Theos-Talk Archives (October 1997 Message tt00086)

Paul J seems to have had a most unfortunate experience with some
part of the theosophical movement in that the tone of his
offering to the discussion gives the impression that he has
tarred the whole tribe of theosophists, at least in the upper
echelons, with the same brush! I have perhaps been more fortunate
in my experience.

One of the most impresive theosophists I ever met was the then
President of the Adyar TS, Mr.  N.  Sri Ram.  A gentle and
unassuming man of immense theosophical erudition, he displayed
not a scintilla of intolerance of differing views of what
constitutes theosophy.  His successor, John Coats, was of like
ilk.  I spent quite some time travelling with John who was most
catholic in his dealings.  One hesitates to bring a living person
into the discussion and I trust that she will forgive me, but as
editor of the Theosophical Encyclopedia I have found Grace
Knoche, Leader of the Pasdena TS most cordial and accommodating
in spite of the fact that the project is in the hands of
'Adyarites'.

I think that it is true that many theosophists tend to be very
protective of their pet 'theosophical worthies' and tenets, but
we ought not to have trouble with this very human trait.  Such an
attitude is surely better by far than the present mode in the
media of 'cutting down the tall poppies' when they do not have,
becaue they are dead or not in the position (vide the British
Royal Family), any hope of defending themselves.

It is a matter of concern to me and, I am sure, many others, that
so many talented individuals expend so much time and energy
raking over the cold ashes of bygone disputes or hair-splitting
over the use of terminology etc., rather than joining together in
a concerted effort to bring this wonderful philosophy before the
'rudderless' and 'beliefless' masses.

It is a matter of record that this person was National Lecturer
for the Australian Section of the TS for four years.  During that
time I sometimes had occasion to draw attention to what are, in
my opinion, numerous errors in our literature.  It is possible
that some may not have agreed with me, but nevertheless I was
re-elected without cavil.  I speak as I find!