True Story

True Story

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

Andrew

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

Christian

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

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

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

"Keeping Elementals out of the Way."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regards,

Christian

Christian,

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

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

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

Thanks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Christian

Christian,

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

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

Christian,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Christian

Jeez Christian - relax!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Regards,

Christian