Theos-Talk Archives (July 2001 Message tt00373)

teos9@aol.com wrote:

> In a message dated 7/29/2001 4:10:18 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
> dalval14@earthlink.net writes:

>
> > No one ever "looses" a determined student.

>
> We simply do not know what happens to a seeker who has been among us for a
> time and then decides to "move on" based on an ill formed opinion of what
> "Theosophy" is. Determined or not, students who flee prematurely because of
> witnessing unending, petty, often, unintelligible (to them) , personality
> issues, have been "cut down" in the midst of their search. "STUDY" of
> theosophy, implies a learning environment is in place. One where the student
> can bring his longings and quests for guidance, for fair hearing and exchange.

MKR: I completely agree. There have been instances of newbees on theosophical
maillists being intimidated into entering into discussion fearful of being
confronted due to their views. The maillists can be very intimidating for a
newbee. I have personally encouraged several newbees who were in such a position
telling them that here everyone is on a level and everyone is entitled to their
opinions and statements however ridiculous they may look. Such encouragement do
work. On the other hand, I am not sure how many newbees were turned of or scared
off. Oft I have mentioned that the theosophical movement cannot afford to lose
even a single person who may be inquiring into theosophy and its doctrines. And it
may be recalled that in the famous Maha Chohan letter, this issue of handling
newbees is discussed as it is an extremely important matter.

>
> >Personally all the "history" (and the bickering) proves nothing,
> >in my esteem. It is the irreversible past. And the Karma
> >thereof will be that of he individuals involved.

>
> As will the Karma of omitting to serve a newcomer properly, be ours. I think
> that one of our purposes, is to provide a modern venue, where all who thirst
> after wisdom, may be shown a way, that many in the past, have acquired it. I
> would suggest that we are in danger of failing our task and that those who
> agree with the above quotation have learned nothing about what "history" or
> "bickering," has to teach, and accordingly are bound to an undying
> repetition.

>
> Sensitivity, to the needs of those who are newly arrived in our midst, MUST
> count for something. A callous attitude regarding the diminishing numbers of
> seekers who turn to THEOSOPHY for counsel and knowledge, is an attitude that
> all true theosophists can ill afford.

MKR: "MUST" count a lot... We who work for dissemination of Theosophy would be
derelict in our duty if we do not do our best to encourage every newcomer since
that is the duty of every theosophist. In my opinion, all the knowledge about the
intricate details about Cosmogenesis and Anthropogenesis should come only next to
this prime duty.

In friendship

mkr


>
> Louis