This Psychic Reading given by Edgar Cayce at the office of the Association, Arctic Crescent, Virginia Beach, Va., this 18th day of April, 1944, in accordance with request made by the self - Mr. [5096], new Associate Member of the Ass'n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc., recommended by the book, THERE IS A RIVER.

Present: Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Born September 26, 1891, 12:00 Noon, in Fenelon Falls, Ontario, Canada.

TEXT

1. GC: You will give the relations 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, that to which it may attain, and how. You will answer the questions, as I ask them:
2. EC: Yes! What a funny mustache this individual had before!
3. We have the records of that entity now known as or called [5096].
4. As we find, there are a great number of conditions that are exemplary. There are those that to some might be questioned. But these we choose with the desire and hope that this information may prove to be a helpful experience for the entity; that the entity may see itself as the characteristics are manifested and latent; thus enabling the entity to choose for itself those ideals in the mental, spiritual and material associations and activities that may be the nearer in accord with that to which the entity would like to see self grow.
5. To be sure, these may only be pointed out for the entity. The choices must be made by the entity as to what it will do about same.
6. For as has been indicated, an individual entity becomes that which would be its ideal; in its relationships to individuals, to associates, to things and conditions; before it actually knows these activities. For it will mean little or nothing to the entity only to be told or to hear of such and do little or nothing about same.
7. As from the urges latent and manifested, these we find indicated through these manners:
8. There are realms of consciousness in this solar system, just as there are sojourns of the entity in the environs accredited to other consciousnesses. As in the earth there is the three-dimensional consciousness, so in Mercury, Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus and Neptune and Pluto there are consciousnesses that are a part of the entity, either active or unknown. As a living entity, already a part of the universal consciousness, it is a part of the whole.
9. To become aware of such and to use or apply these urges for helpful experiences, then, is the desire with which these suggestions are given for this entity.
10. We find that the activities in Venus and Jupiter bring quite a lot of abilities in the entity, in the desire for activities that draw the entity to a consciousness of the need for betterment in the spiritual, mental and material. Or we may term such as a religious tendency or trend.
11. In Mars with Venus and Jupiter we find the abilities as a writer, as an author, or as in preparation of data, tracts, activities that would be of use in the enlightenment for those who seek spiritual interpretation of life that has been recorded or that may be lived or written in the lives of individuals today.
12. Hence as we find, as a director or writer for those especially who are publishers of literature for Sunday Schools, for study in high places, or in preparation of tracts for groups or individuals who are in positions where only a few minutes may be given daily to such instruction, the entity may excel.
13. For the entity realizes that just as the physical body needs fuel, as it were, for its activity, so does the mental and spiritual body need instruction and direction; not as to be changed but to be lived, to be masticated as food, and thus become a part of the whole composition of the entity as an entity, soul, mind and body.
14. Hence in those directions or activities the entity might find an outlet for the greater abilities, as indicated in astrological urges as well as from the periods of sojourn in the earth.
15. While all of the appearances in the earth may not be indicated in the present, we find these indicating the pattern through or to which the entity may shape or form its experiences in the earth in the present.
16. Before that the entity was in the land of the present nativity, during the early settlings in the land.
17. The entity was among those who aided in interpreting the principles, the law, the spiritual laws, that those of other groups and other associates might be well instructed for the making of better companions, friends or citizens; and these were well.
18. Then in the name Oscar Wheeler, the entity did well materially, the entity grew mentally, the entity applied spiritual imports and purposes.
19. Thus we see the pattern of the entity's activities in the present.
20. Before that the entity was in the Holy Land following the activities when the disciples, the Apostles, were instructing and leading individuals through a period of turmoils; following the advent of the Master in the earth.
21. The entity acted in the capacity of supplying propaganda for the various activities in attempting to unite those of various groups into one perfect cause, where there were people who had been brought up under different leadership and different environ entirely.
22. Hence the entity in the present may be called something of a propagandist, but if the activities are in that direction of presenting purposes and ideals that are creative, it will be well.
23. The name then was Pleney [Plinii?]. The entity applied self, the entity gained; and yet paid materially many prices, or the supreme physical price.
24. Thus we find latent a little fear creeps into the entity as concerning its material or social safety.
25. Before that the entity was in the Persian or Arabian land, among those groups who were of the tribe of the leader Uhjltd's household. There were periods of questions, for the nomads to which group the entity belonged were inclined to feel that might makes right, and that those who could be the more cunning, the more subtle in their use of abilities to impel themselves upon the fellow men, were the ones making right.
26. These being attuned to, or changed with the teachings in the "city in the hills and plains", we find that the entity acted then in the capacity of an interpreter or as an aid to the peoples who used the city as the means for changes; as well as one who instructed individuals.
27. Before that the entity was in Atlantis when there were those attempts to readjust from the period of the second destruction.
28. The entity was among the children of the Law of One, and set about the replenishing and rebuilding, still having influences with the groups - though the sons of Belial were ever attempting to undermine the efforts.
29. In the present the entity finds periods when apparently groups of individuals set about to undermine the efforts of the entity. For ye rebelled through those experiences. The name then was Orna.
30. As to the abilities of the entity in the present - as we have indicated, the pattern runs to one not as a fanatic, but one who may apply self in the spiritual laws and the interpreting of same in the relationships with others.
31. Thus in the capacity as a writer or instructor, as a director for the publishing of tracts, of Sunday School literature, of data that may be a guide in the groups who would seek knowledge of the greater influences in life, the entity may succeed the better.
32. Ready for questions.
33. (Q) How can I accomplish more toward achieving the measure of success desired?
    (A) This depends very much upon what the entity feels is success, or upon what the entity terms success. Success should be builded upon the spiritual purpose. And as the mind dwells upon same and feeds same with the greater spiritual abilities, the material success should be brought as a natural result. But in those channels outlined are the influences and forces.
34. We are through with this reading.

    Two copies to Self
    Copy to Ass'n file
    Two for indexing
    (From the above reading it would seem that you should have much in common with another of our Active Members, Mrs. [3395] of the ... Publishing Co., ..., Ill.)

BACKGROUND

1. Married; no children; editor and writer in advertising field.
2. 7/24/43 Letter: "Thank you for your prompt reply to my letter. I shall look forward with interest to receiving the data on the readings, although I have devoured the Sugrue book and do not have to be converted... I had rather anticipated a long waiting list, but hope that when my card comes up in its turn, we can get some enlightenment as to my alleged usefulness on this 'footstool'. Sometimes I feel just near a place where I can do something worthwhile. Perhaps a pointing finger will show at least part of the road...
   P.5. I can think of no better fortunate happening than to be able to pay you a visit at Va. Beach. Perhaps when the situation clears up and we can travel again, it can be arranged." [ARE files have no record of [5096] ever visiting Va. Beach.]
3. 7/27/43 Letter: "...I do not know when I shall be able to spare $20. for a membership, but I do want to do so just as soon as I can, for I believe thoroughly in the authenticity of the readings. You see, I am not one who has had to be 'sold' on such a belief. While I have never been a very good orthodox 'Christian', I have always felt that the things you speak of were true. That is why I have been a student of Rosicrucianism, but I must be truthful and say that I have not had the results reported by some of my fellow students. Perhaps I am undeserving, and perhaps I would not relish some of the revelations. But, bad as I may have been, I would like to know whether I am on my toes (going forward), or on my heels (going backward). Your answer to this would doubtless be that I should determine the former for myself. But how? Examining my motives, I have to confess that I want some measure of success and a better mind with which to concentrate upon that which I attempt. It is this which makes me feel that I may not be doing what I am best fitted for. I have never been a conscious enemy of any man - other than myself. Have always given more of my time and ability than was required. Yet I have still to get into the stride of real accomplishment.
4. 8/05/43 Letter: "For your information, I was born ... at 12 o'clock noon. I recall my mother saying to me in later years that I began a competition of noise with the noon whistles... There is a promise in most of the teachings I have read of, particularly among the oriental philosophies, that 'when you are ready the teacher will appear'. Perhaps my past few years of 'discipline' have prepared my mind for the proper reception of a reading. Certainly I came across the book by Mr. Sugrue quite unexpectedly, although the subject was sure to arrest my attention. I have been leaning that way for some years. With profound thanks to you and best wishes for your Peace Profound... The fact that I am to have an appointment in March will be a great morale booster for me."
5. 3/25/44 GD's card: "For some reason, we were unable to get your Life Reading this morning. We will try again on April 18, 1944. Let us know if this is satisfactory."
6. 3/29/44 Letter: "Well, I'm not surprised. I suspect the fault is all my own. Still, it is not likely that all who are given readings are exemplary in their lives. You see, I am cognizant of my far-from-perfect life. Since there is 'more joy in heaven over one sinner,' etc., how is one to repent if he doesn't sin? That is, of course, a matter for the theologians... I believe that if one has some idea of his past incarnations, he can more intelligently meet and counteract his wrong tendencies. If he has overcome his weaknesses and surmounted the problem, the rest is beside the point. That's why the sinner looks for guidance. He needs it more than anyone else... So I shall be looking forward to some success on April 18... Not sure if I can get away from my office for contemplation, and would appreciate your advice as to whether this is necessary. I fear this is a weak vessel. Who knows? (1) Am I doing the work for which I am best fitted? (2) How can I develop a better mind with which to concentrate upon that which I attempt? (3) Even though giving more of my time and ability than required, why do I seem not to make any real stride toward accomplishment?"

REPORTS

1. 5/02/44 Letter: "Not having heard from you relative to the second effort to get a reading for me, I am wondering if my case has been abandoned. Your card advised me to write before the date set, April 18. My letter following your card's receipt was not a specific statement that I would be observing the day, but asked whether I need leave my work. However, I did spend that morning quietly at home. The lack of any report either way from you, is causing me to think that perhaps there is some reason you do not care to write me of. If so, please be assured that I am ready to hear whatever verdict your findings may dictate. In any event I would appreciate a line from you as to my status, if any." [Due to increased demands for readings during 1943-1944, the transcription of [5096]'s Life Reading was not made and mailed to him until the first week in May.]
2. 5/15/44 Letter: "It was a wonderful experience to read the results of the reading of April 18. And, too, it is a challenge to new interest in my work. Now that I have the reading, I would like to tell you more about myself in this life. It was, I had thought, just accidental that I stopped to chat with the publisher of the local weekly paper, on my way from school one day when I was about 13 years of age. He asked me to come in for an hour and help ink the type for the weekly issue. From that on, I became a printer, later a publisher and am now an editor and advertising writer and artist. Have never been in any other work since that day.
   Although I never finished public school, it has always seemed the natural thing for me to pick apart unfamiliar words and understand their meaning. Have superceded men in my work who had the advantages of college. But, of course, this was not an argument for bypassing formal education. It is interesting to note that Mrs. [3895] has a similar experience, and I shall write her soon. Later, I would like to go further into this if you are agreeable to so doing. Meanwhile, please be assured of my sincere appreciation."
3. 3/20/50 Questionnaire sent.
4. 3/28/50 Reply to questionnaire: "Yes, I still have a copy of my Life Reading by Mr. Cayce. I have re-read it perhaps a dozen times, and still get a better understanding of its meaning each time. No other person is present each time I read it. I consider it a personal matter and of no concern to another. I have explained some phases of it to friends, without actually showing it. You know the old saying about casting pearls. In view of the fact that Mr. Cayce could not have known anything about me from a physical standpoint, the reading is remarkably accurate. I have been - in this life - connected with newspaper and advertising work almost exclusively. My hobby, rather undeveloped, is painting and its associated arts. Had he lived, I would have wished for a subsequent reading giving more about the incarnation just preceding the present one.
   It is difficult for me to give specific reasons why I believe in reincarnation of the soul. It just seems the most reasonable and satisfying explanation of why we exist. I have been a Rosicrucian and gave that up temporarily because I felt the people in California were more interested in the publishing business than in research. It is strung out seemingly endlessly, telling you what you may expect to learn sometime in the future lessons. I get more out of the monograph by your organization 'Life Reading - Study of Spiritual Evolution' and I wish I could get into some direct and concise study, not so wrapped up in verbiage that it takes a lawyer to understand. It seems that the idea of living several lives in different planes of consciousness would be the logical way to develop and perfect a soul. The rough stone that rolls down the mountain will become smooth. The metaphor is faulty, since we aspire to CLIMB the hill.
   Karma is the consequence of our thoughts and actions in various reincarnations, and may be expiated, if we are willing and take the time. I have not changed vocation, but would favor it. While I claim no outstanding improvement, I have changed my attitude toward others, whether as a result of the reading or maturity of my years, I am not prepared to say. I suspect the reading played a good part. I have not systematically set aside a time for self analysis, but almost daily as a habit. I am weak, but there is a slow improvement. I am afraid that, in common with most mortals in the western world, I am more concerned with making a living than in doing a monumental job for the betterment of mankind. I do not boast of this, but it is a fact.
   In order to best carry forward the work which Edgar Cayce started, I suggest that you steer clear of anything that will give the public the idea that you are visionary, fanatic or have hallucinations. Be conservative in all utterances. People of low intelligence, and we have a majority of these, are in their own minds, the only real oracles. Most people are tolerant of all who agree with them. What they have not seen, they cannot accredit.
   The comment about the mustache was very interesting, because in Rosicrucian studies and experiments, it was evident. If you are familiar with that, you will understand. It must have meant a former incarnation, because although I have worn such a decoration, it was of the conservative type, but at one time it was clipped, as was the vogue, a la Chaplin, Hitler, etc. It would hardly evoke Mr. Cayce's exclamation as it was worn in this life.
   It would be interesting if one could look up the vital records of Canada, where I was supposed to have spent the previous life, and see if there was an Oscar Wheeler there at any time in the past. Might even be some record of the life.
   At the suggestion of the notation at the end of the reading, I exchanged correspondence with Mrs. [3395], and was permitted to read her Reading. There again, the records of Chicago should be verification of the life she lived previously. It specifically speaks of Fort Dearborn.
   Some of the Cayce observations on religion smack of the Epworth League, and this is not my conception of the 'Hall of Records'. It was one of the things that injured my faith in the reading. I believe in Jesus of Nazareth as a great metaphysician and one possessed of great powers, but I do not believe in the Gospel writers' presentation of Him as the official representative of God Almighty, the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He was more a political figure than a God. Today, He would have been in the battle to re-establish His beloved Israel in the political power it has achieved. The story of the Immaculate Conception is almost word for word that of Hercules - I am told, though I never read it. Other religions have the same story. That, to me does not matter so far as the greatness of the Master and Great Avatar is concerned, but it does spoil things when presented by those reared in the evangelical tradition of the Protestant and Catholic Churches.
   I hope this is of value, and I will be happy to clarify anything I can further."
5. 7/24/52 No record of verbal or written contact on this case since 3/25/50.

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