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Re: Theos-World The 3 societies

May 05, 2005 09:04 PM
by John Vorstermans


Hi All,

For me theosophy is a heart-minded self-inquiry into the ageless wisdom. It is not so much about the writings of any one person or group of people. My own inquiry takes me to all sorts of places and material beyond that of any of the Theosophical Societies. However it seems to me that theosophy is not simply studying but it is a way of life and that this "life" and our relationship to it are the best teachers.

In one sense, the several splits in the T.S. in the past showed that there was a keen interest in Theosophy and that there were those with a real devotion to the organisation. I don't see this as negative or one side being right or wrong but simply a characteristic of human nature. When we hold on to something too strongly then that is often the time that we need to learn to let go. Egos get in the way all the time and we all have one. :-)

When Societies split, the factions often get caught up in differences. When this happens then there can only be continued division. When we study comparatively, religion, philosophy and science, do we look at differences or commonality? What have the organisations got in common? A great deal really. The way we do this does make a big difference. Everyone has something to contribute and as an organisation(s) we have always promoted open minded inquiry which we would do well to continue to foster. As soon as we get into critism of individuals or personalities, we really show that we have lost our way.
On an intellectual level it is very hard to define "truth." Certainly there is my truth and your truth but they are not necessary the same as universal truth but simply relative to where we stand in life, or our degree of ignorance. If we understand this then we really learn to appreciate what anyone has to say or has to contribute.

One of the great things about email lists like this is in the sharing. I haven't often felt moved to say much on the list over the last years but I often do get a lot out of people contributions and the exchange of views and inquiry into points that are made.

Critism of personalities really lower the tone of the good work that is done through this list.

- jv





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