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guard against these arrows. One could hold out a shield if one knew the precise direction of the
arrows. But who can know this direction?
161. Observe the indications of seismographic curves. The points are disposed not along the
equator, nor along a meridian, but form their own curves. Sometimes an increased activity of
quakes and shiftings coincides with the intensity of so-called sun-spots resulting from a tension of
the solar system. One need not be a prophet to understand that brain action in these periods will
flow in a specific way.
Social aspirations likewise have their curves of expansion. One should be cautious not to
interrupt this succession of events. Crevices of shiftings in the ground and in people's aspirations
are alike.
The New World must manifest the sensitivity of the best seismograph.
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 If someone complicates the procession of peoples, he may receive the wreath of ignorance.
His action cannot be justified by ignorance of the laws, and it is equally improper for a leader to
change the direction into reverse. No one can be guided by the personal, but, by comparing the
values as to the Common Good, it is possible to choose the quickest path.
One must not spill a single possibility.
It seems that what is stated is simple boresome truth, yet no one applies it; the plan of
actions is carried out in a dark room not on the watchtower.
To observe, it is necessary not to look for what one wishes to see but to search for reality.
162. Whoever makes assertions about his devotion to the real and the authentic must particularly
welcome the discernment of reality. Not hypocritical stammering before the method of a
recognized authority, but the struggle and burning in quest of reality. Verily irresistibly, verily
unalterably, in such vehemence of striving that neither lofty mountain nor small hill hides space.
In upward flights we learn the great gift of patience. Radiant, creative patience does not
resemble the murky cloak of non-resistance to evil. Stooped non resisters sit like unsuccessful
fishermen. Their stake of a length of yarn cannot check the dance of the elements. Creative
patience holds the key to the New World; therefore, patience creates a power which is intensified
with each hour of reality.
Non-resistance is like a long-opened flask of perfume, but creative patience is like old
sealed wine.
Watch the intensity of creativeness in each social structure. True is that structure wherein
manifold creativeness is given wings. If it becomes burdensome for creativeness, this is a true sign
of error in the structure. Do not let these errors build nests. Summon masons, re-lay the walls, until
the song will resound again freely.
Once, according to an old legend, there came a messenger from a distant world to give
people equality, brotherhood and joy. Long since had people forgotten their songs. They remained
in a stupor of hate. The messenger banished darkness and crowdedness, smote infection, and
instituted joyful labor. Hatred was stilled, and the sword of the messenger remained on the wall.
But all were silent and knew not how to begin singing. Then the messenger assembled the little
children, led them into the woods, and said to them  These are your flowers, your brooks, your
trees. No one has followed us. I shall rest and you fill yourselves with joy. Thereupon, timidly
they ventured into the forest. At last the littlest one came to a meadow and sighted a ray of the sun.
Then a yellow oriole sounded its call. The little one followed it, whispering. And soon joyously he
sang out,  The sun is ours! One by one the children gathered upon the meadow, and a new hymn
to Light rang out. The messenger said  Man has again begun to sing. Come is the date!
163. Creativeness is the basis of evolution. With what then is it possible to strengthen the acts of
creative power? Only with cheerfulness. Joy is a special wisdom. Cheerfulness is a special
technique. This enhancement of vigor arises out of a conscious realization of the creativeness of
elements. Truly, creative patience and cheerfulness are to two wings of the worker.
We do not quite approve the sentimental word  inspiration. When the consciousness is at
work it does not go calling on inspiration like a basement lodger visiting his benefactor to ask
favors. Then the division into week days and holidays is resumed, and again one will begin to
celebrate birthdays. Our Community has but one ceaseless holiday of labor, in which cheerfulness
serves as a wine of joy.
It is impossible to be satisfied with inspiration only. One may succeed in arresting the
consciousness upon a step of creative patience and to sing like the birds, for whom song is an
expression of being, but one has to remove scarecrows set against the song. The quality of the song
is equal to the quality of the labor. It is necessary to proceed briskly, as in the ancient simile of the
arrow in flight.
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 Does it not seem strange that I speak so often about patience, about obstacles, about vigor,
about the endlessness of struggle? Precisely, at different times and on different sides do I forge the
armor of fearlessness. Remember, this tempering cannot be completed in a single hour. In different
temperatures is the sword tempered; even Buddha affirmed that at the happiest hour one should
recall the misfortunes, but without diminishing joy.
But tempered joy knows no fears. Joy is a special wisdom. [ Pobierz całość w formacie PDF ]