Reading 900-464

TEXT OF READING 900-464 M 34

Text

Date: 12/29/1929 Sex: M Age: 34 ReadingID: 5667

This Psychic Reading given by Edgar Cayce at his office, 115 West 35th Street, Virginia Beach, Va., this 29th day of December, 1929, in accordance with request made by Mr. [900].

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

Time of Reading 8:25 A. M. Eastern Standard Time. New York City. (Body and enquiring mind of each, [[900] and [195]] and Questions)

1. EC: Yes, we have the body, the enquiring mind, [900] - this we have had before. Ready for questions.

2. (Q) Regarding his physical condition, will it be alright for this body to make the trip to Dayton, Ohio, the first of the week - or will it in any way be detrimental? (A) As has been given, the body should refrain from being in the open, on account of reinfection in the antrum and as for ear. While adhering to this at the present, to endanger self through such an act would be very unwise, would the body wish to care for the body in any SEMBLANCE of the way as has been given. DO NOT take the chances.

3. (Q) Regarding the [[4665]?] machine, [195] desires to know if changes he has in mind will be effective in the operation of the machine. (A) Be effective.

4. (Q) Any further suggestions regarding the machine? (A) Much may be said as respecting this. Best that these be developed in the mental forces and abilities of the body itself, as to these changes - until there is more definite or DECIDED change to be made as regarding same. The PRINCIPLE correct. Keep on working at it! We are through for the present.

Reports

Reports & Follow-up

R1. 12/30/29 Mr. [900]‘s letter to EC:

”…I certainly want to thank you for your kindness to me while I was sick, but this is not by any means the first time I have had to thank you for such service rendered. I hate to ask for it at this time, and feel sort of chagrined that I have to ask for help, rather than tell other people how they can help themselves, which only goes to prove I still have quite a road to hoe yet.

“I wanted to go to Dayton, as you know, and it seemed the advice would come that I could go, but as [3734] said, [Mrs. [3734], Mr. [900]‘s telephone operator, a devout Catholic, who had recently ‘developed’ psychic sensitivity.] another viewpoint came in, giving the advice as stated in the reading. However, she was told that since there was so much opposition and antagonism to same, by those around me, it was best for the peace of all, that I do not go.

“Nothing else particularly new at this end, and as I want to rush these off to you, will close, with kindest personal regards to you and yours, wishing all a Happy New Year…”

R2. 1/9/30 [900]‘s letter to EC:

”…I have started a letter to you several times, but have never been able to finish same. Not that we are so busy with customers, because we are not, but because of the details to be cleared up prior to my going away.

“The chief reason for my writing you is simply to reiterate the warning that I spoke of over the telephone to you. Of course, I know it is none of my business, and that you are free, white and 21, and thus legally and morally able to take care of yourself so that you could well say, if I take care of my own affairs, I would have about all I could attend to, and considering the way I do that sometimes, more than I could attend to. However, I am sure you understand me too well to think that I mean to interfere or butt in to your affairs, when I merely advise you for your own good, and the good of our work, to exercise a greater degree of caution with respect to your own health.

“My concern regarding your health may easily be misunderstood by even some close to us, as pertaining to my own selfish motive, and while the service you have rendered me has been of an inestimable benefit in every department of life, to myself and to my family, and to many others, and while I certainly covet that service that it is possible for you to render in the future, nevertheless, it is true that my paramount thought is for your own good, for while I ever try to put the work above even the phenomena you alone are capable of manifesting, even as the Master put the Father above the phenomena He manifested, I do, nevertheless, power of your own mind. Words often lie regarding our true feeling and true attitude of mind, but subconscious experiences never do, and the fact that you waited on the other side for me, and that I joined you, and that we were free and happy in that event, seeking cooperatively to continue the work from there, indicates the true attitude of mind that exists internally between each of us. I truly believe that we each recognize in each other something that has not been developed as a property of the mind of others, nor as the understanding possession of other individuals, we likewise recognize intuitively that we possess mental power, not gifts or powers, but mental powers that others intuitively envy, and that they mock because they do not understand. At times this may have caused a clashing condition, yet, when placed in a cooperative position of seeking a common ideal, it provided, not only a mutual respect and tendency towards protection of each other in a manner that is not so much show or demonstration, and therefore, to many a nonunderstandable manner, but which, nevertheless, existed in spiritual reality, and which, likewise, as in the past, at times when we were at harmony with each other, and will in the future when we make our will, in a like condition, throw a protective barrier around the work that others found, and will find it hard to break through. It looks like you will stand as chief guardian at the gate to the hospital; I at the gate to the university, yet, both join hands for the common protection of the whole, and that we both will be upheld by [137] who stands in the middle. For this reason, I take the opportunity of writing you to warn you, that unless you exercise greater care to eliminate the cause of your illnesses entirely from your system, irrespective of whether you feel good or bad, you will continue to suffer from same from time to time, and your physical body must react with a greater degree of weakness to each attack. The heart cannot stand up against such pressure forever, and there is a physical law regarding life in physical form that must be adhered to, as well as obeying the spiritual law if life in the physical is to be retained. The physical is but a carefully balanced coordination of vibrations easily shaken, and the constant tendency in spite of the spiritual flow is back towards the elemental normal state. Remember, ‘Now the body is assuming its normal forces.’ The normal state is that we assume after death, for that is life in its true reality, or near to it, anyway, whereas life in physical form is but a carefully created formation, always like a cardhouse liable to revert back to its more normal state. Yet, life in physical form achieves a great purpose in the ultimate goal of creation, and we who have advanced to the point where we may play an unusual and more important role in the carrying out of the ultimate purpose, insofar as it is achieved in this world, should seek to preserve our physical lives as long as possible, that our service may be the more, the greater, and our power thus enhanced, and our universal position thus heightened.

“I trust you will understand me, then, when I say, with no ulterior motive, that it is your duty to yourself, and to God, to seek health according to the laws governing good health.

“I know what it is for a powerful mind to try to act in spite of a weak physical body. Heavens only knows, I know that, and should probably practice a little of what I am preaching to you, or maybe I am even more guilty, in that my recent admonitions [from [3734]?] have been regarding lack of sleep, and being out late at night, which should be easy enough for me to control. At any rate, there is a trinity of you, myself and [137], who must live in this world to finish our work, or it will not be finished, and all three of us must abide by the laws, not only governing mind in its various forms of action, but of life in its physical form of activity. We have much to do. The time is short. The pressure is great. Yet, all mind is one mind, all consciousness one consciousness, and what we do here will be maintained and sustained here, provided we preserve ourselves in order that we may be here long enough to get that started which others may carry on after us; or will we lose the glory that is within our grasp and because of negligence to health, or any other reason leave to others to be raised up, to grasp the opportunity that we, for the above stated reasons, may lose.

“This is all I have to say. It is written from my mind, and it undoubtedly is as much for me to read and study as for you.

“I trust you and your family will acquire and maintain the best of health, and enjoy the best that life has to give during the coming months.

“I am not one who may yet be a giver of peace, but as I leave for my holiday, I pray that His peace may come to you and yours…”

R3. 1/10/30 EC’s letter to Mr. [137]:

”…I don’t suppose this will reach you in time for [900] to go over it, but I HADN’T had the opportunity to analyze the report when I was talking to you over the phone.

“Now, let’s try to go over this and see what can be done about it:

“As for Dr. Parker, that is up to the Hospital Committee - as I understand. That means you, [165] and myself, as I understand it. The only thing we can do is to take this up with Dr. Lydic and see whether he thinks it is necessary to have him at this time or not. I am sure that Lydic has to get his bearings just a little bit before he would want to take the whole responsibility - but in the course of a few weeks possibly he will be able to do this, and that will be a deduction of $600.

“Now, as for the rest of that set forth for the Hospital budget, in salaries - I don’t know that it would be possible (Please understand, I am speaking from just what little insight I have) to cut that in any respect, unless there are some changes made. As I suggested when I was in New York the last time, unless we provide some place where the help can be taken care of we are reducing the possibility of income from the Hospital, by having the rooms filled up with our help - and the housing proposition, as I suggested, is an awful thing here. IF we are to take the property on the beach, as suggested (the Wright cottage), [Corner of 105th St. (later 67th St.) and ocean] I understand that’s an outlay of 21,000, and another 1,500 would be necessary to put the house in the proper shape. There would not be the necessity, however, of a great deal of furniture, for that already in the building may be had at this price, as I understand, and can be used for the time being. So the 1,500 as improvements should cover the expense of the building, also the necessary furniture. Now, where would this make it valuable, then, to the Hospital? The nurses then, of course, would be in this building - possibly the matron and assistant matron (or at least one of these might be necessary in the Hospital - possibly the assistant matron, as she looks after the food) - the engineer, the chauffeur, telephone operator - this home would furnish all of these their room and meals, and they would be required to pay for it. That, naturally, would reduce the grocery bill. It may possibly, for the time being, reduce one of the cooks. To be sure, it means we will have to have somebody to run that building - but it would at least offer the ONLY solution as I can see it, for a reduction in the amount necessary in the Hospital. It would reduce laundry, possibly reduce heat and light. Whether it would be in sufficient amount to justify this expenditure, and get it back in little dribbles, is what we will have to determine for ourselves. How to change it, I don't know. I'm not that good a business man - but it certainly does get my goat to do my level best and then find I have fallen far short of what should be. To be sure, the bills payable at December 31st, which amount to 1,212 - quite a number of these, as you will see if you check them over, are for supplies in the building which will NOT be necessary again. That is one of the things I tried to tell you all, that it would PAY the institution to have a buyer - who not only knows prices but who is acquainted with conditions in general - and who would possibly cut this more than in half. There also needs to be a meeting of the Hospital Committee, to straighten these things out.

Possibly we will get to this on the 14th of February, which

• as I understood from Mr. [165] - is the time set for the meeting. If you feel it would be best that this be called sooner, so that we can get this straightened out, why I’ll be glad to do whatever I can.

“Now, as for the estimate from the Administration Department

• to be sure, there is not reference made here as to any income. As you possibly realize, and as I explained to [900]
• while the office HAS been taking care of itself for overhead expenses, it was not figured in this time - for we are so far ahead with our appointments, and these appointments are for monies that have already been received, which has been figured in as income in the last two or three months. Now, it IS going to be necessary, [137], to add an extra expense here, of at least 150 to 200. That is, for a general bookkeeper. That will possibly cut out the necessity of a new telephone operator at the Hospital. But we must have someone to look after the books of the Hospital, the formative stages of the Educational Committee, and also the books of the Administration Department. It is an IMPOSSIBILITY for Miss Gladys to keep her books in shape as she should. It is an impossibility for Mrs. Atkinson [Sara C. Atkinson] to act in the capacity of the general secretary for the Hospital, to the physicians - or physician
• to the purchaser, and attend to the telephone. It is impossible for Mr. Shroyer, [Linden Shroyer] in his department, to look after the general bookkeeping of the whole work and do the work that we are clamoring for, and are so far behind with.

“Now, I haven’t EVER asked anything for myself. I don’t deserve it, I am sure, or I would have it - but we are going to have to have one to do this work, IF we are to go along - for we continually get into muddles, we continue to get behind with these things. Possibly it is red tape, and possibly we have bitten off more than we should have - but this, I believe, is going to have to be added to the budget from the Administration Department, and let the work of that individual be the looking after the books. That will relieve Mrs. Atkinson so that she can act as the secretary to at least Dr. Lydic, Mr. Hough [James W. Hough, resident patient] (the buyer), and take care of the general office and the telephone. That will possibly be better than having a telephone operator. It doesn’t mean that Mrs. Atkinson wouldn’t issue the vouchers, unless it is decided that the vouchers go out of her department. It doesn’t mean that Mr. Shroyer wouldn’t issue the checks, as it has been voted. It doesn’t mean that this office wouldn’t run along just as it is - but, as Miss Gladys has been situated, it has been two or three months since she has been able to get a balance and check up - because she HASN’T GOT THE TIME - and she works many, many nights until ten, eleven and twelve o’clock trying to keep up with the correspondence - and that isn’t RIGHT, with what we are paying her [$100 mo.]. The Administration Department help have to pay THEIR board, though my wife and I are trying to help them - because their salary is not sufficient to pay board! Why shouldn’t the help in the Hospital do the same thing? rather than it being supplied to them? but we will have to prepare a place where it can be taken care of!

“Now, let’s look at the thing sensibly - we’ve either got to take care of it, or we are going to run me crazy talking about me TRYING to keep it down! I’m not doing it! I’m doing my darndest but I can’t do but just so much, and the camel’s back don’t hold but just so much - and it don’t take but one straw to break it, when up to that time it would go alright. I know about what a burden it is! and I have realized it all along - I have tried to take my part of it by never asking anything for myself, and I DON’T ask anything for myself - except NOT to be burdened where others should at least ASSUME part of the burden.

“Let me know about this - if you think it advisable to take this other one on in the Administration Department, to look after this end of it and relieve the stress in the other ends. Also what we will do about the house - if you think it plausible, feasible, or what - for if we keep the Hospital filled with people who are the help, to take care of the few, we CAN’T expect to raise the amount of the income. We haven’t got the place for them! But it is a Hospital first, and not a place of entertainment for people outside, or even a place of entertainment for help at the Hospital - they should bear their part of the burden. I tried to get to this when I was talking to you all up there the other day. I know I am hard to understand, because I can’t find words to say what I want to say. I knew this was coming sooner or later. We have it to face. It CAN’T be made a paying proposition as it is, but it CAN if we unburden it so that we can take care of the people that want to come. True enough, in this change, we have had to pay an enormous amount to the Doctor. Dr. Berger [Theodore J. Berger, D.O., son of Dr. Grace C. Berger] HASN’T been paid - we owe him $500 - we have got to snitch it out of that allowance that comes - or go out and get it somewhere else. But we have got it to meet, in some way, shape, form or fashion - and next month I KNOW it’s going to be heavy, for there is to be paid the insurance, and payments on MANY pieces of the property. The bulkhead that is mentioned, that [900] asked me about - this was a necessity, as was the extension in the furnace - or else our hill would have gone off with us in the back, and this we can take care of by a little here, a little there.

“Let me know, because I certainly do want to do right - but I don’t want to feel like I’m bawled out for trying to do my best…”

“P.S. Or, as suggested to [900] - if we don’t want to buy this place down on the beach, we can get one lot across the street - right at the foot of the hill just south of the Hospital. [GD’s note: This was done; it was purchased and Nurses Home built.] It would prevent us from having to build in a street, and we could build this home there. It would then cost about 10,000, or say 12,000 at the outside - and make possibly an outlay at once of about $5,000 - not much more than we would have to pay in the first payment for the property on the ocean front. But this is to be considered, of course, as to the difference in the valuation…”

R4. 1/10/30 Mr. [900]‘s letter to EC:

”…Enclosed please find the reading [suggestion, etc.] on experiences of parties mentioned over the telephone, and also on [195]‘s motor. [See 195-68 on 1/13/30.] It is just my tough luck to be on the ocean when this is taken, but possibly I will be better off at that, and I guess that is where you ought to be too, for that matter. [137] will send you a check which, after seeing [195], please use for your vacation and for nothing else. You must agree with me, that two weeks’ play, in addition to proper treatment, will certainly do you as much good as a vacation does me, and that you need it equally as bad. I know [257] wants you to go with him, and, of course, you can decide for your own self whether you think this would be the best kind of a vacation for you to take or not. Whatever you decide, I trust you will have a pleasant time, a beneficial one, and that you will, before, during and after your vacation, continue the treatments the readings have prescribed, so as to eradicate the cause once and for all, of your trouble.

“I feel sure that in the course of time we will get the matter of readings systematized and organized, and that we will be able to have someone constantly there to stand between you and the public who will take care of this end, as this must be done.

“[195] asks that you wire him what to do on the motor to make it run, this being the paramount issue at the present time, and Mrs. [3734] asks that you send a copy of the reading to her, which, of course, you would do anyhow. Will you please also send a copy of the reading to me to the Negresco Hotel, Nice, France.

“Nothing else new, and with kindest personal regards…”

R5. 1/11/30 Dr. Theodore J. Berger’s [D.O.] (son of Dr. Grace C. Berger) letter to EC:

”…They were in a great turmoil up at [900]‘s with all the preparations for sailing. Their boat was late in arriving and they do not sail until midnight tonight. [900]‘s local head and sinus trouble has entirely cleared up but he is in a very fatigued state. He is tired out and his nervous system is at low ebb. His vacation will do wonders for him. I am to go up to treat him for the last time at four o’clock and then I hope to see them off at the pier tonight…”

R6. 1/13/30 EC’s letter to [900] at the Negresco Hotel, France:

”…We got the information late this afternoon [See 195-68] for [195]. It hasn’t been written off yet, but I wired [195]

• and I am trying to catch up with the correspondence, and will write you even before I see the reading - then possibly may put a postscript on afterward.

“I certainly regret that circumstances were such that we couldn’t get this in just at the time you wanted it, so that you could see it before leaving to be away for so long.

“What you had to say about the readings and about how best to arrange for them - that’s alright, [900] - just so we do not fall into this mistake: That you get the idea that there is anyone - I or anyone else - you or anybody else - that can CONTROL the readings. We may be able to control the times when we will GIVE the readings, but who they are going to be for, and when they are going to be given - the minute we do that, we have lost the very thing - the very foundation of the whole work. Possibly I am all wrong, but that’s my thirty years’ experience. Possibly that’s why I’m different. I don’t know just how much the information gotten for these people that were here, will mean to them. At least they will be offered the opportunity to find themselves and their relationship TO the Divine, for their readings were the most SPIRITUAL that we have had in some time. We remember the Master didn’t refuse to heal the whole ten lepers, though only two came back and said Thank You. One (I think the most unusual) was sent to [137] for an explanation of her reading

• the Russian lady [5469]. She will also want him to advise her in some of her investments, which will possibly run into a FEW dollars - I don’t know how many, but the SPIRITUAL advice - at least that he will be able to give her will be just what is needed, I’m thinking, to aid her in FINDING herself again.

“Yes, possibly I need the rest - though I have felt better in the last two or three days than I have for some time. The relief Lydic and Hough have given, about the little details at the hospital, I know is SOMETHING to account for this - though I want to get away a few days, at least, as soon as I’ve had the chance to talk with Dr. Brown [William Moseley Brown, Ph.D., who later was president of A.U.].

“Sugrue is very anxious to get some data on what was accomplished by the Educational Committee, for his report - but I don’t think it is the time - and, of course, it isn’t in MY hands. That will be up to Dr. Brown. I understand he would be in Lexington next Thursday, then here on Friday or Saturday. I will possibly be here until the 20th, at least - for we will want to get check-up readings on the hospital patients before I leave. Where I will go, I haven’t decided. I’m waiting for the decision of Gertrude, as to what she wants to do. Her mother is quite ill, and I think she will want to go home - and of course, if she does, I will go with her. It is certainly very nice of you and [137] to make this possible for us, and I appreciate it more than I know how to tell you.

“There are about ten patients in the hospital. There will be another in Wednesday. All of these are pay patients except two. That will possibly (if we are able to collect it) enable us to cut down more on the budget than has been allowed; for at the time this was made there were only four patients and two of these were ones not contributing to the work.

“Everyone at the hospital - both patients and help - seem to be WONDERFULLY pleased with Dr. and Mrs. Lydic. I think Lydic is a real executive, as well as a wonderful physician.

“Well, here’s hoping you all had a wonderful trip over - though, apparently, you must have started off with rather a bad beginning, as it was just almost in the face of a storm in this portion of the ocean. Possibly it had blown by you - hope so anyway, and that you had a very, very, pleasant trip over. You need the rest, and I’m hoping it will prove most beneficial for each and every one of you…”

R7. 1/13/30 EC’s letter to Mr. [137]:

”…I received the check from [900] in letter dated the 10th. In this, he sent the 8,000 - 800 of which is to go to the paying of Dr. Brown. All of this is not for his salary, is it? or just how is this to be handled? I’m sure you see from this one circumstance what I mean by, it is necessary for us to have someone to keep these books straight. I understood his salary was $8,000 a year. The rest of it, of course I know, goes for the other things - but I don’t suppose it is all to be turned over to him for him to spend as he sees fit - or just what is to be done? Let me know about these matters. Of course, it will be placed in such a way - if I go away for a few days - that it will be taken care of.

“With kindest personal regards to you and family from all here…”

R8. 1/13/30 Mr. [137]‘s letter to EC:

”…I am in receipt of your letter [See 1/10/30 letter to [137] in 900-464, Par. R2] and feel we are all, mostly myself, in one of those momentary spells where, for the minute, things seem much worse than they really are. The one thing in your letter that is of most interest to me and greatest concern, is not a new condition, but one of which I have been aware for the past weeks, and that is your own physical state, due, to a great extent, by mental worries, such as those you enumerate in your letter. This is a wrong condition, and if my negligence or actions are responsible in any way for the condition, be assured it is unintentional, and you have but to call on me to make amends for any such lack of consideration. [900] left Saturday night before your letter arrived, and thus I have not discussed it with him, but that makes no difference.

“As for Dr. Parker, I think you are absolutely right when you say, “that we will have to leave up to Dr. Lydic and the Hospital Committee.” That action should not be hasty, and I don’t believe it is quite the time to go into that now.

“I agree with you when you say, where the possibility of salary cuts exist in the hospital. Your suggestion regarding the help situation is one at the moment to be given the most consideration to relieve the strain on the hospital.

“As I take it, there is the choice of the ocean property, or that of building at the foot of the hill south of the hospital for the servants quarters. The property on the ocean seems, at the minute, quite valuable to use for that purpose, but, of course, would always be of use later on. Before making a suggestion on my part of which is the better decision, I would prefer to delay a few days, and get in touch with you later this week. It might be well to have Lydic’s opinion along these lines as well as our own.

“If I may correct you, I should like to say, relative to your remarks, ‘you do your level best and then find you have fallen short’, you are making a statement that is contrary to fact. The first part is certainly true, that you are doing your level best, but who are we to either judge ourselves, or judge others, and say we are found wanting or have fallen short? If I dared to make such an observation, I should say, you are doing your level best and doing your part mighty well, and very nobly, and have not, in any way, fallen down.

“Our problem is still one of ‘growing pains’ and not expanding beyond the point of which we are able at the present time to handle, not financially am I thinking of, but in our duty to the demands that will be made upon us, principally you, by people. This development has become more apparent each day, and the problem is to enable you to conduct your work in a methodical, normal and easygoing manner, rather than one of nervous strain and poor health as a result. This, I am sure, will be done, and we must all work together for its achievement.

“Regarding the bookkeeper, I think that is a very good suggestion, and a very practical means of handling a lot of the detailed work, such as sending out notices to members, whose membership has expired, and should be renewed. This I know has not been able to be done in the past, and possibly this bookkeeper could take care of that and keep our membership continuous, rather than falling behind because the member is not notified of the expiration of his membership. I would say, by all means, get this man, [Luther J. Hesson, husband of EC’s sister, Sarah] and possibly Shroyer can help you organize his work. I do hope this addition will afford you some relief from the tremendous amount of detail work you are now doing. That is not the work that you should spend your time looking after. As I see it, it is inevitable that you will devote your time to those in the hospital or those desiring entrance into the hospital. As you say, the hospital should be so arranged that it is filled only with patients, and that will give you about as much as you will want to look after, and Heavens knows, will do a tremendous amount of good to mankind.

“As I am leaving this Saturday for about a two weeks’ stay at the Aimanderes Hotel, Havana, Cuba, it might be well to make sure from Ashburn, that the purchase of that oceanfront property can be made as outlined when you were here, which I believe called for an initial payment of $1,000. Then, if you and all else think it is the advisable step, we can take immediate action. I will call you on the ‘phone in a day or so, and find out then what you and Dr. Lydic think to be the advisable step. I am not putting this burden on you, as I assure you by that time I will have a suggestion to offer regarding the housing of the help.

“Apparently this is going to be a trying year for all of us, due to the new development of the University, but let us always remember that trials and tribulations lead to steadfastness, and steadfastness to knowledge, and knowledge to hope, and hope to that goal we know ourselves to be striving for. If we succumb at times to human weaknesses, don’t let us feel that we are ever bawling each other out, because when we do that we are giving a bad manifestation of what we are trying to do. If anybody does any bawling out, he is the one to be sorry for, for surely he has then lost control of himself, for that instant at least, but in all our endeavors together, let us all always work in perfect harmony, each filling that niche that has been assigned to us, and that we have accepted, in the way we believe it should be filled, and as we would have the other fellow fill his, which might be a poor way of stating the Golden Rule. Please don’t misunderstand me, - I am not sermonizing you, but telling myself that which you probably would have written to me if you were not considerate enough of not wanting to offend my feelings.

“I certainly hope that your contemplated rest and vacation will completely restore you to the best of health, and that you and Gertrude will find yourselves benefited in every way from the change. Our troubles are never as great when we think them over carefully and patiently as when we become over-alarmed.

“In [900]‘s absence, or any other time, don’t hesitate to call on me if I can be of any service or use to you. You have my address in Havana, where I will be until somewheres around the 10th of February, so that I will be able to attend the meeting of the Hospital Committee around the 14th. I don’t know where it is to be, but hope it can be arranged in New York, as it might be difficult for me to get away at that time.

“As I said, I will call you on the ‘phone the latter part of the week, and certainly hope I am not bothering you too greatly.

“Just one more thing regarding paragraph in your letter in which you refer to yourself of not being deserving. You must know by now my thoughts along this line, and my disagreement with this statement, and feel that that condition of your personal finances is well on the way to a change in the near future, but in all these matters and with the many problems we undoubtedly will have to meet in the future, I believe a good keynote to be, ‘His Will, not my will.’…”

R9. 1/23/30 EC’s wire to Mr. [137]:

“Hunt and Lee offer lot and [to build] house [GD’s note: New 210 - 67th St.] complete twelve rooms baths heat light eleven thousand seven hundred fifty will finance five thousand Advise…”

R10. 1/25/30 [137]‘s wire to EC:

“Would insist Hunt and Lee finance all above $5,000 we put in. Please advise…”

R11. 2/1/30 EC’s wire to [137]:

“Brown desires you be here without fail Saturday eighth to meet committee from Norfolk Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce on university plans…”

R12. 2/8/30 [900]‘s letter to EC:

”…If once, at least three or four times, I have started a letter to you, but something always prevented my completing same. I have often wondered if your vacation provided you with the same mental and physical relaxation that mine has. I surely trust so as you seemed well worn when I last saw you, but your letter came and was reassuring. I was more than happy to hear that some of the strain had been lifted from you by Dr. Lydic’s efficiency and that this influenced a better physical condition for you. It shows how the mental influences adversely or constructively our whole development. Therefore, despite your improved physical, I am sure you will or have benefited immensely from your trip away. Did you go to Texas?

“[137] wrote me of the purchase of the lot and erection of new building to house the help, and asked me if I thought this a proper and advantageous step. Naturally I would and of course anything helpful to the work is my happiness and I am only glad to lend a hand where I may. While I do not exactly agree with you on the matter of systematization of handling requests for readings, and the readings themselves, yet you are the channel for the giving of same and if the present system pleases you, it certainly is perfectly satisfactory to me. So far as this end is concerned, I only had you in mind when I spoke to you regarding same - no selfish motive of my own. I only want to make it so that you can give the readings, to your own and others’ best advantage

• to contribute my services, etc., towards this end - not in any way interfere with how, when and where they are to be given.

“I know that the readings have provided me with lesson[s] that have enabled me to reach a more advanced state of consciousness and understanding. I believe they have likewise helped [137], and with his fine spiritual qualities, have no doubt but what they will bring him to a very advanced state of consciousness. Thus it is natural that [137] would prove a logical and very worthwhile individual to explain a spiritual reading. As given in a reading, we have explained each other’s experiences to each other, thrashing them out, trying to understand them. We have done each other much good and there is a certain kind of experience that [137] understands and interprets exceedingly well - I know he has helped me immensely. Naturally, then, he may likewise help others. Furthermore, [137]‘s quiet, gentle and sincere manner is inspiring of confidence in itself, and I am sure the Russian lady [5469] will not be disappointed in [137]. He will go so far with her - no farther - he will not press her - and to a certain type person that is another advantage he has.

“I have no doubt but what the lady in question and [is] a very worthwhile and lovely person and thus draws fine mental forces to give a beautiful and spiritual reading. We all have our gods so to speak, even as we are gods ourselves, yet all One in Him. The greatest thing we can and are privileged to do for people, as I see it, is to awaken them to the Christ consciousness within. It doesn’t matter how we do it

• through your Bible lessons, your readings, [137]‘s intuitive demonstrations and lessons, my teachings, lesson and exhortation, our hospital and psychical research, our University or whatnot - it all has this one common end - to awaken first the individual, then groups of individuals, then the masses to the Christ consciousness within and our common brotherhood in the Father. This, of course, is only another way of saying that we each are a self-conscious portion of the control, God-Head or Mind, (subconscious or otherwise) that to the extent of our development, may and does control the Universal substance of mind and all form, the all prevailing and eternal substance of intelligence, form and vibration. When we look at the earth, rocks, trees, flowers, we see a lower developed formation of what we are a formation of. When we eat food, drink water, breathe air, we are simply transplanting from the outside to the inside what life is in and outside of ourselves. When we look at an animal, again we see a lower, (but higher than vegetable), formation of the same thing as composes our own being and when we look upon other people we see our own selves - all perfection, and if we raise our consciousness we may experience with our internal spiritual senses this perfection of all - experience with our perfect selves the harmony and peace of Universal being - of the Holy Ghost of celestial formation. First, to understand this oneness; second, to experience it introspectively; third, to apply it, use it, breathe this ideal into material realization - this, it seems to me, should be the trinity of our one, single and common purpose as related to ourselves for the good we may do in teaching others to do likewise. While we are teaching others to so attain and so apply we may help them to health, understanding and happiness through our own application in their behalf. Is this not your idea of an analysis of what our purpose should be? I know you agree with me, and I know you, with your powerful mind, will give your life, if necessary, (and you nearly have at times), in such a noble service.

“Probably you will say this is tiresome repetition, but Edgar, much has been given me - much has happened to me and I have learned much since my trip abroad. A new perspective, even if of the same thing has come to me. We have nothing to fear, unless it is lack of self-confidence, caused by others who have prestige in the world and our own lack of understanding. We cannot possibly lose anything, so long as we do not lose faith. We are in the Lord and He in us, to the extent that we shall even overcome death - it shall not stop us. The barrage of the mightiest of the gods goes before us. We are invincible, powerful, irresistible, unconquerable and victorious! We are positive, not negative; sure of ourselves but not dogmatic; living in a common and affectionate brotherhood but not weak or sloppy; loving the Lord and man, yet none may take advantage; all this are we, yet not us but He within us manifests through to make us all this - to give us an overflowing cup of health, prosperity and above all, understanding in mental and application.

“Are our little differences then so important? Do we not haggle over stones, while pearls lie at our feet? To you with your great mental development has come the joy of enriching the lives of many; of enriching the world; of glorifying man and, thus, God. Are our - yours and my - little differences really aggravating because I cannot go on without you, nor you without me? As a child needs both father and mother, so our child, our ideal, conceived from different viewpoints in the minds of both of us, needs both of us. That does not mean each is not a vital, important and integral part of the work - but you and I first conceived the ideal, transformed it into an idea, and have, above others, the mind power to breathe it into material realization.

“When we work in harmony, God alone knows how far we may go. Even in that, man calls death, you waited for me, (as I saw it), and even then we applied our power for good. When two such powerful forces clash, then the whole organization is disrupted - becomes discouraged - breaks down. Just as [137] can best give, minister to and teach some, so each of us best fits the mind of some. You are still the priest interpreting from that viewpoint; I am still the teacher and exhorter; [137] does what we teach and ministers accordingly - we each have our place - have we not? Look at it another way. I don’t know what chapter is your favorite in the Bible, but [137]‘s is ‘John’; mine, ‘Paul’. [See 900-454, Par. 18-A, 19-A] That somewhat indicates the difference, yet all of us may, should, must, work towards the same above described ideal, and through our institutions work to realize same. If we work in harmony we work scientifically and according to law and nothing may or can defeat the realization of our purpose. If we do not work in harmony, each from our own viewpoint, applying our own gifts, mental abilities and attributes towards this common purpose, then we tear down the house with one hand that we seek to build with the other. Is this not scientific, according to law? Is this not common sense? Then let us bury our little differences as unworthy of our glorious goal, and let the ideal inspire us to greater achievements, and the Spiritual Force, Father or God ever renew in our hearts greater courage and faith.

“True, some on our board have not gone very far, even in their efforts towards achieving a higher consciousness, so as to spiritualize, mortalize, eternalize even their physical natures, but consciously or unconsciously they grow with the seed we, who are making progress along these lines, implant within them - within their minds and hearts. They will get there, unless we falter or fail and disappoint them - in spite of their conscious selves. They do not, some of them, see us as we are. Some see us out of business eyes alone, putting our higher selves aside as secondary. Some see us as sincere but with doubtful eyes. Some see us in seemingly unbalanced or unfair physical positions; but all will someday see, but only when for themselves they have experienced with the inner eye, ear, nose and mouth, that which we, from within have experienced. Then will come the awakening that we all seek to bring about, and in seeking to give it to others achieve it in greater measure for ourselves, and thus bring to ourselves a greater measure of realization of our desires, material and otherwise, as well as greater peace and happiness.

“[137] has gone far in this direction and will achieve much more. To me the promise made twice, once in the reading and once to me direct by Jesus, is what your promise and vision was and is to you. I have never forgotten, nor will I ever forget the words in the reading taken in that little room in the … Hotel, N.Y. It was: ‘Let this entity know that again in Israel is one whom the Gods have given the approach to the throne - even to the Holy of Holies. Not in ages has one lived in the world so capable of understanding the symbols of the physical plane…’ [900-13?] etc. I shall never forget those words - hoping ever to merit them and prove faithful to them. The second promise, that of the Master who appeared before me saying: ‘While in the flesh ye shall serve man, but when thou art come into spirit, shalt thou rise and man shall worship thee as me.’ - And the reading interpreted this as real, saying that it was not an ordinary dream but: ‘Again the entity rises even to the Holy of Holies…’ etc. These are the two inspiring experiences of my life - and what you have done for me - the blessing and self-awakening that, through your service, have come to me, you may likewise bring to others and thus gather the lambs to His fold. Your own consciousness has risen to great heights, as we all know and your understanding of the Master’s teachings is great indeed. [195] we know, is developing and unfolding beautifully, and his achievement will be great indeed. Others will follow - and in Zion shall our name be written, in the glory of the kingdom shall we, all of us bask in peace and power and eternal life.

“I will not further bore you with my great experience in which the stars unfolded - when I saw my physical body in bed and left it to rise into what we call space - when I saw the formation of the soul - the son - the only begotten - in each of us - and was told: ‘Now you understand the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.’ Much of this experience I cannot recall physically - only feel it intuitively - some I remember - but it was mighty and happened while I lie sick in Nice. Yes, sick and how sick. That was an achievement for me. I collapsed completely while in Nice. My antrums throbbed; my ear hurt; a fierce boil developed on my neck; filled with poisons. I collapsed one evening in my room and they put me to bed. How I prayed and suffered that night no one will know. I wanted to cable for a reading yet was told to heal myself would be a triumph in faith and learning for me. I wanted no doctor, yet the next afternoon as my fever mounted and I felt about ready to die, I asked for a doctor. [136] rallied, or the forces did through her. ‘Don’t have one, [900]’ she said. And how that little soul did work with me. Day and night, constantly, both of us following that given to do through our own consciousness’. I could feel the forces about, working on me. I talked to them, naturally - yet this afternoon as I weakened, I lost awareness of them and [136] strengthened. ‘Ask them if we are doing the right thing,’ I replied to [136]. She replied that they said we were. Remember we were alone - the two of us, knowing no one - among those who hardly spoke our language. As [136] said: ‘One of the hardest jobs was to make them understand what we wanted.’ The first night was tough indeed. I went to the bathroom and fainted there. When I returned I felt them working on me. One spoke to me in French and strangely enough I understood him. He cheered me and laughingly I answered out loud, saying merely, ‘Oui’, meaning ‘Yes.’ The second night I felt the blood being forced through my veins - I was half asleep. I was told what to eat and about 4 A.M., I heard my father say: ‘Now we have met the enemy and they are ours’. The next day my ear and antrum was better. The boil opened, but even yet my neck is bandaged. The next night was one of peace and the great experience. The third day I felt much better, and I’m sure here again, what would be considered a miracle was performed. The third day [136] said: ‘They tell me you should get up awhile.’ I tried. It was tough and wanted to get back to bed. [136] said they were telling her: ‘Tell him to stand up and tell himself he is well. Make him stay up.’ I did. That night Irving Steiner, who died of cancer of the rectum, announced himself and said: “Now watch his kidneys. Give him enemas and guard closely.’ A doctor told us what medicine to get - a doctor in spirit and I got it - took it and am still taking it. The doctor spoke to me saying, ‘Now I don’t want you to put too much Mercurochrome on your boil. Take the medicine I gave you, (a peculiar foreign concoction of beef, iron and wine, but better for me than any I have ever taken), and in 8 days from last Monday your boil will be better. Again and again and again I tell you, watch your diet and rest. You need quiet, rest, sleep and light foods. Stay much in the sunshine. I will watch you.’

“Well, now what would you call that? Thank Him within. I am feeling fine again. True, my cheeks scare people, they are so sunken and I feel embarrassed. True, I need weight, but I’m gaining remarkably every day. [136] says I now look better than when we left N.Y. and I certainly feel better. Did I have a doctor? The king of doctors. Did I have a reading? Many of them. The Lord has given to me a thousand fold whatever little I have given to Him. I may only serve - never repay and I’ll never forget that lesson and I pray I may hold to that consciousness of and in the Universal that I had during my short but horrible illness - for which I am thankful since it helped bring me to that.

“For this I thank you and the service you have rendered. A great unfoldment you have given to me and awakened me to a power the readings have told me I have, but which I never before realized. Above all, I am grateful to Him who did the work, and if the help you give others awakens them anywhere near to this degree - that they may do for themselves what the readings do for them - then you are doing a bigger work indeed, than any of us ever dreamed of.

“My best to you and yours…”

R13. 2/18—21/30 EC was in N.Y. [137] and [257] and [165] met with him at Health Rooms, Inc. See [295]‘s diary-like account, in the [295] series.

R14. 2/24/30 [137]‘s letter to EC:

”…As a suggestion for the hospital report, as a result of our week-end last week, I submit for your approval the following resolutions:

(1) - that the Association of National Investigators, Inc., extend to Dr. Parker [James R. Parker, M.D.] their appreciation of the services offered by him in the time of their need.

(2) - that under the present regime of the hospital, it would be to the advantage of the hospital to have Dr. Parker retained, but this in a part-time manner.

(3) - It is suggested by the Committee that Dr. Parker be retained at a salary of $100 per month, to visit the hospital once a week, and to fill such needs at that time as the Chief of Staff requires. Also, that Dr. Parker, in the event of any necessity, be at the call of the Chief of Staff, other than this once a week visit.

(4) - Upon the completion of our Auxiliary Building for the hospital, the only persons entitled to their free board and lodging will be the nurses. All others will be charged $30 per month for board and lodging, this being a very nominal figure as compared to similar institutions.

(5) - Upon completion of investigation regarding a suitable X-Ray for the hospital, Dr. Lydic will submit these findings to the Hospital Committee for their action.

(6) - Dr. Lydic shall proceed with his installation of a laboratory and other things of a minor financial nature, as he sees fit to make our Research Department a perfect unit.

“If these suggestions are not as you feel they should be, don’t hesitate to let me know, or if you have any additions to make, please do so…”

R15. 3/11/30 EC’s letter to [900]:

”…Well, I’m certainly glad to know you are back, safe and alright, and that you are all feeling pretty good. Of course we are all rather anxious to see you and talk with you, and hear about your trip. I am sure you had a great time, and that it was well worthwhile.

“Everything is going along fairly well, I think. Of course, we can’t tell all the little things that have come up, or do come up. You will only see those when you are here. We made note of the beginning of the lecture. While the hallway, or the smoking room, is not as big or broad a place as the living room upstairs, I think it will be a very good place to have the meetings temporarily, and it will be a great deal better - for both the study class and the Sunday afternoon lectures - to have them there, than to have to go off to some other place. Naturally, with the discussions that have gone on, pro and con, concerning the possibility of the university, there has been a great deal more interest manifested in a general way, than there has been heretofore. In fact, we are having a great many more local applications for readings, and for people to enter the hospital, than we have ever had before. There are four or five in the hospital at present from Norfolk. So, you may know that there is considerable interest being manifested in the vicinity, that we hadn’t had until recently.

“I got hold of Mr. Simpson, the County Surveyor or Engineer, and had Him go over the grounds. As it happened, Mr. Lee was there looking after the construction of the forms for the foundation of the nurses home, and he went over it with Mr. Simpson. They were in a big hurry, but drew off a rough sketch, which I think will explain the situation to Mr. Emmons [Laurence B. Emmons of Laurence B. Emmons, Inc., architect?, interior decorator, NYC.] in such a way that he will have no trouble in figuring on the foundation measurements for working plans. Roughly, it means the foundation, or top of foundation for the buildings, will be four and a half feet above the roadway level. This will make the most economical situation, as we figured out this morning - forcing us to make the least fills, to dig the least for the foundation, the least excavation and the least filling, and should give proper height for all the lower floors. I hope this will prove just what Mr. Emmons will need for the foundation end of the proposition.

“Kindest regards and love from all to all…”

R16. 3/19/30 [900]‘s letter to EC:

”…Enclosed please find check in the amount of $1,000, about which I spoke to you over the telephone.

“Will you please send Laurence Emmons a check in the amount of $1,000. As he has been calling me several times, and as I have already delayed it considerably, I would appreciate your sending him check without delay.

“We expect to be down Saturday noon, and will talk things over with you at that time, and will, therefore, not draw this letter out any longer.

“It was good to hear your voice again, and I assure you I look forward with much anticipation to seeing you and all, this week-end…”

R17. 3/21/30 [900]‘s wire to EC:

“Please wire if foundation plans received from Emmons and if these are sufficient to proceed…” [See Source File Key #900 for sketches showing the proposed architectural design of Atlantic University by Laurence B. Emmons re 900-464.]

R18. 3/21/30 EC’s wire to [900]:

“Sufficient to proceed. Thanks.” Edgar

R19. 3/22/30 He obtained his next Check Physical reading, 900-465.

R20. 5/9/30 [900]‘s letter to EC:

”…Enclosed please find the letter sent to me some time ago, which I have no doubt you want for your files.

“We have received a letter from Lydic, stating that 10% of the X-Ray must be paid immediately. This 10% would amount to about $300. Would you be so kind as to pay that out of the money we gave you, and then we will take care of the later payments as they come due. This will allow for the installation of the X-Ray immediately.

“Will you please send [137] and myself some application blanks to the Association.

“I am in receipt of a letter from [195] who objects strenuously to using the property we spoke of, as a private enterprise to build houses for the faculty. The following is an exact quotation from his letter:

‘It has always been a vision to me of a large hospital on 106th Street, [now 68th St.] built on 106th Street, facing the ocean. We could, by purchasing all the property on both sides of 106th Street, have the street vacated to us and acquire title thereto. This will probably come much sooner than we now anticipate, and I feel we can get balance of lots on 106th Street when the proper time comes.

‘In the meantime, if individuals feel the idea of a present real estate venture is feasible, there is plenty of property available for building purposes that could be purchased cheaply enough.

‘I am merely writing this to you to voice my objections to using 106th Street property for anything at this time, or until that time when some comprehensive plan is adopted and completed for expansion of the hospital.’

“Thus, you see, [195] is decidedly opposed to using Association property for this purpose, and in lieu of this, I would advise that we discard the idea unless we choose to purchase some additional property as a personal enterprise, for this purpose.

“Nothing else new since you left.

“As always, we appreciate the many services you rendered us, and thank you kindly for same.

“[137] wishes to convey the news, that [140] is getting along very nicely now…”

Background

Background

B1. See 900-463 on 12/26/29.

Mentioned Entities

Purpose, Ideal, Jesus Christ, France, Gertrude Cayce, Gladys Davis, New York City, Physical Body, Soul, A.R.E. (Association for Research and Enlightenment), Christ Consciousness, Dayton Ohio, Entity (Cayce Term), Grace, Holy Spirit, Russia, Subconscious Mind, Throne of God, Trinity, Vibration

Source: The Complete Edgar Cayce Readings, A.R.E. CD-ROM (2006). Reading 900-464, ReadingID 5667.