Theos-Talk Archives (October 1997 Message tt00097)

Joined theos-talk early October and have followed the discussions
with much interest.  My first e-mail was Chuck Cosimano's missive
on Karma and one might be excused for momentarily wondering where
TS was heading! Fortunately, Philip Harris' excellent response
put matters right and the subsequent discussions have been
enlightening and thought-provoking.

As a newcomer I have only a limited impression of theos-talk and
Theosophy.  However, the debate has tended to revolve more around
teoretical/intellectual philosophy and less with practical
integration of the Theosophical teachings or divine wisdom in our
self-development and daily lives.  The subject has come up, but
only briefly and latest in

letters Oct 16/20 by Visanu Sirichote/Mark Jaqua which referred
to a statement that there is "a need for self-reliance and that
people are more or less on their own".  The same postings
included other quotes as well and Buddha's last words: "Be a lamp
unto thyself".

HPB states in "Studies in Occultism" that true occultism or
Theosophy is "the great renunciation of self" unconditionally and
absolutely, in thought and in action (p.17).  Furthermore, the
applicant has to choose absolutely between the life of the world
and the life of occultism (p.22).  Most of us are bound by wordly
duties and few are in the enviable position of choosing
absolutely between the two.  It is for most only possible to take
a path of the "golden mean".  Being tied to the material

world such as running a business (sometimes in boilerroom
conditions!), raising a family etc how many can choose true
chelaship and isolate our mind entirely from our body and its
surroundings.

It seems that if one is to be a true follower of Theosophy, there
is no middle road.  Each one is on his/her own in following the
spiritual path and must commit unequivably to the world of
occultism.  Might that be the reason the teachings have failed to
catch on among the large masses?

Peter A. Tryde
Hong Kong