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Selected Individual Case Histories

Reading 333-1

49-Year-Old Male, Sales Engineer

Gertrude Cayce: You will have before you the body and enquiring mind of [333], who is at…N.Y., who seeks consideration, advice and guidance, from the Master and the Creative Forces, in regard to the worldwide economic problem which confronts himself and family, together with the great masses of common people struggling for they know not what. You will answer the questions which he has sincerely, respectfully and faithfully submitted.

Edgar Cayce: We have the body, the enquiring mind, [333]; also those conditions, economic and otherwise, that confront the body.

In this relation, there are ever those elements, as was given of old, confronting each and every individual: “There is today set before thee good and evil, life and death. Choose thou whom ye will serve,” and let the answer ever be, “Others may do as they may, but for me and my house, we will serve the living God.” Not one that may not listen or harken to the cry of those that are faithful. One that is not unmindful of the fear, the doubt, that stalks abroad in the land at this particular period in the history of the land when greed, avarice, misunderstanding, has taken the judgement away from many and they struggle for that they know not what. Will all come and—even those that fear—but open their minds, their hearts, their souls, to that cry that has ever been to His peoples, “Will ye be my people, I will be your God”—“Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they toil not, neither do they spin, or the grass—that today is and tomorrow is cast in the oven.” Whether ye live or whether ye die, ye are in the Lord, and let Him have His way with thee, for He does not suffer even the unfaithful to be tempted without preparing a way of escape. If the righteous shall scarcely be saved, where does the ungodly appear?

Then, use those talents thou hast in hand day by day, and there is given that thou hast need of, will ye but turn your heart, your mind, your soul, to seeking how in loving kindness ye may show in some measure that love, that faith, that confidence, that is aroused in thine own breast with the knowledge that He is in thine holy temple; for thine body is indeed the temple of the living God, and let the desires then of the eye, the weaknesses of the flesh, the call for those things that so easily beset thyself, keep silent—wait ye on the Lord. Not in some great manifestation that would make for tempestuous doubts in the lives of many, but here a little, there a little, ye that are the salt of the earth, preserve same in thine own heart, that the Lord may have His way; for He has not willed that any should perish, but that all may present their bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto Him, for it is but a reasonable service.

That the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of place, position, that is sought oft among men, in the owning of houses, lands, and of those things that would wean men's hearts away from following in the straight and narrow path—but know He knows what ye have need of before ye ask Him, and wilt thou keep thine heart He will even open the heavens to pour out a blessing upon thee.

In this manner, then, should self meet those conditions that seem to confront self at this time. Not that one takes not thought, but by taking thought let it be rather, “Are the courts of my temple a dwelling place of the living God? Or have I rather set up those idols of the earth that are earthy?” And as self finds the way clarified by the keeping of the courts and the temple cleansed, “Make not my Father's house a den—“Rather let thy yeas be yea and thy nays be nay, that He may come in the heat of the day or the cool of the evening and converse with thee in the courts of thine own temple; for thus doth He speak among men, and thus doth men find that which overcomes fear; for when fear enters, then doth one allow the doors of the temple to be broken up, and there enters in thoughts of the carnal forces that ever war with man, with man's good intent. These kept clean bring the glory of the Father through the Way that the Son has opened for all who seek His face. “The cattle are mine, as the silver and the gold, saith the Lord. These have been prepared that mine children shall not want, even in a weary land,” but as the rock that casts shadows for those that are athirst, and brings forth its waters that those may be supplied who seek in the shadow of same, so in this temple of thine know He will guide, guard and direct in the way that thou may become a rock for thine brother; for he that lendeth to the Lord has covered much that may be called amiss by others. Keep the way clear.

Ready for questions.

(Q) Am I wrong in giving thought to the morrow, when I should be placing confidence in divine influence, or trust in God?

(A) Use rather the opportunities day by day in such a manner that the glory of the Lord may be shown in the strength of the mind, of the body, to meet the emergencies that arise as concerning the secular things of life; for as these offices may appear to become more slack in this or that direction, the greater faith—rather than confidence—in His promises makes for strength in body and mind to meet those things necessary. Let the desires of the Physical grow less, as the desires of the spiritual would make thee strong in His might.

(Q) Am I among those who shall be blessed by being found so doing when the Lord cometh?

(A) Keep thy face to the light, and the shadows of doubt fall far behind. So thou wilt find thy name written among those who loved his fellowman, even as He walked among men—called them His brother—gave of that bounty supplied by the closer communion day by day. “Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive, O Lord, as I forgive my brother.” In walking in this light does the strength to do the physical deeds come in the body, even as the strength to bear His own cross, even as the strength to give, “Father, forgive them—they know not what they do!” This brought ministering from the Father of light, the Father of power, the Father of love to man, that we are his brothers and heirs to the Kingdom of light through ministering in word, in deed, to our fellowman in His Name; for there be no name named under heaven that brings hope, joy, life, as the Name of the Christ among men!

(Q) Am I wrong in remaining in my present employment? [Sales Engineer for steel and metal products company]

(A) Remain in the employment, that there may come—with the building up on every side—that which will enable self, and those the body serves, to know even the rocks and hills cry out, “blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Does the remuneration in the present surroundings not supply that necessary to meet those payments that may come upon the earthly abode, then those surroundings—as well as the abilities to obtain through other channels those means that will enable you to supply that lacking—will be given thee in no uncertain measures, will there be held, “I am the Lord's—He is my defense—in Him will I put my trust—and I will be faithful to my brother to the best of my physical and my mental abilities.” Not becoming a pest in speaking of those things. “When there is the cry for bread, doth He give them a stone?” Rather give him a portion of that thou hast, and together seek the Lord!

(Q) Are the men who are paying me a wage doing so in full measure of their ability, justice and consideration for my responsibilities?

(A) As ye measure, so shall it be measured to you again! “The Lord bless them, the Lord keep them, and make His face to shine upon them, in such measures that together in the trials may there come the blessed understanding that all must work together to meet the measures that are being brought to all during this seeking period of those that have wandered far afield,” for the Lord keepeth those that fear—yea, love and trust in the fear of the Lord!

These are capable of being approached by responsibilities and measures builded upon self. “In the way ye would have them deal with you, deal ye with them!”

(Q) Would it be right for me to seek employment during the night hours with a wholesale bakery or gas service station, to help increase my income?

(A) Seek and ye shall find! Keep in the way of the Lord and the way is opened unto thee to meet those needs for thine self and for thine dependent ones, as well as that that may be given or lent to the Lord through aiding thy brother! Seek—when needed.

We are through for the present.

Reading 78-4

23-Year-Old Male

Gertrude Cayce: You will have before you the body and the enquiring mind of [78], present in this room. This entity seeks advice and guidance concerning the difficulties of his present position. Considering the general conditions throughout the country as they affect this individual, you will give such suggestions and council that will aid this body at this time. You will also answer the questions which I will ask you regarding this individual.

Edgar Cayce: We have the body, the enquiring mind, [78]—this we have had before. In considering the conditions and circumstances that confront, and that influence the body at the present, many and varied may be the manners in which the entity may view same. Not only as how circumstances, conditions and surroundings affect the mental attitude of the body, but how the body is affected by same, as well as the outlook upon life the body gathers from the study of, contemplation of, self's position in its various phases, and how same is affected by self's attitude and outlook towards conditions.

In advising one as concerning the manner of activity, or action toward conditions under such circumstance, much might be said as to just advice—as to do or don't do this or that. The conditions as to be met are—What is the view or attitude to be assumed or taken as respecting definite conditions as exist in the life, as to outlook mentally, outlook physically, relationships to others, others' relationships to self. These should be the first considerations. Not only as duties, not only as privileges, but also as opportunities.

Do not get this position, however, as to ever be condemning self or another for that as exists in one's own life. If this be of self's own making, then know better than to do the same thing again. If felt of another's making, then use same rather as a stepping stone for better understanding and application of self.

As to the conditions and the movements to be made: Many are the opportunities; only one would say “Just one do I want”, as would the entity. Then, ready for questions.

(Q) Just where and in what place may this body find employment suited to his capabilities? and how should he go about to secure same?

(A) Under the present circumstances, present conditions as exist in and throughout the country—not as to seeking an opportunity; rather go about to make one. That there have been promises that have become questionable and that are doubted at times by self and by others, these will materialize—but not as soon as may be desired, but be not faint hearted over any circumstance; rather use the present conditions, the present surroundings, and make for self for the time being that as will enable, will better fit the body for what is, or what may, or what will come.

(Q) Will the job promised in connection with the Chase National Bank in New York through David McKenzie develop within two months?

(A) Rather in three months there will be an opportunity. There are others, and other channels—as we find—that would offer better opportunities.

(Q) What channel will offer the best opportunities?

(A) Those as surround the body in the present, as we would find, would offer better and more of that in keeping with the eventualities, or the working towards those as would be better suited for the body…

(Q) When will be the correct time for me to carry out my contemplated marriage?

(A) When self has succeeded in gaining hold of self in a manner to know that the future for self and the obligation taken is, at least, in a satisfactory manner assured for the present.

(Q) Please give me any advice regarding the maintaining a more perfect mental and physical balance.

(A) In that as outlined may be that as an alignment of thought in a manner and direction as will give the proper attitude for the body, and the entity, in its activity. Not as a servile attitude; not as one in a position of embarrassment; neither as one that would laud or applaud self for anything accomplished within self—either physically or mentally; but rather in humbleness of heart, mind and body to be a channel for an ideal of whatever making self may choose; were it only to that ideal of self's relationship to an individual, to self, or to the creative forces—for they are one, and each are a pattern of the other.

(Q) Should I see Mr. McKenzie on Jan. 15th concerning position?

(A) That would be dependent upon what arrangements, or what are the determined factors in other conditions that have been suggested.

Then, let those work out—for these are as the conditions or positions as they would present themselves:

In a position of association in the banking interest, represents or presents this:

A place; not a position, but one that bespeaks of an association that lends to an individual that of an honorable, venerable, and a position that is well-spoken of—but supplying little of this world's goods, other than through some questionable channels—which, to the body, the mind, the consciousness of the entity, must sooner or later become abhorrent, unless a soon success is gained.

In the channels of a minor position of a servant, in an aptitude or position of an attendant keeper of a place of not wholly amusement, but of gratifying some of the needs, desires, and pleasures of others, makes for a lowly beginning—from the same standard of views, but a growth wherein there would be the development of an ideal that may be builded upon with a sure basis.

Reading 78-5

25-Year-Old Male, Follow-Up Reading

Gertrude Cayce: You will have before you the body and enquiring mind of [78],…, Alabama, and his connections and associations especially as related to his securing employment as quickly as possible and his contemplated marriage. You will advise him as to the correct course to pursue and answer the questions which he has submitted.

Edgar Cayce: Yes, we have the body, the enquiring mind, [78], this we have had before; also those conditions, those circumstances that confront the body in the present.

Now, as we find, recently there have been some circumstances and conditions that tend to alter the whole general trend of relations.

And while there will be required some time for adjustments for the body, if there are the serious considerations in the present of the contemplated relations as to marriage, that which has been proposed in the manner of the relations and associations as respecting all parties concerned would be the better channel for the body to make the definite decisions in following that line of endeavor.

If there are those doubts within self as to whether this body would be able to cope with, or to meet those conditions which so alter the outlook upon the whole activities of the body-physical, then it would be well that there be the separations entirely from such contemplations; and that the endeavors be rather in those lines in which he has associated, in the first city to which the body went seeking the employment. And through those channels in which the body expended its efforts may there be found that employment, as soon as there is sufficient time for the adjustment of general conditions—or by the first of June. This would allow sufficient lapse for the adjusting of conditions in the immediate surroundings, and time for the contemplation of those conditions as related to those suggestions that have been made.

Ready for questions…

(Q) Please give such advice and counsel as will aid me in getting a better hold on myself and in meeting the various conditions that arise from time to time.

(A) A self-analysis of the desires and wishes, and the fixing of self as toward some ideal outside of self will enable the body to better meet—mentally and materially—those conditions and problems that present themselves from time to time.

These, as the body—the mental abilities—will recognize, are necessary; for one to have an ideal to make for the impulse and activities towards working for some conditions as outside of self.

(Q) Any other advice for this body at this time?

(A) Hold to that which has been grounded in the latent impulses (as we have given), for the abilities are there. The faults are in that the ideals are shattered.

We are through for the present.

Reading 78-7

25-Year-Old Male, Follow-Up Reading

Ready for questions.

(Q) When and to whom shall I go to find employment at this time?

(A) First, we would consider all the conditions that surround the body from the economic angle; from the associations and relations that have existed, that do exist, in the present; also that which we have given through these channels as to what line of endeavor would offer for the body the environ that would bring about the better or more apt conditions, that would be in keeping with the abilities, the intents, the purposes that are innate and manifested in the experience of the entity.

Then, considering all these conditions, the environs, the surroundings, the conditions, and the experiences that the body has had to the present, we would advise that the present environs and the surroundings in the home associations be considered.

In the present it may appear that these would not justify the body continuing, nor justify the desires and the conditions for the body's outlook or the training of the body in its mental attributes (considering the associations in those activities of the body, and the body's parents' association). Yet, these have been—and these are, in the main—those sources from which the present supply of the material necessities must arise.

Hence it would be well that the body accomplish what it may in the present environs; and, during the period, take the necessary training—through a correspondence course—for the position that we have given should be, or would be, a satisfactory environ, that would be the beginning of the associations that would bring about satisfactory relationships.

Then, by the beginning of the next season either in the early portion of the year or, at least, by the spring or summer seasons, there should be the opening through these same channels, for the study and the preparations for a satisfactory connection and association for the body.

And, in the present conditions, those surroundings, those conditions that have been brought about by the activities of the body, the better connections would be in the associations at the present time; and these would offer for the body the better preparations for that which may be brought to pass in the experience of the body.

(Q) Is it advisable at this time, or any time in the future, for [W…] and I to get married?

(A) We would advise it at once, if satisfactory with those conditions that may be brought about for all concerned in the present—and would make for the best in the new environs that will develop. Be patient. Be persistent.

Because it is apparent, in the mind of the body, that the body may be looked upon as having failed in accomplishing or in conquering those associations and connections, should inspire rather than make discouragements in the body's experience.

Those individuals that are worth the name of being manly, or godly manly, are those that use the discouraging moments rather as the testing periods and make of them stepping-stones for that which may be accomplished in earnestness.

And remember, that which is to be constructive in the mental, the material or the spiritual life, must have its inception, its basis for its activities, in that which is true, pure, honest, sincere. Or, the body-mind, the mental forces, should feed more and more upon those things that are the builders…

(Q) Is there any special school of correspondence recommended?

(A) There are several different ones. The Cincinnati school, as we find, would be the most profitable—for the training as a whole. Or, the Buffalo school. Either are well, and both give—or prompt—the association and connections with the United Hotel Associations, that may present—for the interest and for the activities of the body—that which would be in line with those suggestions we have given.

These may be found advertised in many different groups. The LaSalle course is very good, from Chicago. But, as we find, the Cincinnati or Buffalo school connections are the most satisfactory for the hotel training.

(Q) Give me any advice or counsel that might help me find a job and financial independence.

(A) We would advise beginning where we are; using that in hand, making considerations for those about self, those dependent upon self; taking on those responsibilities that will not only aid but add to the respectability, the affability, the conditions that make for building character.

And, most of all, do not lose faith in self nor self's abilities, when trusting in the divine influences that are the birthright of every soul.

Reports of Reading 2071-2

33-Year-Old Female

Letter excerpt from [2071]

…felt that I should have an immediate business reading. I seem to have been surrounded with a great deal of confusion and uncertainty lately. Directional suggestions would be very welcome. I feel that I have made up for any transgressions in past experiences, for my way has been very difficult and I have by no means had the success some other artists enjoy—and certainly no “lucky breaks”. There are several fields of endeavor in which I am seeking to earn a livelihood—even…[my friends] do not know how serious my financial problem is, for one does not always like one's friends to know.

To be perfectly honest with you—I am a little tired of it all (that is, the constant striving for maintenance) and, while I do not say this in a spirit of fault-finding nor dissatisfaction, I would be thoroughly content to let someone else carry the burden for a while…To put it frankly, neither of my husbands has supported me or contributed to my support (and, as a matter of fact, their own). I alone am to blame for letting it continue but I hesitate to tear my life apart to make changes…

I am enclosing a set of questions which include my main interests at the moment—also a check for five dollars, which is all I can spare at the moment.

Letter excerpt from [2071]'s secretary, offering additional information

My dear Mr. Cayce:

Miss [2071] has given you what I believe to be a very frank and complete description of her present situation. However, I would like to add a few words to what she has already told you—believing it will help both you and her by so doing.

Naturally, she would be restricted in telling you some of the more flattering phases of her existence—and also she has neglected to ask you the questions which seems to torment her and come to her mind most frequently—that is, what is it that is wrong with her life—what is the thing that is holding her back, and why is it that she remains in the sidelines now while others, with far less talent and capabilities, either in a musical, cultural, educational, business or entertainment standpoint, are riding the ladder of success and enjoying the fruits of what she has helped to establish and create. Even her ideas are taken from her before she has a chance to formulate them actually—she has “pioneered” many a song—an idea—a show—later to hear someone else make a hit out of material stolen from her. Will you please be kind enough (confidentially, if you wish) to tell me what is holding back—what this weight is that is holding her feet on the ground when she is meant to soar?

All of those who know her, hold her in high esteem and respect—she is much loved and admired not only for her talents, but her graciousness and charm—and her good heart, her helping hand, and her genuine sincerity and interest in the good of others. She is so much more highly evolved than the average run of person—it seems incredible that after years of hard work and intelligent appliance, she should not enjoy greater achievement. She is so tired—so discouraged sometimes. And yet, she always has a smile and an encouraging word to other in distress and seems to lead them upward. And yet her own life falls miserably apart—why?

I have been with Miss [2071] for five years and know her better than anyone else in the world—and, I dare say, love her more. I know her to be an angel—too good, I guess, to be smart. She is a creator of beauty in its every expression—in music, in song, in grace—in the decoration of her home—in dress—she is born to create. I am telling you these things so that you might have a more intimate glimpse of her.

Reading 2071-3

45-Year-Old Female, Singer and Composer

Gertrude Cayce: You will have before you the body and enquiring mind of [2071], at home in…, Conn., who seeks information, advice and guidance as to her work, her domestic and material affairs. You will answer the questions, as I ask them:

Edgar Cayce: Yes, we have the body, the enquiring mind, [2071]; this we have had before.

Many changes have come in the relationships and the activities of the entity since last we had these conditions here. Some have been, for a time, most pleasing—in a material sense. Some have become very disappointing. Others have brought fear and confusion in the experience of this entity.

As we find, it might be well given, “I told you so”—if the entity would analyze conditions, not merely from the material angle or the material success, or the material disappointments, but from the intent and purpose which has been at time the promptings of the entity in its dealings with and in its relationships to others.

This should be taken into consideration with that advice, that counsel which has been and was indicated in those suggestions through this channel—when there was the analyzing of promptings in the experience of the entity from its sojourns through this material plane.

From the experiences it is evidenced that the entity finds self in the present with abilities that have not, to the entity's manner of analysis, produced the material results in the present experience. Yet those abilities to bring harmony and peace in the experiences of others, through the use of faculties in voice, in harmony, in such activities, are evidenced.

Is the fault, then, in the manner in which these abilities have been presented to those who are longing for such harmony in their own life? Or is it the fault of the entity's attempting to present that which is nonexistent in its own experience?

Remember, God is not mocked. This is an unfailing, an indisputable law—a fact. For if the promptings are from the heart, the mind, the soul—not that self may be exalted, not that self may be in the limelight in fame or in fortune, but wholly, unreservedly trusting in Him and acting in that way and manner towards thy fellow man—His promises are sure, that ye shall succeed in whatsoever ye undertake!

This success, then, is not as the world looks on success—such as bringing others to thy feet, that they may do thee honor. Rather it is such that he that is the servant of all is the greatest among his fellow men.

The fault here, as we find, lies greatly—then—in the direction to which the abilities have been put.

Those who have been in the position to make contact with the various offices through which the services might be rendered, or through which the abilities might be expressed, or through which the love of its fellow men might be made manifest—whether in the radio work or the skits, or the acting in parts, or in any activity in which there might be brought notice—these have been rather working with the key purpose for material gain.

Hence we would give, first: Consider well thy contact agent, or the one in whom ye have put confidence as to the channels for expressing thy abilities, or the one who is thy agent for such activities.

For the world, the public, the individual, still seeks, longs for, desires earnestly, that ye are capable of giving, and have the ability to give to others through such channels.

Ready for questions.

(Q) What would be the most important move to make at this time?

(A) Get a good agent! and one that considers the abilities for the love of expressing same, as well as for material gains! for these—the gains—should be the result of such love shown in thy activity!

(Q) Is there one you would suggest, or through whom my work should be presented?

(A) Hunt—hunt—hunt—hunt ‘em!

These will not be laid down as definite individuals from here! Do you gain a voice by wishing for one? Do you gain association and love by wishing for it, or by showing same in thine own experience?

Those who would have success mustn't flit it away upon those who care only for the moment!

(Q) Should I remain in professional work? If so, what branch?

(A) The radio is the better—those skits that combine both the voice and the partial acting.

(Q) How can I further the publication of my songs?

(A) Make them popular in the minds of individuals by the manner in which ye are capable of expressing them, in voice, through the mediums for reaching the people.

(Q) How can I make contacts to meet the right people?

(A) Through the proper kind of contact person.

(Q) Did I do right by moving out to my place in Connecticut?

(A) As we find, if those activities are set in motion that have first been given through this channel—as to that to be met in self, and then the proper presentation of the abilities, though they are long before the public—yes. But these should or must be kept burning, even as the home fires where harmony and peace may abide. One may not rest upon what has been, but must be ready to show—each and every day, in each and every contact—that self is one willing to give an answer for the faith that is within.

Thus there may be brought friends, love, success, happiness, joy—as a result of something given by self!

(Q) Under present circumstances, what should I do about my house?

(A) Prepare those ways and means to take care of same.

(Q) How can I reduce my blood pressure?

(A) This also has been indicated in the information previously given through this channel, and if adhered to will keep same in a normal manner.

We are through for the present.

(Q) (Left out of original copy) Will my present husband ever amount to anything, or do you see a change for the better in the future?

(A) This depends upon who is to judge.

These as we find are some of thy disappointments.

If there will be the setting of self's house in order, in relationships to that which is the motivative purpose and influence within self, there will be brought harmonious relationships—if not here, in others.

Reading 3976-14

“World Affairs” Reading on the Depression and the Economy

Hugh Lynn Cayce: You will give at this time that which will aid each individual present in understanding the reason and comprehensibility of that through which we as individuals are passing and experiencing in the situation economically at this time.

Edgar Cayce: Yes, we have conditions economically as they exist in this land at the present time. In giving, then, an analysis of such in a manner that may be helpful for those that would seek to know themselves and the causes for the present general conditions:

To be sure, these have been approached from many varied angles by those who have sought, are seeking, to find the answers to such conditions in their own experiences; and by many that are seeking, and have sought, that there might be aid, understanding, comprehension, in the experience of others.

In the very nature, though, of a nation, a people, there are some fundamental principles upon which the economic and the soul life of a nation must be founded, if such a people, such a nation, is to remain true to that which is the birthright of every soul; to pursue that which will give it as an individual the right to manifest that it would worship in its Creator.

For, the first law that has been given to man from the beginning is: “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” And when man has faltered, has altered that, which has deprived others from giving expression to that birthright, that command that has come to man throughout the ages, then there arises that which creates those things that are the fruits of the evil influences that are in the earth. Such as: Hate, jealousy, avarice, and the like. These make for the creating of those conditions in all walks of life for power, for position, for the love of money and that it will bring in its associations in the lives of individuals. And, as there has been just this experience in the affairs of the nation as a nation, the nation as a nation is passing through that period when each soul must turn to that thought within of what is its relation to the Creative Forces in its experience; and each soul must ask itself what it as a soul is going to do about that command that was given, and that is the privilege of every soul; to show forth that very law of love that is the birthright of every soul. For, with that command has come ever that to which mankind may expect to find himself reduced when he has forgotten that which is his first duty, and the second which is likened unto it; “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Then, this condition has been the experience in the greater portion of the whole nation, the whole world. For, that is the experience of the individual that makes for the creating in his environ, his surrounding, of that which breeds strife, that which breeds hate, that which breeds malice, that which breeds selfishness.

The next law, as man knows, is that “Like begets like.” And His injunction has been: “The worlds may pass away, but my Word shall not pass away; and ye shall pay to every farthing—and, as ye do unto your neighbor, as ye purpose in your heart, so will it be measured unto you.” And when conditions arise that make for distress, whether they be in body, in mind, in the economic influences in the experience of any, sin lieth at thy door. Not thine neighbor's! Blame not the other fellow. Seek first to know within self that which has prompted thee, and when thou hast set thine house in order, when thou hast made thine peace with thine own conscience (that would smite thee, if ye will look within your own heart), then may ye find the answers that will come to every soul that seeks. For, as He has given to those of old, He is the same yesterday, today and forever. Think not as to who will ascend into heaven to bring down comfort and ease to thine own aching heart, or who will go over the seas to bring that which may be of a recompense within thine own experience, but lo! ye shall find it in your own heart!

Thus has the lawgiver given, and thus has He said who has set the way to make the intercession for man: “I will not leave thee comfortless, if ye will seek to do my biddings.”

Many would say, “Yea, this is beautiful; yet it does not feed the hungry nor clothe those that are naked, nor make shelter for those that are cold.”

Who is—Who is—the representative of the Father in the earth? Hath not He committed unto mankind the keeping of his brother? Hast thou answered that question that has been of old in thine experience; “Am I My Brother's Keeper?” The answer that should ring in the heart and soul of every individual is: “Know ye not that the blood of your brother crieth unto me from the ground!”

So, in the experience of those that have sent and made the conditions are greed, selfishness; that has been practiced in the minds, in the lives, in the experience of the nation. Think not any soul, “Yea, that is true for the other fellow.” But it applies to Jim, to Tom, to those in ordinary walks of life, to those who have been given those powers in high places, those that have wealth about them; they are the oppressors; yea, look within thine own heart! Hast thou not practiced the same? For, as it has been given, “Yea, though there be only ten just men, they may save the city; they may save the nation; they may save the world,” if they will but practice in their daily experience that which has been the command from the first: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and thy neighbor as thyself.”

This is the basis of all spiritual law; and to you would there be given as this:

There is no activity in the experience of man that has not its inception or purpose in the spirit of those injunctions but what must fail; unless it is founded in the spirit of truth.

Hence each would ask, then: “What must I do about it; not what shall this, that or the other ruler, other office holder, or the other individual do” but each should ask, “What must I do about the economic conditions in which we find ourselves?”

So live each day, each hour, as to put into practice those precepts, those influences in thine own life, and in the life of all ye contact day by day. For, He hath said, “Though ye wander far afield, if ye will cry unto me, if ye will ask, if ye will draw unto me, I will draw nigh unto thee; and my help, my arm is not short as man's counting of shortness, but will bring to thee speedily that which is the desire of thine heart, if it is conceived in righteousness.”

Reading 3976-24

“World Affairs” Reading

(Q) As has been indicated through these channels, money is the root cause of the general economic unbalance of our country. Will you give specifically the reasons for this statement and the approach that can be made toward correction of the money order as operated today.

(A) Fear on the part of those who control or direct the investing of capital into channels that give the greater outlet of their characters of outlet.

As to how this may be corrected—it is only through patience, persistence, and a return to the trust in God, and not in the power or the might of self.

Reading 683-1

43-Year-Old Female, Chiropractor. Main problem was cited as being financial

Edgar Cayce: Yes, we have the entity and those relations with the universe and universal forces, that are latent and manifested in the personalities of the entity now known as, or called, [683].

In entering the present experience we find, from sojourns in the earth and the application of the abilities of the entity in such sojourns, not only those influences of the astrological that are in the mental application but those of the more material in the numerological, as well as in tones and colors, have influenced and do influence the entity. Not always in this experience has there been the proper interpretation of such influences. And they in their application by the entity have at times been rather confusing; thus causing some disturbance in the relationships of the entity with other minds as related to the body-mind of the entity. Hence in giving that which may be helpful, hopeful and developing for the entity, we will give that which we find here from those records that have been made by the entity in the earth's plane in its own soul or spiritual development. Then analyzing these they may become as useful experiences in the entity's application of them in the present experience.

Do not confuse, then, mental experiences that are innate and those that come through spiritual awareness or awakening within self with those that are of an earthly urge by having—in the mental body, with the environs of a physical surrounding—experienced urges that may confuse; yet know all have their place in the experience of an entity, an individual, in the application of its abilities. Learn and practice, then, the first things first; as this: The entity, the soul, is supreme in itself as related to any circumstance or influence, whether an environmental, hereditary or a passing condition, through the will—that is the gift of the Creator. And if the entity in its seeking applies that which is shown within self it may never confuse self as to the correct, positive, direct manner in which to apply the impulse that motivates an activity towards the application of that gained within self. For it is not in knowledge alone but rather in the application of such understanding that the mental body, the soul body, grows. Hence, as has been given to all: Study to show thyself—thyself—approved unto thy Maker, divining the words of truth.

So, in the application of that thou knowest does there come the knowledge, the understanding of what, of where, of how, the next step, the next activity, is to be taken…

From Venus we find the creating, or making, or imposing into the entity throughout its experience the innate seeking—seeking—for that which in the material plane is an expression of, and manifestation of, that which Venus indicates in the thoughts of man; as it does in its environs; Love, helpfulness, hopefulness, optimism in its broader, greater sense. Yet these experiences in the entity's application have been so often shattered. And as we shall see, we will find out the why through the experiences in the earth, and how this has been builded in the experience as a karmic condition (as termed by some); for these are words—just words, but carry—as does an impulse from within—a meaning to an individual entity that to the entity is all its own. Hence, as given, it is the expression that makes for growth within the soul forces of an entity. Hence it may be said of the entity in this direction, growth has been and is the experience of the entity in this sojourn. Then, the lesson to be learned by the entity in this direction in this experience is patience. This has, through the very expression of love to the fellow man by the entity, been a drawback. For oft has the entity in the experience, in losing patience with others, with self, turned to material urges that have brought confusion. Hence the warnings: Judge spiritual urges in spiritual realms by spiritual things, and material and mental urges only by material application.

Yet this growth in the activities in the present from the Venus sojourn has not always been tempered with a Mercurian influence, for it has been rather in an adverse position—through an influence of Saturn's activity in the experience. Hence we find that tendency for the change when there were those disturbing factors in the experience of the entity in the present, to turn to seek in another direction. This is from an influence, an indwelling in Saturn where even the influences may have been perfected; yet they come as tests, as trials, as experiences, that the injunction which has been given may be fulfilled in the experience of the soul; “Stand ye steadfast today and see the glory of thy God within!”

Hence these have been as tendencies for the entity in the experience to fail here, in that it turned occasionally to those things that bespoke rather of the material things, or the influences from without appeared to be as necessities for the moment; losing patience with this, that, the other. Patience is not as a passive thing, but patience is necessary in the experience of each soul rather as a positive, active thing within the application of same. Thus an entity becomes aware of its own soul and that soul's vision of the glories that may be its experience in its associations with those promises in the creative force of the soul along that is eternal and in the image of the Maker.

The Jupiterian influences, we find, have made and do make for—in the expressions of the entity—a wide, broad field of activity; which to an unstable one in the position of that indicated as the experience of the entity, while it has its advantageous experience also may become the very influence of a stumbling experience for a soul. But the vision here is, as we find, as it grows—the entity's ability in the application of those attributes that have made for the expending of self in love, in hope, and though wandering afield at times in its inner self—those attributes of patience become as applicable things in the experience with that already gained. Then do those benevolent influences from those visions and experiences in Jupiter bring a field of activity for the entity that will make for happiness, contentment, harmony, and those things that are of the earth-earthy, yet may be used in the material expressions of those benevolent influences that have been the privilege of the entity in its application to have gained in Venus. Hence we will find, if the entity will hold fast to that which is good, rightly divining the words of truth, the days must come in the earth yet when many will call it blessed and count it a priviledge to have known, to have been priviledged to have been a helpmeet for the entity in its activities in the earth…

“If ye will keep my commandments in thine activities to thy fellow man, I will bring to thy remembrance those things necessary for the assurance that I will abide with thee.” Ponder these well in thine inner self, for they may become those things whereupon thou may depend, where thou may gain strength, where thou may find that succor, that aid, that will bear thee up lest thou—in thine lack of understanding—dash thine head against a stone. For His love would constrain thee, even as thou in thine expression would constrain to show that love thou has gained in thine experience, even as this—the love for the souls of men that are the expression in material bodies, flesh, of the love of the Father…

Again in the expression in the present the entity has found many of these confusing at times, for when there has been the application to the material things in the present many have called the entity impractical. And the lack of the patience that was attained in that experience makes for periods when doubts and confusions arise in the experience of the entity in the present. Yet, as has been indicated, if the entity will turn within it may gain the lessons again that were given by that Teacher among men, learn again those messages with which it strengthened those when the fear of death was upon those that were young and strong in body, those that were old and were being separated from those they loved the most in the earth, and how that strengthening cry went up; “Lo, I am with thee always, even unto the end of the world! Put thine trust in me and thou wilt know that thy Redeemer liveth, and thou shalt see Him as He is.” For He has promised that He will comfort and strengthen and sustain those that to their fellow man show forth the love of the Father. And he that doeth those kindnesses to his fellow man lendeth to the Lord, and He has prepared those mansions—even as He has given, “I prepare a place where I am there ye may be also.” If the entity will ponder upon these messages that the entity gave in those experiences as Sylvia, the shepherdess, the one that strengthened so many in those days, there will come a strength, a glory, a vision, an understanding that will raise thee up above. But “He that is the servant of all is the greatest among thee!”

…As to the abilities of the entity in the present, then, and that to which it may attain and how:

As has been indicated by the experiences of the entity in that which is innate and builded within the self, study to show thyself approved unto Him. For if the heart is singing with the beauties and joys that may come in the service to the fellow man, it bespeaks of those things that answer from within as to the life being made as a channel of blessing to the fellow man—and in the path of glory for the companionship with Him.

Ready for questions.

(Q) What shall I do to be financially successful at this time?

(A) First find in self that in which the applications of the abilities thou hast in body and in mind are founded, and seek thou those realms wherein these may be put into practical application, and in the associations of those relations whereunto thou may bring to others not only tenets but living truths within self; and these will bring the returns as their natural consequence. For, as He has given, man may labor in this or that field; God alone can give, does give, the increase.

Let thy life and thy activities with thy fellow man be in accord with that thou hast determined, and leave the increase of the financial or material gains in his hands.

(Q) Are there any special persons that could help me?

(A) They will be pointed out to thee; for, as He has given, “I will guide, I will direct thee, in the way that thou shouldst go.”

(Q) Am I breaking any special law that causes conditions to be as they are?

(A) As indicated, study that thou hast given; for ye shall find. He that seeks shall find. Study to show thyself approved unto thy Maker, correctly divining, dividing, the words of truth.

Reading 683-2

43-Year-Old Female, Chiropractor, Follow-Up Reading

In the material associations, in the material connections, then, do with thy might what thy hand finds to do today. For sufficient unto the day is the good as well as the evil thereof. For as He hath given in thee that thou may be the channel, the representative, the agent—yea, the very representative in flesh of Him, then act in thine inner self, act in thine outward expression, as though thou wert (for thou art!) His child, and are heir to all the glories here, now, of His kingdom. Not in the future, not of the past! For in the eternal now is He active in thee.

And ye will find, as the days come, as the weeks pass, that ye will be shown from day to day the next step. For He is thy God and thy counsel, and thy help, and upon His arm may ye lean; upon His hand may ye be led in the things, the experiences, the conditions through which ye may pass.

Ready for questions.

(Q) Should I remain in my present occupation or consider a change?

(A) In the present remain, until thou be shown the more excellent way. For as each soul, each entity, each individuality prepares itself, He will lift it up (as thee); in the material and in the mental things that are necessary for it (as thou) being the greater channel of expressions for Him.

(Q) Have I any special talent that should be developed?

(A) As indicated; as ye are able and as ye are given the body to minister to the needs of the physical bodies of many, ye have the talent also to minister at such times (and oh, what an opportunity!) to the mental needs of those that are soul sick as well as in body and mind. Point ye the way, then, to Him at such times. That is a talent; yea, has He not given into the keeping of all, in every walk of life who may minister to the needs of bodily ills, the opportunity to tell others, to tell those physically ill of the love of the Father, of the abilities in Him, of Him who stands between those influences of good and evil, the crossroads of choice, that every one and every soul each day must cross? And ye may point the way—ye that have been endowed, either physically, mentally or spiritually—for such a service. What a responsibility! And so many in thine own field, in thine own understanding, have shirked their duty, have failed Him and put Him to shame who hath said, “In me is life, in me is health, in me is strength.” And ye in thy blindness have pointed the other way. Then, minister as is shown thee by Him.

(Q) Will the healing work bring better financial results than in the past few years?

(A) If ye will but take Him as thy partner, if ye will but take Him as thy right hand brother. For the silver and the gold is His, and He alone may move the hearts of those that are sick in body and mind, who are beset with the fear of those things that are of the earth, to open their storehouses or their pocketbooks to thine needs. Use that thou hast in hand. If it be true it will be as of His servant who cast his rod or stock or cane, which became as the serpent to those that were of enchantment or of their own knowledge that might show their strength; yea, but that one which was guided of the Lord swallowed them all up. So, in thy ministry to thy fellow man, if ye will but take Him with thee in thine heart, in thine seeking to give that as will bring the awakening, it will swallow up those that have spoken unkindly. And thy gentleness of mien, thine understanding of the ills will be as an incense before Him, so that the bounty of thy hand will be poured out as though the windows of heaven were opened for such.

(Q) Is there any special line of the healing work that I should follow to bring better results?

(A) As indicated, take it—as thou hast gained and as thou seekest in the ministrations of same—with Him as thy partner, as thine helper, as thine director; so will the ways be opened. For all healing is the awakening of that eternal hope that springs anew within the human breast that it may have another opportunity, that it may give and be itself a channel. And as ye open the way through not only the ministry of thy hands but thy word of mouth in telling of Him and His love, it will make not afraid but give and give and give the opportunity to all! But to him that tramples on same it becomes the stumblingstone.

Reading 2275-1

48-Year-Old Female, Masseuse

Then, in analysing, this, there may be references made to the latent and manifested urges; but, as is the experience of the entity, no urge surpasses the will of the individual. And what an entity does about or with the opportunities expressed or manifested, or that become a part of the experience, becomes and should be kept innate, and in those directions to fulfil not merely a destiny but to be a living example of that it, the entity, professes to believe in and holds as its ideal—spiritually, mentally, physically.

And, as this entity does embrace and has embraced in its religious or spiritual concept, the activity should be in keeping with its deepest tenets—not of self-righteousness nor the laudation of self, but of that which is the all-embracing purpose for which God has manifested His love, His purposes among men.

Then, as to the activities in the present—let those things that bring hope, faith and brotherly love be practical applications in the daily associations with its fellow men.

And putting the whole trust, the whole purpose in those activities, the entity need never fear, need never have a doubt or quaver as to what will be accomplished—physically, mentally or spiritually—in this material plane.

The activities during the sojourns of the entity through the material plane have enabled the entity to become associated in this experience with, and to make a practical application of, ways or means to be of material as well as of mental help to others who are afflicted, or who are lacking in the best in their experience…

Ready for questions.

(Q) How may I make my own profession, as a licensed masseuse, more suitable for me?

(A) By applying in thy daily applications of its good offices that which is best within thee; and with the desire and purpose not merely to have a job, not merely to have a means of achieving material gains, but to do a work entrusted to thee by a divine power that enables thee to be to each soul to whom ye apply thy work, thy profession, a channel, a means of making manifest His love among thy fellow men.

Applied in such a way and manner it cannot, it will not fail. And ye will find a greater increase. Not by loud boasting, no. But let thy prayer and thy meditation be, as ye make application to others, “Lord, lead Thou the way!”

(Q) How should I go about to get more medical massages?

(A) As has been offered, accept those channels through which ye may be closely associated with those who are in direct connection with the medical associations and medical treatments.

(Q) Which of the two offers should I accept?

(A) Both of these can be had, if there is the desire to work self to that extent. Otherwise, choose that as appears to be in keeping with that thou purposest to do within thine own conscience.

(Q) Why did the dentist offer me his office? What does he think of me?

(A) What thinkest thou of him? The answer is as the reflection of thy thoughts of him!

(Q) How am I able to establish a clientele for these offices?

(A) In the manners and ways as indicted. Let each client, each person ye serve, be that as He gave—“He that would be the greatest among you will be and is the servant of all.”

In that attitude, in that manner, that way of expressing self, ye build that which is creative and helpful; and not only does it bring peace and harmony but love with same—which is so lacking in thy experience!

(Q) Or is there anything else I can do to make a decent living, and be happy and successful in my occupation?

(A) In the manner outlined is the better way and manner, as we find indicated from the experience and the application of self through the sojourns as well as the purposes in the present.

(Q) Should I take a partner?

(A) In any way or manner! Keep too much from partnerships of any nature. Be rather the director thyself; though ye may choose helpers if so desired; but in such be to each one as ye would have that one be to thee—in God's ways and not just for material gains.

Reading 417-8

42-Year-Old Male, Merchant

For as has been indicated, this entity, this soul, is too precious in the eyes of the Creator that it should wantonly and without forethought leave off or get away from those basic influences and forces that do innately prompt these desires, these forces and influences for good to others.

Hence we find those turmoils that have arisen and that have become a part of the entity's experience at this time are in a manner that of fear and self-condemnation at times.

And to justify self has allowed self to be drawn into those environs and those attempts to substitute material things for that which may only be found in the real desire of the entity to “do good”—spirituality!

Hence the entity having left God out of consideration with the thought of material duty, and with that desire to fulfill that which is—to be sure—the material manifestation of good. Yet ye cannot gain good by doing that which condemns thine own self. Ye cannot do good through evil channels. Ye cannot do evil and expect good to continually come from same.

These are as attempting to gather figs from thistles, or grapes from bramble briars. These are not the natural forces. Neither are they such that have prompted and do prompt that expression, the desire to do good and to be good. That is not man's problem alone to be good, but to be good for something, to be good as a purposefulness! And these cannot be gained by the evil associations nor evil communications that make for the moments of satisfying either the material or the physical-mental desires in monetary gains.

Better that there be the crust alone of bread than the mansions of the millions with that of a condemning heart, a condemning spirit within self that there is a question mark after any activity, or any associations. For these are not God's ways, and thou hast known and thou dost know in thine heart of hearts the ways of good! Not that of long-facedness, not that of the saintly sinner, not that of the cynic; but doing good for Good's sake, doing good because it brings contentment, it brings harmony, it brings peace, it brings associations that create in the hearts of the associates joy