This Psychic Reading given by Edgar Cayce at his office, 115 West 35th Street, Virginia Beach, Va., this 7th day of April, 1927, in accordance with request made by her mother, Mrs. [601], via Mr. [257].

Present: Edgar Cayce; Mrs. Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Born February 10, 1912, New York, N.Y.

TEXT

1. GC: You will give the relation of this entity and the Universe, and the Universal Forces, giving the conditions that are as personalities, latent and exhibited, in the present life; also the former appearances in the earth's plane, giving time, place, and the name, and that in that life which built or retarded the development for the entity, giving the abilities of the present entity and that to which it may attain, and how. [HLC's note: This is the suggestion given to Mr. Cayce as he goes to sleep. This suggestion was given in a reading as being the best to obtain a life reading. Note that full name, place and date of birth are essential.]
2. EC: Yes, we have the entity and those relations with the Universal Forces, as are latent and exhibited in the present earth's plane. [HLC's note: Here Mr. Cayce begins. Notice that he follows the line of the suggestion. His reference to the period as critical in the present development of the individual is important and indicates the special value of the reading at this time.] In the development of the entity we find many of the urges being exhibited in the present earth's plane, and many of the abilities of the entity are shaping and taking on those elements that need direction, and with same there will be seen that much will come to this entity of development in the present earth's plane. Even though there may be presented obstacles, yet with that developed, and the [Encouragement¹] abilities as have been attained, the entity may apply self in the way and manner as to bring much to self in the present experience.
3. In entering the earth's plane we find the entity comes under the influence of Jupiter, Venus, and of Uranus, with that of the mystic rather than of the Uranian dominating. [HLC's note: The planets here mentioned might be briefly interpreted as follows: Jupiter - strength, ennobling ideals; Venus - love, beauty; Uranus - occult, extremes.] Hence we find an exceptional individual in its individuality, though one oftentimes that is in the way of causing much misunderstanding in others, for the entity - with its inner urge - feels that others should understand the entity's purpose and intent when same is not even outwardly indicated.
4. In the urges, then, irrespective of the will's force, we find: [HLC's note: These urges are resultant influences of the planets and have to do with the material and outward nature. Note the reference to will as supreme over these influences. Tendencies like these can be easily checked and studied.]
5. One that is attractive to many.
6. One attracted in self to few. The entity, then, having many associates that are clever, and that think a great deal of the entity, yet the entity tends to be in the position of making few close friends [7/09/35 Ltr. to EC: "I feel that there are few people I can call 'friend,' but you are certainly numbered 'mongst that few."], yet many passing friends.
7. The inability of many to reach that inner shrine of the entity's intent and purpose is as that of the entity's making self above others, and as a leader, for many seek the entity in many ways and channels.
8. One, then, as we find, that is quick of speech and action, yet slow in making changes or determining the real purport of self's endeavors.
9. One inclined toward both music and art, and in either, or both, should the entity excel beyond that of the ordinary individual, for same will be seen from the urges of the entity's experience in the earth's plane, [480], we are speaking of.
10. [Warning²] In the effort, then, of those who would guide or direct the entity in this stage of its purport, see that that is set before the entity in precept and example that gives the correct incentive for the development of the better forces in the entity, and that same are not turned to lasciviousness or self-aggrandizement for selfish motives or purposes.
11. As to the experience in the earth plane:
12. In the one before this we find in that of the Ukrainian country (now known), [HLC's note: The first appearance was in Russia. Consider the position at this time but note the development through service. These appearances are taken up in backward order as one would back down a ladder. This appearance was just previous to the present. Musical ability was here developed. It is an outstanding accomplishment in the present.] and among those of the peasant class - who was as the leader of those that brought the change to the peoples of that region when the first of the musical settings of the lands were given in that of the folklore. [GD's note: 3/64 We heard that her son, Mr. [1788], is a famous guitar singer and folk singer.] The name then in that of Thiasoki, and the entity gained through that period, for the entity assisted many to mount higher in those aspirations that would bring to themselves better developments in every walk of the physical life, even at the expense of self in many ways and manners, and no thought was taken of self as to turning same into channels for selfish motives. In the urge as is seen from this experience, that of the love for the simple things of life, yet with the happy combination of being able to coordinate the various conditions in which people are found and apply same in the way for the better use in each life - that is, the entity is able to make the most of conditions, however they present themselves.
13. In the one before this we find when the walls of the city were being rebuilded, [HLC's note: Rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem on the return from captivity. Service is again the building force. Retarded some through domination of the fleshly desires. Danger as warned of in the present.] when there was the return from captivity in the lands of the Promise Land. The entity then among those who assisted in setting up the temple worship for the peoples, and the entity gained in that experience through the application of self in and for the benefit of many, yet losing in turning same to that of the selfish motive of over loving in the flesh. In the name then Abidiha, and the entity finds the urge, as is seen in the present, of having the ability to keep those who would make love afar, unless entity desires the use of the individual. This may be used to excess, and to entity's undoing. Beware of same. [GD's note: See mother's Ck. Life Rdg. 601-5, on 9/20/34, indicating that [480] was also in Palestine at the time of King David, being in the household of Joab's wife's people, and a friend of [601].]
14. In the one before this we find in the Egyptian country (now known), during that period when the lands were being reestablished, as it were, from the conditions created by division of church and state, as would be termed in present day parlance. The entity then among those of the brilliant musicians to the elderly king, [HLC's note: Ra-Ta period? This period in Egyptian history is unrecorded as yet. Another talent shown in the present and hard to explain in any other manner.] and in favor with the priests and with the scribes, and the entity brought that of the first enactment of plays in that land, and the entity gained and lost in that period. Then in the name Itica. [Then the mother of [601]] In the urge as is seen, that of the ability to act and to play, or sing, or to be in that way of winding individuals about self's own purposes.
15. In the abilities of the present experience, and as to how the entity may attain to that that will bring the better in the present experience:
16. In the correct application of self to those rules of that law as governs the application of the infinite with the finite, the entity will find that the principles apply in life as in death, and that with the making of self as but naught is to gain the highest esteem of those whom the entity would serve. [HLC's note: Consider this well for herein lies a universal truth.]
17. Then, in music or in play, [See 480-20, Par. 23-A on 7/22/35 in re music of the spheres in home.] or in the combination of the two, may the entity attain to that as is best in [HLC's note: Definite suggestions for a career] this present experience, and in giving self in same keep ever before self those first principles as of duty to that Creative Energy, to whom the entity must account for those abilities given in the flesh; for to use same for own self is to lend self to the weakness of the flesh. [HLC's note: Wisdom for us all.] To use same in bringing the better understanding in the lives of others is as but applying the gifts in the service to the Creative Forces. Be guided, be directed, be kept, in that way that leadeth to more perfect understanding, and the more perfect conception of right for Right's [HLC's note: Notice deep religious note combined with modern scientific language.] sake, rather than as GAINING in earthly conditions from same.
18. We are through for the present.

BACKGROUND

1. GD's note: Bracketed notes appearing in 480-1 [Text of Reading] were published in 12/29 issue of the Ass'n publication, THE NEW TOMORROW, with the reading, in HLC's article - LIFE READINGS, WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW TO USE THEM. See 480-1 Reports.

REPORTS

1. 7/24/29 Mother [601]'s letter: "I am writing to you in reference to the reading you gave on [480] on 4/07/27. I would appreciate your help to help me guide my daughter in the channels for her highest spiritual development. I have studied the reading carefully many times and while I can see many characteristics which have developed, she has reached the end of her high school term, and ready to enter a higher school of learning without a purpose as to her future development. At this point I would appreciate your help, if you can suggest what pursuit she may follow in order to give and derive happiness and contentment."
2. 8/15/29 Mother [601] submitted questions: "What pursuit or study can she follow in order to find independence?
   "What abilities should be developed in order to derive happiness and give happiness to others?
   "How can I locate and direct her finer sensibilities so as to help her to find her better self and so lead her to a better understanding of the perfect conception of right for Right's sake?"
3. 9/06/29 See 480-2.
4. 12/29 HLC's article in the quarterly issue of the Ass'n magazine, THE NEW TOMORROW, quoting 480-1 with the [bracketed] notes:
   LIFE READINGS - WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW TO USE THEM - by Hugh Lynn Cayce
   In Dayton Ohio, in 1924 Mr. Edgar Cayce gave the first psychic reading later called a "Life Reading." Since that time several hundred of this type have been given, and as more and more individuals find them interesting and beneficial the demand increases.
   Your first question is naturally, "What is a Life Reading?" The answer is not as easy to express as it would at first appear to you who have had such a reading. It is a discussion of you, of your abilities and faults, of your likes and dislikes, of your peculiar characteristics that made you an individual. It is a picture of you from an angle that an Olympian God might use should he have reason to summarize the progress of your development and the point to which you had attained. It is a history of your existence, an explanation of why you are playing the part you now portray in this great little comedy we call "Modern Civilization." But perhaps by letting you read the essence of a Life Reading you will be better able to grasp this explanation. The following is a condensed reading, selected at random. The notes in the margin will, I hope, aid you in understanding the contents. [He quoted the entire reading [480-1] with marginal notes.] Perhaps from the above you will be able to get some idea of the composition of a Life Reading. Now the next question that arises is just wherein lies the value of this type. Do they have any practical value, any mental or spiritual value, or both?
   The first idea that one should get in making this decision is that these readings are personal. They are studies of you as an individual. When you have finished reading your own there can be no doubt in your mind that it is you they speak of. This gives you a certain realization that from somewhere has come information concerning you that even you could not have given on yourself. Think for a moment of the depth and breadth of this information and you will know that here is something that will help you understand yourself a little better. "Know thyself" was a maxim of the old Greek philosopher, Socrates. Today the man is wise who strives to follow his advice, for in so doing will come the only real contentment. Through these readings you can understand peculiarities of your nature that have previously puzzled you. In that you will find explanations of your present position in life, reasons for your likes and dislikes, and descriptions of urges, their origin and influence, that control the factors of heredity and environment which heretofore you have placed so much stress upon as the main springs of all your action and thought. Each time you go over one of these readings you will find a new suggestion that opens up for you a line of thought on some idea or action which you have wondered about. You have in a Life Reading the history of your existence unfolded before you. Who is the man who can say that such a history of himself would not be interesting? We are what we have made ourselves, and we will be that which we will.
   Now let us turn to the practical side of these readings. If you were in the place of this young woman would there not be stirred in you some spark of desire to know more of the history of the period in which you lived? Would there not arise the desire to know more of each of the appearances which seem to have so influenced your present life? Could you carelessly cast aside the idea that creeps into the minds of us all that the stars shine with a peculiar significance for us at times. Many have been the theories concerning astrology in every age. Who can say that there is not some truth in a belief that has stood the test of centuries? In every Life Reading there are many threads that lead off into borderlands of man's knowledge. Let him who is not afraid follow them.
   Each individual must make use of his reading according to his own needs. The following are only some general suggestions that I have found helpful in studying Life Readings: Go over a reading at intervals, thinking about it between times, until you are sure that you get the full significance of every sentence. You will find that the reading seems to grow with your understanding. You can turn to it for an explanation of each new question about yourself. These questions will arise as you commence to study.
   Make a point of learning all you can about each period in which you lived. This will enable you to recognize the urges from each of these.
   Learn through the Life Readings of your family and close friends, just what their connections has been with you previously. Study the present relationship as related to the past. This can become a fascinating and worth-while study.
   (Through letters make use of the Historical Committee of the Association. They will be glad to help you with any questions arising from your readings.)
   A Life Reading offers one mental, physical and spiritual food. Let us eat of it, for it is the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. With diligent application of the truths we find there will come understanding. With understanding there will come contentment in our hearts and peace with our fellow man.
   [GD's note: With above article appeared the announcement of the forming of The Historical Committee to study the Life Readings - See this announcement reprinted under 2485-1 Reports.]
5. 1/07/34 Miss [480]'s mother obtained 480-3, the first of a long series of Physical Readings for Miss [480] indicating that [480] was in her senior yr. at college and had developed a mental haziness which hindered her in her school work.
6. 6/27/34 See Ck. Physical 480-8, Par. 12-A indicating [480]'s ability in mental discernment to aid in bringing physical normalcy.
7. 8/01/34 See 601-2, Life Rdg. for [480]'s mother.
8. 8/18/34 Mother [601]'s ltr.: "[480] is deeply interested in your work and intends to make an intensive study of the different phases just as soon as her health is restored and she is able to carry on."
9. 2/09/35 Ck. Physical 480-14 advised that marriage would help overcome the glandular condition causing suppression, the mental haziness, etc.
10. 6/19/35 She told of her approaching marriage to Mr. [633] - see under Background for Ck. Life Rdg. 480-20 on 7/22/35. On 7/26/35 Mr. [633] obtained Life Rdg. 633-2. [See subsequent Ck. Physical Rdgs.]
11. GD's note: 7/12/35 Ck. Physical 480-19, Par. 17-A advised again that marriage would benefit her physical condition, also that she should keep the faith of her fathers in those marital relationships.
12. 12/31/35 Mrs. [480]'s ltr. [see under 1052-1 Reports] noted Dr. [1052]'s derogatory statement in re Dr. I. Daniel Shorell, M.D.
13. 1/02/36 "I rec'd Alexis Carrel's MAN, THE UNKNOWN, from [633] for Xmas. It has provoked much discussion, and will even more when you return to Detroit. [633] wants me to write that anything he can do in the way of legal matters he will do, all in his power to help." 1/03/36 GD's reply see under 1052-1 Reports.
14. 1/07/36 Mrs. [480]'s ltr. see under 1052-1 Reports in re A.M.A., EC's trouble in Detroit, etc.
15. 1/16/37 GD's ltr. to Mrs. [601] during Mrs. [480]'s early 3rd mo. of pregnancy [See Ck. Physical Rdgs.]: I am enclosing a Christmas Reading our Group #1 had, [262-103] which I think you and [480] will appreciate; for dear [480] is making herself just such a channel - for God's love to be manifested before men. I can hardly wait to hear Jim's Life Reading, to find out WHO he is and the purpose for his entrance at this time. What a wonderful privilege it is to have a part in the attracting of a great soul to this earth - for great souls (spiritually) are so needed! I can't imagine a more lovely environment and surrounding for one to enter than in the [601] - [480] home.
    Do hope [480] has been able to relieve the skin irritation and is more comfortable. May God bless you all.
    Heaps of love, Gladys
16. 1/30/37 Mrs. [601]'s ltr.: "The rdg. [262-103] on Christmas is wonderful and have read it many times. Rec'd a very lovely letter from Miss Esther Wynne."
17. 6/15/37 Mrs. [480]'s ltr. during last month of pregnancy: "Mother [601] is certainly the best agent I know of for your work barring none. I'm a very lucky girl to have such parents [[601 & [619]]. And [633], too, has been such a help during this period to keep me 'up.' Such a relationship as exists between the four of us, I'm sure is blessed."
18. 7/06/37 Baby son was born dead.
19. 1/30/38 See 480-45, Par. 17-A indicating her feeling of exhilaration when near the ocean is from application through material planes.
20. 3/38, 4/38 See correspondence under 601-29, 601-30 and 601-31 Reports in re her mother dying of cancer.
21. 4/05/38 "Mrs. [1100] and I had quite a long talk which still leaves me up in the clouds. I guess I will have to find my own way, as each of us must." [She submitted questions for 480-46 in re first mo. of another pregnancy.]
22. 5/04/38 See 480-47 asking for explanation of tragedy of mother's death.
23. 6/18/38 Ltr. in re her conclusions on death - see under 601-31 Reports, and subsequent correspondence under 601-31 indicating her mother's influence even in death.
24. 12/08/38 Baby son, [1788], was born.
25. 1/11/39 EC's ltr.: "[480], may I give the boy his Life Rdg. as a gift from me toward his development? Will be glad to do this if I may."
26. 1/12/39 Mrs. [480]'s letter: "I believe it's the grandest gift he's ever going to get."
27. 1/28/39 See son's 1788-3, Par. 41-A advising that the parents [480] and [633] parallel their Life Rdgs. to indicate how they were close together in past appearances.
28. 12/16/39 "Thomas Sugrue's MAN ON THE CROSS (8/24/39, Va. Beach) is a little gem which I have read many times."
29. 5/08/42 Her baby daughter, [2781], was born.
30. 1/28/45 Her ltr. to GD: "Just got the Bulletin for this month (EDGAR CAYCE - 1877 - 1945 - editorial by Thomas Sugrue) - how hard it is to write and tell you all how much I shall miss Mr. Cayce. I knew that something must have been wrong when I didn't get an answer to my letter to him (see under 480-57 Reports). Already this world has changed for me - Mr. Cayce and Mother [601] gone - seems as though a certain part of my life has gone with each of them. While Mr. Cayce was alive I always felt as if I was still in some contact with the things Mother understood and knew so well - probably better than I ever would...
    "Thomas Sugrue's sentiments are mine, though, and well put, and I shall try to keep myself in that line of thought."
31. 7/20/60 Ltr. to GD: "Even though the signature at the bottom of the letter I just rec'd was a stencil (7/08/60 ltr. see under 2791-1 Reports) it still brings me close to you - and back to so many wonderful experiences and fine people. While you don't hear from me, many, many times I remember all of you and the [1100]'s... [She told about son working in N.Y. - see under 1788-3 Reports - and about daughter [2781] being away at college.]
    "I'm active in [633]'s business, for which I'll be very grateful this year, with an empty house.
    "I'm enclosing a check which you can use at your own discretion. My fondest regards to all." Love, [480] [See subsequent notations on son's Life Rdg., 1788-3.]

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