4/37 Article written by HLC [Reprinted April 1943]:
A STUDY OF SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION
By Hugh Lynn Cayce
SUBJECT
Life Readings - Information through Edgar Cayce, Virginia
Beach, Va.
PURPOSE
To estimate the value of such information in relation to the
individual's desire to:
1. Study self.
2. Understand and work with others.
3. Develop talents and choose a life's work.
SOURCES
1. Eleven hundred and fifty individual Life Readings given
over a period of fifteen years through Edgar Cayce.
2. General readings on subjects referred to in Life Readings.
3. Written reports from members of the Association who have
studied their own Life Readings.
4. Observations by the Association staff.
CONCLUSIONS
1. Every individual who has made a study of his Life Reading
has expressed the opinion that it has helped him to know
himself better.
2. Many individuals have been able to use their Life Readings
successfully in working out complex problems in their
associations with others. Comparative studies of Life
Readings for individuals associated in special groups
indicate cycles of development and laws of attraction that
warrant further study. This is especially true in family
relationships. Sufficient studies have not been made to
justify a report.
3. Our records contain reports from more than a hundred
individuals who have followed their readings with favorable
results in developing latent talents and choosing
occupations. There is a vast field of research work open
here, especially in relation to heredity and environment.
4. The Life Readings explain a system of spiritual evolution
as connected with this solar system, presupposing the
existence of a soul which passes through many states of
consciousness in its growth. Statements regarding the
spiritual significance of life are consistently constructive
and in accord with highest principles or religious beliefs.
5. Life Readings contain information on such subjects as:
reincarnation, astrology, numerology, the power of thought,
etc. A comparative study and correlation of such
information would be most interesting.
6. Life Readings are proving especially helpful for
children, and are, when given shortly after birth, unusually
good checks on the value and accuracy of psychic
information.
7. The Life Readings may be said to contain the philosophy
of the "readings" given through Edgar Cayce.
8. Evidence is predominantly in favor of further study and
comparative checking of Life Readings.
DEFINITIONS OF TERMS
ENTITY - This is used to denote the complete individual,
including the physical body, conscious mind; the
subconscious mind, the astral body, soul and superconscious
mind.
URGES - Either astrological influences, resulting from
experiences in planes of consciousness other than earth,
or influences from the effects of retardment or advancement
in previous lives on the earth.
WILL: A spiritual faculty of the soul.
SOUL: A creation of God's composed of spirit, mind and will.
PHYSICAL PLANE: Earth.
DIMENSIONAL STATES OF CONSCIOUSNESS: Planes, symbolized by
the planets of this solar system, through which souls pass
for experience using other forms adaptable to the particular
dimension. In the earth we use a three-dimensional physical
body.
APPEARANCE - A life on earth.
LIFE READINGS
Introduction
What will I do with my life?
Which one of us has not had to answer that question? It
faces us at least once - usually many times in the short
span of human existence.
The young man leaving college must answer it. The middle-
aged mother who finds her children self-sufficient must
answer it. The successful business man ready to retire must
answer it. The girl involved in her first love affair must
answer it.
Sometimes the answer to this question is more eagerly sought
when success in a worldly way has already been attained.
Often the more versatile or more gifted the questioner,
the greater the need for decision.
Too, there are times when parents ask this question a little
differently for a child whose talents and abilities they
would guide and direct.
Whether for self or some loved one this question involves
one's fundamental concepts of life. Some individuals face
it courageously, others drift with the tide of circumstances
seeking temporary respite in inactivity.
Life Readings are this psychic's answer to this question.
History
The first Life Reading was given in 1924, for a gentleman
in Dayton, Ohio, who asked for a horoscope. The horoscope
was given, but in it the statement was made that information
of such character was not alone as helpful as data which
would give an understanding of urges arising from experiences
in past incarnations in the earth and correlating such urges
with the present opportunities for spiritual development.
A series of such readings followed, first for those closely
associated with the work of the Association. Gradually the
interest in this type of reading has grown. To date over
thirteen hundred first Life Readings have been given for
individuals in all parts of the country.
What Is A Life Reading?
You are asking the question, "What Is A Life Reading?"
This question can best be answered by the individual after
obtaining such a reading. We can tell you what it contains,
we can explain its peculiar language, but for you your Life
Reading will be an individual experience.
First, we will give here a general statement on Life Readings
which has evolved after study of hundreds of them. Second,
we will outline the contents of such a reading.
A Life Reading is an analysis of your soul development. It
is taken from the records of your soul's experience through
many planes of consciousness. Its focus is upon the
constructive urges in your present development. It is
concerned with your everyday efforts to live in conformity
with the spiritual laws of the universe. It is a survey of
your nature concerned with the development of your character.
Life Readings hold that individuals are spiritual in essence,
using physical bodies as temporary abodes and channels for
expression. Each individual does not have a soul, he IS a
soul.
Life Readings seek to help individuals recognize their place
in the scheme of spiritual evolution and direct thought and
action toward the highest possible development in the present
life.
These principles are stated here as ideal purposes of Life
Readings. As with all types of psychic information the
Association holds that the only true test is in results
from application of such information.
Each Life Reading first gives an outline of the major
astrological urges. This is followed by a brief history
of the more important past incarnations which affect the
present cycle of the life. The inclinations and urges from
these experiences are pointed out. Next, an analysis of
the personality is given in the light of the attainments
in spiritual development. Finally, suggestions are made
respecting the expression of certain talents which will
lead to the proper life's work or development of abilities
that will give the individual greater opportunities for
expression. At the end of each reading there is time for
questions regarding any of the subjects mentioned.
How is A Life Reading Given?
The next most natural question is, "How is a Life Reading
given?" This involves the equally important question,
"Where does this information come from?" To answer these
questions we must turn to a study of the phenomena as
manifested through Edgar Cayce. This, of course, brings us
to fundamental considerations of all such research. Since
the average person has not made a study of the tremendous
mass of evidence accumulated by individuals and groups
proving the authenticity of extra-sensory phenomena, and
since there is still so much disagreement over the validity
of sources claimed by many persons possessing unusual powers,
we will not attempt here to argue or prove our statements
regarding the procedure or the sources for securing the
information contained in the Life Readings. What would be
proof to one would be sheer nonsense to another individual.
So, if you seek proof, make an honest, sincere investigation
for yourself. From your OWN EXPERIENCES there will grow an
understanding. Here, reduced to simple language, is the
explanation of the "how" and "where" of Life Reading data
as presented in the readings themselves.
In past incarnations, and through development on planes of
consciousness between appearances on the earth, Edgar Cayce
has acquired the mental ability which enables him to close
all perception through physical consciousness. He suppresses
the conscious mind and allows his superconscious or soul mind
to receive the suggestions given him during the period of any
reading.
This superconscious mind is not limited by time or space and
is able to focus upon whatever source is necessary to secure
the information desired. The range and clarity of this
higher perception are governed, or influenced, by many
factors, some of which are: the spiritual development
of the individual through whom the information comes; the
purpose of the seeking for the information; the desire of
the one seeking the reading; the physical condition of the
sensitive; the attitude of those present at the time the
reading is given.
In securing a Life Reading an individual is asked to furnish
the name given at birth, also the date and place of birth.
From this it is evident that the birth becomes the first
focus point.
It is interesting to note that, at the beginning of each
Life Reading, Mr. Cayce reviews each year by repeating in a
low voice the present date and each year backward to the date
of birth. In many cases he has been known to comment on
certain years in the following manners, "1900...quite a
change," or "1898...a bad accident in this year." In some
cases the remarks have been subject to check and have been
found to be accurate. Following this enumeration of dates
there is a pause and then the reading begins.
During a number of Life Readings Mr. Cayce has had dreams.
(During Life Readings, as in the case of all readings given
by him, Mr. Cayce is not conscious of anything that he says.)
These dreams present in symbol form the experiences through
which his superconscious mind passes in securing the
information for the Life Readings.
Mr. Cayce's account of these experiences is as follows:
"I see myself as a tiny dot out of my physical body, which
lies inert before me. I find myself oppressed by darkness
and there is a feeling of terrific loneliness. Suddenly, I
am conscious of a white beam of light. As this tiny dot, I
move upward following it, knowing that I must follow it or
be lost.
"As I move along this path of light I gradually become
conscious of various levels upon which there is movement.
Upon the first levels there are vague, horrible shapes,
grotesque forms such as one sees in nightmares. Passing on,
there begin to appear on either side misshapen forms of human
beings with some part of the body magnified. Again there
is change and I become conscious of gray-hooded forms moving
downward. Gradually, these become lighter in color. Then
the direction changes and these forms move upward and the
color of the robes grows rapidly lighter. Next, there begin
to appear on either side vague outlines of houses, walls,
trees, etc., but everything is motionless. As I pass on,
there is more light and movement in what appear to be normal
cities and towns. With the growth of movement I become
conscious of sounds, at first indistinct rumblings, then
music, laughter, and singing of birds. There is more and
more light, the colors become very beautiful, and there is
the sound of wonderful music. The houses are left behind,
ahead there is only a blending of sound and color. Quite
suddenly I come upon a hall of records. It is a hall
without walls, without ceiling, but I am conscious of
seeing an old man who hands me a large book, a record of the
individual for whom I seek information. I have had this
experience some twenty-five times. The variations have been
only slight ones."
General readings of explanation state that every soul makes
a record of its experiences in every plane of consciousness.
In other words, the soul finds expression in many planes in
bodies or other suitable vehicles adapted to the dimension
of that particular plane. In the earth plane it uses a
physical body of three dimensions. All of its experience
make up the soul record for that particular entity (soul).
It is these records with which Mr. Cayce makes attunement in
obtaining the data for a Life Reading.
Just where this record is or how it is recorded can not be
explained here. We are approaching some understanding of
the process through experiments with mental telepathy.
Science is beginning to realize that thought registers
perceivable forms and, like physical energy, can not be
and is not destroyed.
No one has ever found a picture of an old swimming hole
engraved on a brain, but in a flash you can recall this and
many other memories. Where is this record made? Is it in
matter? Well, probably not in matter as we know it. This
may give you some idea of the soul records which are tapped
for Life Readings. There are individuals who can turn inward
to their own soul records and open for themselves great
storehouses of power. Our concern is with just how valuable
the information, purported to be drawn from these records,
can be made in our everyday life.
The Purpose Of A Life Reading
One of the most repeated statements in the readings given
by Mr. Edgar Cayce is that the only real test of
extrasensory information lies in its application to the
ordinary daily needs. However exciting, however beautiful,
in order to be of value such information must be good when
tested in the living experiences of individuals. The
underlying principle of all Life Readings is to conform to
this point of view.
Of the thirteen hundred or more Life Readings upon which we
are basing this study, not one can be found that is not
constructive in point of view. By no means does this imply
that an individual's imperfections are passed over; for, in
many instances the innermost secret defects, the basic causes
of critical thoughts and acts, are brought to light. But
always there is constructive suggestion for meeting and
overcoming these faults. The brief histories of past
incarnations are not given with the point of view of
presenting glamorous scenes, but rather to explain
deep-seated urges that have important bearing on present
thought and action.
The important consideration of each Life Reading seems to be
the presentation of information that will help an individual
recognize his spiritual nature; and to magnify this nature
through directing, controlling, conscious thought and action
in constructive channels.
The Philosophy Of The Life Readings
Considered as a whole the Life Readings given by Mr. Edgar
Cayce present a beautiful system of spiritual evolution.
The human soul is explained as a significant creation having
an important place in the scheme of the universe. Spiritual
growth is the keynote of life through recognition,
realization and appreciation of the ONENESS OF GOD.
The importance of astrological urges is explained by pointing
out that each soul passes through planes of consciousness
between appearances on earth. These planes of consciousness
are represented by the planets of this solar system -
Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune,
named in order of their proximity to the Sun. In each of
the environs governed by these planets the soul takes on a
form suitable to the dimension and planets the soul takes
on a form suitable to the dimension and continues its growth.
The order of these experiences is governed by the action of
the will of the soul in relation to its experiences.
Gradually there has evolved through the ages an understanding
of the urges which come from experiences in these various
planes. In attempting to express these urges in words,
in relation to physical consciousness, much is lost; and
it becomes impossible to explain the inter-action of the
will as it affects the negative and positive sides of these
influences. For general consideration we give the following
parallel expressions:
Mercury - Mind. Venus - Love, Beauty.
Mars - Force, Energy. Jupiter - Idealism
Saturn - Purification, Change. Uranus - Occultism, Extremes.
Neptune - Mysticism, Water.
In the light of this theory of soul experiences, astrological
influences take on a new meaning. (It may be best to state
here that Life Readings do not indicate physical experiences
on other planets but rather point out the planes of
consciousness are represented by the planets.) The
influences from the various planets may naturally at times
seem harmful rather than helpful. The completeness and
well-roundedness of the necessary experiences are
important. Great teachers and philosophers of the world
have stressed balance. In this physical life the need for
balance is but a reflection of the necessary development in
the spiritual life. The nobleness of Jupiter without the
driving force of Mars, the love influence of Venus without
the tempering action of Mercury, are dangerous.
As you consider the multitude of complex nature represented
in mankind, know that you view many degrees of developing
entities who have not assimilated the balancing factors
of all the solar experiences. The naturalness of varied
combinations and crossed manifestations are even more
reasonable when we consider the fact that the human will
may use or misuse each opportunity presented to it, and
anywhere along the path of development turn the whole entity
about and stride backward, carrying thousands of souls with
it, as many of the so-called "great" men of history have
done.
In considering the theory of rebirth as presented in the Life
Readings, perhaps our first consideration should be that we
are upon the earth as we make these observations of life
and it behooves us to make the most of our experiences.
Instinctively these experiences lead us to seek an
understanding of the laws of the universe. The simple
tiller of the soil or the great scientist is awed by the
complexity of the world about him. Reincarnation, as it is
explained in the Life Readings, is a natural law, a natural
part of the plan for spiritual growth.
Theories of reincarnation have been concepts in the religious
and philosophic belief of peoples of every nation, civilized
and uncivilized, since man's appearance on the earth.
Knowledge and superstition have at times become inextricably
confused, resulting in diverse explanations of the laws of
rebirth. Uninformed persons make no distinction between
reincarnation and transmigration. The first pertains to the
soul's rebirth in the earth plane in human form, while the
latter refers to the rebirth of the soul interchangeably in
animal forms.
Those desiring a knowledge of various beliefs embodying these
theories will find of interest those of Plato, Pythagoras,
the Indian religions, African tribal religions, American
Indian religions, Egyptian and Persian Mysteries, Druidic
and Christian mysticism. Among the modern philosophies and
cults Theosophy, Rosicrucianism and the Order of Christian
Mystics present interpretations of the subject. Spirtualism
is divided as to the truth of this theory. Information
through mediums in America may be said to discount it, while
that given through those in England and on the continent
substantiates the belief.
The Following Concepts Are Presented In Life Readings:
1. The earth in its inception was a divine expression of the
Creator. Individual souls through the application of will
in the expression of selfish desires make of it a hell.
Through the guidance of the Christ-Soul the earth has been
made a ladder up which we may climb to a consciousness
of an at-onement with the Creator. Through a series of
incarnations in matter in human form the soul learns to
cleanse itself of the selfish desires blocking its perfect
understanding, and to apply spiritual laws in relation to
matter.
2. Urges created in the material plane must be met and
overcome, or used, in the material plane.
3. Rebirth in the earth plane occurs as a result of
individual need. It may follow a definite cycle or vary
according to the development of the soul in this and
intermediary planes. The number of incarnations is not
limited. Some souls may exercise choice in the entrance
into this plane, others according to development are drawn
through a relative action of forces for a particular type
of expression.
4. Sex changes in various incarnations according to
development and expression in previous periods.
5. Throughout a given life individuals are associated with
other souls with whom they have previously been connected
in past lives, or with souls whose development has reached
similar planes of consciousness. A man builds his own
station in life.
6. Forgiveness of sins in the religious sense is definitely
connected with the laws of cause and effect. Through a
personal application of the truths as expressed in the life
of the Christ an individual may make of his so-called "karma"
stepping-stones to a greater God-like expression.
7. The will's influence is always a governing factor in
experience and may alter the destiny builded by a soul's
previous activity.
The stress placed upon the importance of the will as a factor
in the development of an entity and correlation of its action
with some seemingly unexplainable hereditary and environ-
mental influences are outstanding points of emphasis in Life
Readings. Within every being there is a force which seeks
constantly to move towards God. This does not mean that man
may always overcome and master his surroundings in the sense
that we speak of physical success, but that always there lies
within him the ability, the power, to choose the way which
will mean a step forward along the path. If one will make
an effort, the knowledge of how to use to spiritual advantage
any and all conditions, will be opened from within.
We all make the fatal mistake of over-emphasizing the
importance of the physical life. We become blinded by its
needs, which we constantly magnify. Fear clutches at our
hearts at the least sign of failure of laws which we have
considered immutable. Food, shelter, clothing, bodily
comfort, pleasure, are of paramount importance. We have
come to depend upon certain laws to provide these. Such
laws, supply and demand, tastes, etc., are man-made and may
not always exist. We build our own environment and choose
our own hereditary influences, or are drawn to them according
to our individual needs. There are many conditions which
from a physical standpoint seem beyond the control of our
wills, but which from a spiritual and mental viewpoint offers
opportunities for real development.
This brings us to the point of differentiation between the
power of mental control over physical action, or desire, and
the spiritual factor which is the true will. The will must
considered as a faculty of the soul, and should be exercised
and developed as such. It must not be confused with its
expression or activity in the mental and physical worlds
where it often becomes so involved and entangled with our
conscious desires that we lose sight of it. The loss of
will power results in the magnifying of selfish desires to
such an extent that the desires of the physical body and
conscious mind overshadow the inner desires of the soul,
which constantly drive us toward God and which, if magnified
in the mental and physical life, may use any condition, any
barrier, any problem, as a stepping-stone for further
spiritual growth. The fusion of this God-given faculty of
every soul with the Divine Will makes possible a perfect
attunement with God.
Over and over in Life Readings we come upon the statement,
"Mind is the builder." And each Life Reading contains some
admonition and direction for holding the mind to constructive
activity through complete and balanced expression in the
physical plane.
Positive thought and action are stressed as essential for
real self-expression.
The philosophy of the Life Readings is not an easy philosophy
to live. It is a challenging standard. As we study our own
Life Readings our excuses for drifting must be discarded. No
longer are we able to blame God, the Devil, or others for our
misfortunes. We can never again pity ourselves without a
feeling of guilt. We are brought face to face with the need
for standing mentally on our own feet. In all it is
sometimes a most disturbing philosophy, but most of us must
admit that we need a little "disturbing."
Using A Life Reading
The values in Life Readings seem to fall under three natural
heads:
1. Better understanding of self
2. Improvement in work with others
3. Direction of talents and selection of vocation
"Know thy self." This age-old admonition has been
interpreted in many ways. The more we consider it the more
complex the problem becomes, and even modern psychology with
all its explanations of complexes and inhibitions does not
meet our needs.
For many individuals Life Readings have lifted the curtain
and revealed the inner self. One individual writes as
follows:
"Then my reading came! And I knew that to some eye I had
been an open book...a book read all the way through. Here
were my shortcomings and my dreams, the unconfessed and
hidden good and bad of me.
"Here, for instance, was the rebuke to that old hesitancy of
mine to go on with life...that recurring bugaboo of 'Why am
I bothering about life at all...and is it real anyway?' No
mere human being had ever guessed at that thought which had
been at times an all-day consciousness in me.
"Agnostic that I prided myself to be, I had spit mentally
at many a church door (and curled my lip at many a church
member). Yet this all-seeing eye had registered my
bitterness and forgiven it...had known what I really meant
when I had said so often, 'That bunch wouldn't know Jesus if
they fell over Him in the street.'
"Sheer poetry spoke out of those pages to me. I could not
get it all at once by any means. I had laughed so often at
susceptible middle-aged females who talked about being born
under the sign of Capricorn. But when the reading said I had
a certain urge from one of the planets, I did not find it so
funny. There were indeed stars in the heavens, I remembered.
So much hidden truth had been spotted that I was willing to
accept for the moment the weird implication of a star-gazer.
"Here were comments on the work I had done and on the work
I might do. Here were even the ways and manners for going
about it.
"Here was romance at its top. For here was a drama in which
I was the star. I moved across the stage of life, according
to this reading, and life had gone on for centuries. Did I
feel important? Yes, and that feeling brought new hope, new
courage and new power.
"Yes, I have had a Life Reading." [
954]
Let us suppose for a moment that our souls have lived before
in this or other planes and that some of our complicated
urges are not handed down to us by heredity but have been
self-developed. Would it not be helpful to know how to
direct these urges, to understand them? In the following
instance if the Life Reading had been studied, much suffering
for many could have been averted.
Quoting from a Life Reading given in 1927, for a very
successful Florida business man:
"...and hence we find, with the greatest purport of self to
accomplish the good, many at times speak evil when no evil
intent or purpose is meant by the entity... One that has
in the present plane found that often, on account of adverse
conditions apparent when none meant, the entity tends to
appear to others as secretive in actions, when to the entity
such conditions present that as an element of safety, rather
than that of attempting to be of the undermining or secretive
nature... In the abilities of the entity, and in the
application of same, it is found that in the experience
there comes, through this, much of the ability to counsel,
and many of the privileges of monies under the control of
the entity, of its own and of others..."
Warnings and spiritual advice followed. (
943-2, Life Rdg.)
When this reading was given nothing was known of the man's
nature. He neglected to study the information, and he put
it aside for several years. Situations arose where others
accused him of being secretive, doubted his motives and
became severely critical. Considerable difficulties arose
over the handling of monies. In this instance all of these
conditions could have been avoided had the Life Reading been
studied and the advice followed.
The Life Readings hold up the mirror of past activities. We
can see ourselves as the builders of our own present position
in the scheme of life. We can see the source of an urge, we
can view the pitfalls ahead if we continue along certain
paths. The Life Reading is a picture of the real self.
Consider the following from a Life Reading:
"The mental development may be made useful - while purely
mental attributes of the Mercurian, as well as Aries, may
bring destructive influences in the life respecting the body
becoming one-tracked toward one influence; a theoretical and
not a real, applicable, workable, influence in a material
world... In the application of will as respecting this
condition, with influences in the active forces from the
occult, there may be seen - without balance - the body may
often be (as it is at times) misjudged by associates,
connections and those related in active, material
demonstrations of mental proclivities of a body; considered
radical, and even radical to the extent of not being
practical." [
204]
When this reading was given Mr. Edgar Cayce did not know the
individual. A few years passed, bringing tremendous activity
with accompanying complications. In the history of the
section of the country in which this entity labored, no
name (and the list is long) came closer to being engraved
indelibly upon the tablet of constructive history than the
name of this individual. What was the criticism on every
tongue, and most of all from those who worked with him?
Impractical! The first storms of criticism centered about
the radical attitude and the touch of the occult. This
gradually changed with the injection of the charge of
impracticality. Here again the warnings went unheeded, were
pushed aside because at the time of the reading there seemed
no foundation to this picture of self. It proved, in the
eyes of thousands, to have been worthy of consideration.
[
204]
In considering the Life Readings as aids to working out
relationships with others, we may find many examples where
they have proved helpful. Family associations, friends,
business associates and the like are apparently built up, for
the most part, on past incarnations. An understanding of the
urges in these past relationships is found to be of great
help in present-day association. Let us sketch briefly a few
of the problems solved by the Life Readings.
Two boys from different sections of the country met during
their first year in college. They were naturally drawn
together, yet could not get along. Either would go out of
his way to cause the other difficulty and enjoy the
discomfort. This relationship reached in a few months the
proportions of a college feud, brought on fights and
developed the worst side of both individuals' nature. Life
Readings were secured and it was found that in past lives
these individuals had been on opposing sides in two wars and
should in this life overcome antagonism, for much could be
accomplished in work together. Both individuals
deliberately set out to destroy the antagonism and have
succeeded in building up a mutually benefitting friendship.
[[
341] and [
849]]
A young man and woman fell in love and found themselves
involved in a tangle of petty jealousy and intrigue.
Both were tormented with doubts and fears. Life Readings
described the difficulties of a past life in which their
love was frustrated because of intrigue involving the same
individuals causing trouble in the present life. Urges from
such experiences were explained and advice given that led to
marriage and happiness. [[
23] and [
1005]]
A Life Reading was requested for a boy who was hard to
manage. The boy's mother had died and the father had married
again. The boy became gradually a serious problem and could
not be kept at home. Finally he ran away to sea. The Life
Reading was requested with the hope of finding him, or of at
least giving suggestions for handling the situation. The
reading indicated that there was a definite conflict in the
family connections and that it would be much better for the
boy and the family for him to remain away from home. The
love for the sea and the way for development was indicated.
[
2213]
We could go on with case after case. These will suffice to
illustrate the point. Here we have selected normal everyday
problems that have been solved through Life Readings. This
is no recourse to a mystic formula, but practical reasoning
based on a theory that is being tested in each new case.
As we turn to the final value of Life Readings we approach
one of the most interesting phases of our studies, for here
is an opportunity for valuable contributions to a most
important field of research.
On every hand we hear the cry, "Some of our best bankers
are farmers, and many great artists are working in machine
shops." There is a real need for more and more vocational
direction throughout our educational system. Too, there
are so many individuals whose lives are dull and drab
because they are not giving expression to latent talents
and abilities within them.
Life Readings have proved of great help to many in selecting
a vocation and in developing unused talents. Here again
we could describe many cases. Consider these as typical
examples.
A young man who worked in an engraving shop became interested
in and finally secured his own Life Reading. The reading
urged an escape from the binding conventions of a possessive
family and specifically stated that the young man could be
a most successful artist, especially in work with modern
friezes. It is natural that we have watched with interest
this young man's years of work and study in art school and
his rise to remarkable heights in his field. The reading
stirred a new power within him. Anyone who could compare
the suppressed young boy of a few years ago and the young
scholar and artist whose work is being recognized today
would see why we feel that the Life Readings are so worth
studying. [
345]
Frequently, individuals secure Life Readings that, in their
opinions do not seem to coincide with their interests and
abilities. The following is an example.
In 1927, a Life Reading was given for a fourteen year
old boy. The information indicated that the talents and
abilities lay in fields of activity pertaining to dress.
"One that will find greater success, the greater development,
in the present experience, coming through that of association
with peoples - in the condition of the business man,
especially that as pertains to materials, clothing, or of
such natures." The following urges were indicated from
various past incarnations: "The urge as is seen -
particular with self as to dress." (Period of French
court.) "The entity then among the tradespeople of
Salonica." And another, "Hence among those who first in the
land (Egypt) took on special kind of raiment or garments to
designate self from others..." "...the urge as is seen, the
ability to know materials, especially that as applies to
wearing apparel."
As this young man grew older he entered newspaper work. The
urges as described above were not sufficiently strong to draw
him into the type of work indicated.
Years later there came an opportunity for a connection
with a firm selling uniforms. In this position he has been
unusually successful. Gradually, an understanding of these
urges has come, bringing greater poise and opportunities for
mental and spiritual growth.
The information contained in the Life Reading and a reading
explaining these urges has opened the way for unusual
development. [
641]
There can be no compromise with such information. It must be
tested.
Let us consider, too, any number of instances where specific
musical instruments have been recommended in Life Readings
and upon trials unusual aptitudes have been discovered. Such
experiences bring joy and a means of expression to lives
which in many cases never "click." The important
consideration is in learning through careful comparative
study whether or not these directions actually open up
storehouses of developed abilities. From our present
observations it certainly seems that this is true. [[
275]
and [
276]]
There have been instances where complete changes were
recommended in occupations. In one case a change was made
from the grocery business to wood and metal products, which
later developed to be radios. The success was phenomenal.
In another instance of a young man thoroughly disgusted with
life, a change was suggested that involved a type of work
never considered by the individual. For several years the
young man had been a salesman of automobiles. The vocation
suggestion was housing. The important point is that this
suggestion was followed and the latest report is that he has
never been happier and is intensely interested in the work.
[[
257] and [
1066]]
Just one more case before closing this section. A few years
ago a young woman who was a telegraphic operator sought a
Life Reading. An art career was recommended. The change
was made and has resulted in a new life for the individual.
She reports remarkable progress and, more important, a deep
joy in her work. [
338]
Here again we have come face to face with common problems
and we see the Life Readings fulfilling a real need. Again
results count. These readings can not be laid aside and
forgotten. They are no magic scrolls to whisk you into a
land of make-believe. They must be studied and the advice
heeded, and this at times means an upsetting of lives that
have fallen into ruts. Day by day the number of individuals
who are using their Life Readings constructively is growing.
Studying Life Readings
The following suggestions for studying a Life Reading may
prove helpful:
1. Take the attitude that your reading must be examined
over a long period of time. Just for the sake of argument
consider what it means if this particular document in
question really is a study of your soul development. It
offers possibilities. You have everything to gain - nothing
to lose.
2. Be frankly critical but fair as you check over the
characteristics which are described as being yours. Fooling
yourself with a false note of laughter will not change the
facts of the suggestions given. Make a note or two, as time
goes on, so as to keep track of your own reactions under
circumstances described in the reading.
3. A number of subjects are mentioned in the Life Reading
which offer opportunity for further study. Select one and
look into it. A dip into astrology will not age you, some
modern book on self-analysis or even a book or two on
reincarnation may prove helpful. At least you may find
it worth while to secure more information on one or more
of the outstanding past incarnations. Hit the period as
close as you can estimate it and stick to the more informal
types of writing. You may be agreeably surprised at the
interest which is aroused.
4. By all means check up on any recommendations for vocations
or avocations. Give any talent or special ability which is
mentioned a fair chance to develop. Don't push yourself,
just expose yourself to the influences that tend toward the
subjects mentioned and watch the results in yourself.
5. If the study proves helpful continue your investigations
with readings on each of the appearances mentioned and check
up with questions that occur to you. Write the Association
for such parallel material as it may publish from time to
time on Life Readings. Remember the Association reflects
your interest - when expressed.
There are many things in studying Life Readings that require
the attention of the Association as a research organization.
1. First the Association needs more detailed reports on the
individual Life Readings. We understand that mental and
emotional reactions are hard to describe, but they are most
important in this study. Only through the cooperation of the
members who have Life Readings may we expect real progress
for our research in this phase of the work.
2. There is a crying need for Life Readings to be given for
groups of children in special schools, and studied carefully
in accordance with the reactions of individuals in such
groups, under the guidance of trained teachers. The
Association looks forward to such cooperation with some
select institution and will appreciate the cooperation of
members in making such contacts. Reports on twenty-five
children under the same group of observers would lead to
some interesting and, we believe, helpful results.
3. Members of the Association interested in the Life Readings
should encourage more such readings for children directly
after birth. Some have found the Life Readings most helpful
in selecting suitable names. At least a reading at an early
date will offer more checkable information. We want the
facts. [[
299], [
314], [
1208], [
1346], [
1958], etc.]]
4. There is a real need for correlation of the information
in Life Readings. Funds for this work are needed.
Summary
In closing we feel justified in stating that all the evidence
points toward the need for further study and development
of the Life Readings. They are proving helpful for many
individuals in all walks of life and should be extended to
larger groups.
The Association is dedicated to the principle of passing
on to others that which is found to be helpful in these
studies. In the light of this principle it is justly proud
of the good which has been accomplished by Life Readings
through Edgar Cayce.
Cases Used In Above Study - (Twenty Individuals) -
[
23] - page 27 [
641] - page 29
[
204] - page 26, 27 [
849] - page 27
[
257] - page 29 [
943] - page 25
[
275] - page 29 [
954] - page 25
[
276] - page 29 [
1005] - page 27
[
299] - page 31 [
1066] - page 29
[
314] - page 31 [
1208] - page 31
[
338] - page 29 [
1346] - page 31
[
341] - page 27 [
1958] - page 31
[
345] - page 28 [
2213] - page 27
8/19/40 Mr. [
2265] referred [
2324] for a Physical Rdg.
Edgar Cayce Readings © 1971, 1993, 1994, 1995 by the Edgar Cayce Foundation