Reading 272-4

TEXT OF READING 272-4 F 34 (Schoolteacher (6th grade),

Text

Date: 1/24/1933 Sex: F Age: 34 ReadingID: 1680

Protestant Background) This psychic reading given by Edgar Cayce at his home on Arctic Crescent, Va. Beach, Va., this 24th day of January, 1933, in accordance with request made by self - Mrs. [272], Active Member of the Ass”n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc.

[Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Mildred Davis and Hugh Lynn Cayce.]

Born May 3, 1898, in Maynard’s Cove, about 15 miles north of Scottsboro, Alabama. Time of Reading 11:30 to 12:15 P. M. Eastern Standard Time. …, Alabama. (Life Reading Suggestion)

1. EC: (Going back over dates - “Lot of 3’s, aren’t there?”)

2. Yes, we have the entity and those relations with the universe and universal forces, that are latent and manifested in the personality of the present entity, Dewey May … [272].

3. It will be interesting to note that the name in the present was not haphazardly chosen, but is an indication of the entity’s experiences in this present plane; and it will be well to follow same through the varied experiences in the earth. If the environs in the present are to be changed, it would be well that her name now be changed also.

4. Then, in considering the entity from the astrological viewpoint, from its advent into the present experience - the influences from the purely astrological, or the position of the planets, or even those called the varied experiences in the astrological influences, these would be quite different (the actual experience) from that termed from the position of planets, or in the varied constellations. But, from the sojourns IN the planetary influences, are rather true to the experience of the entity in the present earth’s plane.

5. However, as we find, in or near the next birthdate there will come definite and decisive changes in the experience of the entity; for both Jupiter AND Uranus, that are in a beneficent influence with Mercury (the ruling influence in the entity’s experience), will in May - and near the 3rd - be in the house or in the angle where the influences will be for the abilities of the entity through its experiences in the present, and throughout the eons, the ENTITY’S influence, to be at that point or angle where definite, decisive changes are imminent, and may be made for the better development of the entity through the remaining experience in the present sojourn.

6. Hence we find the ruling influences in the entity’s experience from astrological sojourn, rather than those of other astronomical influence (Get the difference!), in Mercury, Jupiter, Uranus, afflicted in Venus, and these become - then - beneficent influences in those periods given.

7. Also, as indicated from the name, the period, the time of advent, Mars - WITH Saturn - passes from the influence in the entity’s present experience.

8. Hence it would be well, if the environs are changed, to change the name - or use only May as the name.

9. As to the influences then from these sojourns, and their influence in the experience of the entity in the present, as well as the sojourns in the earth that produce the environmental influence in the entity’s experience:

10. In Mercury we find one of high mental abilities, as indicated by the manner in which the entity - or present body - progressed, and progresses, in the ability to gather in INFORMATION of any character or nature, as indicated in the work in the schools, as indicated in the work in associations with groups or individuals.

11. TEMPERED, then, with or by the adverse influence in Venus - as well as Mars and Saturn, through that and to that which has to do with financial reverses or love’s influence, detrimental conditions have been brought to the material activities of the body.

12. Hence disappointments, and without the ideal (that may come from Jupiter’s beneficent influence in the expansion, or in the ability to use these larger influences in a manner that would be in keeping with the ideals), without holding the ideals, these influences of disappointments, disagreements, disillusionments as to individuals in many walks or experiences of life, have brought mental and material hardships for the body.

13. This also being in the period when Uranus has been (as has been indicated to others), as it were, “on the warpath” with the mental abilities and with influences with individuals, making for the extremes in the experiences of others since 1928 to the coming spring, look what it’s done for this body!

14. As to the personalities that are builded from these sojourns and that of hereditary influence (that is, the spiritual hereditary influence - for these are as URGES):

15. With the abilities mentally there have been the opportunities for advancements, yet - with such adverse influences in Mars, and Saturn (from which the entity moulded itself again into its activity), through those influences in Mars (as indicated in the fiery temperament and the activities) - there have been made destructive influences.

16. Beneficent then again, in Jupiter and Uranus, with the mental abilities, REASON - PURE reason, tempered with mercy, justice, harmony and peace - is sought.

17. As we find, with definite changes coming in the physical, the mental - and the setting of self first in the ideal of that to which it, the entity, would develop or use as its criterion for measurements in the experience or lives of individuals to whom, through whom the entity might associate itself in the present experience - there will be brought those definite changes in this present year and period.

18. As to the activities, then, as from those appearances in the earth that act as the creative through mental urge in the present experience (for the mental is ever the builder, and that which is held as the ideal or as that to which one would advance becomes the growth to which it may go, or achieve):

19. In the one before this we find the entity in that called the Nippon land, among those peoples that are in the DEVELOPING - or advancing from a period of misunderstanding. The entity, then in the name Sujuih, gained - even under those influences that made for the crossing of material influences in its development. But, with the conditions arising that made for the consciousness - in the material plane - of being different, and being looked upon as being askance from and separated from others; there was the turning to those of purely materialistic influence; so that the entity brought upon those that the entity and body contacted the fires of the body, that brought destructive forces in the influences - of many; and far-reaching were those influences even unto the meeting of same in self in the present experience!

20. The influences that have been brought to the entity in the present from that experience, are the doubts, the disillusionments in the mental; yet the constant groping for that in the spiritual which might blot out such a deep-seated influence in the experiences of the body. (It would be well to stop here to say to ALL, the ability to be conscious of a thing - MENTALLY - is the only manner through which ANYONE experiences anything!)

21. It might be given also that this appearance was with the entry of Perry [Commodore Matthew Calbraith Perry] into, Japan [1853 or 1854?], and the entity was born there.

22. In the one before this we find in that land now known as the French, during those periods when there were the settlings up of the lands in and about the center of the land, as would be called in the present, or during that period when the Gauls overran the land. The entity was then among those who were the founders of this particular city on the Seine, in the name Gullsipo. In this experience the entity gained through the greater portion of the sojourn there, and in the manner of giving an understanding to the peoples of the period as to the principles and the foundations of justice meted to individuals, to groups, to classes, to masses, the entity gained. Lost only during the latter portion of such sojourn, when destructive forces came from the armed forces that entered in from and over both the Pyrenees and the Alpine ranges. Hence Mars again, and wrath, and the determination in self to mete out or to call down destructive forces on the heads of many, brought that known in the earth’s force as holding grudges, and the contentions and disorders of condemnation in all its fire in human experience.

23. In the one then before this we find the entity was in that known as the Persian land, among the first people that were left by the passing throngs for the aid to be given - or for the destructive forces to be brought to naught by those that were gathering about the teacher [Uhjltd] in the hill country. The entity then, in the name Ipbsen, suffered in body, in mind, through the early portion of the experience; being abandoned by those to whom the entity or body had clung, yet found in those new environs that which builded - first - HOPE, then good cheer, then an ideal. These brought for the entity that of peace, harmony, understanding, and a development throughout the rest of the experience.

24. The entity aided in tempering justice and mercy to the varied groups, to the varied individuals that came into this environ as the word spread of that being BUILDED by this UNUSUAL group in this land.

25. The entity may be said to have to have been the one set about the recording of, or the putting into effect, that as was chosen as the code as to judging between friends and foes of groups, and other groups of people at home and abroad. Hence that termed LAW is of special interest to the entity, and that which will deal with the making of agreements, of contracts, of the relationships of individuals with various societies, organizations, corporations, or the like, will be the field, rather than that of the criminal code. This would be the field for a change in the present; for isn’t it that period when changes came in the experience OF the entity? and to the extremes did the entity go from its sojourn then, in the Uranian influences. Then, with their beneficence, with the influences of Venus AND the mental abilities from the sojourn in Mercury, there will be brought those periods to the entity in the present which will make for mental, material, spiritual developments AND advancements, a returnment to the atonement with the influences of the Creative Forces that DO manifest - and WILL manifest - through channels that are open for the activity in this material world!

26. In the one then before this we find the entity was in those influences known as the Indian, when there were the peoples from the hill country who made war on the valley dwellers. The entity then was among those of the valley lands, and with the destructive forces that were brought in material things there was the turning to those influences that were drifting in from those that made the tour or the exchange to and with the Egyptian land. The entity then became a sojourner (from the Indian land), for some periods, in the Egyptian land; coming under those influences that were being disseminated from the priest that had arisen to the power of dissemination when the regeneration had taken place, and when the first pyramids, tombs, and the like, were being erected. Ra-Ta Period.]

27. The entity then became one of those in the Egyptian reconstruction, yet later returned to its own land and established associations and connections that made for the exchange; especially of the silks, the fine linens, brocades, and the like (those of the heavier corded), and those materials from the hemp that were created or builded, or made in the Egyptian land. Hence many of those things that pertain to such in the present find a particular interest to the entity; silks, especially those of the raised figures, and also fine linen - with those, especially, of figures that are woven or made into same.

28. The name in this period was changed somewhat from that given in the first indwelling of the Indian land; from Denuol to Elpthno.

29. In this period the entity gained much, and in the present are those influences that may come in the latter portion of the entity’s experience in the present - which may be used for the arousing of those latent forces and abilities, in being able to disperse mercy, justice, bringing peace and harmony out of chaos, bringing to the mental and the spiritual forces of the entity the awakening - that those universal forces in the activities of the Creative Forces on high, to the creatures in the earth, are established through the ideal the entity saw in the Egyptian influence and manifested in those hills of the plain land; and may be aroused within self to make for the re-creating of the ideals in Him; for HE is the way, the peace, the hope, the Life - there IS no other!

30. And, as the self comes to rely on that Ideal more and more (He that brought understanding in the earth), though destructive forces may set in array, the power that comes from understanding in His laws brings peace out of turmoil, brings coordination in the mental, the physical body; and there may grow that which will make for contentment and dealings of mercy to others.

31. As to the abilities, then:

32. There is the period just ahead when, cleansed in mind, in body, there may be the RENEWING of hope that is found only in the name of Him that gave Himself as ransom for many THROUGHOUT the eons of man’s indwelling in the earth; and He today calls that ALL may know His presence abides with those who seek His face.

33. Then, follow as He leads, and there will come a contentment and joy in service to others, in bringing to THEIR experience a consciousness of the love of GOD being above all else.

34. Ready for questions.

35. (Q) Would it be advisable for me to take up the practice of law? (A) As indicated, it would be well.

36. (Q) Would I be happier and more successful at that work than I am now? (A) As indicated, would be VERY much better.

37. We are through for the present.

Copy to Self ” ” File

Reports

Reports & Follow-up

R1. 1/31/33 She wrote GD:

Miss Gladys Davis, Virginia Beach, Va.

Dear Miss Davis:-

I, too, wish that you could sit down and go over my reading with me, for there is much that I can’t begin to understand.

Let me say that I think Mr. Cayce has a wonderful talent and I believe I find some hope and consolation in the Life Reading he has given me, and for that I am very grateful.

There is much about the reading, of course, that I can’t understand, and I would be so glad if you would explain it to me. However, some of it is very clear to me and I shall do my best to carry out the suggestions given.

In an all inclusive way, is the theory of the soul, that it was created ages ago and sent to earth to develop in the person, and then in-between its earthly sojourns it goes to some heavenly body for development and then back to earth again? Then is the number of earthly sojourns governed by the development of the soul in each place? Finally, then is the purified soul brought back to God, who gave it? One wonders about all those things. Then with all ones spiritual, astrological, astronomical, mental, and physical influences how can I work in developing my personality in such a way that would make for my contentment, improvement, and usefulness? I have long felt that I was not using my personality in the manner in keeping with my education. Have I expressed myself clearly? In other words, I have seen other people who had less education than I had who could use their training to a better advantage than I. I don’t think I have been jealous along that line either, but it was rather a deep desire on my part to be able to have a better personality myself.

As to the reading, now, one of the first things I grasped was that to change my name would be helpful. I resolve to do that. I am dropping the name Dewey and taking my second name, May. It will take some time for this to become established, but nevertheless it has already been done in my mind, and now it remains for me to established it in the minds of others.

As was stated that “in or near the next birthdate there will come definite and decisive changes in the experiences of the entity”, does this mean that my physical condition will become normal? Does it mean that I will have other changes? If so, I wonder what? What can I do to help these changes be for the betterment of my life? I want to do the things which will make for a well rounded development, and not go off at a tangent on some one fact.

Do I understand that Mercury is my ruling influence and that this means that I have mental ability which will be to my advantage? Then as you said, “law is of special interest to the entity”. I, too, believe that I would be happier in that field. Now how can I work and act to reach that change in my life?

There are many, many questions I would like to ask about paragraphs, phrases and even words which are not clear to me, but I am going to wait eagerly for your interpretation. Now, if you see adverse conditions could you warn me of them?

I appreciate the many letters that you have taken the time and interest to write me. I am sending some stamps.

Sincerely, Mrs. [272]

R2. 2/8/33 GD’s letter:

My dear Mrs. [272]:-

First, let me thank you for the stamps. We had a batch of letters on the desk just waiting for the necessary postage.

I am glad you found your Life Reading interesting, encouraging and helpful. As the days, months and years go by, I am sure you will find it more so. Nine years ago I received my Life Reading, and even now I am just beginning to understand some of the things given in it. This is just to give you an idea as to how little worth while my interpretation of yours may be at this time. We can only fully understand each portion as it works out. In other words, you know to be true that part of you have already experienced; the rest you have to take on faith. If one portion fits, then the other must be true.

I’ll go through the reading and put into words my interpretation of it, but please do not consider it as being exactly what the reading means; for I may be entirely wrong in many places. You will have to judge by your own reactions and feelings. You should be, with the proper background given as to the readings, explanation of certain terms, etc., better able to understand your own reading than anyone else.

Well, here goes:

Your earthly environment at this time is a result of what you have builded in your other appearances on the earth, while your mental and spiritual environment is the result of what you have builded on other planets - but must be expressed through the earthly environment.

That is why we often get discouraged; we have created an earthly environment which is a barrier to the full expression of our inner selves.

Then, your name given at birth became a natural result of the vibrations to which you had raised yourself throughout other experiences. Now that you have served your penance or term, as it were, and will soon be entering a new cycle when the whole world will be looking more toward the spiritual things, it would be well for you to take on the higher vibrations that would be carried by your other name. We notice that it is given in the Bible many times, “Thou shalt call his name so and so, because he shall do such and such.” At other times it is given, “Thy name shall no longer be called ?, but shall be called ?, for you have done ?.” Then, the indication that you are ready for a change in name certainly seems to me to be quite complimentary to your past efforts and the working out of your destiny in the proper manner.

A reading such as given by the ordinary astrologer would not be very true to your case, but the sojourn IN the other planets (which is not understood or considered in modern astrology). In other words, the position of a certain planet at birth may not indicate its correct influence upon you, but what you builded while ON the planet would! it is like graduating from a school with different credits or degrees in each subject. We leave the planets with a reputation, credit or degree (according to that builded), and they stand back of us with just that.

It seems that Mercury is your ruling planet (the Mind). Jupiter (strength, ennobling force) and Uranus (the occult and extremes) are in cooperation with Mercury; for Mind is ever the Builder. Hence you have the greater opportunity to express your mental abilities through the spiritual and ennobling influences.

Venus is an affliction; that is, you failed on Venus, or your credits on Mercury, Jupiter and Uranus so outweigh the Venus development that at all times you love affairs would be contradictory to the mind and all the noble influences you would foster.

Mars would indicate a period of warring within self between these various factors, while Saturn would indicate a cleansing period. These two planets are just passing from their influence upon you; in other words, you have overcome!

Hence the change in name to add the proper vibrations for the new lease on life that is about to begin. You will notice the number three runs throughout your birth date; three letters in the word May, third day of the month, three three’s in the nine, etc. Therefore, we would judge that your “number” is Three - which is spiritual (Father, Son and Holy Spirit), yet material (3rd dimensional man, etc.). I don’t know much about numbers; just enough to make me interested, but I do know that those having the number three are well-rounded in abilities and opportunities to serve their fellow man.

There is the summing up of your influences from the planetary-earthly sojourns: Your mind has ever been the builder (as it always is). Apparently you have found it not so difficult to progress in the way of gaining knowledge along all lines. No doubt you have been much above the average in your school work, both as a student and as a teacher.

The adverse love influence, with the warring and cleansing period, has made much dissatisfaction, frustration, and reverses in many directions.

Not being able to coordinate your material or physical activities with the mental and spiritual ideal, or purpose within your inner self, there has been the natural consequences of disappointments, disagreements, disillusionments as to individuals, etc.

Uranus being of the extreme, as well as occult influence, it has - during the last five years - tended to make you more unsettled and dissatisfied because of that very incoordination between the physical, mental and spiritual self. In other words, the occult insight gained from Uranus makes you KNOW that these are not in accord; hence the outward turmoil with the constant warring, in the attempt to produce coordination.

The personality is a sum total of your expression or development in the earth, while the spiritual-hereditary influence is from the sojourns on other planets. When you have not fully expressed in the earth the deeper purposes of the mental and spiritual, naturally your personality is not all that you would desire; for you realize that it is not meeting the requirements set forth by your inner purpose.

While your abilities mentally have been such as to make it possible for you to gain an unusual education (ordinarily termed) the influences accrued from your manifestations in the earth have been against you. In other words, there has been the necessity of a warring and cleansing of the past before it is possible for you to proceed in your mental expression without hindrance.

With your high ennobling influence, insight and mental abilities, you have continually sought to REASON; that is, everything must be reasonable to you, but you are capable of tempering it with mercy, justice, harmony and peace - which is a wonderful accomplishment so few of us have!

Now that you are approaching the end of your penance, or working out of adverse influences, it is necessary for you to set - in no uncertain terms, OUTWARDLY - the standard or ideal to which you WOULD attain. Will you seek gratification of the physical-earthly desires, material prosperity first and foremost, or will you set as your goal the attainment of that inner purpose toward the ONE source from which we all came? With the latter ideal set there would be no stopping you. The way will be opened so that you may not only follow the vision of light but be able to find peace and contentment through giving it to others.

Your past experiences in the earth create the urges which push through your mental abilities in the present. Whatever you have thought or enacted in the past must be met, whether good or bad. “As ye sow, so shall ye reap.” And it must be done through the mind. Hence the necessity of MAKING OURSELVES THINK constructively ALWAYS. By constructive I mean building UP and ON, instead of something that will tear down. Truly, “As a man thinketh in his heart so is he.” We must learn to counteract every evil or destructive thought with a good or constructive one; for we can CONSTRUCT evil the same as good. Until we begin to think right, there isn’t much hope for betterment in any phase of our experience.

It is indicated that your earthly appearance just before this (the readings begin with the present and go back) was in Japan, which - according to the reading - is in a developing stage, having misapplied knowledge gained in an earlier civilization and is now suffering the consequences by having to gradually grow up again to where it may be given the opportunity to choose again the good or the evil. Evidently, your environment there was in many ways detrimental, because of the cross-influences (being part Japanese and part American). You developed even under such obstacles, but - as you began to realize the difference between yourself and either the full Japanese or the full Americans, and being sort of an outcast from both - you became very material- minded and apparently sought only self-gratification, regardless of others. It seems that even now (in your physical body) you are still paying for this, as well as in the mental fears and destructive thoughts you sometimes have. Perry’s entrance into Japan wasn’t so very many years ago, so perhaps your name in the present (which has been somewhat of a Jonah to you) if traced back would have some connection with that period. In other words, your father then must have been an American sailor, and might - I say MIGHT - have been of the same family, or name at least, which you chose at this time. That is, your inner self chose it for the working out of karma (as it might be termed).

The French period seems to have been a very developing one for you, except in the latter portion. In the first you aided much through your ability to mete justice, etc. (gained from the earthly experience just prior to that time), but you evidently did not react in the manner that was best for your inner development during the latter portion when wars came. (This is another example of the truth that it is not what happens to us that counts, but what we do about it - or how we react.) Hence the warring and conflicting urges that have come in the present, so that the following out of your deeper purpose has been hindered.

The Persian period is one which is very interesting to us. As you have seen in the article, “HOW EDGAR CAYCE GIVES A PSYCHIC READING” Mr. Cayce himself was the “teacher in the hill country” referred to in your reading. We are working on some data regarding this period right now, which will be available in the near future. It seems that Mr. Cayce (the leader-teacher Uhjltd), being thwarted in his efforts to combine two tribes (his father’s and mother’s), for which purpose he had been trained, was banished into the desert to die - with a few others. Instead of dying, they found an oasis and gradually built a “city of tents”. Caravans would stop for food and shelter. Uhjltd, who was constantly in touch with the higher forces through prayer and meditation, healed many people. News of this spread throughout the country, so that people came there for that purpose. This healing ability was manifested in the very first, when caravans would stop for the night and go away leaving someone afflicted with the plague. Through proper care, food, and the healing waters from the spring, together with the prayers of Uhjltd, these individuals were brought back to proper health. It seems that you were among those first individuals, and that you became a power for good in the land, making it possible for many others to obtain help as you had done, according to their faith and what they really deserved. You became, in other words, the lawyer for the group on the desert; and there began a period of prosperity, and development in the spiritual truths that have come down even to this day (in the Zoroastrian religion). So, your work lies in the same direction at present; and since the Association work (through Mr. Cayce) is just beginning to spread, I am sure that you will be able to aid much through getting the proper set-up in various places for the study groups and different divisions of the work that will be organized. You may be healed through this work even now as then (through following specifically the directions given through physical readings) and be able to serve many through the offices of the Association.

We don’t have much data on the Indian period, though many individuals have been told in their Life Readings that they lived during that time. We DO have much history (only through readings) concerning the Egyptian period mentioned. You will notice also in the article on HOW EDGAR CAYCE GIVES A PSYCHIC READING, that Mr. Cayce was the priest referred to. We will have some more detailed material prepared on this period that we may send it to you later. It seems that you were very closely associated with this work at that time (we are doing the same thing and now, or attempting to, that we did then). It is interesting to note the special urges that are brought forward in your make-up at present. You will notice that even in that period a great change came in your life and your name was changed accordingly, the same as it is being done in the present. I am sure that you will at this time succeed in accomplishing just what you did then, being able to disperse mercy, justice, and to bring peace and harmony out of chaos. In the Egyptian period we sought an ideal; that is, we found that there was a close relationship between the Creative Forces and the creatures of the earth. We studied to understand that relationship, and also our relationship to our fellow man. In the Persian period we manifested that ideal by so living that the Creative Forces could express through us to bring healing of every nature to those we contacted. We paved the way for the Great Teacher who came later and overcame the world once for all; that is, the flesh, those material, earthly, carnal influences that so often beset us - which cause all the trouble there is.

Then, by holding Him - Jesus, the Christ - as our pattern, our ideal, we may “tune in” to His Consciousness and be able to overcome even as He. We must all - each one - crucify the flesh; that is, we must be able to use the fleshy-earthly body for a purpose and not let it use us. We must be able to think (for we first have to think) and say as He, “Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” In just being able to say that truth He put behind Him all the evil of the world. If we are doing God’s will, even as He, then all else will be taken care of. He, Jesus, the Christ, overcame the flesh, setting the pattern PHYSICALLY. Now we, THROUGH Him, must all be purified; perhaps not by suffering on a physical cross as He did, but we each have our individual cross to bear (the cross meaning the laws we have disobeyed), and even HE learned obedience through the things which He suffered! Then, we must set the ideal in Him; for He having fulfilled the law BECAME the law - the way - and there IS no other! So, we must crucify the flesh MENTALLY, as He did physically. It was necessary for Him to do it physically because we had gotten so far from the Creative Forces, or God, that we could not understand unless He set a definite MATERIAL example in the flesh, that we could see and understand with our five senses. No other way would have sufficed. He understood that, and gave Himself as a ransom for many. “Whosoever will may come unto me and I will give him rest. I am not afar off, but within thine own heart!”

Let us, then, be up and doing, realizing that we have within us that spark of divine which makes us able to regain that position we occupied with Him in the beginning, before we began to magnify the earthly desires and to use our will in our OWN direction to to our own undoing!

Throughout the ages the One who eventually overcame the world has been the guide. He has been the founder of every religion that has taught the Oneness of the Father. Then, there is no wonder that we can only in Him (through following in the way He has set by His own life) find peace, harmony, understanding, and the realization that we are abiding in His presence.

As we carry out the dictates of our own conscious (which is the nearest dwelling place of the holy of holies, the SPIRIT of the Master) we become content, knowing that we are fulfilling that purpose for which we were called into being.

With love, and hoping to hear from you soon, I am

Sincerely, Gladys Davis

P.S. What about your check-physical reading? Isn’t it about time for it? Let us know, so we can make the appointment as soon as possible.

R3. 2/14/33 EC gave her Ck. Physical Rdg. 272-5.

R4. 5/4/33 She wrote: [After commenting on Ck. Physical 272-6]

I have been looking over the Life Reading you gave me in January. As shown from the account of my experiences in Persia, I believe that I had the same trouble then. As explained that you helped me then as now, I wonder if the condition in my body became completely eradicated then?

I am anxious to help in your work in any way that I can, if I can be of service and if I will be happier. I have heard from Mr. Wells, but he did not know anything definite about organizing a Study Group. Don’t you think it would be advisable for us to work to-gether? I will do all I can. However, I don’t know many people and it might be rather slow in arousing interest. I am not very good in using psychology in dealing with people. I will try to improve. I would like to have the group organized before you make your trip South. I think that it would be so nice to have a group already organized for you to meet with while here. About what time do you expect to make your trip South? I want to go to the Fair in Chicago some time this summer, but I don’t want to be away when you are here.

R5. 6/28/33 She wrote about her work with the A.R.E. Study Group in her area, ending with:

As to my physical condition, I am feeling better, but sometimes I get so “blue”. I want you to give me another reading sometime, but for this reading I wanted to be present when you gave it. I hope it will be possible for you to give this when you come to Birmingham.

I am looking forward to your trip to Birmingham.

R6. 7/30/33 She wrote: “Personally, I believe, I am growing mentally and spiritually by studying the lessons from your Ass’n SFG I chapters]. My desire is to improve myself so that I may be of some service. I enjoyed the article by Mrs. H. B. Harrell, Jr. in the July Bulletin so much. The quotation ‘No one can truly aid anyone by doing anything. It is only by being something that we can touch another’s hand’ has impressed me very much. Then my prayer is help me to ‘be something’.”

R7. 8/21/33 She wrote: Yesterday, Mr. [370] and I met for a study of one of the lessons which I greatly enjoyed. We wish that we knew how to interest others in a study of this work. To me, the help and inspiration physically, mentally, and spiritually that I have received and feel that I am still receiving is most wonderful, and for this I am very thankful. Mentally, I am so hungry for the information I receive from you in your letters, lessons, and Bulletins that I eagerly read and re-read them, finding many helpful suggestions. My desire is to prepare myself so that I may be able to pass on to some one else some of the blessings I have received. I have had a most unhappy experience for the past five years, and it seemed that life, to me, was “chaos”. Now I want to be interested in other people, and if I may, may I bring, or help bring peace and happiness into their lives.

I thank you so much for expressing again, your desire to be of help. As I look back over the years that I have written you in seeking help from my trouble, I fear that I worried you at times, for it seemed so hard for me to get any kind of physical and mental help and relief. Now, I am anxious to grow and develop so that my life will be more useful, but as to the means of doing this, I do not know just what definite, and decisive things to ask for in carrying this aim out. Evidently, I need to know more about how to approach anyone to interest them in a study of the truth as presented through you. These studies give a fullness in my life that I am very grateful for.

Please tell Mr. Hugh Lynn Cayce how wonderful I think he presented you and your work in the August Bulletin [Psychic Readings Through Edgar Cayce.] Even more marvelous it was, since it was, son writing about his father.

Some time ago I ordered some of the lessons. I received the one on, “What is my ideal.” Now I believe I am ready for the one on “Faith.” I also ordered two copies of “Oneness of All Things.” If it is convenient, I would like to have them for our next study group. We want to start the study of some of the parallel readings.

I am anxiously looking forward to your visit with us this fall and I hope how soon you will be able to make the trip.

I am sending my August contribution.

R8. 8/26/33 EC’s letter: I was indeed very glad to have yours of the 21st. Many thanks for the enclosure.

We presume that you had a real pleasant trip to Chicago, and are making plans now for your fall and winter work. I suppose you will still be associated with the school, or are you taking up your legal study and practice as yet? I’m glad you and Mr. [370] are continuing with your meetings and the study of the lessons. You should not become overanxious or discouraged because you have not been able to enlist the interest of others to the present time. From your experience as an instructor, I’m sure you realize that oftentimes the leaders of such groups must be well grounded in that they would present to others for their consideration; and more so, possibly, when we are dealing with things or data which no doubt will influence the thought and lives of individuals such as we are believing these lessons will do. They are, in fact, only those things that most of us have known all of our lives, but we are hoping they will enable those instructing individuals and groups to so present the truths as to make them practical, more vital than they have ever been before. That, I believe, is the experience of Group #1. I do not mean to infer that members of this group feel they have been endowed with any special gift above that which may be cultivated in the mind and heart of anyone, or that they have been called to any special service other than that to which each and every individual is called. Yet, every individual is not fitted to be a teacher, minister or interpreter; but each to his own calling, just as our hands, feet, eyes, or different portions of our bodies are called to function in certain directions. Coordination in their functioning (or, if we choose, Cooperation - as our lessons present) IS necessary. Have you thought of the fact, Mrs. [272], just how well or how much the general trend of our country is crying out for the very things we have presented in our lessons? Among the first is Cooperation, then the Ideals, then the purposes, then the Faith, and all along just as our lessons. Just how or why this is, I don’t know - but possibly we are meeting the thought of the hour.

So, I certainly do hope you will find that sought as you study these lessons. I’m sure (as you must give the pupils under your care), just to have a superficial knowledge of a subject doesn’t insure the individual knowing how to put it into actual practice. Just so with the thoughts expressed in the lessons. Trying them out here and there on the individuals we contact from day to day is the best way to know just what they mean. And we don’t have to try them in some high way or manner. We can try them out on the cook, the office boy, the delivery boy, as well as on the bank president or the superintendent of our Sunday School. If they are builded right, they FIT! As we meet other souls we may be very sure that they are just as hungry as ourselves to know how they, too, may contact the power, the force, which has been promised from the days of the patriarchs. And He is just the same today as He was then. If we will attune ourselves, He may speak with us. For, our Savior promised, “I will not leave you comfortless,” and that means each and every soul that would name the name of the Christ!

No, I do not want individuals to ever feel that they have worried me in seeking either physical mental or spiritual assistance. I’m only human, and often I have a very poor way of expressing myself so as to give a soul that being sought. But I am very willing and anxious to try and be a channel of blessing to my fellow man. And I would like for you to feel and know that at any time you are privileged to ask or call on me for any help it may be possible for me to offer. For, I am sure every soul is very precious in His sight. For, He is not a respecter of persons as man. It is very much as if a man were to find fault with some portion of his body because it had led him astray.

In approaching others, I do not think we should be over- anxious either. For, as we live our own lives, “From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” As we meet individual from day to day, they will not be so slow in taking note that there is A SOMETHING we have that they are desirous of having. The religion of Jesus Christ, and the knowledge of the Father, or Truth itself, is a growth! We are all sowers of His word. Some see fall on the various characters of soil, as the parable of the sower illustrates, but they will bring forth fruit in due season. When we ourselves become disturbed, anxious, zealous of the knowledge, etc., it is oft quite well that we do as some of the prophets of old were commanded, “Stand still and see the glory of the Lord!”

I’m glad indeed that you enjoyed the last Bulletin. It is indeed something to feel at times that I am almost a hero to my own children about me; yet it makes me conscious of a real responsibility. Just so we do not become bigoted or self- conscious to the extent that we fail to be humble, or to realize our shortcomings. But it is very remarkable, I think, that Hugh Lynn is able to present something to which he has been so close for so long. However, he has depended upon it for his very life. I’m sure this story will be of interest to you, inasmuch as you have mentioned his name in the way you have, and I don’t think I’ve told it to you before. Of course, the Work began long before Hugh Lynn was born. As a very small child, of course, he heard a great deal about it, heard many discussions between individuals who came for readings in our home. To him it was a very natural thing. When he was about six years old, he had the misfortune to get his eyes very badly burned, so much so that the physicians in Selma, Montgomery and Birmingham (for we lived then in Selma) were sure he would lose his eyesight. He suffered a great deal, as it was a flashlight burn - and he was very close to the flash, setting it off himself. After a few days the physician in charge felt it would be necessary to remove at least one eye, that he might save the other. He had known the child for a year or so; and he was considered rather proud and one well-thought-of even by his elders; so he told the child that he wanted him to agree to the operation; although he couldn’t see (the child), he was suffering terribly. The child called the doctor to him, and running his little hands over the doctor’s hands and face he said: “Doctor, you won’t have to take out my eyes, for my Daddy when he’s asleep is the best doctor in the world - and if you will do what he tells you my eyes will be alright.” The doctor, of course, agreed. My wife and I had not felt, under the circumstances and the strain in which we had been placed, that a reading was even worth considering. But a reading was taken, and the doctor followed the instructions. Today he has both eyes, with very little - if any - impairment in vision that from that accident, and only a scar is visible when he gets very angry. To be sure, the Work has meant much to him. That happened at an age, of course, that he hasn’t forgotten. He has passed through many stages of the Work, as he has grown to manhood. Of course, he was jeered and sneered at by many of his associates during his High School years; but when he went to the university and began to study psychology and kindred subjects, he began to study the Work impartially. Quite a number of times his associates dared him to let them be at close range with the Work for they felt they could prove it was all false. So they came to jeer and, the more often, have remained the truest friends of the Work. With this, you know it’s not surprising to us that he is able to present the Work in a very unusual manner. To be sure, in many ways he has been somewhat a disappointment to some of the family (aunts, uncles, grandmother, etc.), that with the education and training he has had, rather than choosing to go out into the world and make a name for himself - either at law or some other profession - he has chosen to bury himself with the WORK. He feels it worth while. He must still be suffering a great deal from the sacrifices it is natural that a young man must make, who is giving his life to a thing of this kind where so little of this world’s goods is returned - if we look at it from the material sense. I do hope that more and more he will be able to give what is good and worth while to his fellow man, from his findings of the Work. I hope he may have the strength and fortitude to see and to condemn error wherever it may be, in its presenting. I believe he is especially prepared to assist those seeking to form groups, in presenting not only the lessons but other phases of the Work that may be requested from time to time.

The next lesson, Faith, is being sent to you today. The compilers met only yesterday to consider the data on Oneness of All Things. I believe they finally decided there was much more that might be obtained, and a reading was gotten on this subject yesterday; so it may be a little while yet before they’ll have the data in shape to send out. I’m sure they will not forget you. While we have much data in the files, it is only comparatively recently (in the last year or so) that we have been trying to get this together to give to those who may be seeking. Our limited faculties, financially and otherwise, make it very slow - but I still say it is a growth, as Truth itself, and as the knowledge of God is. It should be so, more than we often know. That which is of a mushroom growth usually falls away when the light of the sun is turned on it. May this Work be strengthened and grow only in the light of the Son of the Father.

We are getting together the parallel work with the lessons, also. This will come along gradually, and be distributed as fast as our facilities will permit. Please don’t hesitate to offer suggestions or ask questions at any time. If anything, we are seeking to do His biddings. Each and every member of the organization wants to cooperate. And we know there is not a member that cannot be of help to some other member, or to all the other members of the organization. Your part in the Work is as our engineer used to say, “One of the most particular parts.” And, of course, as you realize, no one else can fill that place just as you can.

We certainly appreciate your letters, Mrs. [272], and hope you will write to us whenever you find an opportunity.

Ever the same,

EC:GD

R9. 9/3/33 She wrote:

Dear Mr. Cayce:

It would be impossible to tell you how much inspiration and pleasure I received from your wonderful letter. I appreciate, so much, the interest and help you have given me, and are giving me.

The Fair in Chicago was wonderful. However, I enjoyed the lecture and exhibit given at the Planetarium more than anything. The ceiling was a reproduction of the sky showing the stars, planets, sun, moon, and etc. Mr. Cayce, I saw in it something in connection with your work and the things about which your work treats, and naturally I was deeply interested. You spoke about observing present day events in light of your lessons, yes, I can see how they are being applied in our country now. Also they fit my personal need NOW. When I first saw the subjects for your outline of lessons, I wondered why they were arranged in such a manner, for it seemed, at first glance, that there was no coherence in them. But I was ready for a surprise for I found out that they were perfectly coherent and just in the order in which one’s inner self desires them. Mr. Wells and I have commented upon this fact. Anyone who is suffering mentally needs, first, to have a desire and spirit of cooperation within, and then the Ideal must be set. My Ideal is Christ. He is the one perfect one I must strive to be like in order to be like in order to be of service to others. I trust that I may grow more and more toward Him and His likeness. Then I need Faith. May I grow in Faith as we continue to study these lessons. I am very thankful for Mr. Wells’ help in assisting me to grow mentally and spiritually.

I don’t want to seem overanxious. I desire to prepare myself in such a way that I will be a help and blessing to those I contact. I want to do the things which were intended that I should do and which Christ would have me do. I want to be happy. To be happy I realize that I must do the things in His Divine plan for which I was created. I wish I knew more about these plans and how I could better prepare myself for usefulness.

My married life, my home life with my husband is very unhappy now. You would naturally expect such as a reaction to the trials I have gone through for the past five years. Of course I am all upset, so to speak, about this. I wonder what will be the outcome. Will it end in a divorce? This has been so foreign to my mental makeup, until it all seems so hard for me. Seems like I have such a dread of being alone. I know that Christ has promised to be with us, and I claim that promise now. He has also promised to supply our every need. One likes to have the personal contact of loved ones while in this material plane. Mr. Cayce, I wonder if a reading along this line would be of help to me, and also if I could be helped as to how I should prepare myself for my part of the Work. In my Life Reading, I noticed, and then in your letters there has been references to my part of the Work for which I am being prepared. It must be in connection with law in some way. Could both those ideas be combined in a reading? Do I make myself clear as to my situation at home and also as to my study and work?

I begin my fourth and last year in the law school this year. Classes meet every night from 6 to 9 o’clock. I want to stand the state Bar examination, to get my license to practice, in February. Of course this means much study and review of the subjects we are to be examined on. Then I teach Sixth grade children at school all day. This work begins this week. So you see with my days and nights so filled I have very little time to study. My study must come in between times as best it can. Then during this there is my home life which has gone all to pieces, so to speak. But there is one thing however that I have to be very, very thankful for and that is, that my physical health is better. I believe things have happened just like my Readings said they would. My rheumatism is better, but not completely gone; however I believe it will gradually disappear just as it was promised in my readings. [See 272-6, etc.]

So with it all, I have a busy year ahead of me, but I want the study of the lessons on Sunday to continue and grow. I hope I may be able to interest some others in the study too. With such an experience as your Son had, I am sure he realizes the importance and truth in your Work. I don’t see why anyone should be disappointed in him and his choice of a profession. May I say that I think he has chosen the better part. Material professions and things, as needed as they are, are not so satisfying as one would think. I hope some day to be of a greater material help to you and your Work than I am now.

I returned one of the lessons of Faith since I received two. I am so sorry that I caused this confusion. I am sorry if I seem too insistent. I, too, desire only to grow on a firm rock foundation which is Christ. May that that I build in my life be as firm! That is why I want the Truth and only that which will make for a Christ like character.

R10. 9/15/33 EC asked her if she would like to write a report on her readings which could be used in the A.R.E. Bulletin, without her name, of course: “I believe you are capable of presenting it in such a way and manner as to make it very much worth while in the experience of the hundreds to whom we are sending the Bulletin from month to month. I feel and believe, as many of the others do, that personal experiences of individuals are very much worth while and encouraging to each soul. The Christ Life was so applicable in the experience of those He met from day to day; for, to put it in a common parlance, the Master himself, in His daily walks of life, was a ‘regular fellow’. He was accused of associating himself with the rabble, or of being a winebibber and a glutton, yet the best of them could find no fault in Him. So with our own experience, most of us hear so much of those things that are so far above our own daily experience and activities, that we say, ‘Well, that fits someone else, but I’m afraid it won’t work for me.’ But His love is sufficient for all.”

R11. 9/23/33 She wrote:

I am always so glad to hear from you and to receive any thing of the nature as you are presenting. I am very thankful for you and your work in helping me in the many difficulties I am encountering. Indeed if it were not for you, the way of my life would be more difficult. I want to live a practical Christian life that would more express my ideal of Christ in such a way that perchance, another would be helped. What should I have my environment to be in order to best accomplish this aim? I don’t want a material situation that would be antagonistic to my endeavors, yet I don’t want to do anything that would be a hindrance to greater usefulness. Thus I am asking for help in choosing.

Mr. Cayce, I would be glad to write up my experience for a Bulletin, but I would hardly know what to say in order to make it worth while to others. However, I know that I just love to hear another tell his experience and how certain situations were met. Isn’t this one way to help bear one another’s burdens? Let me take some time to think over the fact of writing this kind of article. I would hardly know what to say and what to leave unsaid.

I am sending eleven dollars, ten for a reading and one for my September contribution. I would like to have a reading regarding the issue, which seems to me to involve so much, that I am having to meet.

I wonder if it is necessary to try to present my case. I hardly know how to begin in order to be perfectly fair to both parties. So much has happened throughout the years until I hardly know where to begin in order to be perfectly fair to both parties. So my physical condition has been such until it was so hard for me to become reconciled to it. Therefore I am sure that my disposition was very nagging and resentful. It seems that I have made a very poor result of meeting issues as they came. Now I have a greater one to meet and I do not know how to meet it. My impulses, at times, are exactly opposed to those at other times. I am so anxious to do the right thing and make the right selection, so this is why I am appealing to you for help. Some of my past reincarnations have not been successful, especially in the latter part of some of them. I do not want this to happen again. I don’t want to do things that would be against my own soul development. I want to do thing that is right regardless of the cost. Therefore, I earnestly pray that I may select the things to do that would make for my advancement toward the spiritual idea.

[…] is in love with a girl which he goes to see and has hinted that it would be nice to have her live in the house with us. I have gone with another man at times, and […] has called him to be with me. Now I don’t like this arrangement. I am wondering where it will lead. Under such conditions, what should I do? Should I just go on under such an arrangement? I hardly think that I should. I’m inclined to think that things will become unbearable if they go on in the same manner. I realize that […] and I are mis-mated. His mental ideas are not in harmony with mine, then I feel that his love-life with me is not satisfactory to him. Would he live a better life if he were married to this girl? Then am I in the way? Should I become divorced from him? Is this partly the meaning of changing my name as given in my life reading? On page 4 of my life reading [272-4, Par. 25] the first part of a sentence is: “Then, with their beneficence, WITH THE INFLUENCE OF VENUS and the mental abilities for the sojourn in Mercury, there will be brought those periods to the entity in the present which will make for mental, material, spiritual development and advancement…” I believe I understand most of this except the part concerning Venus as underscored. Is this dealing with the question I am struggling with now? I am so proud and thankful for the promise of the period which will make for my development. With faith I earnestly desire to work for that period to hasten. Could […] and I “patch-up” our disagreements in order to live happily to-gether that would make for both our soul development, or should we separate? I am wondering how love and the sexual life should properly function. There seems to be a standard of nature and one of man. Just how should they harmonize? As indicated my love affairs have not been what I would desire them. Then how can I make them different? Perchance, in the future, could I be happier with some other and would it be better for all concerned? […] has told me that I didn’t know a thing about love. I would like to know.

You know how highly I regard Mr. Wells. He and I have been together so many times in study of the lessons and trying to plan some way to interest others in the study too. It seems that […] can’t understand this, as he has intimated that Mr. Wells was a “fellow” of mine. Such was far from the idea of either of us, I am sure. Now I have no idea of quitting the study groups, if anything I am more determined to do all that I can do to get the work started. I realize that I need the lessons more than anyone almost. I wish, so much, that we had some others in the group too. I am going to send out some more cards this week, in hopes that some will be inclined to come. I want to prepare myself so that I may be of more service. Is this trouble of mine going to be a hindrance to the Work here? I don’t want it to. The more I study and learn about the Work, the more I want to learn, and I trust that I may soon be of some help to others. I wonder what special part of the Work is for me. I am sure that I would be happier if I found out my part and then prepare myself to perform my part. I am wondering if it is partly in a Legal way, as well as other ways.

I am ready to follow as He leads. I am so worried now until I cannot be my best and I earnestly beg for some definite help in this material entanglement.

R12. 10/6/33 EC gave her a Mental-Spiritual Rdg. answering questions about her home and marriage and all phases of her life. [See 272-7.]

R13. 11/13/33 She wrote: “I have moved and am in apt. by myself [as advised in 272-7.] I’m trying my very best to follow every suggestion given in the rdg. I can hardly express my feeling when I read those extracts from letters of mine in Bulletin [Nov. ‘33 - see 272-7 Reports.] I feel, first of all, that I should apologize for them. In a way some of them sound so impatient and might seem hard toward you and the work, but I did not mean them that way. I was ‘torn’ and ‘suffering’ and only trying to find my way toward relief and peace as well as health. Indeed do I count you a great blessing to bear with me and to help me in the solution of my problems. I am so thankful for you and your workers in the help and assistance that you have given me and are giving me. My desire is to help in every way I can, to be a better child of His, and to follow His will more perfectly. I have been a member of the Baptist church since my early teens; however, I could serve in almost any denomination if I thought it was His will for me to do so.

“I am sending a letter about the study group and my dollar for Nov. dues in connection with the money from the study group.”

R14. 11/24/33 She wrote:

May I express a few of my thoughts and a few words of praise to you?

In the search of my being, my soul for God, it is my longing and my desire to know more of the will of my Saviour toward me and toward a life of usefulness on earth in His name. I believe that I have caught a glimpse of the wisdom, care, mercy, patience, and love that He has for His children. O! that I could have caught this earlier in life that I might have saved the heartaches of some, and might have been a greater blessing to others in his name.

There is the Bible and its instructions; there is the example, life, and teachings of Christ; there is the spirit that bears witness with our spirit in teaching us; there is the Church and its teachers and leaders; and there is the love of parents and friends who are helping us, or me, to know my Saviour and God better and to know to do His will. Going over just these, it seems that these should be enough for any one person. They, by themselves are wonderful and show the infinite love that He has for His children. Yet, all of these, as marvelous and important as they are, seemed not to be enough for me, or it seemed that I did not know how to know, obtain, and apply His will in my life. Mr. Cayce, it has taken you and your workers to help me know My Saviour, Lord and Master better. I thank God for you and your work, and I am so thankful that you are living on earth at the same time that I am, and that I found you. It has taken you, your wonderful gift, and your co-workers to help me to know how to apply the religious truths in my life as I wanted to apply them.

I want to know the Way, the Truth, and the Light.

May I tell just a little of my experience for the past month?

Before I got your reading of Oct. 6, 1933, [272-7] I knew in my mind that I wanted to follow and was going to follow the instructions you gave me, to the very limit. The afternoon I got home from school and found the reading, I was praying the best I knew how, tears were falling, and as I read the answer to the first question, crying and praying that God would lead me, there came to my mind - as a voice speaking to my consciousness: “I will lead you.” Then as I read other questions and answers, and prayed for God to lead me, again the voice; “I am leading you.” came to my conscious mind. I am very thankful, so very thankful, for such precious and wonderful promises. I am willing to be led and to do His will, if I know my own mind. Help me to be more willing and to become better prepared! This is my prayer.

As I made the changes that were necessary for me to make, I tried to follow the instructions further in saying kind things to […] and trying to tell him that he was a child of God. It seemed that we both just tried ourselves in seeing how many encouraging things we could say to each other.

I can see, now, that this all was the result of misdirected spiritual life. I know when I made the wrong choice, but at the time I didn’t know it was such a mistaken decision. It was that I selected […] rather than going to church and trying to do my Christian duty.

The day I moved into this apartment - and I would like to say that the hand of God was in the effort of mine in finding a place to live - was a busy one; and when I was arranging the things in the room again the voice seemed to speak to me, or to my conscious mind, saying: “You are going to be happy here.” When this happened my conscious mind was not even entertaining a thought like this.

Quoting from my reading, in two places: “That the doors of light may be opened to thee.” and “There may come the shining light of His love.” these seem to be promises. O! how I desire the light of His love. In my prayer and meditation I have been praying that the doors of Light may be opened to me. Twice I got the thought, as an inner voice speaking: “Will you guard it well?” I answered the best I knew. I will guard it well and value the love of God above all and everything I know and can think of. Mr. Cayce, this question of this inner voice has caused me to think, pray, and meditate upon it. I don’t know what to say, pray, or do except, “I’ll do my best.” May the Lord help me and my efforts in my approach to Him! I want to be a companion of my Heavenly Father and a channel of blessing on earth.

One of the questions in my reading was: “How can I know Love?” and the answer: “As one knows God…” May I know God and His love! May I feed upon the fruits of the spirit! I was told in the reading: “Let the activities be in opening self in every fiber of the being that the Lord’s way may be done in and through thy thoughts and thy activities.” I am making this my prayer. May I open myself in every fiber of my being! How can I do this? May the Lord help me, teach me, and show me! I desire to give myself completely and unreservedly to Him and His will. “Father make my will, thy will.” This is my prayer.

I am so thankful for our study group, and it seems that we are drawing nearer to God in the group. The meeting Sunday was a wonderful one to me. Let me say again that I am so thankful for you and your work, and the lessons we have to study. I just wish every one could feast upon them.

I have tried to give you an idea of just how much your readings have meant to me and how much this last one is influencing my prayers and my life. I thank God for you and all those who have made it possible for you to help me. Mr. Cayce, I can’t help from expressing this same idea again. Let me thank you from the bottom of my heart and praise God from the depths of my soul for the help you have given me. May I, too, have a part in spreading or carrying a bit of your wonderful work to others!

I have just received your lesson on “Patience”. It seems just the thing that I need now. The ideas and thoughts in this lesson seem as though God were speaking to me through them. May I learn to apply that that I know.

May God bless you and keep you!

Sincerely, [272]

R15. 12/10/33 She wrote about her A.R.E. Study Group #4: “The lessons are marvellous! They seem to be just the thing I need in my life. I am finding mental and spiritual food for growth as I study, pray and meditate on the Truth, as presented by this organization. I am so thankful for you! I consider myself fortunate to be a member of such a noble organization and hereby offer my services in any way that I can be of help in the association.

“Mrs. Moody Wray says: ‘After having studied Truth as Unity teaches it for 12 yrs., I came to a complete standstill, and must say that Lesson 1 [on Cooperation, SFG] has been too wonderful, and has removed all seeming obstacles in the work I love. I know still greater progress is in store for me in A.R.E. Group #4.’

“Miss Lottie Dew says: ‘There is not much yet in a personal way for me to report. I have not been with Group #4 very long. So must take time to see what it all means. I just hope and pray that you can continue the great work.’”

R16. 2/20/34 She obtained Life Rdg. 518-1 for her sister.

R17. 4/16/34 She wrote:

In the latter part of my Life Reading there was spoken of “latent forces and abilities” which might be aroused. May I do the things which would be such as to arouse these! So many times I have tried to do, think or learn things and felt a holding - back within me. I have never been able to put forth the effort I would like. However I want it to be a Christ directed effort. My personality hasn’t been all that I desired - hence the seeking, seeking on my part.

Some of my past incarnations must have been very sinful. Then, too, I have made some bad blunders in this one. All of which I repent and beg forgiveness to the fullest of my ability. I’m wondering if I have to pay off many more karmic debts. O! may I come under the laws of grace.

In my Persian existence mention was made of “being abandoned by those to whom the entity had clung.” I’m wondering if the same is to be true now? My people don’t seem to understand me and my turmoil, however, I’ve tried to explain the best I could.

I have failed on the Ala. bar examination which I took recently. I’ve been unable to study like I should have. The turmoil in my life for the past few years has been such that I could hardly stand it, much less concentrate on law problems. I’ve cried, and cried for hours at a time. Cried until I went to sleep many, many times. Mr. Cayce, I thank God that I was directed to you, and I praise and thank Him that He, through you, is showing me a way out. O God! may I know Thee better, may I love Thee more, and may I serve Thee completely, is my prayer. Cleanse me within, my body, mind, and soul. Make me pure in Thy holy name!

I believe from a part of my talk with you when you were here that you understood that the thing that is uppermost in my mind and heart now is the awakening. I think that I said that I was so anxious for it to come. However I want it to come in the true, pure way. May the Christ be born within me!

The last question of the last reading you gave me which was dated Oct. 6, 1933 mentioned that I would be shown the way. [272-7.] Sometime in the near future I would like for you to give me another reading. I’m somewhat at a loss to know just how to frame the questions. I know my desire is to do His will. Perhaps you can get an idea from this rambling letter the things which are most vital to me and which are uppermost in my mind. Then, too, the Law School will be out the last of May and I’m wondering if it’s best for me to go to Mamma’s for the summer and just how should I begin to plan for next year. My life and work, here, have been somewhat of a disaster so far, until I can hardly think it best for me to continue my work in this vicinity. However again I say: “Thy will be done.” If it’s best for me to stay here then I say: “His will be done - not mine.” I’m wondering if you could help me frame some questions for a reading? Would it be suitable to ask some health questions too?

I am sending two dollars ($2.00) for April dues - one for the Group, and one for my personal dues.

R18. 4/28/34 She submitted specific questions.

R19. 5/9/34 EC gave her Mental-Spiritual Rdg. 272-8.

R20. 8/31/35 She obtained Mental-Spiritual Rdg. 272-9.

Background

Background

B1. See Physical Rdg. 272-1 on 10/29/30 for gonorrheal infection of sexual organs, and subsequent reports submitting questions for Life Rdg., indicating her unhappiness in teaching and in her marriage, etc., etc.

Mentioned Entities

Entity (Cayce Term), Ideal, Incarnation, Soul, Egypt, Prayer, Jesus Christ, Purpose, Astrology, A.R.E. (Association for Research and Enlightenment), Persia, Alabama, Creative Forces, Japan, Gladys Davis, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Law of Moses, Meditation, Chicago, Free Will

Source: The Complete Edgar Cayce Readings, A.R.E. CD-ROM (2006). Reading 272-4, ReadingID 1680.