Reading 2181-1

TEXT OF READING 2181-1 M 31 (Manual Worker [Chair Re-caner],

Text

Date: 4/26/1940 Sex: M Age: 31 ReadingID: 8882

Lutheran Christian Mysticism) This Psychic Reading given by Edgar Cayce at his home on Arctic Crescent, Virginia Beach, Va., this 26th day of April, 1940, in accordance with request made by the self - Mr. [2181], new Associate Member of the Ass”n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc., recommended through “Mysteries of the Mind” program through W O R conducted by Hugh Lynn Cayce, via Dr. Henry S. W. Hardwicke.

[Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno.]

Born September 3, 1908, in Alburtis, Penna. Time of Reading 3:45 to 4:05 P. M. Eastern Standard Time. …, Penna.

1. GC: You will give the relation of this entity and the universe, and the universal forces, giving the conditions which are as personalities, latent and exhibited in the present life; also the former appearances in the earth plane, giving time, place and the name, and that in each life which built or retarded the development for the entity; giving the abilities of the present entity, and that to which it may attain, and how. You will answer the questions, as I ask them:

2. EC: Yes, we have the records here of that entity now known as or called [2181].

3. In giving the interpretation of the records as we find them here, - the astrological aspects in this case are adverse to the conditions and the experiences of the entity, except as related in a general manner to the sojourns in the material plane.

4. Hence, the astrological aspects would mean little, according to the application self has made in relationship to these, - save as to the counsel that might be given the entity concerning those inclinations which have arisen through this present sojourn, or concerning the ability to APPLY latent urges from the material sojourns, plus the latent urges about which little has been done.

5. Thus, we may give that if this information is applied in the present experience of the entity, it may be a helpful influence.

6. The records which we are choosing to interpret, then, in regard to these relationships, are chosen with the desire that this be a helpful experience for the entity; that it may become aware of the purposes for which it entered this material plane, and thus applying itself meet itself, - as each soul or entity does, - in becoming a channel for the magnifying of that which was given by Him, of whom it was asked, “Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?”

7. For, the answer may be manifested in the experience of this entity, “Neither this man nor his parents, but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.”

8. As to the application of self, then, from those experiences through the earthly sojourns, we find:

9. Before this the entity was in the land of the present nativity, among the Natives of the land; adapting self to the changing conditions in associations with those whom the entity considered invaders and usurpers of the land.

10. And the entity wrought great physical discomfort, physical activities that brought torture in many ways in their experiences; yet the experience was not one in which it may be said that the entity was altogether to blame.

11. However, in the application of self, it might be that those experiences may be tempered much with those that will be found in the present experiences of the entity.

12. Also from that sojourn, - then in the name Shaska (as would be literally interpreted), - we find that things pertaining to outdoors and nature, having to do with the natural resources and activities, are innate and manifested experiences for the entity. The abilities to use such becomes a part of the entity’s activity, - and these may be used as stepping-stones, or as means for the material benefits while the preparations are made for the expression of the greater abilities.

13. For, the entity has the ability to awaken others, - not only because of its faith but its application in those directions in which others may be taught or directed in those channels that will give the greater appreciation of their opportunities; their possessions that are not of the material nature but the natural consequences of a merciful providence, a merciful creative energy or force or God.

14. Thus the entity may use itself in turning more and more to the elements of the religious forces in its life and in its abilities.

15. Before that the entity was in the land of promise, and among those who were of that group who met the Master in the way.

The entity, then, was one who was healed; but did not return to give thanks, AFTER having complied with the penal and moral law for such healings.

16. The name then was Mathias; and the entity gained and lost through the experience; gained in the fact of coming in contact with that influence, force or power in which there were the demonstrations of the entity - through and within itself, by and through the spoken word - becoming aware of creative forces or energies within the own experience; lost in not making a practical application of same in its experience among its fellow men, not bearing witness to those assurances, those experiences, in its activity.

17. Yet, from that experience the entity may find in its present sojourn that is may make such an application; by its very desire, its very ability to apply that as may be read to the entity, or that may be read by the entity; as philosophy, as religious philosophy, as a speaker, as an entertainer.

18. And through those fields, and in those fields of activity, the entity may not only find itself and those channels through which there may come a great mental and spiritual awakening, but also find material aid towards the correction of those hindrances which exist in the present.

19. For through those activities, as we find, would the entity find the greatest harmony, the greatest experience for the awakening to the possibilities, the latent abilities as a speaker, as a teacher, as a minister, - in its counseling with those of its fellow men for the preparation of the day of the Lord which is at hand to all those who seek His way.

20. As to the application of the experiences, then:

21. We find that in those fields in which there may be used the work of the hands, in things that the entity already does, there may be met the immediate needs.

22. But APPLY self in study for propounding, admonishing, declaring to others the way of the Lord! In that we may find the greater exercising of harmony, not only in its own physical self but in the lives and the experiences of those with whom the entity may come in contact day by day.

23. Then, - study to show thyself approved for the interest in the unusual, the interest in things of the psychic nature; but determine that they are not of the mystic but rather of the psychic nature, - which is pertaining to the own soul application of the tenets and truths and experiences that may aid the fellow men to find themselves and their relationships to their Maker.

24. Ready for questions.

25. (Q) For what particular work am I best fitted, and how should I prepare for it? (A) As just indicated, - the ministering or teaching or preaching to others; and prepare self by the practical, personal application in the daily life as it labors, - and we will find that within sixteen to eighteen months the entity will be qualified to be a teacher, a minister.

Study the Scriptures, then, for in them we will find eternal life.

26. (Q) How may I find ease in the presence of others? (A) By creating ease first within self. Make self right by that determination that others may do as they may, but the self will serve the living God, the creative forces, the hopeful energies.

The love, the experiences that will come to the entity and those about it in such a work will bring such an awakening that the entity may blot out those things that make afraid. For, remember, as He has given, “though ye may have wandered far afield, if ye call I will hear,” and will answer thee speedily.

27. We are through for the present.

Copy to Self ” ” Ass’n file

Reports

Reports & Follow-up

R1. 5/1/40 Mr. [2181]‘s letter to EC:

…, Pa.

Mr. Edgar Cayce Assn’. for Research & Enlightenment Virginia Beach, Virginia

Dear Mr. Cayce:

Your welcome letter with the accompanying reading reached me on Monday. My hearty thanks to you for the profound service you have rendered me and for your kind offer to be of continual help.

I am happy to inform you that the reading seems to fit my inner self like a well taylored garment. The suggestion that I enter the ministry appeals to me quite warmly. In fact during my student days at Overbrook one of my dramatic instructors enthusiastically advised me to enter that profession.

I thought that perhaps you and the Association might be in a position to shed some light on my preparation for the ministry - perhaps by suggesting some books, or course of studies. I feel that before bringing the light to others I am myself in need of further illumination. Possibly I ought to acquaint with the particular kind of work in which I am interested. I feel that the spiritual self should be regarded and treated with a greater degree of science, or intelligence, so as to correspond with the progress in the physical realm. If people were taught that the psychic body is higher counterpart of the physical, they might find the spiritual life more intelligible. Thus the teacher might prescribe certain forms of spiritual nutrition, spiritual exercises, general cleansing and health measures, etc. I realize, of course, that religion cannot be confined to mere psychology, but with the purification and development of the psychic faculties it seems that one should become more receptive of religion’s experience. Do you think there is a particular sect that could offer a medium for such a type of religious service, or should I work independently?

I hope you will not find these inquiries too burdensome. I shall be grateful for any counsel you may care to offer. Again may I thank you for your grand service.

Gratefully yours, [2181]

R2. 5/4/40 EC’s letter to Mr. [2181]:

Dear Mr. [2181]

Thank you for yours of the 1st - will give you a suggestion or two and will ask my son the Mgr. of the Assn. write you further as wish him to take the matter up with the Official board of the Assn. at their June meeting. He will no doubt give you a list of books also for study - as he is quite closely associated with the Young peoples work in the church

• locally - and is also Scout Master for boys here at Beach.

Glad the information found an answering cord with in yourself for of course the answer must come from with in. My first suggestion would be for you to write the Moody Institute Chicago, think you can enroll there and have home study. That will fit you for the work for which believe you are fitted. This does not mean or infer that you would necessarily become denominational, that is to my ind [mind?] the factor that is disturbing to many.

Too believe you have the right idea as to the practical things in every day living, as toward Christianity, not merely psychology but just plain practical every day Christianity.

Will write you again, soon also will ask my son to write but if meets your favor write the Moody Bible Institute.

With all good wishes and HIS blessings on you

Sincerely [signed] Edgar Cayce

R3. 10/1/40 HLC’s letter to Mr. [2181]:

Mr. [2181] …, Penna.

Dear Mr. [2181]

I regret that I have not written you sooner regarding the request in your letter of May 1st for suggestions as to reading and study along the lines of your Life Reading.

Your Reading pointed out that your greatest study should be of the Scriptures. My father is conducting a weekly class based on the study of the Bible. I am sure that this group will be glad to have you receive the weekly minutes of these meetings, that are sent to those interested. Using these minutes, perhaps it will be possible for you to ask questions in letters which would - in a measure - serve as a discussion on the various passages. I am confident that my father would be glad to attempt answering any questions you may send him in letters.

Before I’d be in a position to offer you practical suggestions regarding preparations for the type of work outlined in the Reading, I would have to know more about your educational background, extent of your reading along philosophical, psychological and occult lines. I’d appreciate your writing me a brief outline, including information as to just what facilities you have available in the way of library opportunities.

My interpretation of the Reading would be that you should prepare to do some general lecture work of a philosophical and spiritual nature. This would necessitate not only preparation of a general nature but also specific practise and training in speaking, as well as an intensive study of some particular subject. It would probably not be wise to connect yourself with any particular sect, as this might limit your opportunities for service.

I shall look forward to hearing from you again. Let me assure you that I will give your letter my prompt attention this time.

Sincerely, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Manager HLC:GD

R4. 11/24/40 Mr. [2181]‘s letter to HLC:

Hugh Lynn Cayce Assn’. for Research & Enlightenment Virginia Beach, Virginia

Dear Mr. Cacey:

Your recent letter was gratefully received. The helpful interest which you and your father have manifested in my life problem has been a source of encouragement and inspiration to me.

As I stated in a letter to your father last summer, my life reading harmonized with my inclinations to an amazing extent. There seem to be a few obstacles, however, which make it difficult for me to set out on my preparations for the ministry.

The first of these obstacles is a psychological one, in spite of my interest in Christianity and religion in general, there are certain outstanding doctrines contained in the Bible which I cannot conscientiously accept. I feel that unless I sincerely believe Scriptural doctrines myself I shall be unable to present them to others. For example, I simply cannot subscribe to the doctrine of vicarious atonement.

Economic problems have also offered some hindrance to my plans. I am hoping, however, that with the assistance of my new Seeing Eye dog, this matter may soon be straightened out.

As for my formal education, I spent nine years in a grade school and five years in a school for the blind. My achievements in school equal approximately three years of high school. I am also accredited with several courses in teacher-training relative to Sundayschool work.

The religious and philosophical books which I have read voluntarily, include the following titles:

The story of philosophy, by Will Durant. What we live by, by Dimnet. Representative men by Emerson; also other essays. Things and ideals, by Otto. Strength of will, by Barrett. Contemporary schools of psychology, by Woodworth. Varieties of religious experience, by James. The text books of Christian Science and Unity. Pathways to God, by Rufus Jones. Conquest of happiness, by Russel. Conquest of illusion, by Van Der Leeuw. Sermons, by Fosdick. The two sources of morality and religion, by Bergson.

Much to my regret there is not a great deal available in Braille on psychical research in our American libraries. The books on this subject which I have been able to borrow thus far comprise: Phantom walls, by Lodge; The way of power, by L. Adams Beck; and Lancer at large, by Yeats-Brown.

At present I am a devout listener to three different broadcasts which feature the psychic. The program, “Mysteries of the mind,” in which you participated a few years ago also interested me a great deal.

For about nine years now I have been a student of Theosophy, having found considerable comfort in its teachings.

In your letter you mentioned lecturing as a possible activity in which I should engage. The suggestion appeals to me greatly and I should be willing to make any necessary sacrifice to cultivate this talent. So far as intellectual ability is concerned, I should probably be capable of an evangelistic career, but somehow I cannot adapt myself to this kind of work.

I hope that the jumbled information given above may not prove too confusing. I feel sure that those Bible conferences conducted by your father would have much to offer me. I should like to hear more about it. If you feel that my case deserves further consideration, your guidance will be warmly received.

Sincerely yours, [2181]

R5. 12/16/40 HLC’s letter to Mr. [2181]:

Dear Mr. [2181]

Thank you for your letter of November 24th.

You will begin receiving the Bible studies as conducted by my father in his Wednesday night group meetings.

May I suggest that you write my father about questions pertaining to the Bible. Include, let us say three questions in each letter. He will answer those and you can then write him again. Let these questions deal with the points in the scriptures which perplex you. These questions together with those arising from the weekly studies that you will receive may help you with your study of the Bible.

As I pointed out, your reading indicated that you could be successful as a teacher and lecturer on philosophical and metaphysical subjects. Much of this type of work is inspirational, but certain natural steps must be taken to open the way for the expression of such inspiration. There must naturally be some training in mechanics of speaking and organizing your subject material.

The following suggestions may not appeal to you at all. Take what you care to from this.

Pick out someone in the local high school who handles public speaking or debating. Discuss with this person the possibility of getting him to outline for you by talking with you some of the basic principles of organizing and presenting material (speaking). If possible get this assistance in the form of constructive criticism based on hearing you discuss some topic. Perhaps this could be carried on for several weeks one or twice each week. If you cannot get someone in school find out who speaks well in town and seek out that person. They will help you without expense.

Now you will have to organize your material by thinking it through. Good writers frequently turn whole books over and over in their minds before beginning writing. Select two or three topics and begin to organize what you hear and have read under these headings. Practice presenting this material before an imaginary audience, remembering the suggestions of the individual who has helped you. For example an excellent topic would be “Psychic Radio Programs.” Another would be, “The Bible as A Source of Psychic Experiences.” Or select topics from the Bible that will give you an opportunity to think through questions that have arisen.

Continue your reading along philosophical lines as much as possible, including anything from the psychic field that you can secure.

Develop the ability and talents in this direction and opportunities will open for you to express them. This is a law that works every time if the individual does not get self in the way.

Let me hear from you again and we will follow through on these suggestions.

With best wishes for the Christmas season,

Sincerely, [signed] Hugh Lynn Cayce

R6. 2/16/41 Mr. [2181]‘s postcard to EC:

…, Pa.

Dear Mr. Cayce: I am indeed grateful to you for the Bible lessons which you are sending me. I find that they lend themselves most admirably to my temperament as a Bible student. Unlike so much current Bible instruction, I have found that your approach illuminess, rather than offends the intellect. I hope that I may soon be able to express my appreciation financially by sending a remittance.

R7. 2/8/43 Mr. [2181]‘s letter to Mae Verhoeven:

…, Pa.

Mrs. Mae Verhoeven Assn’. for Research & Enlightenment Virginia Beach, Virginia

Dear Mrs. Verhoeven,

I wish to acknowledge receipt of the Bible studies which you are so faithfully sending me. It is indeed most kind of you to make these heart-warming instructions available for me.

You need offer no apologies for being somewhat behind with the lessons. I too am a bit behind in the study of these lessons. A friend of mine, who happens to be a volunteer Braille transcriber, has kindly offer to do Braille work for me. I decided that it would be an excellent idea to have these Bible lessons transcribed, in that it would enable me to read them myself.

Many thanks for your generous interest in my personal well-being. Kindly extend my warm regards to Mr. Cayce. I hope that his work may be prospering.

Thanking you again for keeping me in touch with Mr. Cayce’s fine work, I remain

Gratefully yours, [2181]

R8. 5/7/51 He requested, and was sent, a copy of his Life Reading.

R9. 6/19/58 Report extracted from a tape which he sent to Hugh Lynn Cayce:

“I told Edgar Cayce nothing of my interest and yet his life reading for me matched very closely the urges and interests which I knew I had. His advice that I enter the ministry had been a consideration in my thinking, although I did not mention it to him. I wish I had followed his advice.

“I have been practically blind from birth. My business involves a notions counter in post office and recreation rooms. I have never been a success in business nor have I enjoyed it.

“In my religious searching I have been the hobo type, moving from one to another in the fundamental, evangelistic, and metaphysical approaches. I have strong leanings toward Oriental philosophy.”

R10. 4/23/73 His [2181]‘s letter to GD:

The time has come for me to return to give thanks. The fact that you saw fit to read my life-reading on cassette, in person, makes it all the more precious. I realize that it would be impossible for you to become personally involved in all the Cayce readings. But I would like to pass along a few thoughts about my reading, for what they may be worth.

In a recent copy of Psychology Today, which I receive in Braille, I was startled to find the name “Chaska,” which I remembered as my previous name. In this article Chaska had been an Indian defending his territory. I have no particular feeling of kinship with the Indians, and yet I have often experienced a certain awareness of Indian Consciousness deep inside me. During the early days of our marriage, my wife Kathryn used to sing that old song, Pretty Redwing. This was before the life reading.

I cannot relate to any incarnations in Palestine. If anything, I seem to shrink away from the scene, as though it had been a nightmare.

Some of the suggestions in the reading had worked themselves out automatically. Throughout the years I had done a little speaking and teaching along religious lines.

Thank you again for giving of your time and yourself in this most welcome service.

Background

Background

B1. 3/22/39 Wife’s letter to EC:

…, Penna.

Mr. Edgar Cayce Psychical Research Virginia Beach, Va.

My Dear Mr. Cayce;

I have just had the pleasure of reading a pamphlet regarding the wonderful work which you are doing.

It so happens that my husband is blind. He frequently expresses a desire to be of greater service to his fellowmen, but feels thwarted in his ability to realize his dream. He is quite interested in mysticism, and would like to enter the ministry.

Somehow I have a feeling that there is a possibility that my husband may recover his sight. According to recognized eye doctors there is no hope.

I am turning to you with the hope that you may shed some light on this problem. My husband is quite willing to place himself under any psychic examination you may deem necessary. We shall be deeply grateful to you for any service you may render.

Sincerely, Mrs. […]

B2. 3/24/39 EC’s letter to Mrs. […]:

Dear Mrs. […]

Have yours of the 22nd - sincerely hope we may be of a service for your husband. Can appreciate this for our own son was told he would never see again. This is one of the experiences that has induced me to give my time to this work in appreciation of what it has brought to members of my own household - and nother [others?] you will see in the booklet of my life. Sending you the data under separate cover, read and if you wish for use to under take this will be glad to try - of my self can do nothing - but as the spirit may work through me, and the spirit of righteousness, is what I mean.

Sincerely hoping to be of a service

Sincerely [signed] Edgar Cayce

B3. 3/6/40 Mr. [2181]‘s letter to the A.R.E:

Association for Research & Enlightenment Virginia Beach, Virginia My dear sir:

A few years ago through the medium of your literature it became my good fortune to learn of the interesting investigations which you are conducting. Unfortunately circumstances make it impossible for me to join the Association at the present time, much as I should like to do so.

I should be interested to know whether Mr. Case [Cayce] is still engaged in his work relating to healing. I had written to him about two years ago regarding my case of blindness. If Mr. Case is still carrying on this work, is it required that the prospective patient call on him personally?

As I recall, the Association had been offering a pamphlet on the development of clairvoyance. If this booklet is still available, would you kindly send me the same?

Finally I should like to be informed as to whether any investigations have been made in the use of the Ouija Board.

I shall very much appreciate your response to these inquiries. Furthermore I should be happy to receive any other literature you may be in a position to offer.

Yours very truly, [2181]

B4. 3/26/40 Mr. [2181]‘s letter to EC:

Mr. Edgar Cayce Assn’. for Research & Enlightenment Virginia Beach, Virginia

Mr dear Mr. Cayce:

In response to your recent letter I was happy to learn that you are still actively engaged in your interesting work. I was also pleased to receive your generous offer to be of service to me. I have decided that I should like to take advantage of your services.

In one of my former letters, as you may recall, I had informed you that I am blind. Much as I should like to receive a reading pertaining to my eyes, I am faced at present with a more immediate problem on which I wish to solicit your aid. This problem concerns vocational guidance. Because of a pressing conscience and an economic need, I feel compelled to seek profitable employment. But I seem to be unable to determine what particular work I should pursue. I am wondering whether you could be of assistance to me by ascertaining my place in the scheme of things.

If I remember correctly the cost of a reading is ten dollars. Would it be possible for me to pay for the service in small monthly installments? As I find myself in a rather discouraging position I shall look forward to your reply. I shall be grateful to you for any help that you may offer me.

Yours very truly, [2181]

B5. 3/29/40 EC’s letter to Mr. [2181]:

Dear Mr. [2181]

Have yours of the 26th - will be very happy to try and be of a service to you. Am sending you data relative to the type of reading in which we think there is helpful information for vocational guidance. Study this over carefully, and see what you think of same - will no doubt help you formulate questions for your reading. As you will see from the Assn booklet one becomes a member of the Assn. That entitles them to apply for a reading of any type we are able to give. You may take care of the membership any way convenient to your self - please know one is not prohibited from having a reading if they really desire same because they haven’t money. If this information is of a divine source it can’t be sold, if it isn’t then isn’t worth any thing.

Sincerely hoping to be of a real service

Sincerely [signed] Edgar Cayce

B6. 4/2/40 Mr. [2181]‘s letter to EC:

…, Pa.

Mr. Edgar Cayce Virginia Beach Virginia

Dear Mr. Cayce,

Thank you very much for your prompt reply. Your very generous offer to help me has inspired me to do all that is in my power to become worthy of the efforts which you are willing to extend toward my assistance.

I have read the literature which you have sent me, and found it extremely interesting. Most of its contents agree with my own philosophy of life.

I shall now endeavor to fulfill the requirements for a Life Reading. I was born September third, 1908, on a farm near Alburtis, Pennsylvania. As an occupation I do a little chair-recaining, which I find rather dull. I have been married nearly three years. My wife’s maiden name having been […]. Except for light perception, I am practically Blind. My wife is partically [partially? practically?] Blind. Preferably, although not officially, my religion embraces Christian Mysticism. I am a member of the Lutheran Church. My father’s name is […] my Mother’s maiden name was […].

My main objective for wanting a Life Reading is to ascertain the particular work I am fitted for, and the preparation for that work. Perhaps it might be helpful to you if I state my motives for this desired information. To begin with my sense of self respect urges me to seek economic independence for my wife and my self. Deep within me I resent the thought of being burden on society. I also feel that a suitable occupation might serve to bring me personal happiness and to be of more service to society in general. In my Life Reading I should also be interested to learn how I may find ease in the presence of others, and also how I may bring happiness to others. Finally if I am not too imposing I should be deeply interested to know the hidden cause of my Blindness.

Unfortunately I am not able to guarantee the full payment of membership, I am enclosing a dollar as a contribution toward your work which meets with my warmest interest. If at any time I can be of service to the Association in the form of mental experiments, or observations I shall be happy to offer my humble bit. As for the time of my reading I shall leave the matter to you. I shall await your reply with eager anticipation.

Gratefully yours, [2181]

Mentioned Entities

Entity (Cayce Term), Virginia Beach, Incarnation, Ministry of Jesus, Hugh Lynn Cayce, A.R.E. (Association for Research and Enlightenment), Records (Atlantean), Astrology, Creative Forces, Initiation, Soul, Atonement, Chicago, Clairvoyance, Dreams, Gertrude Cayce, Gladys Davis, Healing, Ideal, Jesus Christ

Source: The Complete Edgar Cayce Readings, A.R.E. CD-ROM (2006). Reading 2181-1, ReadingID 8882.