Edgar Cayce Readings, 1897-1

Time and Place: 3:40 to 4:05 P. M. Eastern Standard Time. New York City.

TEXT

GC: You will give the relation of this entity and the universe, and the universal forces; giving the conditions which are as personalities, latent and exhibited in the present life; also the former appearances in the earth plane, giving time, place and the name, and that in each 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. You will answer the questions she has submitted, as I ask them.
EC: Yes, we have the records here of that entity now called [1897]. (There was more to this name once.)
In giving the interpretations of the records, as we find them here, - these are chosen with the desire to make this experience a helpful one for the entity in meeting those activities during the present sojourn.
While from a material angle the experience might not be that desired, and at times the way may seem disturbed and doubtful, know deep within self that if those judgments are given in the manner in which ye would like to be dealt with if circumstances were reversed, ye are gaining in that which is a most helpful, a most worthy and acceptable experience.
Then, grow not weary in well-doing.
There are some emotions, some impending influences that it would be well to mention in respect to this entity, - but know that these are merely influences and are without respect to what the entity may do about same.
While mauve and the nondescript colors may and do appeal or do appear to be that as would be the apparel in the present in the most part, know that those that do carry a great deal of color - especially blue and purple - will make for those feelings innately that will be helpful to the entity giving the impressions desired, - as well as in feeling more in keeping with the desires innate.
Know that Thursdays are the days to be left as periods for special decisions, or for those things in which especial edification - either to be gained by self or given to others - may be imparted or gained by the entity.
Know that so long as all is done in all good conscience, and in keeping with that which is self's ideal, all is well.
In the astrological aspects, - these we find, from the ordinary standpoint, belying those influences which are ordinarily accredited to such. For there has been the application of self in a way and manner in which the better part is being chosen, though it requires oft sacrifice, and a crucifying at times of material desires.
From the Jupiterian and Venus sojourn we find the greater impending and active influence, - as indicated in the dealings with various characters that have to do with the masses or groups of people, - yet every individual in its daily or personal application requiring a high mental judgment within self oft.
Temper this with mercy, and with patience; for these are indeed thy greater virtues.
Then gain with this patience, and this principle of being tactful, with mercy and judgment; and we will find greater experiences coming to the entity and more of the contentment.
Not that any individual should ever become wholly satisfied (signifying it would merely rest). Know that life is real, and requires an activity in which there may be the practical application of self in a service in which there may be the magnifying of those virtues that may grow in man's experience only by his application in relationships to the fellow man.
In the Venus forces we find the love of the home, the love of things beautiful, the love of delicate shades about self, - as of pastel and the like; yet these as we find have been set aside for "what others might say."
As to the appearances in the earth, these - while not so great in number that are affecting the entity in the present - are quite varied and quite definite in urges as arise through the emotional influences and forces of the entity in the present.
Before this we find the entity was in the land of the present sojourn, during the early days of the settlements in the land.
In that experience we find the entity was among the families coming into the land, especially about what is now known as Providence, and in the name then of Reba Schumann.
The entity gained in the experience, for there were those applications in the attempts to teach not only the young but to aid those about the entity of the natives of the land for a greater understanding as to the dealings and relationships of one individual group with another.
Hence we find the abilities of the entity in the present in social service, or in those activities in which consideration is given for the needs of others whether of this or that tongue, this or that circumstance.
Hence the abilities in those directions of understanding those of many tongues, or many races, become a part of the entity's experience in the present.
And it would be well to apply self in those directions in which the activities might be given to same; though we would also find the abilities, even from that experience as Reba Schumann, to WRITE that which would be as counsel to those in all circumstances and relationships, so that they might be given an insight as to how to meet the various influences and forces that come under their individual observation for aid in this or that manner in respect to those not endowed with either the mental, material or physical welfares for the better activity.
Before that we find the entity was in the land of the entity's nativity, during those early periods when there were the disturbances which arose by not only the political but the religious disturbances through the land, - in those periods when there were the earlier conquerors of the land from the northern lands and from across the channel. All of those became a part of the entity's experience, in aiding its own land to undertake the absorption of those from other lands in such a way and manner as to not lose all of the growth attained and yet make application of the new purposes and new ideals of others in that particular land.
The name then was Mary Ann Hummer. In the experience the entity gained, yet in the latter portion losing, - owing to the allowing of grudges and self-indulgence to become too great a part of the entity's experiences.
Thus in the present applications there are the tendencies for the too easily finding fault with those not perfectly understanding the influence of hereditary or environmental forces in their individual experience; yet seeking for personal expression.
Be patient, - as ye felt others should have been with thee in THY experience through those disturbing periods and application of self in the political and economic conditions which arose.
Before that we find the entity was in the land now called the Promised Land, during the periods of the returning of the children of promise from the Chaldean land.
There we find the entity was among those peoples who came with Zerubbabel, and of those who aided in extending the activities to help others.
The entity was among those who refused its own brethren (though of a different cult in the experience) from joining; and thus making for periods when there was too great a consideration of class or the acknowledgment of all being of one purpose.
The name then was Hannah. In the experience the entity gained, the entity lost and lost; gaining in the abilities to meet the circumstances which arose; losing in forming too great a class distinction and producing great hatred during those experiences; yet abilities in using all of the discarded forces from this or that in the experiences of others in their economic, in their home building, in their better experiences for the understanding of their relationships to Creative Forces, - the necessary needs for the spiritual lessons as well as the material, - these were gaining experiences.
Hence in the present we find that the greater service may be in aiding those who are as new arrivals in a strange land, or enabling individuals to become acquainted with or accustomed to new surroundings and new environs, as well as enabling those of every nation and every tongue to meet upon a common ground of service to ONE God.
These be the needs for the entity, to first know self, to be in accord or in attune with the divine principles as they apply to each and every individual; and that these, while they must be individual, are in such measures and manners applied that as nature itself supplies the needs in their particular spheres for a greater service to God and as a reverence to Him in the relationships of individuals to individuals in a material world.
Before that we find the entity was in the Atlantean land, being among those who came into Egypt with the groups there, - during those periods when there were the gatherings of the peoples for a common purpose, and the abilities of those under the Priest, and the directions by those chosen of the Atlanteans.
The entity was among those chosen of the children of the Law of One, to enable the peoples to become as one united for a common purpose and cause.
Then the name was Isba.
As to the abilities of the entity in the present, then, and that to which it may attain, and how:
Hold fast to that which is good in thy experience, as pertains to and takes hold of man's understanding and his relationship to his fellow man, through the more PERFECT understanding of his relationship to the Creative Forces or God.
In the fields of social service of any kind or nature the entity may find the greater activity, and more peace and harmony.
And be not weary in well-doing; but WRITING ALSO that which will enable the expectant mother, or those who would build a home, or those who would journey to the distant lands, to better fit self into the pattern of NEW duties, new obligations; and as to how they may better serve God and man.
Ready for questions.
(Q) Is the work I am doing what I came into this incarnation to do?
(A) It's very near to that, - though add the writing also.
(Q) Am I studying with the correct spiritual teachers for my highest development?
(A) Study to show thyself approved unto thy Maker, a workman not ashamed; not taking that which comes from others as law, but that which THOU hast experienced and may experience by studying and applying HIS words.
(Q) Why are my living quarters so humble and income so limited?
(A) That ye may better comprehend. If there will be the application in that direction indicated, these will be improved as the circumstances justify, and as the application is made by self.
(Q) Associates borrow from me but seldom return, - make purchases on my account without my knowledge and never pay, - invest my savings without any returns, etc. Why is this?
(A) These are a part of thy OWN experiences. In each and every case let thy judgments of such be according to what ye would do under the same circumstance.
At times, of course, these are when self allows self to be imposed upon, - but it is better to be imposed upon than to impose upon a single soul. For HE knows HIS own and calls same by name. So act, so live that ye may heed and hear that call.
(Q) Why are my friends so limited?
(A) These are limited only because ye limit them. Know that He came to the humble, to those that needed it. Keep thy heart singing, for He heareth thy prayers.
We are through for the present.
Copy to Self
Copy to Ass'n file

BACKGROUND

2/24/39 [1897]'s letter to EC:
My dear Mr. Cayce:
"When you visited our city recently you asked me to call and see you at your hotel and at your son's suggestion, I did so.
"At this time you advised me to have a Life reading. Upon learning the price I realized it was impossible for me to consider the reading however much I wished for it.
"A few days ago Dr. Hardwicke [Henry S. W. Hardwicke, M.D.] learned of this and urged me to write you immediately and learn what arrangements could be made as he assures me you had a very definite reason for advising this reading.
"I shall greatly appreciate any suggestion you make and do my utmost to carry it out to fruition...
"God bless you always."
Most sincerely
4/19/39 [1897] submitted questions for 1897-1. Questions submitted but not asked:
1. Can you give me any information pertaining to my paternal and maternal genealogy? 2. Am I acting wisely in filing an application for an examination for promotion and what assistance shall I seek in preparation? 3. Will I ever develop spiritually to the point where I can become a teacher in this incarnation?

REPORTS

9/21/39 [1897]'s letter to EC:
Dear Mr. Cayce:
"When I met you last winter and you recommended a reading I suggested a Physical, but you were prompted to advise a Life reading which was later arranged for and was received early in June. [1897-1 was given May 27, 1939.] About the same time I was stricken with pneumonia and later developed other conditions which has taken until now to overcome and I shall return to the office in October. I am explaining this in order that I may explain my silence for so long.
"I also received your note suggesting I read it over several times before hearing from me for explanations. I must say I am very much disappointed with it as it seems so incomplete. However, you may be able to help me with it.
"Second paragraph states 'There was more to this name once.' Can you explain this more clearly? Was it in this entity or another and what was the name, please?
"Paragraph four, first page [Par. 5], is not clear. Paragraph five, first page [Par. 6], states: 'There are some emotions, some impending influences it would be well to mention...', but no mention is made of them. Please explain what they are that I may be able to overcome same.
"Page two, paragraph ten [Par. 16] states: 'These - while not so great in number that are affecting the entity in the present are quite varied...' It does not mention, however, what these are so that it is difficult to fathom its meaning.
"Page three, paragraph seven [Par. 22]: 'experience as Reba Schumann, to write that which would be as counsel to those in all circumstances.' Writing is something I have not developed and have not the slightest idea how to go about it, but I am most desirous in fulfilling all requirements. Can you make any suggestions here?
"Page three, paragraph six [Par. 24] as Mary Ann Hummer: What position did entity hold, for in those days women were not prominent?
"Paragraph eight [Par. 25] is true regarding tendency of faultfinding and I have been working daily (spiritually) for some time to overcome this sin.
"Paragraph nine [Par. 26]: What political and economic condition is referred to here, please?
"Page five, paragraph one [Par. 41]: Writing is again suggested. Would this mean individual letters, pamphlets, books, magazine articles or what? I am not conscious of the talent of writing. How shall I begin? Does this also mean that I shall have new duties along social service lines?
"In reading it over it gives a dissatisfied feeling; unfinished and disappointing. Perhaps the steno omitted something, for it does not seem possible that it could take twenty-five minutes to dictate so brief a memo as this, and almost a week's income to pay for it.
"I shall look forward to your reply.
"Enclosed please find check for $5.00."
Sincerely [1897]
10/02/39 EC's letter to [1897]:
Miss [1897] ... St., New York, N.Y.
Dear Miss [1897]
"Have yours of the 21st and hope I may be able to help you with the information. But, of course, if it does not answer to anything within yourself, doubt very much whether it can ever be of worth. So, it will possibly be well to analyze self a bit also, as to your Ideals, purposes, hopes, fears, and see if they are in keeping with tenets of your Ideal.
"Second paragraph [Par. 2]: Evidently when you were first named, there was more to the name, or more contemplated by those naming you - what, I do not know. But, am sure it was given to indicate the individuality of the information.
"Fourth paragraph, first page [Par. 4]: While circumstances may be adverse from a material standpoint, do you feel and know within yourself you are dealing with others as you would like to be dealt with were conditions reversed, you are gaining spiritually.
"Paragraph five, first page [Par. 5]: The emotions and feelings you know within yourself and it is what you do about them, as makes for retardment or development; again depending upon what is your Ideal.
"Paragraph ten, page two [Par. 16] refers to the number of experiences in the earth; then begins in the next paragraph to give the appearances.
"Page three, paragraph five [Par. 20 [and 22?]]: Of course, if you have no feel of how to tell others to meet the situations in social service, it may not apply to you; but to write that others may be aided in meeting situations as you have in your work. It should be a real joy to you as well as most helpful to others that feel they have a work to do in that field of activity. And am sure you only have to attempt such to be successful with same. This may be in one form or another; that is, stories for press, or books for study on the subject in schools or the like.
"As Mary Ann Hummer: Aiding in retaining the type of religious activity. Many women were indicated to be leaders though they may have had to be only the inspiration for some man who did the actual work or leader in same.
"Paragraph nine [Par. 26]: Patience is the virtue to be expressed at this time. It has its economic as well as spiritual value in everyone's experience; or simply, always 'as ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.' It brings a peace, a contentment as nothing else will.
"Yes, as suggested above, writing you can do, in any of the fields as suggested. You know your experiences in social service, the experiences good and bad. These you can write about. These you can tell in a way in all classes of articles that would be of help, as well as of interest to the many.
"Am sorry if you are dissatisfied with the information. If, for any reason you wish to return it, do so, and I will be glad to return anything you have paid on same. There can never be a value put on psychic information. It may be worth much. It may not be worth anything. It's the manner of application that makes same helpful, and value of such can never be put in dollars and cents.
"I hope to have been of a service. If not, I am glad to try and make any corrections possible..."
2/14/40 [1897]'s letter to EC:
"Enclosed please find check for $5.00 to be credited to my account. Please tell me how it stands now, and how much more is owing.
"Am I on the mailing list? I never receive any kind of notices and wondered how this is managed.
"What is the charge for a Physical reading? I have considerable physical discomfort and if you recall I suggested that, but you advised a Life reading which was so unsatisfactory. "I am planning to take a civil service examination on February 24th at 9:30 A.M. and I must get through. Can you in any way help me with this and what will be the charge?
"Should you come to N.Y.C. this year I will be ever so glad to be present, should you make a public appearance..."
2/16/40 EC's letter to [1897]:
"Yours of the 14th with enclosure received. Thank you. Believe the records show there is only one more payment of $5.00 for the membership. If you wish it, will be glad to make an appointment for the Physical reading and for just the balance on the membership. And I'll make it as soon as we can get this in. Give me some idea as to days that would be best for you, when you can be quiet at home. And make a list of questions regarding conditions that apparently trouble you.
"Sending you some of the papers that you should have been getting, and will let you know when we come to N.Y. Hope it to be the early part of next month.
"Hoping to be of a service..."
3/03/40 See 1897-2, a Physical reading.
9/09/41 [1897]'s letter to EC:
"As an Associate Member of the Association I decided to go to Providence on my vacation to check up on my last incarnation as Reba Schumann. I checked back to 1623 when Roger Williams, the first white man to go to Providence is listed. A careful study did not reveal anyone by the name of Schumann, which was a great disappointment to me since I had hoped to benefit by past experience. I had looked forward to sending a report to you which might have been a worthwhile record for the Association, but it did not turn out that way. I have been wondering if the stenographer got the correct spelling of the name. Is there any way to check back on her notes?
"I notice several persons receive from time to time bulletins, etc. from you. What is the requirement to be eligible to receive this printed matter? Will you kindly explain?
"Now that the summer is drawing to a close I imagine you are preparing to come to N.Y.C. for a few days. I hope to receive a notice so that I may invite friends to hear you and also attend myself..."
She reported also on her Physical Reading. See under 1897-2.
9/15/41 EC's letter to [1897]:
"Thank you for yours of the 9th. Your report is most interesting. Sorry, though you were not fortunate enough to locate some evidence of 'Reba Schumann's' residence thereabouts. Many have been able to locate such easily, others have not. But I hope yet you will be able to find something in that regard. Usually such names are spelled out for the stenographer, but as she hasn't her notes, it is impossible now to say, but will at some time if you like, undertake a reading to know why you were not able to find something.
"Yes, the condition should be sufficiently improved now not to require continued treatments. The only way we could check is to have another reading and see what the information has to say about the condition at present.
"You should receive the monthly bulletins. If you do not, please send your address again, and I will see that your name is on the list to receive same. As an Associate Member you receive this free for one year. After that, it is $1.00 per year.
"Have many things planned this year for the Association work. I have not set any time as yet as to when we will be in New York or the vicinity, but imagine it will be the latter part of October or first weeks in November. I will certainly notify you and hope to see you at that time..."
1/25/42 [1897]'s letter to EC:
"With praise and thanksgiving to Almighty God, the only Presence and Power, I gratefully join daily in prayer for Divine guidance. I have done this for years and no doubt this brought your help to me physically. Everyone tells me how well I look and it's God's guidance through you, that has made this possible and I bless you and thank you from a grateful heart.
"I had hoped to complete the information given me in the Life reading in order to establish proof of the authenticity of your readings, but as I wrote you, I did not succeed on my trip to Providence.
"I was disappointed when you were not able to make your trip to N.Y.C. this fall, for I intended to talk with you about this, but even now you may be able to advise me.
"What is the charge for a check-up on a Physical or Life reading, as this may clear up several things for me.
"May God bless you and continue to use you to His service..."
1/27/42 EC's letter to [1897]:
"Thank you so much for yours of the 25th. I'm so glad you are feeling so much better. Wish I might have seen and talked with you while we were in N.Y. last fall. We were there or in Rye for three weeks and had a meeting at the Shelton Hotel on the evening of November 14th.
"We are happy indeed that you are ready to cooperate in the prayer for Divine Guidance. The response has been beautiful. All praise to HIM. Will attempt the reading soon and hope to send results of same to all interested, somewhere near the first.
"Will be most happy to try and help you any way we can. The Check readings are $10.00 for members as indicated in the booklet. Enclosing one under separate cover. Thanking you and hoping to be of a real service in His name..."
GD's note: Routine address changes from her on 12/04/49, 10/15/50 and 10/22/53, gave her signature as "Doctor" [1897].