Theos-Talk Archives (January 1997 Message tl00897)

At 08:24 AM 1/29/97 -0500, you wrote:
>----------
>> From: theos-l@vnet.net
>> 
>> Date: Tue, 28 Jan 1997 15:13:37 -0800
>> From: Jerry Hejka-Ekins <jhe@toto.csustan.edu>
>>  
>> I think it is important for members who are dedicated to the
>> *original ideals* of this organization to be aware of its
>> history.  Once they are aware, they need to realize that the
>> beliefs and ideals of 1925 still form the hidden rationale for
>> the policies upon which the TS operates today.  That is why the
>> TS had been stuck for the last sixty years. . . 
>>  
>The same holds true for the LCC.  They still cling to the glory
>years of CWL and have extreme difficulty in changing anything
>that he set down way back then.  Also, the ruling bishops
>are over 65, who having lived with things the way they are for so
>long, can't even imagine it being any other way.
>
>-AEB

  It looks like things have to become worse before they become better. It
appears that now TSA is in the forefront of institutionalizing these policies.

  Take for example the policy of putting study centers and lodges on
"probation" before a permanent charter is issued. Also the recent unsigned
article in Theosophical Messenger which expounds the three "aims" of TS. Add
to it the "Approved" list of lecturers. 

  At this rate we may soon have a set of beliefs that a member have to
approve of or adhere to. The logical extension of this would be to
likelyhood get certain number of approved course hours from Olcott institute
before one would be allowed to run for any office.

  The pity is that newbees who does not know the historical facts of TS may
be taking all of this as acceptable since it follows the pattern of many
organized religions.

  The only salvation is likely to be the medium of unmoderated Internet
which can present all sides of all issues and make newbees think and decide
for themselves. Independent thinkers can be unpredictable and cannot be
driven like a bunch of sheep. It appears that the independent thinkers who
are not currying any favor -- financial or non financial -- may be the
future hope.

  My 2 cents worth. Your mileage and direction may vary.

MKR