Category: Teachings

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Supporting Goodwill

December 23, 2020July 11, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Supporting Goodwill

As we announced few days ago we have launched a new group to promote the Declaration of Goodwill.

Here are the words from the master teacher Djwhal Khul that inspired this document:

“The main hierarchical need today (apart from its need for workers) is the forming everywhere of such groups as yours, the relating of group with group within the range of influence of that super group, the Hierarchy. Such groups are forming now in their thousands and are to be found in every land, and they will eventually blend and fuse together into one great movement of goodwill, which is spirit in actual expression. Aspirants everywhere, Arcane School students the world over, and my group of special workers such as yourself, must contact these groups, bringing them together on one point only, and that is Goodwill. Each group must necessarily be left free to proceed with its own destiny and mode of work. Unity is a necessary ideal and is the reverse side of Goodwill. Unitedly, when the right time comes, these groups must issue a great manifesto to the world – identical manifestos being issued in each country by all the groups who stand for world unity and goodwill. Thus they will make the word “goodwill” carry power throughout the planet, whilst the disciples and aspirants will, through their thought, make the word “unity” carry hidden power. Thus a vast band of men of goodwill will be working unitedly, yet independently, and there will be made available – in moments of world crisis – an organised, ready and world-wide public opinion of such strength and organisation that it cannot be ignored.” Discipleship in the New Age, Vol 2, Page 457

The plan is to first introduce the idea here and encourage all to endorse the Declaration by joining the Declaration of Goodwill group. Unlike creating some petition that you sign all you do to support the Declaration is to join the group. Your name on the membership means you support there basic idea of promoting goodwill to all in an attempt to be a healing force for the planet .

The second thing is to invite your friends of goodwill to support the Declaration by becoming a member. These can be people of any belief system

The third thing we will do is reach out to all other groups of goodwill and invite them to either join with us or issue a declaration of their own with a wording that is agreeable to them.

Then after enough momentum is gained we can unitedly influence public opinion and those in power in a positive rather than the current negative direction.

What is true goodwill? The answer should be obvious, but to many it is not.

Goodwill is not something limited to being friendly to those with whom you agree. That takes no power of “will.” It is easy to be friendly to those of your inner circle of friendly faces. The “will” part of goodwill is engaged when one extends the hand of friendship to those who are not in agreement and may even seem to be an enemy.

To extend goodwill one does not have to compromise beliefs or agree with those who oppose you. Instead, the greater the opposition to what you think is good the greater is the need for goodwill. If your neighbor has some political or religious beliefs you think are crazy, destructive or just plain wrong then that is where the opportunity resides.

Consider this. How much will the guy change if you approach him or her and let him know in no uncertain words that you think he is crazy? This will merely have the effect of him standing more firmly on his beliefs while dismissing yours.

But suppose you invite your neighbor over for a barbeque and instead of attacking his beliefs you seek for something in common first. Maybe you both like the same movies or football team and start talking about that.

Consider this: Now you have reached points of agreement in a spirit of goodwill do you think he will be more open to other things you might say that may differ from his beliefs?

Yes. Instead if picking your beliefs apart he will be more likely to seek points of agreement or at worst agree to disagree, but maintain a spirit of friendship. In other words, because of your goodwill he will not feel like throwing rocks through your windows.

Going to extremes is generally a destructive approach and this applies to goodwill. It would be an extreme to accuse others of violating the principle of goodwill merely because they disagree with us, but this is the area where goodwill needs to be applied. Where goodwill will be especially helpful will be in obvious infractions where such perpetrators need to be reminded of accomplishing their goals in constructive rather than destructive ways. Some actions that violate goodwill and need to be pointed out as such are:

(1) Any physical violence of one person or group against another that is not an act of self defense.

This is listed as number one for this is the most obvious act that violates goodwill

(2) Any statement that calls for physical violence against another human being.

(3) Name calling using words that are obviously negative and attacking. Examples of such words are hypocrite, liar, hater, bigot, stupid, racial and religious slurs and others.

The key is to not stereotype a person’s identity with an accusation. If you think the guy is lying, for instance, instead of just calling him a liar, as if that is all he is, instead, state back to him the words you think are not true and say something like:

“You said this (quote statement) but here is why I think this is not true.”

This approach does not create ill will as when you just categorize the guy as a “liar.”

The same applies to other attack words. The right approach can make the offender consider the error of his words where an attack approach will just cause him to plant his feet more firmly in his beliefs.

(4) Protesting or interrupting officials or people with who you disagree in their private homes, restaurants or places not designed for airing grievances.

(5) Anti protesting. This should be discouraged as when a group of protesters are met by anti protesters violence and increased ill will is often the result. Protesters should be encouraged to protest separately for their own cause and should be allowed to do so without interruption even though we may disagree. Protest later if you want but not the same time in the same place as your opposition. That’s just asking for trouble.

There is a large silent majority of people who favor good will over ill will and attack. Many feel their hands are tied and there is nothing they can do.

Perhaps there is something we can do if we gather together and let those who seek to disrupt the peace of society know that their approach is not acceptable, yet at the same time extending the hand of friendship to all.

Watch short video on Goodwill HERE

Support goodwill by joining The Declaration of Goodwill:

Read the Declaration HERE

Dec 23, 2020

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DECLARATION OF GOODWILL

December 23, 2020July 11, 2021 Joseph Dewey

DECLARATION OF GOODWILL

We, the people of goodwill from all nations, who desire to see the people of this planet progress in a state of peace, safety, and friendship, find it necessary to act and issue this Declaration of Goodwill.

Polarizing rhetoric, accompanied with vitriol and name-calling, from leaders, celebrities and media spawns tension among the masses and undermines goodwill and cooperation. Therefore, we, the silent majority and people of goodwill on this planet, have decided to take action and issue a call to correction. Such a correction is essential, for our leaders have power to take us into wars and conflict that could destroy our civilization.

We do not expect our leaders to be perfect or agree with us or each other on all matters, for that is beyond the present ability of most individuals. But there is one thing all can do that will pave the way to quieting the present conflict and opening the door to peace on earth.

We can all be civil to each other and send goodwill rather than the prevailing ill will we currently witness. Loving our neighbor as ourselves is at the core of the teachings of every great messenger of the past and we need to be reminded of this now, perhaps more than any time in our history.

The great majority of us who are not in power do not hate those who vote or think differently than ourselves, nor do we care about their race, sex, or status; we are willing to extend a hand of friendship and goodwill to all who will accept it. We do not call others hateful names or desire to hurt them, but seek harmlessness in all discourse and interaction. Name calling is out of the question for us and it should be for our leaders as well.

Many leaders and media personalities seem to think that personal attacks are justified, as it highlights how bad the “other guy” is in order to affect change; but negative tactics often beget negative rather than positive change. Calling our neighbors “haters” when they see themselves as loving people results in resentment and often fuels the emotions of the projected name calling. The attack thus brings forth the hate that was not previously there. Many leaders and media personalities understand this principle and use it to polarize and create false animosity where none should exist.

So much grief in the world can be avoided if our leaders would embrace the spirit of goodwill, as it is longed for in so many of us who silently watch these reckless attacks.

Therefore, we the people of goodwill call on leaders and media who fail to embrace a higher path to match the positive spirit of goodwill that exists in most of humanity, the common people.

The day of watching leaders bring us to the brink of destruction is over. Sending peace and goodwill is our charge as we seek to transform our societies throughout the world.

It is true we have problems to solve which require rigorous debate and uncomfortable discussions, but we cannot solve them by demonizing each other. If we look for the best in one another and give our neighbors the benefit of the doubt, we have a much better chance of solving problems and reaching agreement.

Therefore, we the people of goodwill can no longer silently stand by and watch angry persons of power set the world aflame. All those with influence must be held accountable and shamed from hateful speech and emotion toward goodwill and friendship for all.

We, therefore, will watch our leaders and others with influence and call them out when they violate the principle of goodwill. When such a violation occurs, we will write them letters, emails, make posts on social media, and communicate our displeasure in every peaceful means possible to make them aware of their destructive behavior.

On the other hand, when people of influence perform positive acts of goodwill that deserve recognition, we will go out of our way to praise and recognize them.

Leaders and people of influence include:

Political, spiritual and business leaders
Celebrities of any kind
Those in the media, especially writers
People of influence in social media and on the internet

Last of all, there are those of lesser influence among family, friends and associates who need to be reminded to be and remain civil.

The simple fact is this. We need to start with ourselves. If each of us does our part to extend goodwill and friendship to all, and encourage others to do the same, the world will be healed and we can safely enter into a new era of peace and goodwill.

Watch short video presentation HERE

Instead of signing some endorsement we invite you to endorse the idea by joining the Goodwill group. By joining you are saying you support the Declaration of Goodwill. After joining you are under no obligation for further participation though we hope all members will support Goodwill at every opportunity.

Support goodwill now by joining The Declaration of Goodwill

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Group Synthesis, Part 11

December 19, 2020January 9, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Group Synthesis, Part 11
The Ideal Spiritual Group

There are, as we know, many spiritual groups out there with widely different goals and of various different qualities. We come to an important question?

What are the ideal qualities that would be most conducive in aiding seekers of light and truth?

(1) The first, and what we may call the foundation ingredient, would be a purpose, most preferably a positive or benevolent one.

Without a specific purpose the group will drift and eventually disintegrate.

Groups with a purpose may be divided into a number of categories.

(A) A group dedicated to studying a specific set of teachings.

There are many groups like this on the internet and some meeting physically. They do not demand anything out of the ordinary from members but meet to encourage study and the sharing of information.

These can be useful for the seeker merely wanting to expand his knowledge in certain areas.

(B) In addition to educating members some add social interaction, gatherings, seminars etc.

Making friends and interacting with like-minded souls is a big draw for many.

(D) Groups with a goal to convert others to their belief system. This includes many churches as well as some alternative spiritual groups. Most people do not mind a gentle take-it-or-leave-it presentation of various groups, but many are turned off by heavy handed proselytizing and the our-way-or-the -highway approach.

(E) Groups with a goal to elevate the consciousness or spiritual quality of its members. These groups will present various goals of possible enlightenment for its members.

A longer list could be stated but overall successful groups will have several such ingredients as part of its purpose. For the wise seeker a most important ingredient is one that stimulates or aids the him or her forward on the path to greater light, truth, and liberation.

Once the seeker finds a group with a purpose in harmony with his ideal what should be the next important quality? High on the list should be:

(2) Freedom of Thought.

The wise spiritual seeker will avoid groups that seek to control its members and insist on rigid conformity or be ostracized.

A good test is for the seeker to participate in discussions and ask several questions that may challenge the perfection of the leader or group teachings.

When this happens, the response in many groups is this: The leaders as well as many members will frown on such a character and immediately start to squeeze him out of the group unless he conforms and quits asking difficult questions.

The ideal group will welcome challenging questions and seek to answer them. It is indeed a good sign when the seeker finds such an atmosphere as it indicates that there is no hidden agenda. There is nothing more stifling to true learning than to be restricted to conformist and limited doctrine.

Keep in mind that we are not encouraging a student to become a distraction and become a contrarian. A student who takes the class off topic or asks all kinds of nit picking questions is another matter. Extremes always create problems.

(3) Putting the Spiritual above the Material

The vast majority of spiritually related groups claim with their words to emphasize the spiritual, but many with their deeds say otherwise. Larger groups may reveal their deviation from the ideal by merely showing us where the money goes. Some leaders have a lavish lifestyle and the group may spend the money on elaborate structures rather than on the people or the spiritual work.

The Oregon cult of Bhagwan Rajneesh was a prime example of what not to do. He had 93 Rolls Royce automobiles and drove around in a different one every week. Not only was his focus strongly on money but also free sex.

It is also obvious to seekers that many of the churches are far too materialistic with some leaders also living lavish lifestyles and focusing on the carnal rather than the spiritual side of life.

Then you have many small alternative spiritual groups. Some are led by true servants who sacrifice materially to assist members; whereas, others are led by a guru trying to get rich as well as have lots of sex partners on the way – not to speak of feeding a big ego.

The ideal here, of course, is for the group and its leadership to be dedicated to spiritual above the material.

(4) The group should offer something of value to the individual, the group, the world, or all three.

The beginning seeker will seek self improvement. The more advanced will seek for the group good, union and interplay. As the pilgrim moves forward he or she will become more far-reaching in vision and seek the greatest good for the greatest number until a benefit for the whole world is embraced.

The individual must assess the level his learning and service is to embrace and find a group which will meet the need.

(5) The group’s teachings and goals must register as positive with the soul of the student.

None of us want to get caught up in teachings that will take us further into illusion. Each student therefore has a personal responsibility to check with his own soul and see how the group and its leaders register. The group will probably not be perfect, but it may be positive enough to take the student on his next step of the journey.

Here is a pertinent quote from DK:

“People may evince real desire to participate in the group life and to form part of the group activity, but their real difficulty will consist in bringing their personal life and vibration into conformity with the group life and rhythm. The narrow path which all disciples have to tread (and in the early stages these groups will consist primarily of those on the Probationary Path or the Path of Discipleship) requires obedience to certain instructions which have been handed down to us from the ancient past. These are followed willingly and with the eyes open, but no rigid adherence to the letter of the law is ever asked or expected. Flexibility within certain self-imposed limits is always needed, yet that flexibility must not be set in motion by any personality inertia or mental questioning.” Esoteric Psychology, Vol 2, Page 187

Dec 19, 2020

To read Part 1 go HERE , Part 2, HERE , Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 7 HERE, Part 8 HERE, Part 9 HERE, Part 10 HERE, Part 12 HERE, Part 13 HERE

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Group Synthesis, Part 10

December 14, 2020January 9, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Group Synthesis, Part 10
Working with Other Groups

Here is the next question to consider:

How should my group work with other groups as far as goals, activities and teachings go?

There are three approaches of the various groups.

(1) Group leadership feels that they want to focus on their group purpose and keep interplay with other groups to a minimum or zero though some data may be exchanged. This is the most common group.

(2) Group leadership seeks to cooperate with other groups as much as possible and looks for opportunities. This would include more than inviting other groups to agree with the group’s teachings, but to seek cooperation in areas of agreement and overlap or even working to coordinate other groups. There are only a handful of groups in this category.

(3) Those with specific or unique group goals for their primary focus, yet look for (or at least open to) areas of overlap with other groups where cooperation is possible.

There are a few in this area and the number is slowly growing.

It is interesting to examine the churches and their evolution as groups. Just a few generations ago there was virtually no cooperation between the various churches. Each felt they had the correct direction and did little or nothing to seek areas of agreement or cooperation. Other sects were seen as the enemy to be defeated.

Today many new agers criticize the churches for being narrow minded, but overlook the progress they have made. Now many are seeking some overlap where they can work together and many different sects see areas of agreement in their church doctrines.

It is true that they are far from the ideal, but there is no doubt that progress toward synthesis has been made.

The present condition of many of the new age and esoteric groups is not much better than the churches. Many of them lack inclusiveness and are very guarded toward their members and teachings and do not seek cooperation in overlapping ideas.

Once in a while though there is an event that unites many of them. One of the largest was the Harmonic Convergence back in 1987. This was inspired by an unusual alignment of the sun, the moon and six planets. It does seem that solar events seem to be one thing that brings differing esoteric groups together for unified meditations geared toward world peace and unity.

Then too, every so often someone will come up with an idea for an event, like a moment of silence at a special time, that catches on.

The teachings in the Alice A. Bailey books on the full moon festivals and meditations have gained wide acceptance and many different new age and esoteric groups unite in meditation on these occasions.

But, overall the alternative spiritual groups have a long way to go to cooperate together effectively enough to influence world affairs in the desired direction of “peace on earth, goodwill toward men” (or humankind).

A question that needs to be asked is

How much should the various groups seek to cooperate and seek areas of agreement with other groups?

The answer is that it will vary accord to group purpose. If, for example, a group maintains that cooperation, synthesis and unity with all world servers is an objective then they naturally assume some responsibility to make this happen as much as possible.

If another has specific goals unique to itself that doesn’t involve outreach to other groups then their responsibility is much lower.

But wouldn’t this type of group be separative and just wrong?

Some may be, but others not so much. Let us illustrate with a non spiritual example.

We have two groups, one dedicated to learning French and the other Spanish. As far as group purpose goes each of these has every little overlap with groups dedicated to any other language or subject. If the French group wants to effectively learn French then focusing on the goals of a Spanish or astronomy group would be unproductive and distract from real learning.

Even so, the goal of some spiritual groups may be the study of select materials with which they want to focus. This is the case with the majority of groups on the internet.

On the other hand, many spiritual groups are different from something like a dedicated Spanish group in that many spiritual teachings, such as the Bailey works, emphasize synthesis sharing and the seeking of joining minds to bring in the new age.

Thus, even though the group may have a dedicated curriculum they should be open to living up to those teachings that are included.

This would mean that the ideal group with a specific purpose would still keep their eyes open for opportunities for cooperation with other groups with overlapping teachings and values.

Many students are somewhat frustrated by the conflict that is in the emotional atmosphere, as of this writing in December 2020, and feel that not only should the various groups be more open to promoting overlapping spiritual values, but groups are too reluctant to reach out and offer friendship and opportunities for synthesis.

This is definitely an area worthy of contemplation for all benevolent groups.

DK make an encouraging comment:

“The Spirit of Peace which is invoked is an inter-planetary Agent of great power Whose cooperation has been promised if all aspirants and disciples can cooperate to break through the shell of separation and hatred which holds our planet in thrall.” Externalization of the Hierarchy, Page 21

Dec 11, 2020

To read Part 1 go HERE , Part 2, HERE , Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 7 HERE, Part 8 HERE, Part 9 HERE, Part 11 HERE, Part 12 HERE, Part 13 HERE

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Group Synthesis, Part 9

December 11, 2020January 9, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Group Synthesis, Part 9
(F) Too much attention on the personality
(Finishing up on group problems)

The Prime Directive of true Aquarian spiritual groups is to direct its members to focus on the soul, or the Christ within themselves and others, rather than the outward imperfections of the personality.

This is a most difficult lesson for the student to learn. The test of correct focus indeed comes to light when other members seem to speak or act out of alignment with what is thought to be personal or group standards or goals.

Yes, there are times that other group members will show their personality imperfections (real or imagined) but the problem caused by such things often winds up being insignificant compared to some member rising up and openly calling out and criticizing others.

If there was a positive and peaceable spirit before the criticism, there generally will not be one afterwards. A harsh criticism can have the immediate effect of shifting the entire group focus toward the negative rather than a positive group goal. A criticism, just or unjust, will often lead to defense followed by attack leading to an endless circle that often does not get resolved.

Then there are times that the criticism is ignored. This often does not work either as negativity then remains and lurks below the surface. It also grows within the critic as he or she feels ignored.

DK has a lot to say about the problem of a critical spirit interfering with group unity.

“Let me put it this way: the petty selfishness and the silly little vanities and the irritations which disturb you, the unkind words you may speak of or to others, and the withholding of love or the fact of wrong emphasis in your daily life are not noted by me or by any Master. They are the affair of your own soul; the results affect your family, friend, or communal group, and are none of Our business. Yet those are the things which you notice in others and which affect your judgment, evoking like or dislike, praise or blame, but inevitably putting you—as an individual—upon the judgment seat. There no Master sits.” Discipleship in the New Age, Vol 2, Pages 334-335

“The difficulties confronting you are, therefore, great and I am anxious that you should realise this. Will you realise, for instance, that any differences of opinion which may occur in the relations of this group of disciples will be caused by astral-brain reactions and, therefore, must not be considered of any importance whatsoever? They must be immediately eliminated and wiped from the slate of the mind and of the memory and classed as entirely personality limitations and unworthy of hindering group integrity. … The astral-physical brain reactions should be regarded as non-existent and as illusion and should be allowed to lapse below the threshold of the group consciousness—there to die for lack of attention.” Discipleship in the New Age, Vol 1, Page 22

Then he gives the reason the personality flaws must be overlooked:

“Only as servers cooperate from the standpoint of an inner subjective linking can a united world be carried forward…. the inner relationships and cooperation Must be established and developed, in spite of the outer divergences of opinion.” Esoteric Psychology, Vol 2, Page 106

In advanced ashrams the members generally have learned to look beyond the personality to the Christ within the various members. Members of such groups are almost impossible to offend, but rarely would any group member try to.

On the other hand, groups forming among exoteric humanity will gather in a variety of souls, many of whom do not comprehend the importance of looking beyond the personality. The first lesson of any newly formed group will be to learn to see the personality as illusion and the soul as the reality wherein focus needs to dwell.

One may object and say something to the effect, “But what if that Jones character is rude, crude and crazy? Shouldn’t I say something? Surely something needs to be done.”

Of course, there are exceptions to everything, but when should the exception be made? After all, if Jones is really doing something outrageous, like promoting child pornography, something indeed should be done. What should be the criteria for just group criticism from a member?

First of all, let us consider what is not appropriate. The first question the offended member must ask himself is whether others in the group also have a similar problem with Jones. If you are the only one who feels like complaining then maybe you are magnifying the problem far beyond what it is. Maybe you are creating a problem (negativity) where none should exist rather than solving anything.

Secondly, if Jones is doing something truly harmful it will not be just one or two people who are disgruntled but a high percentage. It will be brought to the attention of the leader and he will remove someone with egregious flaws (child porn, for example) from the group. If the leader is so materially focused that he does not take care of the problem then the student should move on to another group.

So, let us suppose that you see a problem with some member or members, no one else seems to notice, but it is disturbing to you and you feel something needs to be said/ What should you do?

As mentioned earlier, first examine yourself. If, after doing that, you still feel something needs to be expressed then, instead of disrupting the whole group with a complaint, contact the individual member on a one-to-one basis and seek to resolve the problem. If that doesn’t work, contact the group leader and express your feelings. Maybe he has heard similar complaints from others and will do something about it. Maybe you are the only one and he will give advice to look beyond the personality to the soul. Whatever the case, the wise leader will do all in his power to keep all eyes away from the personality and on the Christ within. All grievances must be neutralized to create maximum spiritual flow for the group.

Dec 11, 2020

To read Part 1 go HERE , Part 2, HERE , Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 7 HERE, Part 8 HERE, Part 10 HERE, Part 11 HERE, Part 12 HERE, Part 13 HERE

For Free Book go HERE and other books HERE

JJ’s Amazon page HERE

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Group Synthesis, Part 8

December 10, 2020January 9, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Group Synthesis, Part 8
(E) No Purpose or a Harmful Purpose

There are three types of groups. Those with no discernable or a nebulous purpose, those with a harmful purpose and finally those with a truly beneficial purpose.

It might be argued that all groups have some purpose so let us clarify this differentiation. By purpose we are saying that it has to be more than a social club or one that is giving out nebulous ideals that go nowhere or cannot be understood.

For instance, some give out ideals using a fancy vocabulary that makes them sound to some as if they are really cutting edge in purpose but sometimes that is all there is. Fancy sounding phrases that say very little to those who pay attention and in the end accomplish little or nothing.

A significant number of new age groups have this problem with the language. Instead of presenting a greater light they present the illusion of greater light by introducing new phrases and words in substitute of old ones. Thus they can take a worn out Piscean message and seemingly present it as if it is something new, perhaps as something Aquarian.

Other groups see the true ideal for the new age and issue many ideas in fanciful language but offer no concrete steps to take to accomplish them.

If a seeker wishes to add his energy to a group to help to move us a step or two forward into the new age then he should avoid these nebulous groups which lack a well defined purpose. Why spend years of effort to accomplish nothing when you could make a difference if the group was actually working on concrete steps to be taken?

The second type of group is one that has a harmful purpose. And how do you recognize such a group?

Well, you’re not going to find them by looking for any confession. No one is going to come out and say: “We are the bad guys” or “We are working with the dark side.”

Indeed, they will vehemently promote the opposite of what they are and insist they are in the light with more repetition and insistence than do the true workers in the light. The true workers in the light demonstrate their true stand with their words and works; whereas, the false focus on words of deception that are not backed up by their works.

So, what are examples of groups with a harmful purpose? There are many but here are some examples.

(1) Lack of inclusiveness. Some reject those of the wrong race, political opinion, religious background, status etc.

(2) Messiah complex. They see their leader as a messiah and themselves as mini messiahs when there is nothing about them that stands out from the ordinary.

(3) They are the one and only group and members should shun those who do not recognize this.

(4) The leadership wants you to donate lots of money while they live lavish lives – apparently from the donations.

(5) Harmful teachings. There are many possibilities here. Those to be particularly shunned are those designed to produce guilt, a very destructive force that allows people to be controlled by outer authority. Many false end of the world teachings have disrupted lives. False promises of some easy and final salvation by accepting the group message is a popular one.

Each seeker must examined any potential group and discern any possible harmfulness incorporated and avoid them and move on.

All true seekers will seek out the third category of groups that have a beneficial purpose. These groups fall into three general categories.

(A) Teaching or study groups. In this case the group selects study materials and explores them as a group. The group overall is tied to no specific belief system but just presents the opportunity to learn from a specific author or set of teachings.

There are many groups like this on Facebook, and other places, and most are helpful. As long as they are inclusive and make no attempt to control (outside of a reasonable moderation) we can place them in a positive category.

(B) Meditation groups. Most of these groups have a positive purpose as most are not attempting to indoctrinate or control members but merely facilitate access to the inner self and some to spread light and love to the world.

There are potential problems with some. DK has given out several warnings. He particularly warns of wrong motive in meditation:

“Meditation is dangerous where there is wrong motive, such as desire for personal growth and for spiritual powers, for it produces, under these conditions only a strengthening of the shadows in the vale of illusion and brings to full growth the serpent of pride, lurking in the valley of selfish desire. Meditation is dangerous when the desire to serve is lacking. Service is another word for the utilisation of soul force for the good of the group. Where this impulse is lacking, energy may pour into the bodies, but—lacking use and finding no outlet—will tend to over-stimulate the centres, and produce conditions disastrous to the neophyte. Assimilation and elimination are laws of the soul life as well as of the physical life, and when this simple law is disregarded serious consequences will follow as inevitably as in the physical body.” A Treatise on White Magic, Page 205

In addition to this he warns that wrong use of breath in meditation can be dangerous to the student as well as premature stimulation of some centers or the premature raising of the Kundalini.

The student must therefore exercise wisdom even in being involved with seemingly harmless meditation groups.

The third type of positive group are those that go beyond examining teachings and meditations to embracing some purpose that will produce positive change in the world. Here the student must learn to weed out the harmful groups mentioned earlier and select one with pure intent and wisdom to accomplish something worthwhile.

This category of group is not for everyone for many just want to learn a few things and more on with their life. On the other hand advanced seekers want to serve and contribute to world progress and are looking for like-minded souls with which to join hands.

The best way for the disciple to make such a choice is by inner confirmation through the soul. Does your inner core vibrate positively when you examine the purpose of a particular group? If so, that is a good sign.

Dec 10, 2020

To read Part 1 go HERE , Part 2, HERE , Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 7 HERE, Part 9 HERE, Part 10 HERE, Part 11 HERE, Part 12 HERE, Part 13 HERE

For Free Book go HERE and other books HERE

JJ’s Amazon page HERE

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Group Synthesis, Part 7

December 9, 2020January 9, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Dec 9, 2020
Group Synthesis, Part 7
(D) Erroneous Teachings

No group is perfect, neither is any teacher or member of the group, but many aspiring students see things in terms of black and white. Either the group is completely rejected or completely accepted by some. The same goes for its leadership.

Therefore, once a black and white student joins a group and feels good about it he often sees himself as in 100%. If contradictions are run by him or her they will be oblivious to them, almost like they either did not exist, or espousing a feeling that it would be wrong to question anything.

Many of these black and white types are so embedded in their group, its teacher and ideology that attempting to change their minds is a waste of time. Such individuals will continue with the all or nothing approach for lifetimes to come, or until they reach some type of painful crises that causes them to seriously reflect on their approach.

The seasoned seeker though is not black and white. He realizes there is no such thing as the perfect group and people and merely seeks out the one that is the best for individual and group progression.

There are a number of flaws that the astute student may see in his chosen group.

(1) Teachings that he believes to be either not true or questionable.

Perhaps he likes most of the material presented. In other words, there are enough positive teachings and activities that the few which are questionable are not enough to cause him to withdraw support. The group does not seem perfect but it is the best he can find.

How then should he handle those teachings which do not register with his inner self.

First the student must make sure he understands the material correctly. As a teacher myself I have often found that this is where the problem lies. The seeker has misunderstood what I was saying and a little clarification and further explanation solved the problem.

Therefore, if the seeker senses that further details may help him to be more unified with the group then he should ask questions and study any additional materials available.

Then after doing all that is possible to understand the teachings, but some still do not correctly register, what should he do?

At that point he must weight the positives and negatives. If the group overall registers as 90% or more positive he may want to stay and support it despite the problematic 10%. After all, there may be nothing he can support 100% and everything else out there seems inferior.

If he decides to stay then it would be disruptive for group unity to focus, especially in any group conversations, with the negative 10%. He would be better off to focus on the 90% he can support.

Does this mean he goes into denial on the 10%. No. He should continue to keep his eye out for further resolution in a positive way, but resist the temptation to inject complaining and arguing in general group conversations.

If he comes up with new information that would shed light on the questionable 10% then it may be beneficial to bring it up to the leadership with a non critical attitude.

(2) Various teachings that are accepted by the group yet seem to contradict each other.

This appears often in many belief systems and group teachings.

Maybe the leader is teaching that the world will end in five years yet they are making plans for decades ahead.

Maybe one set of teachings seem to indicate we live only one life and another supports reincarnation.

Perhaps one part of the teachings say that in the true reality there is only one life and others seem to teach there will always be many lives, but just eventually unified.

In the ideal group the student should be able to ask any question that he desires as long as the tone is civil. However, most groups are far from the ideal and in many groups such questions may bring frowns from leaders and black and white members.

The student must therefore survey the situation.

If he senses that the leadership and the group are open to such questions then he should ask away.

If he senses the questions would create a disturbance then he needs to make a judgment call. Perhaps he may want to bring it up first with an individual group leader.

Perhaps he is willing to ask his questions and let the chips fall where they may.

Perhaps the suppression of questions will be strong enough to cause the student to reevaluate his membership and depart to greener pastures.

Overall, in the eyes of many serious students, a group should be open enough to allow awkward questions to be asked.

(3) The leader seeks too much control over the lives of members.

This is a common problem that is not always obvious at the group’s beginning. Maybe at first the leader seemed easy going but as time progressed he or she became more demanding.

If freedom is threatened then the member should speak out, even if frowned upon by others. If the problem is not resolved the member should consider moving on for a lack of freedom is not a problem that self corrects.

(4) Other members are creating problems.

If this is seen as a problem the first thing the student must ask is how widespread this view is. Are you, or maybe a very small percentage seeing this is a problem or do most members see it this way? If only you see something to complain about then perhaps the problem is in the jaundice way you are looking more than the members that irritate you. In this case you may not have enough traction to bring up the problem to the group as a whole but it may be helpful to discuss your feelings with the leadership.

If a large percentage of the members agree with you then you have evidence of having a valid point. In this case, it may be helpful to bring up this or any other agreed upon problem with the group as a whole.

Criticism within a group can be a very destructive force that can spread like a virus. Therefore, the wise group member will only criticize when it is absolutely necessary, as most criticism is met with a counter criticism that can lead to endless rounds of negativity.

Here was DK’s advice to a critical student:

For several years and more, you have consistently taken the position that one of my disciples has failed to measure up to his opportunities and that my entire group of disciples has not given the service which was demanded of it. You have so stated to a number of people and have also asserted that my work—as indicated by me in my various pamphlets and books—has not been properly done either by the group or by those who have pledged themselves to do it. You have criticised openly all that has been attempted and have steadily belittled and openly under-rated the work that has been done. You have misunderstood the attitude of my entire group. You have not helped in any way constructively. You have interjected a spirit of criticism everywhere.

Why is this? There are two reasons, my brother, and I care enough about your unfoldment to tell you with frankness what they are. One is that your fluid, uncontrolled, lower mind reverts with facility to criticism, to the formulating of group plans which are impossible of accomplishment, changing such plans at frequent intervals and using speech as a means of spreading distrust and criticism. Secondly, you are mentally and spiritually ambitious and yet you do not have the personal magnetism or the executive ability which would enable you to form your own group. It is easier to undermine another group.

Can you train yourself to overcome a critical spirit? I would remind you that habit is potent and that you are facing your life task and your major problem. You are adequate to the task, but only if you become truly convinced of the need.

Can you begin to concern yourself with constructive work which will meet the present need around you? You have talked much. Can you now begin to work? Discipleship in the New Age, Vol 1, Pages 588-590

To read part 1 go HERE , Part 2, HERE , Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 8 HERE, Part 9 HERE, Part 10 HERE, Part 11 HERE, Part 12 HERE, Part 13 HERE

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Group Synthesis, Part 6

December 5, 2020January 9, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Group Synthesis, Part 6

(C) The feeling of specialness.

We are skipping (B) Unearned Authority in this treatise for I have already written extensively on this subject. Rather than repeat myself, I will direct the reader to my book “Seeker’s Guide to Soul Contact.” Unearned authority is covered in sections 103-132 and can be accessed free at this link:

Many students who are concerned with dangers related to the ego feel too many groups create a feeling a specialness for their members.

While it is true that anything that inflates the ego should be neutralized some groups do have a unique purpose and mission that is sometimes misinterpreted as specialness that enhances the ego.

Instead of calling these groups special I would suggest that “unique” is a more appropriate word.

First, let us examine specialness in the negative context as it relates to groups. What are the ingredients that would cause the power of the ego of the members to be amplified?

The first and prime ingredient is the tone set by the leader or leaders. Egos are definitely stroked if the leader is a messiah figure – that is one who presents himself as a very special person. Such a leader may claim he is the reincarnation of Buddha, Jesus Krishna or other historical figures. He may claim that the manifestation of the new age or some type of salvation rests entirely on following his instructions.

If a leader presents such an aura of specialness the followers will not be far behind. They will feel special because they have a great leader and other groups do not. They are going to save the world and other groups will not. Or perhaps they think that they have the one true teaching and other groups lag far behind.

In most cases this feeling of specialness is caused by illusion. Such groups often have an average leader at best, are not doing anything to save the world and have doctrines that are below average in the percentage of truth.

Among common illusions found in many special groups are specific prophecies giving dates for the end times, some type of calamity or significant event. The group feels special because they are in on the inside information and others are not.

Time and time again these predictions fail. Unfortunately, a new false prediction takes its place and most members hang on still feeling special to be in on the new date.

The second main cause of specialness lies at the feet of the individual group members. In this case the leadership and teachings may be sound but one or more members may feel they are special for a number of reasons. Among them are:

(1) They have a “chosen” feeling because of the quality of the group.

(2) They think of themselves as more evolved than others and deserve some recognition.

(3) They think they know more than the leader or teacher and should take their place.

To these DK gives some good a dvice:

If you can indeed feel, think and function as one complete unit – several personalities and one soul – it will then be relatively easy to extend the concept to a broader inclusiveness, to broaden your horizon and thus become inclusive in a much wider sense.

The using of the mind to this end involves an aptitude to learn the distinction between analysis and criticism. This is a hard and well-nigh impossible thing for many to learn. Traces of illumination of this subject will show themselves if the group persists in all earnestness. The members have to learn to respond, as a group, to the same spiritual, mental and human ideas, and thus swing – as a “telepathic unit” – into one united train of thought. They have, as a group, to be preoccupied with the same things which are indicated by the soul of the group, and not by one person in the group, as is apt to be the case. They have to learn, as a group, to hold the mind steady in the light – the group mind, and not their individual minds. Esoteric Healing, Pages 354-355

Then a problem for constructive groups sometimes occurs when members try too hard to see all individuals and groups as having a sameness about them. They see a sameness in all groups, “one is no better than another,” they say. “We shouldn’t see ourselves as special.”

What has to be taken into consideration is this. Each individual and group is different from all others and some groups have a unique purpose. Again we use the word unique here for the word “special” tends to appeal to the ego.

Some groups have a unique and distinct purpose different from all others, and others not so much.

For instance, there are many groups dedicated to meditation who have a similar approach. They perform a good service but are not special or unique. That is fine. They do not need to be.

On the other hand. There are numerous groups that do have a unique purpose different from any other exoteric group. Here are some possibilities.

(1) A group is interested in studying and understanding the teachings of a certain author, around who there is no group formed

They form one and thus have a unique situation.

(2) A group sets a goal to promote a certain part of the Hierarchical plan that no one else is attempting.

(3) A group has established unique ceremonies not used by anyone else.

(4) A group is inspired by the Hierarchy to perform a unique labor.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Hierarchy rarely duplicates its efforts as they follow the Law of Economy. They try to not have one group they work with overlap and duplicate the efforts of another.

For instance, DK established a unique group that some would call special. At the time it was the only exoteric group like it that was endorsed by the Hierarchy.

DK however went out of his way to not stroke the egos of the members and make them feel special, but did comment that the group was a one of a kind experiment.

The biggest complaint did not center around specialness but if some did not agree with the instructions the members sometimes accused Alice A. Bailey of making up the instructions instead of getting them from a Master.

Here D K gave his group some good advice:

seek not to link groups with your group, but recognise your group and all other similar groups as parts of a worldwide spiritual movement which (when it reaches momentum) results in unity for all. A super-organisation which emphasises unity is the last thing to be desired; a multiplicity of living organisms held loosely together by cooperation, constant communication and possessing identity of goal and of purpose is what the world needs today…. Discipleship in the New Age, Vol 2, Page 458

He doesn’t want to see groups merge together into a super group but many different and unique parts are needed to create a vital whole. Just as in the one body the liver has a much different role than the heart but both contribute to the one life in the body, even so, can we have many groups with unique functions yet recognizing their oneness in the living body here on planet earth.

To read part 1 go HERE , Part 2, HERE , Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, Part 5 HERE Part 7 HERE, Part 8 HERE, Part 9 HERE, Part 10 HERE, Part 11 HERE, Part 12 HERE, Part 13 HERE

For Free Book go HERE and other books HERE

JJ’s Amazon page HERE

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Group Synthesis, Part 5

December 4, 2020January 9, 2021 Joseph Dewey

Dec 4, 2020
Group Synthesis, Part 5

(6) What if I join and group and discover flaws? What should I avoid or seek to correct?

(A) The Cult Leader

A group membership can offer great benefits if it is basically on the right track. The individual can find new quality friendships among like-minded people. He or she can share activities and discuss topics with other members that may be considered heresy to family and other associates.

A positive spiritual group will allow the seeker to tune into the group mind and sense spiritual contact hitherto untouched.

A good group can stimulate an increase of light, knowledge and love of humanity.

The problem is that many groups are far from perfect and some maybe doing more harm than good or even lead to destructive activity.

The rare cults that lead to mass suicide , such as Jonestown where they drank the poison Kool-Aid, are prime examples. Some negative groups have gotten such bad press that they cause many to look with undue suspicion on the various alternative spiritual groups that have formed. The seeker needs to realize that we cannot stereotype all spiritual groups because of a couple bad apples. Nevertheless one can’t just jump into group membership with no thought of what he is getting into. The individual must check it out to the best of his ability.

But even after researching a group the seeker may encounter problems after joining. The question then becomes – “What shall I do now?”

The most common problem with alternative spiritual groups is found in the leader or leaders. Generally there will be one individual who is seen as the main leader of the group.

If he is a strong leader with a unified group he may be accused of being a cult leader.

This accusation is sometimes justified and sometimes not.

There are two types of leaders of a unified group.

The first has a unified group because he or she is an effective teacher. He allows members to think for themselves, ask questions, read outside material, question authority and come and go as he or she pleases.

Because they are fairly unified, this type of leader is sometimes falsely accused of being a cult leader and the members seen as blindly following sheep. This may be an unjust accusation if free thinking is allowed and the group is only unified because they all understand the principles that are espoused.

The second type of leader of a unified group is the true authoritarian cult leader. This person has a unified group, not because of effective teaching and free flow of ideas, but because of tight authoritarian control. Those who are independent thinkers and ask the wrong questions are not welcome and drummed out of the group eventually just leaving the cult leader with a group of sheep that he can easily control and get to do his bidding – almost as if they wee under a hypnotic spell. This type of leader is easy to recognize because the true seeker will come to realize that his authority is not to be questioned, and if you do, the leader along with the sheep will turn a cold shoulder to you and in some cases attack and drive you out as an intruder.

What shall the seeker then do if he finds himself in a group controlled by such an authoritarian person?

The answer should be obvious. He or she should gracefully exit the group as soon as possible and seek out a more positive group.

Before leaving though it is a good idea to tune into the other members to see if there is anyone else ready to move on. Breaking away from strong authoritarian leadership happens at a certain stage on the path to liberation and if the seeker senses that another is on the threshold then, with a little encouragement, this person may take a bold step into greater freedom and light.

Generally in such a group most of the followers are locked in as if controlled by a hypnotic spell and immovable. It helps to realize that this is one of the things the eternal pilgrim must go through in his journey to liberation. Usually there is nothing you can do for them but wait until they are so crushed by authoritarian control that they break the chains that bind them and move on.

An excerpt from the third Labor of Hercules – The Gathering of the Golden Apples of the Hesperides – would be appropriate to review here:

Happy and confident, Hercules went on, sure of himself and with new courage for the search. Now to the west he turned himself and, turning thus, he met disaster. He entered without thought upon the third great test and failure met him and for long delayed his steps.

For there he met Busiris, the great arch-deceiver, son of the waters, of close kin to Poseidon. His is the work to bring delusion to the sons of men through words of seeming wisdom. He claims to know the truth and with quickness they believe. He speaks fair words saying:

“I am the teacher. To me is given knowledge of the truth and sacrifice for me. Accept the way of life through me. I know, but no-one else. My truth is right. All other truth is wrong and false. Hark to my words; stay with me and be saved.”

And Hercules obeyed, and daily weakened on the early way (third test) seeking no further for the sacred tree. His strength was sapped. He loved, adored Busiris, and accepted all he said. Weaker from day to day he grew, until there came a day when his loved teacher bound him to an altar and kept him bound throughout a year.

Suddenly one day, when struggling to be free, and slowly seeing Busiris for what he was, words spoken long ago by Nereus came to his mind:

“Truth lies within yourself. There is a higher power and strength and wisdom in yourself. Turn inwards and there evoke the strength which is, the power which is the heritage of all the sons of men who are the sons of God.”

Silent lie lay a prisoner on the altar, bound to its corners four for one whole year. Then, with the strength which is the strength of all the sons of God, he broke his bonds, seized the false teacher (who had seemed so wise) and bound him to the altar in his place. He spoke no word, but left him there to learn. From The Labours of Hercules by Alice A. Bailey

All of us meet our Busiris as we journey to our true spiritual home. Only when the seeker realizes that he has sold himself into slavery will he then fight to free himself.

To read part 1 go HERE , Part 2, HERE , Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 7 HERE, Part 8 HERE, Part 9 HERE, Part 10 HERE, Part 11 HERE, Part 12 HERE, Part 13 HERE