra, MA, MCS., CHt, CCHt, CAHA, a led me to a greater exploration of the I have also made lasting and meaningful hypnotherapist and hand- works of C.G. Jung, where I found much friendships among some of the students writing analyst, devotes his inspiration and many useful techniques and faculty that I’ve had the pleasure to practice to helping clients for further self-reflection. The directed work with. I feel part of a unique commu- of all ages make positive study contributed to my understanding nity of practice. changes in their lives. He and his partner share their of myself, my relationships with my father, Finally, through all the writing and home in rural Nova Scotia, Canada, with three and my attitudes toward my own creativ- discussions of my studies, and particularly rescued dogs and two horses. To learn more ity. It has also enriched my relationship through my regression experiences, my di- about Jim and his work visit www.jimpyra.com. with my inner Guide and allowed me to establish a more focused practice of using self-guided imagery. It has therefore increased my own level of self-awareness if not consciousness. As part of the directed study work, I learned about and connected with ad- ditional resources such as the Archive for Research in Archetypal Symbolism (ARAS), the Joseph Campbell Foundation, and Imagery International, and I have maintained those connections. I became one of the volunteer administrators for an online group to keep alumni of the Integrated Imagery Regression Hypnosis program connected. I also enrolled in the Conscious Living Program of the Centre for Applied Jungian Studies, and pub- lished a paper in the Imaginews Journal about my own regression work. My student experience at AU has pro- vided me with a rich understanding of the nature of the transpersonal and how the holistic view of mind, body, and spirit are manifested by everyone in his or her own unique way. Classes provided the- oretical context, augmented by fantastic opportunities to personally explore and experience transpersonal growth through

56 EdgarCayce.org Get your degree in less than two years at Atlantic University

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October-December 2017 57 CALENDAR OF Events EdgarCayce.org/nearyou

In Sumpango, Guatemala, each year on the 1st of November is the ‘Day of the Dead’ Kite Festival. The ancient festival is the largest in Guatemala and unique to this Central American nation. Locals believe it is a tool for communicating with the beyond. Kites can be up to 40 feet in diameter and are very heavy.

ARIZONA ILLINOIS MICHIGAN, continued For upcoming events go to EdgarCayceAZ.org Edgar Cayce Holistic Center 888-663-0082 or 4th Wednesday of each month (updated monthly) or call 623-979-8220 847-299-6535; AREHeartland.org/chicago; Healthy Sleep and Dreamwork ([email protected]) Support Group Scottsdale • Nov 7-8 Margaret Dwyer 248-541-0128 Spiritual Healing Sessions Chicago area • Nov 14-16 ([email protected]) Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com Spiritual Healing Sessions Lynnie or Rex 480-661-8000 Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com 3rd Thursday of each month, 7-9 p.m. ([email protected]) Edgar Cayce Center 888-663-0082 Metro Detroit A.R.E. Lecture Series ([email protected]) Margaret Dwyer 248-541-0128 Tucson • Nov 4-5 ([email protected]) Spiritual Healing Sessions LOUISIANA Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com Covington • Oct 14 NEW JERSEY Gina Sperry 520-403-7541 Prophecy and Earth Changes Westfield • Nov 18 ([email protected]) Laura Jackson Reincarnation Unnecessary: How to Marlene Duet 985-893-9025 Make THIS Life Your Best Life! CALIFORNIA ([email protected]) Peter Woodbury, MSW Sacramento • Oct 31-Nov 2 Register Online at: ARE-southeast.org Spiritual Healing Sessions NEW MEXICO Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com MASSACHUSETTS Albuquerque • Nov 11 Wilma Jackson 310-829-14 Boston • Nov 18-29 Edgar Cayce on the Light and Dark Spiritual Healing Sessions Forces, Angels, Fairies, and Ghosts Santa Monica • Nov 10-12 Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com John Van Auken Spiritual Healing Sessions Aantre Kennedy 781 848 8860 Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com NEW YORK Wilma Jackson 310-829-1425 Plymouth/Middleboro • 2nd and 4th Fridays New York City—NEW! Coffee with Cayce—Presentation and 4th Saturday of every month Vacaville • Oct 14 Group Discussion Integrative Medical Center Edgar Cayce on the Light and Dark Betty 508-673-0477 ([email protected]) or 928 Broadway, New York, NY 10010 Forces: Angels, Fairies, and Ghosts Dorine 508-947-1695 ([email protected]) Edgar Cayce Remedies Workshop John Van Auken Jack Rosen (edgarcayceheals.com) Quincy • 3rd Saturdays Hosted by Dr. Nidia Carrero M.D., who works COLORADO Monthly open meeting and program with the Cayce Protocols Denver • Oct 14 Jeff Bagley 617-479-9361 Jack Rosen 845-667-0338 After We Die: An Exploration of Death, ([email protected]) (nidiarcarreromd.com) Heaven, Ghosts, and the Soul’s Journey Beyond Death Woburn • Oct 7 A.R.E. of New York Edgar Cayce Center Echo Bodine Reincarnation Unnecessary: How To New Address: 153 W. 27th St., #702-704, Make THIS Life Your Best Life! New York, NY 10001 (212-691-7690) CONNECTICUT Peter Woodbury, MSW Offers a wealth of spiritual-growth groups, Meriden • Oct 21 weekly/monthly classes, workshops, holistic Edgar Cayce on the Unseen Worlds: MICHIGAN health services, Cayce books and remedies, and Past Lives, Future Lives and the Afterlife Detroit area • Nov 4 psychic/ intuitive readings. Gregg Unterberger, MEd, LPC Toward a Deeper Meditation: Eastern Visit EdgarCayceNYC.org for their ongoing and Western Methods and Concepts calendar of events, or call 212-691-7690 John Van Auken For info call HQ toll-free: 800-333-4499

58 EdgarCayce.org NEW YORK, continued NEW YORK, continued TEXAS New York City Thursdays For upcoming events, call Southwest Region Oct 20-25 Prayers for Healing Group 512-327-7355 Spiritual Healing Sessions Facilitators: Norman Curtis and Paul Dorogoff Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com Hunt • Oct 5-8 212-691-7690 Sundays Texas Fall Retreat at Mo Ranch Sunday Inspirations Prophecy and Updated Earth Changes Oct 20 & 27, Nov 3 Facilitator: Rev. Charles Julian Laura Jackson How to Be Peaceful and Happy Nadean 512-327-7355 ([email protected]) Minister Janet Lovell Prosperity Support Group Facilitator: Catherine Outeiral VIRGINIA Oct 28 Charlottesville • Oct 28 Lecture and Demonstration: Spirit Art Dream Study Group Dream Doorways: Spiritual Experiences & Communication Facilitator: Paul Dorogoff in Dreamtime! Sandy Ingham, International Medium and Cheryl Baer-Bernath and David Riblet Trance Spirit Artist Event dates are subject to change—please Joanne DiMaggio, 434-242-7348 check our website or call us for the latest. ([email protected]) Oct 29 Workshop: Embracing Spirit Art OHIO Fairfax area • Nov 4 Sandy Ingham, International Medium and Columbus/Westerville • Nov 4 Many Lives, One Source: Understanding Trance Spirit Artist Meditation Retreat and Afternoon Speaker Karma, Grace, Reincarnation, and Your Moments of Grace: Exploring Near- Place in the Divine Plan! Nov 18 Death and Related Experiences Peter Woodbury, MSW 3-hr Astral Projection Techniques Linda Manley, RN, FNP Training Darian Torrance 614-276-0256 Virginia Beach IAC NY, instructor TBD ([email protected]) or Atlantic University Visit AtlanticUniv.edu Marguerite Marshall 614-478-2702 Nov 19 A.R.E. Headquarters Breaking Out of the 3D Matrix into PENNSYLVANIA The A.R.E. Visitor Center offers free activities Your 5D Self Philadelphia • Oct 27-29 to all guests. For an advanced search of all Maureen St. Germain Spiritual Healing Sessions upcoming events and times, visit EdgarCayce. Fundraising event for ARE of NY Malcolm Smith/malcolmsmithhealer.com org/conferences. Polly Hickman 917-582-4007 Dec 2-3 ([email protected]) Free Activities Akashic Records Level I Daily, 2 p.m. Maureen St. Germain Pittsburgh area • Nov 11 Edgar Cayce Legacy Movie Awakening the Spiritual Master Within: Also available on-demand; Dec 10 Soul Growth Secrets from the Edgar Ask at the lobby desk 5-Hour Subtle Energy Workshop Cayce Readings and A Course in Miracles Trisha Hargaden, IAC Tom Baker, MDiv, LCSW Daily, 2:30 p.m. Guided Tour of Visitor Center Dec 16 PUERTO RICO Ancestral Repatterning: Tracing the For a schedule of group meetings to discuss Edgar Daily, 3:30 p.m. Origins of Your Illness Cayce topics (in Spanish), contact Dolly at: 787- Lecture on a Topic from the Laura Silvana Aversano 765-3574 or 787-397-0440 (edgarcaycepr@ Readings gmail.com) or go to EdgarCayce.org/nearyou Ongoing Events: Weekdays, 12 noon Saturdays, Oct 14, Nov 11, Dec 9 TENNESSEE Staff-Led Meditation Edgar Cayce Psychic Fairs Burns, Montgomery Bell State Park • Nov 10-12 Leaping in, Letting Go: Transformative Tuesday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Oct 24, Dec 7 Teachings from the Cayce Readings on Join June Bro for a “Chat” Cayce Healing and Wellness Fairs Making Friends with Death Corinne Cayce, MA Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. Mondays Greta Heru 901-206-6289 Glad Helpers Healing Prayer Group A Search for God Study Group ([email protected]) carememphis.org (with Laying on of Hands) Facilitator: Paul Dorogoff Nashville • Oct 14 Thursday, Bi-weekly, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays Heal thy Self! Edgar Cayce’s Remedies “Work Readings” Study Group Meditation Practice Group for Better Health Facilitator: Theodora Lazos Dr. Jean Paul (JP) Amonte Saturday, 1 p.m. Starr Messick 917-553-9357 ESP Testing and Demos ([email protected]) EdgarCayceNashville.com/j-p-amonte-event For info call HQ toll-free: 800-333-4499

October-December 2017 59 VIRGINIA, continued VIRGINIA, continued EDGAR CAYCE CANADA Sunday Bookstore Sponsored Events at HQ EdgarCayceCanada.com 12:30 p.m. Oct 26, Nov 30 Laurie Oliver, President/CEO Guided Meditation on CD Spirit Message Circles Toll-free 1-866-322-8209 ([email protected];) 1 p.m. Oct 17, Nov 21 ESP Testing and Demos Conscious Community Lecture Series Spiritual Growth Study Groups Across Canada Headquarters Conferences Nov 18 Marilyn Kendall Smith 866-322-8209 For upcoming A.R.E. Conferences in Virginia Psychic Fair & Holiday Gift Bazaar ([email protected]) Beach, see below and on inside and outer back cover. Saturdays, In-Store Psychic Saturdays! BRITISH COLUMBIA **Denotes Life Member Benefit Conferences Burnaby (Vancouver Area) • Monthly Open to all. Life Members (and a guest) may Sundays, Wisdom Workshops Spiritual Movie Nights attend one of the following 2017 marked (**) Marty Ozols 604-290-5366 conferences at no charge. A.R.E. Health Center and Spa (Systemagic@Systemagicmotives.com) Telephone: 757-457-7202 **Oct 21 Visit AREHealth.org for our monthly specials. Comox Valley • Monthly Reincarnation Unnecessary: How to Metaphysical Exploration Group Make THIS Life Your Best Life! Cayce/Reilly® School of Massage Anjali or Norman Thomas 250-338-1690 Peter Woodbury, MSW Continuing Education Workshops Cayce/Reilly School of Massage is celebrating its ONTARIO **Dec 29-31 30th Anniversary in 2017! Niagara Falls • Feb 23-25, 2018 Annual New Year’s Conference: Visit CayceReilly.edu for a complete schedule Raising the Inner Light A Search for God: Edgar Cayce’s of Continuing Education workshops, many are John Van Auken Roadmap to Enlightenment open to everyone. Teresa Wasowicz 757-457-7134 ([email protected]) ([email protected]) This year’s annual Headquarters New Year’s conference, A Search for God: Edgar WASHINGTON Peterborough Cayce’s Roadmap to Enlightenment, will Seattle • Oct 21 Dec 7 offer special discounts to groups of five or Search for the Otherworld The Metaphysical Meaning of the more, as well as a number of scholarships, to Freddy Silva Christmas Story allow more current and potential A Search EastWest Bookshop 206-523-3726, Mark Finnan for God study group members to attend. eastwestbookshop.com Helene Thibert 705-745-7188 In addition, a reception and gathering for ([email protected]) study group members will be take place WISCONSIN on Sunday afternoon. For those unable to Wauwatosa Mondays 3:30pm attend the December 29-31 event, several Oct 14 A Search for God presentations will be available online at The Solar System: A Spiritual Study and Discussion Group no cost. For details go to EdgarCayce.org/ University and Journeys to the Helene Thibert 705-745-7188 Conferences or contact Customer Service at “Other Side” ([email protected]) 800-333-4499. Susan Wisehart and David Birr Kevin Reger 414-322-6552 or Toronto (Downtown) • Mondays 7 pm The Forum ([email protected]) A Search for God Hosted at A.R.E. HQ monthly, Wed, 7-9:15 p.m. Study and Discussion Group Day Schwartz 804-693-5192 Nov 18 Susan Lappin 416-466-5324 EdgarCayceForum.net Heal Yourself through Abdominal ([email protected]) Self Massage Oct 25 Gene Boldetsky We Are Psychic – The Edgar Cayce Kevin Reger 414-322-6552 or Experience ([email protected]) Don Carroll

Nov 29 Edgar Cayce and the Mystery of the Tarot Lisa Pethybridge

Bookstore and Gift Shop Telephone: 757-457-7231 For info call HQ toll-free: 800-333-4499 EdgarCayce.org/bookstore Submit your local A.R.E. events to: [email protected]

60 EdgarCayce.org NEW TOURS Coming for 2018

2018 offers some exciting March 8-25, 2018 June 24-30, 2018 new adventures and a Vietnam and Cambodia Bimini and Dolphin Pilgrimage to our A.R.E. led by Peter Woodbury, MSW Tours lineup! Check us out! Communications Join Peter in the sacred lands of the Bud- led by Jennie Taylor Martin and dha. See the holiest temples of Vietnam Joan Ranquet/Animal Communicator and Cambodia. One theme of the tour is Healing and Grace as you revisit some of the sites that were once war torn but now are restored to their former radiance and magic.

Jennie Taylor Martin and Joan Ranquet A Tour Like No Other! May 13-26, 2018 will bring A.R.E.’s return to Bimini with Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. Travel Programs the Cayce readings on Atlantis, reports Greece and the on the current and past findings, and the provide the unique experience of Greek Islands wonderful opportunity to learn from a visiting special areas of the globe that led by John Van Auken master about just what the Dolphins have have historical, spiritual, or metaphys- to say about it! Classical Greece and the Greek ical significance tied to insights found Islands of Mykonos, Patmos, in the Cayce readings. Our tour leaders Rhodes, and Santorini. Repeat have extensive backgrounds in the of our most popular Greece adventure —highlights from the Cayce material and are your guides readings, the sacred mountain to a deeper, more fulfilling journey. monasteries of Meteora, and a Mediterranean cruise.

July 8-14, 2018 August 25-31, 2018 Ecuador and the Alaska Cruise Galapagos led by John Van Auken led by Kevin J. Todeschi Cruising to Alaska is one of the most popular tour destinations today. Top that by sharing the “I have traveled with several different tour beauty and wonders of our companies. A.R.E. Tours have been my most ruggedly beautiful scen- favorite.” —H.M., Springtime in the Canadian ery in America with insights Rockies Tour 2017 from the Cayce readings and time spent with one of our “From a personal most popular speakers…not inward experience, Join Kevin as he revisits one of the to be missed. the trip was prob- most beautiful places on earth, tropical ably the most Ecuador, and the natural wonders found wonderfully re- on the Galapagos. See why Ecuador is September 18-30, 2018 vealing trip I have one of the friendliest nations, visit our Cayce Community there, then head for The Way of the Camino (Light!) ever taken.” —K. S., led by Renee Branch, CMT Scotland Tour 2017 Darwin’s world of wonder–all on the same fabulous tour. For fans of Shirley MacLaine’s Camino, here’s a chance to “I have never felt make the pilgrimage to more at home Santiago de Compostela, with a group as I without sore muscles! Join us on a less strenu- did with the A.R.E. ous, lighter-paced version Travelers .” —S.D., of the way with accom- Scotland Tour 2017 modations in quaint and comfortable hotels.

October-DecemberRese 2017rve Your Adventure TODAY! 800-333-4499 • EdgarCayce.org/tours 61 FEATURED BEST-SELLERS FEATURED BEST-SELLERS BLUEPRINT FOR HOLISTIC HEALING

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John Van Auken is a director at Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E., and is one of the organization’s most popular speakers, traveling throughout the U.S. and abroad to address audiences on the body-mind-spirit topics found in the

Edgar Cayce readings. He is an acknowledged expert JOHN VAN AUKEN on the Cayce readings, the Bible, ancient prophecies, world religions, meditation, and ancient Egypt. John conducts seminars in the U.S. and abroad, and is a tour guide to the many sacred sites around the world.

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Van Auken’s prose style reads so easily that you may finish the book in one and the sitting and then find yourself amazed at the knowledge you’ve acquired— knowledge of the secret lives and motivations of our supernatural brethren. Elementals Angels • Fairies • Sprites & Elves • Little People Dark Forces • Elementals With the Edgar Cayce Perspective Van Auken gives special attention to insights found in sacred texts and the and on the Supernatural World combines his knowledge with that given in the readings of Edgar Cayce (1877-1945), the most-document psychic of modern time. Elementals Elementals A special chapter on “second sight” gives you tips on how you can begin to sense these mysteries beings from other realms on your own and as they make themselves present.

John Van Auken is a director at Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E., and is one of the organization’s most popular speakers, traveling throughout the U.S. and abroad to address audiences on the body-mind-spirit topics found in the

Edgar Cayce readings. He is an acknowledged expert JOHN VAN AUKEN on the Cayce readings, the Bible, ancient prophecies, world religions, meditation, and ancient Egypt. John conducts seminars in the U.S. and abroad, and is a tour guide to the many sacred sites around the world.

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VI-Fall-Catalog-2017-pages-01.indd 2 8/11/2017 10:10:01 AM GEMSTONES & JEWELRY NEW JEWELRY!

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VI-Fall-Catalog-2017-pages-01.indd 4 8/11/2017 10:10:22 AM A Thanksgiving Message from Edgar Cayce

On November 20, 1938, on the brink of World War II, Edgar fering, to thine own mind becomes very little. Cayce delivered a reading on the subject of Thanksgiving to A What, then, will ye—as servants—yea, as children of a living God, Search for God Norfolk Study Group #1. of a living promise to thee—do about such a period, such a day? GC: You will give…information which may stimulate in the For the day itself is as nothing. Remember how He as the Teacher hearts and minds of those gathered here a greater appreciation of the of teachers gave that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for true spirit of Thanksgiving, and which may be to all those to whom the Sabbath! it is sent an inspiration and an explanation for Thanksgiving even in Then remember, Thanksgiving is thy opportunity to show thy the face of personal problems and spreading world-wide fears and appreciation to thy friend, thy home, thy mother, thy children—yea hatreds that seem to dominate so many minds today. most of all to thy God! EC: Yes, we have the subject here; and many there be that appear As it may be truly said—of all the days for man’s opportunity, with the desire to give their own interpretation upon such a subject. of man’s making, of man’s concern—truly Thanksgiving should be But rather would we choose—from the more universal need of those nearer and dearer to the hearts of those who are appreciative of Life here, as well as mankind everywhere—that thought, that purpose, and its opportunities, under any experience! that attribute of man’s choice to show, to give thanksgiving for not For remember, it was instituted not under plenty but under needs. only the blessings as may be the experience of many but the fuller meaning of the appreciation of Life itself and the opportunity which What is the need then of man in this day of disturbed mind, of is offered to all through same to become more and more aware of anxieties? their relationship to the Creative Force or God. That ye may re-consecrate, rededicate—each of you—thy heart, It is well that ye be reminded, then, of how—in those periods thy body, thy purpose, to the living God! when there were the preparations in the lives and experiences of a This is the message then that should be to all. peculiar people, under unusual circumstances, in extraordinary en- Let this day of Thanksgiving be not only that wherein to enjoy vironments—they were reminded, not in their days of plenty but in that which may satiate the body, that which may make for the the days when each day they were given only sufficient for that day, gratifying of appetites of the body, but that day when each of you that periods were to be, should be, set aside when thanksgiving was may give thanks to God for being alive, with the opportunities to to be a part of their activity—their remembrances for all the joys, raise thy voice in prayer, in praise, in thanksgiving for the love He the sorrows, the disappointments, the hopes that were and might hath shown, that He showers upon thee day by day! be theirs if—if—they would but hold to those promises; relying—as And as ye do this—in the spirit of love, in the spirit of truth, of it was necessary in those days, those hours, for a complete depend- patience, of longsuffering—ye will receive that awareness of His ence—upon the bounty of a merciful Father, who had a purpose in closeness to thee. And this will bring you to the greater knowledge, the bringing out, in the edifying, in the directing. the greater understanding of what He would have thee do. And today, as ye look back upon those experiences, ye—Too— Let thy life, thy experience then, be not without purpose. find thyselves chosen. What do ye then purpose to do with his promises to thee? Have ye chosen Him? In this land ye may give praise for freedom of speech, for the For as was given then, “If ye will be my people, I will be thy God!” opportunities to raise thy voice in whatever way and manner ye This is a universal experience, then. To each soul gathered here, to choose. each soul throughout the land, to each soul as may be in all lands: For know, as He taught, the principles of life are that as ye do “If ye will be my people, I will be thy god!” unto the least of thy brethren ye do unto thy Maker. Then in this land—as ye understand—when in the experiences Then, as ye give thanks, as ye give praise to thy friends for kind- of a handful of those seeking a place where they might worship nesses, for gentlenesses, for those things that make thy experience God according to the dictates of their own conscience, the bounties more bearable in a cruel world—under circumstances oft where a of the land were in such measures as to preserve their lives—then troubled heart is made lighter—how much greater in this day… there was the proclamation that thanksgiving must be in the mind how much more ye would give thanks to God! and heart of each soul. For it is in Him indeed that ye live, that ye move and have thy … Then, to all: As ye do in the spirit of true thanksgiving come to being. realize, as ye find in thy daily experience with thy fellow man—he Let thy heart then be glad. (3976-21) that is unappreciative of opportunity, of care, of thought, of longsuf-

66 EdgarCayce.org Inspiring Speakers, Extraordinary Events

A.R.E. Virginia Beach Conferences and Training Programs

OCTOBER 21 NEW! Soul Growth Saturday january 20, 2018 NEW! Soul Growth Saturday Reincarnation Unnecessary— Edgar Cayce and Prophecy: How to Make THIS Life Your Best Life! Understanding the Times We Live In Peter Woodbury, MSW, explores the insights Cayce gave to John Van Auken, author of the best-selling 2038: The Great 18 people who were told that this lifetime could be their last Pyramid Timeline Prophecy, will present an in-depth look at the incarnation—and shows you what YOU can learn from them! predictions for our times and why change must occur. Explore the Includes guided group regressions to access the wisdom of your prophecies of the Bible, Jesus, Nostradamus, Edgar Cayce, and Peter Woodbury, MSW soul. Co-sponsored by the Cassina Tarsia Center. ** more. Discount when combined with January 21. October 21; 22-27; 27-29 january 21 NEW! Soul Growth Sunday OCTOBER 22-27 Very Limited Enrollment Practical Astrology: Forecasting Your Past-Life Regression Hypnotherapy Year and Your Soul’s Path Training Certification Master Astrologer Kathy Rose teaches how the guidance and influ- Learn this popular healing modality with Cayce teacher, psycho- ence of the planets relate to you personally, as you learn to use your therapist, hypnotherapist, and Harvard University graduate Peter own chart to track your positive and negative cycles through 2018. Woodbury, MSW, trained by Dr. Brian Weiss; you will be certified Feel confident knowing what each new day could bring! Includes a in Past-Life Regression Hypnotherapy—A.R.E. Certificate awarded. FREE natal chart. Discount when combined with January 20. Register early—this limited enrollment course sells out every year! Kevin Ryerson february 15-18 NEW! November 10-12 OCTOBER 27-29 Very Limited Enrollment Edgar Cayce Meditation Training and Past-Life Regression Hypnotherapy Mentoring Certificate Course with Advanced Intensive Meditation Master John Van Auken This advanced-level course, limited to 10 students, provides one- Whether you want to enhance your personal meditation routine, on-one training in the use of advanced regression techniques, as start your own program, or boost your current career, you will gain both client and therapist, for deep soul connection and healing. the skills you need to successfully practice—and teach others— Led by expert trainer, psychotherapist Peter Woodbury, MSW. Edgar Cayce-based meditation and mindfulness techniques. Open Certificate awarded. to all levels, novice to experienced. Certificate awarded. Mark Thurston, PhD march 4-9 December 29-31 NOVEMBER 10-12 Foundations in Hypnosis: Training and Our Annual Psychic Development Certification Course Conference Mastering Your Natural Be certified in Hypnosis by the A.R.E.! Experiential training in Psychic Abilities hypnotherapy techniques for weight loss, pain control, and We are all naturally psychic, and this experiential weekend will more. With one of our top-rated and most experienced trainers, give you practical hands-on ways to develop and apply your psychologist and master hypnotist Dr. Jason Parker. Limited innate intuitive abilities and take them to the next level! Train enrollment—register early to ensure your place! with renowned psychics and intuitives including Kevin Ryerson, Carol Ann Liaros, Robert Ohotto, Mary Roach, and more. Register NOW! John Van Auken Call: 800-333-4499 toll-free January 20; February 15-18 International: 757-428-3588, ext. 0 DecembeR 29-31 Website: EdgarCayce.org/ Our Annual New Year’s Conference conferences A Search for God: Edgar Cayce’s Email: [email protected] Roadmap to Enlightenment Show your conference badge to get 10% off purchases in the Explore this great work and learn to apply these lessons to A.R.E. Bookstore and Gift Shop. accelerate your soul grown and spiritual awakening with Mark ** Open to everyone; Life Members may redeem their Life Member Thurston, PhD, Lora Little, Karen Boldt, Judith Stevens, and pass for this program. more. Plus, ring in the New Year with a festive party with music, Programs, speakers, and tuitions are subject to change. Check our website for updates. Use code C17VI when registering. Dr. Jason Parker dancing, refreshments, and a peaceful midnight meditation. ** March 4-9 A.R.E. Headquarters: 215 67th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Association for Research and Enlightenment, Inc. NON-PROFIT ORG. 215 67th Street U.S. Postage Virginia Beach, VA 23451-2061 PAID Association for Research and Enlightenment, Inc. ADDRESS Service Requested

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