The man whose acquaintance with the world does not lead him deeper than science leads him, will never understand what it is that the man with the spiritual vision finds in these natural phenomena. The water does not merely cleanse his limbs, but it purifies his heart; for it touches his soul. The earth does not merely hold his body, but it gladdens his mind; for its contact is more than physical contact, it is a living presence. When a man does not realise his kinship with the world, he lives in a prison-house whose walls are alien to him When he meets the eternal spirit in all objects, then is he emancipated, for then he discovers the fullest significance of the world into which he is born; then he finds himself in perfect truth, and his harmony with the All is established.

Dear Friends,

We are glad to introduce our new collaborator, Renato Costa, who will from now on work together with Ademir Xavier Jr. on the edition of the Spiritist Messenger as well as on updating the English version of GEAE’s homepage.

Renato is a 48-year-old married engineer who has three children. He lives in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and works as an Assistant Manager for a large Brazilian Company. He is a medium, and the Web designer for IEJA - Joanna de Ângelis Spiritist Institution (of which he is an active member) and also manages a discussion board on Yahoo! where he spreads the teachings of the Spiritist Doctrine throughout the world.

He also has a special interest for languages. He has studied English since he was nine years old and at the age of fifteen he received the University of Cambridge’s Certificate of Proficiency in English. He also speaks French and Spanish. He writes articles in Portuguese and English, which are published in the “RIE - Revista Internacional de Espiritismo.”, a monthly spiritist magazine from São Paulo, Brazil, which was founded in 1925 by one of our spiritist pioneers, Cairbar Schutel.

The members of the Editorial Council of GEAE would like to give a warm welcome to Renato Costa and we are absolutely convinced that he will aid in our humble efforts towards the development of a fraternal media for the study and dissemination of the Spiritist Doctrine, which we hope will help many people throughout the world in need of higher knowledge regarding the phenomena of life and its true meaning.

Much peace,

GEAE Editors
 

The main purpose of the Brazilian Medical Spiritist Association - AME-Br is to promote the study of the Spiritist Doctrine, as established in the nineteen century by French philosopher and educator Allan Kardec, and its phenomena especially with regard to their relation, integration, and links with the areas of Philosophy, Religion, and Science, in particular with the Medical Sciences.  To reach this objective, AME-Br is involved in carrying out events, studies and experiments to demonstrate the relationship that exists between each of these areas and the fundamentals of the Spiritist Doctrine.

Every two years AME-Br organizes a national congress for the medical spiritist community of Brazil, which has also been attended by medical doctors of many Latin American countries and to which speakers from Europe and North America have been invited.  Attendance to MEDINESP congresses has oscillated between 600 and 1000 participants.  The theme of this year congress MEDINESP 2003, which will be held jointly with the II Congress of the International Medical Spiritist Association - AME-International, is “Science and Spirituality: Complementarity and Integration.”  As the theme implies, the objective of the congress is to discuss the many common and complementary aspects that have been identified in recent years between the modern concepts of Medicine and Health Care and the scientific, moral and religious teachings of the Spiritist Doctrine.  In addition to Brazilian speakers, around 40 of them, four foreign scientists have already agreed to deliver plenary conferences, namely Dr. Harold Koenig (USA), Dr. Peter Fenwick (UK), Dr. Amit Goswami (USA) and Dr. Uma Krishnamurthy (India).

Additional information on MEDINESP 2003 can be found in the AME-BR web page: www.amebrasil.org.br.

(Translated from the 25th Portuguese edition entitled "Nosso Lar". First Portuguese edition published in 1944 by Federação Espírita Brasileira, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.)

Chapter 27  WORK AT LAST

Never could I have pictured the scene now before my eyes. It was neither hospital nor a conventional nursing home, but a series of vast inter-communicating wards crowded with carcass-like human forms. A strange clamoring filled the air - groans, sobs and plaintive phrases uttered at random. Ghastly  faces, bony hands and monstrous bore witness to their terrible spiritual misery. So upsetting were my first impressions that I had to resort to prayer to keep my strength. Tobias called an old nurse:

"There are so few assistants today." He asked, surprised, "What has happened?' 

"Minister Flacus sent word that most of them were to accompany the Samaritans [7] on their rounds in the regions of the Lower Zone." 

"Well, the," Tobias decided calmly, "We must fill the gaps. There is no time to waste." 

"Brother Tobias, Brother Tobias! Have mercy." Cried out an old man, clutching the bed and gesticulating like a madman, "I am suffocating! This is a thousand times worse than death on Earth. Help! I want to leave this place, to get out.... I must have air, more air!" 

Tobias approached and examined him carefully, and inquired: 

"Why is Ribeiro so much worse?" 

"He was had one of his worst crises." Informed the nurse, "Assistant Gonçalves attributes it chiefly to the heavy charge of dense thoughts emitted by his incarnate relations. As he is still very weak and lacks the mental strength to break  away from his Earthly ties, the poor creature has not been able to resist their influence." 

While Tobias gently stroked the patient's forehead, the nurse continued: 

"Early this morning, he rushed out of the ward, crying loudly that he was needed at home; that he couldn't forget his wife and children; that it was cruel to keep him here away from them. Lawrence and Hermes tried in vain to bring him back to bed. Therefore, I thought that it would be in his best interests to take away his energy and mobility, which I did by applying some prostrating magnetic passes to him." 

"You did well," agreed Tobias thought fully, "I will see that measures are taken against the influence of his family's attitude. They must be given a greater share of worries so that they may leave Ribeiro in peace." 

I looked intensely at the patient, trying to determine his emotional state. He wore the typical expression of the mentally deranged and seemed utterly unconscious of what was being said about him. He called Tobias automatically, as do children who know their benefactor. My new instructor, noting my amazement, explained: 

"The poor thing is still in a nightmarish phase, during which the soul is wrapped up in its own afflictions, with little perception of anything else. Man, my friend, reaps exactly what he has sown. Our poor Ribeiro has been a prey to numerous illusions." 

I wanted to ask about his history and the source of his sufferings, but remembering Laura's advice on curiosity, I kept my peace. Tobias addressed the patient with kind words of encouragement and hope, and promised he would see to the means of improving his condition, that for his own good he should calm down and take his confinement in bed patiently. Ribeiro, trembling pitiably and ghastly pale, smiled sadly and thanked him with tears in his eyes. 

We walked slowly along, between numerous rows of well-kept beds. Unwholesome exhalations filled the place, caused, I later learned, by the mental emanations of those who were still under the painful impression of physical death, or dominated by the low vibrations of inferior thoughts. "These wards are used exclusively for male entities." 

"Tobias, Tobias, I am parched and starving!" shouted a patient. 

"Help me, brother!" yelled another. 

"For the love of God, I can't stand this any longer!" cried out a third. 

My heart was heavy before so much suffering, and I could not help asking: 

"My friend, how sad it is to see all these sufferings and tormented spirits. Why must there exist such a dismal place?" 

Tobias replied with perfect composure: 

"In observing this scene, you must try to see beyond the pain and isolation. Remember, brother, that these patients have already left the Lower Zones, where so many pitfalls lie in wait for those who have heedlessly neglected their spirit selves. In these chambers patients are not only cared for, they are also prepared for their future redemption. We must bear in mind that their suffering is of their own doing. Man's life is always centered wherever his heart is." 

And, after a pause during which he seemed deaf to the clamoring around us, he added: 

"They are smugglers of eternal life." 

"What do you mean?" I asked. 

"They expected mere earthly acquisitions to have the same value in the Spirit spheres. They believed that criminal pleasures, the power of money, infringement of the law and the imposition of self would cross the frontiers of the sepulcher and still be in force here, offering them new opportunities for further follies. They were thoughtless businessmen who forgot to exchange their material acquisitions for spiritual currency. When in the flesh, they travel to a foreign city, they always took care to provide themselves with the currency of the country which they visit. Yet, while certain of the inevitability of the final trip to the spiritual regions, they neglected to acquire spiritual values. Thus the millionaire of the physical sphere becomes the spiritual pauper." 

How true! Tobias' words could not have been more logical. After distributing comfort and hope, he leaded me to the next ward. Narcisa, the nurse, followed us and deferentially opened the door. 

As I entered, I nearly staggered with heart-sickening surprise. It was a chamber of vast proportions where thirty-two men, with sinister countenances, lay quite still on very low beds. Their almost unnoticeable breath was the only sign of life they presented. 

"These unhappy entities are in a sleep much heavier than that of most of our ignorant brothers. We call them the negative believers, for instead of accepting the Lord, they were unconditional slaves of self; instead of believing in life, action and work, they admitted only the victory of crime, immobility and eternal nothing. They transformed their earthly experience into the constant preparation for a long slumber; and as they had no notion of good, of brotherly cooperation, there is nothing left for them now but to sleep on for years and years as helpless victims of ghastly nightmares." 

I was horrified at these explanations and stared at Tobias, who began to carefully apply strengthening passes on the patients. When the treatment on the first two was over, they both began vomiting a black substance, a dark and viscous matter with cadaverous emanations. 

"They are expelling poisonous fluids." Explained Tobias calmly. 

Narcisa was doing her best to keep up with the cleaning, but in vain; for by this time a great number of them had begun expelling the same dark and fetid matter. It was then that I instinctively got hold of the cleaning implements and set myself to work. The nurse seemed thankful for my help, and Tobias threw me a glance that well expressed his satisfaction and gratitude. 

The work continued throughout the day, bringing with it a blessed fatigue. No friend in the physical world could possibly appreciate the sublime joy of the physician recommencing his self-education from the humblest of nursing tasks. 

7 - Organization of spirit benefactors in the Astral City (A note by the spirit author.)

Chapter 28 ON DUTY 

After the collective prayer in the evening, Tobias turned on the receiver to listen to the Samaritans at work in the Lower Zones. I learned that the patrols of workers on such missions communicated with their headquarters at set hours. I felt somewhat tired from my strenuous efforts, but my heart was singing with joy. At last I had work to do and was experiencing the mysteriously invigorating tonic of service. A few minutes after the set had been tuned in, I heard a strange voice:

"Samaritans to the Ministry of Regenerations… Samaritans to the Ministry of Regeneration…Heavy labor in the abysses of darkness. We have succeeded in dislodging a great number of unfortunate entities and have rescued twenty-nine brothers from spirit shadows. Twenty-two are mentally deranged and seven in utter psychic exhaustion. Our patrols are preparing transportation. Will arrive soon after midnight. Please see to the necessary arrangements."

I noticed that Narcisa and Tobias exchanged significant glances, and when the broadcast ended I asked:

"What do they mean? Why this collective transportation? Aren't they all spirits?"

Tobias smiled and replied"

"You forget, brother, that you yourself arrived at the Ministry of Assistance in such a manner. I know all about your coming. We must bear in mind that in the Lower Zone, just as on Earth, we are clothed in heavy fluids. The ostrich and the swallow are both birds and have wings, yet the former can't rise into the air unless transported, whereas the latter will rise to the sky in swift flight."

As if to make it known that there was no time for digressions, he turned to Narcisa and said:

"Tonight's group is a large one. We must take immediate measures."

"We will need more beds!" She exclaimed somewhat anxiously.

"Don't worry," answered Tobias resolutely, "the mentally deranged patients will be lodged in Pavilion Seven and the weak ones in Ward Thirty-three."

Raising his right hand to his forehead as if trying to make an important decision, he remarked:

"The problem of lodging will be easily settled; but the ones concerning assistance won't be so quickly solved. Because of the dark clouds obscuring the world of the incarnate, our strongest workers have been detailed to reinforce the services of the Ministry of Communication. We need helpers for night duty, because those working with the Samaritans will return extremely tired."

"I would be happy to lend a hand to the best of my ability," I exclaimed spontaneously.

Tobias gave me a look of appreciative gratitude which filled my heart with gladness.

"But have you really made up your mind to stay in the Chambers during the night?" he asked, surprised.

"Aren't others doing the same?" I inquired in turn, "I am feeling strong and fit, and must make up for lost time."

My new friend patted me on the back, saying:

"Well then, I accept your cooperation. Narcisa and the others will also stay on duty. Moreover, I'll send you Venantius and Salustius, two of our most dependable brothers. I myself can't remain here tonight, because of a previous engagement, but I will leave a careful plan of the work to be done. If anything unexpected should turn up, you or any of the assistants can get in touch with me."

We all set about making the most urgent arrangements. While Narcisa, aided by five attendants, prepared the linen and nursing equipment, Tobias and I moved heavy pieces of furniture into Pavilion Seven and Wart Thirty-three. I would be at loss to explain what was happening to me. Although physically tired, I felt exultantly happy.

In the office or workshop, where most are anxious to undertake their tasks to the best of their ability, to serve is the highest privilege, In truth, the hour-bonus and any other immediate reward I might gain for my efforts was far from my mind. Yet I was deeply satisfied at the thought that in my new position as a humble but worthy worker, I would no longer be ashamed to face my mother or my benefactors in the Ministry of Assistance. On leaving, Tobias again embraced me, saying:

"May the peace of Jesus abide with you all. I wish you a good night of profitable work. Tomorrow morning at 8:00 a.m. you may rest. In ordinary times, twelve hours of work is the most we may put in, but these are unusual circumstances."

I replied that I was extremely content with his decision. Later, along with a great number of nurses and attendants, I began to take a more kindly interest in the patients. Among my co-workers, Narcisa, with her spontaneous kindness and maternal solicitude, greatly impressed me. I was attracted by her generosity and tried to come into closer contact with her. It was easy, and I soon found myself enjoying the pleasure of her simple but edifying conversation. The dear old woman was like a living book whose every page breathed devotion and wisdom.

"But sister, have you been working here for long?" I inquired after a few minutes of friendly conversation.

"Yes, I have been in active service in the Chambers of Rectification for six years and a few months, and must continue here for over three more years being able to fulfill my purpose."

At my questioning look, she continued:

"I need a serious endorsement."

"Endorsement? What do you mean?" I asked, interested.

"You see, I must meet some beloved spirits who are reincarnated on the Earth, so that together we may work out our advancement. Because of my past errors, I begged for a long time in vain for the opportunity to carry out my plans. I was living in an anxious and perturbed condition. One day I was advised to speak with Minister Veneranda. She agreed to endorse my plans, on the condition that I work here for ten years to correct certain unbalanced emotional attitudes. I considered the imposition too hard at first, and felt like refusing, but I gradually realized that she was right. After all, that corrective measure was meant to benefit me, not her. I can't tell you how much I ha profited by having accepted Veneranda's advice. I feel more balanced and understanding now and I believe I shall live my next experience on the physical sphere with spiritual dignity."

I was about to express my astonishment, when a patient near us called out:

"Narcisa, Narcisa!"

I had no right to keep that devoted sister from her duties just to satisfy my curiosity.

Next chapters: 29 & 30.

 

DIALETIC OF OPPOSITES: SPIRITUALISM VS MATERIALISM

Based on the opinions of Plato and Nietzsche

Renan Lacerda

 

Materialism is a topic often discussed by Philosophers. Man, who largely depends on his senses in order to make judgements, is often skeptical about the "supernatural". One such example is Friedrich Nietzsche, who has criticized the ideas of the ancient Philosophers, claiming that for centuries they have discussed nothing but "conceptual mummies" (Twilight of the Idols, I: 'Reason in Philosophy,' pg.35) Although Nietzsche’s Philosophy regarding the senses is very down-to-earth, it is also considerably materialistic. In contrast, Plato differs in his opinions regarding this topic. In many of his dialogues, specifically "The Republic", the existence of a Spiritual plane is implied.

In Nietzsche's "Twilight of the Idols," he presents a number of arguments against the ancient Philosophers' comments regarding the senses. He explains that the Philosophers use the senses as the source of blame of why they suffer from "illusions" and "deceptions." These Philosophers claim that morality itself is the ability to escape from the senses. Since history itself was based on the senses, it is thus nothing but "falsehood." As a counter to the arguments against the senses, Nietzsche explains that it is not the senses themselves that are false, but "what we make of their evidence." He also presents four propositions, which deal with this topic and ultimately summarize his Philosophies on the pluralities of existence. The first proposition highlights the core of his ideas: there is absolutely no basis for the belief in an alternate reality (or form of existence). Secondly, he claims that the ‘real’ world is nothing but the conceptional opposite of the ‘apparent’ world: it is a "moral-optical illusion." The third proposition deals with the belief that the ancient Philosophers spoke of another world in order to take revenge on this one. In other words, humans claim that a better life must exist because their present lives are so miserable. Last but not least, Nietzsche claims that dividing ‘real’ and ‘apparent’ is a "symptom of declining life”. Not surprisingly, he also supports ‘appearance’ by claiming that it is but a more real, physical and tangible version of the so-called ‘reality.’

In “Twilight of the Idols,” Nietzsche also discusses reason, and the four branches of science that in his opinion are “not-yet-science”: metaphysics, theology, psychology and epistemology. He spoke of Heraclitus and the Eleatics, who believed that the senses lie because of “plurality and change.” “The unapparent connection,” said Heraclitus, “is more powerful than the apparent one.” This allusion to the apparent and real worlds (which I prefer to call the material and the spiritual worlds) can most definitely be attributed to the falsifying evidence that we receive from our senses, but Nietzsche would undoubtedly disagree. He claimed that the reasoning process, which we utilized in order to come to such a conclusion, is “the cause of the falsification of the evidence of the senses.” Ultimately, he believes that the ‘real’ world is but a lie. Furthermore, he believed that any and all sciences that are based on reason or logic (in other words, any science whose conventions are not based on material and physical evidence) are erroneous. Unfortunately, Nietzsche’s arguments are idealistically absurd: attacking logic and reason brings forth no desirable consequences. Our ability to think abstractly is human nature. If we relied on our senses and nothing else, we would become mere robots, programmed to follow simple commands or carry out mere mechanical actions. Were we not given sentience and intelligence in order to stretch our mind past its limits? How is it that for thousands of years we have constantly moved forward, morally and technologically? It cannot be as a result of our science, for in Neolithic times, our scientific knowledge was exponentially limited (if not non-existent). Attempting to refute reason itself is futile: our minds were not meant to be limited to analyzing matter from only one, narrow perspective. Was it not reason that aided Nietzsche himself in organizing his ideas? In retrospect: metaphysics, theology, psychology and epistemology are the sciences of abstract thought. They are sciences based on mind above matter. They are sciences for thought, not fact. Since our intelligence is limited (and our ideas not perfect), it is obvious that these ‘reasoning’ sciences should have flaws. However, it is indefinitely impractical to denounce these sciences as “abortion” and “not-yet-science.”

Plato's Philosophy regarding real and apparent differs greatly from that of Nietzsche's (especially considering he was one of the first Philosophers to speak of the differences between reality and appearance). This can be seen in Plato's "Allegory of the Cave," in which humanity is symbolized as beings trapped in a cave, unable to see any persons or objects placed outside, with the exception of their shadows, which are projected by the fire. These projections are undoubtedly Plato's version of appearances, and it can be ascertained that the cave is a symbolic reference of the senses (which keeps the beings inside unable to see the outside) and the sources of the shadows is reality.

A key issue between these two Philosophies is also the aspect of death. Plato constantly refers to a real world, a world that is unlike the world of appearances we live in. He also explains that upon first entering this brave new world, we will be temporarily disoriented, no doubt as a result of discovering that our previous beliefs and experiences were but appearances. However, in order to reach this world (or in other words, to leave the cave), we must free ourselves from our current state: a state in which we are at the mercy of our senses. This is undoubtedly an implication that death is the only freedom from the world of appearances. In "Twilight of the Idols," Nietzsche briefly discusses this idea, saying that Philosophers "kill... they stuff... they become a mortal danger to everything that they worship." It can be inferred from this statement that Nietzsche is highly critical of this ancient Philosophical obsession with death.

In order to account for these Philosophical differences and come to conclusions of our own, we must first understand and embrace the concepts of fact and belief through logic: both are essential elements of humanity. Nietzsche raises some very interesting points, and at first glance they seem to be the most seductive. He claims that since we have no proof of an alternate "reality," (which is undoubtedly an allusion of the afterlife, as can be as determined from the aforementioned paragraph) why should we acknowledge its existence? However, to say that anything that human orthodox science is unable to explain (or account for) is false is not any different from saying that as a race, we have already reached perfection, and therefore we are fully capable of understanding anything and everything about the world we live in: it is illogical and downright stupid. It is equally illogical to claim that death is the annihilation of the soul. Human Arts and Sciences are themselves a testament: it is illogical to state that our ability to create, our tastes and predilections, and ultimately our individualities have resulted from dust and gases of space. After all, this is like stating that we were created from probability, from chance, or from mere mathematical coincidence. After all, probability is but a concept: physically it means nothing! An important scientific axiom that we apply to all theories and discoveries is that "there is no effect without a cause." Therefore, scientifically speaking, we could not have been created from nothingness, and we definitely cannot end as nothingness.

The existence of an afterlife and the immortality of the soul (preceding death), whose existence Nietzsche would undoubtedly disbelieve, are discussed in Plato’s dialogue in “The Republic.” One of Plato’s core ideas is the presence of good and evil. It was believed that anything which evil consumes, it destroys. However, in opposition, Plato claimed that the soul couldn’t be destroyed by these vices: if this exterior evil indeed caused the destruction of the soul, would it not be true that each and every one of us would have already been destroyed? “The soul which cannot be destroyed by an evil, whether inherent or external, must exist for ever, and if existing for ever, must be immortal…”

My own Philosophy regarding this matter is quite similar to that of Plato’s, but with various key differences regarding the concepts of good and evil (resulting from Nietzsche’s arch-enemy: reason). First and foremost, since “there is no effect without a cause,” reason dictates that God must exist. Secondly, God, who is the first cause of all things and beings alike, must be perfect and infallible, and therefore must only be attributed with positive qualities. Therefore, given that everything originated from God, he could not have created evil, for it would not be in the definition of a perfect and infallible being to create something that is of a negative nature. Evil, then, must not exist. It is merely a definition that describes the absence of goodness. Furthermore, destruction is also a human concept that has a much different meaning in a Spiritual perspective. God does not destroy. Death itself, which we often assume to be the destruction of our bodies and our soul, is anything but. It is merely a change: a step from the ‘apparent’ (material) into the ‘real’ (spiritual). Plato undoubtedly recognized this, and in turn drew a conclusion that the soul itself is never annihilated, even upon death.

Nietzsche’s views on the existence of God are predictable: the “stupendous concept [of] ‘God’… The last, thinnest, emptiest is placed as the first, as cause in itself, as ens realissimum.” I assume Nietzsche’s claims that the concept of the existence of God is the “emptiest” because as humans, we have such limited knowledge of His existence. Why should this be surprising, considering our scientific knowledge is so limited and pathetic from a cosmical perspective? Why is that so? Isn’t it obvious? Our senses! Yet our dear friend Nietzsche would be quick to disagree, since he believed that our senses are perfect, and that it is ‘reason’ which corrupts it. Imagine a world in which the ‘highest concept,’ was so simple that any child would be able to comprehend its essence: we would be our own dying Gods, and the universe would be a valueless space of matter. Life itself would be valueless! The causa sui would be the empty spaces of the universe: what a sad, shallow universe this would be!

Nietzsche’s Philosophy regarding ‘reason’ is further explained in page 38 of the “Twilight of the Idols.” He discusses the tendency of various Philosophers of claiming that “We must once have dwelt in a higher world!” Nietzsche claims that the case is exactly the opposite: we were once in a lower world and gradually made our way up. I believe the opposite holds truth. We were in fact at one point in a higher world, and we will return again and again. Jesus and his disciples had preached (and many thereafter had accepted) the concept of reincarnation, but in approximately 533A.D., the 2^nd Council of Constantinople declared Reincarnation a heresy, and forever removed the doctrine from the Church. Many say that Constantine feared that if his citizens knew that they were to have more chances at life, they would refuse to be law-abiding citizens. The concept of Reincarnation makes perfect sense, and I believe that without it, the existence of God is questionable. For example, if a newborn baby dies upon birth, it would not make any sense that he would go to Hell nor Heaven (of course, reason dictates that Hell or eternal damnation must not exist, otherwise God would be unfair, but for this instance, let us supposed that Hell is a symbolic representation of a temporary lower zone which the Spirit will find himself upon death if that Spirit has caused pain upon others during his earthly trials), for he has done neither good nor evil. However, what about a man who has died at the age of 80, and has overcome many of life’s trials but also failed at twice that number: shall he suffer at the burning pits of Hell while the baby, who has done absolutely nothing, receive a free pass to the gates of Heaven? If such is the case, then we are truly living In Nietzsche’s world.

In conclusion, Nietzsche’s Philosophy, highly critical of conventional Philosophers, is based on the concept that all we can see and all we can touch is all that exists: the senses are supreme. It is an Atheist doctrine whose only purpose is to denounce God and reason. Fortunately, much like Communism, Nietzsche’s ideas do not function since they go against human nature: reason is all that keeps us from being animals. Plato’s Philosophy, on the other hand, true to the concept of God, makes use of reason in order to go beyond the senses, past materialism into spiritualism. Thankfully Nietzsche passed away before he was able to write his next Philosophical refutation: one that would undoubtedly attempt to denounce common sense.

Notes:

1. “The Dialectic of Opposites: Materialism vs. Spiritualism” was originally written as an essay for a college-level Philosophy class, and was titled “Philosophical Comparison: Plato and Nietzsche.”

2. Renan Lacerda is a 17-year-old Senior High School student and he has attended Spiritist Doctrine studies through youth programs since the age of 5.

 

INDELIBLE RECORDS OF THE SOUL'S EVOLUTION

Science Helps us to Understand Evolution

Renato Costa

Article originally published by Casa Editora O Clarim in the April 2003 issue of Revista Internacional do Espiritismo

The American neurologist Paul MacLean has theorized that our brain mirrors its evolution throughout the ages.

MacLean believes that our skull contains not one but three brains, each of them being the record of a different stage of our evolution. He calls his paradigm “The Triune Brain”.

According to him, the three brains operate like interconnected biological computers, each with its own special intelligence, its own subjectivity, its own sense of time and space and its own memory. Each of the three brains is connected to the other two but operates as an individual brain with its own capacity.

The oldest of the three brains is situated in the core layer. The most recent is the outermost layer. The intermediate is the middle layer.

The oldest of the three is the reptilian, primitive or archipallium brain, which MacLean also calls the “R-complex”. It corresponds to the brain stem (midbrain, pons and medulla) and the cerebellum. It is responsible for the self-preservation processes, like respiration, heart beating and sleep, as well as for the unchangeable rituals of approaching, attacking, flight and mating. None of those processes require conscious control but they are essential to the animal’s life as can be shown by the fact that the reptilian brain never stops working not even during deep sleep. The reptilian brain never changes and never learns from experience. It is almost identical to the brain of present day reptiles, having been present in the reptiles that preceded the first mammals about 240 million years ago. The reptilian brain responds to the mechanical, purely instinctive behavior.

Most mammals share with us the paleomammalian (old mammalian) brain, which corresponds to the limbic system, the middle part of the brain. MacLean believes that it appeared after the reptilian brain and was added to it at about 60 million years ago. Primitive mammals had a brain that was basically the reptilian brain plus the limbic system. The paleomammalian brain contains the hypothalamus, the thalamus, the hippocampus and the amygdala, which are considered responsible for emotions and emotional instincts like behaviors associated to feeding, competition and sex. Such emotions are important to the survival of the animal and its species. The paleomammalian brain is able to learn since it keeps memories of emotions that result from experiences where the animal felt pleasure or pain with more or less intensity. The paleomammalian brain is responsible for the emotional behavior.

The cerebrum, neocortex, cortex or neopalium is the main brain of the primates, which were among the latest mammals to appear. It represents about five-sixths of the human brain, having evolved along the last million years. MacLean calls it the neomammalian (new mammal) brain. All mammals have neocortex but it is particularly important only in primates and cetaceans. The neomammalian brain is responsible for the noblest cognitive functions, like language and reasoning. The neocortex corresponds to the rational behavior.

As we have seen, all three brains act together to produce the behavior of the mammals and of man in particular, which, according to circumstances, can be predominately mechanical, emotional or rational.

In order to better understand to what extent MacLean’s theory says about the soul’s evolution, we must have in mind the organizing function of the perispirit (subtle body). This subtle body we have, which, added to the soul, from which it never moves apart, form the Spirit, functions as a wonderful transpersonal memory keeping record of all the events lived by the being in its innumerous physical lives and of the effects of those events according to the Law of Causality.

Being so, if we find a reptilian brain in the physical brain that means that there is a reptilian subtle brain in the perispirit serving as its model. Furthermore, that reptilian subtle brain present in the perispirit is the indelible record of the soul’s history.

Following this line of thought we could ask, if one is to accept the hypothesis of man’s evolution coming from a lower realm species, why shouldn’t the record of other species previous to a reptile be present in the human brain. The answer to that question can be found, to our view, in the thesis presented by André Luiz and developed by Jorge Andréa, according to which individuality is defined when the first cells of the pineal gland start to show up in an animal.

Many fish, all reptiles, birds and mammals that live today have a pineal gland. Such however may have not been true 240 million years ago in the Mezozoic Era, when scientists believe reptiles originated the first mammals. The Tuatara is a small reptile living nowadays in some islands north of New Zealand, which has a third eye linked to its primitive pineal gland. The Tuatara is a living fossil belonging to a family that existed during the Mezozoic Era, making it possible for us to infer, if we use the thesis proposed by Jorge Andréa, that the reptiles from which mammals originated had a pineal gland about as primitive as it has. Furthermore, it allows us to conclude that no species in the evolution history of those reptiles before they became reptiles had a pineal gland at all.

Before the pineal gland was present in the animal, as Jorge Andréa explains, the soul-group-of-the-species dominated over the incipient individual vortexes. So, it is natural that events previous to the moment the individuality was established had to be recorded in the organizing model of the soul-group of the species from which the individuality would originate. This explains why there is no record of them in the present triune brain.

As we have seen, the model proposed by MacLean is rather elegant and useful, serving to explain, in a clear and didactic way, how human evolution occurred, from the most primitive instincts of an autonomous life to the use of mind’s noblest functions, reason and consciousness, passing by the intermediate stage of learning in order to adapt to the environment. Another interesting characteristic of MacLean’s model is that it allows us to imagine the appearance of new layers in our brain, as we further climb the steps that lead us to perfection.

When we reach the next stage, as occurred at previous transitions, the brain we now call neomammalian no longer will be responsible for mind’s noblest functions. Such noble functions, which will certainly no longer be the same that we call “noble” nowadays, will be processed in the new layers that will appear.

That view seems compatible with the fact that highly evolved Spirits are incapable of doing bad deeds. Maybe the fact that they only do good deeds only reflects what has come to be an instinctive behavior.

Unfortunately Science never bothered to examine the brain of saints, dedicating only to study the brains of important politicians, artists or scientists. Would examining the brain of Saint Theresa D’Avilla, the Mahatma Ghandi or Chico Xavier have revealed the existence of a tetraune brain? Would it have revealed a triune brain having 7 and not 6 layers in its neocortex? Those are questions whose answers we still ignore.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

ANDRÉA DOS SANTOS, Jorge. Impulsos Criativos da Evolução (Evolution’s Creative Drives). Rio de Janeiro: Societo Lorenz, 1995.

DO AMARAL, Júlio Rocha, MD, and MARTINS E OLIVEIRA, Jorge MD, PhD.   Limbic System: The Center of Emotions. January 2003.
URL: http://www.epub.org.br/cm/n05/mente/limbic_i.htm.

MILLER, Richard Alan. The Biological Function of the Third Eye. February 2003.
URL:  http://www.bleehoney.org/ThirdEye.htm.

SCARUFFI, Piero. Book review of Paul MacLean’s The Triune Brain in Evolution. January 2003.
URL: http://www.thymos.com/mind/maclean.html.

Triune Brain Theory: Three Brains in One. February 2003.
URL: http://www.mareshbrainsatwork.com/B2B/index.htm.

Tuatara – The World’s Most Unique Reptile. February 2003.
URL: http://www.bigjude.com/Tuatara.html.

XAVIER, Francisco Cândido, and VIEIRA, Waldo. Evolução e Cérebro. In: Evolução em Dois Mundos (Evolution and the Brain. In Evolution in two Worlds). Dictated by Spirit André Luiz. Rio de Janeiro: FEB, 1993.

ZIMERMANN, Zalmino. Perispírito (Perispirit). Campinas: CEAK, 2000.

 

News from the Spiritist Group Love and Light

received from Elza d'Agosto

We would like to communicate to the Spiritist Community that in the Spiritist Group Love and Light in Newark, New Jersey, United States, we have three news items that we would like to submit for possible inclusion in your bulletins:

1) Example of Integration and Brotherhood: Our English Study Group is integrated in a house that functions primarily in Portuguese. The size of the group is approximately 8 to 12 persons. The English Department as we call ourselves takes turns in participating in the Brazilian Doctrinal Meetings by saying the opening prayer and reading the inspirational theme for the night which is done in English. The books they use are "Child of God" by Joanna de Ângelis and "Christian Agenda" by André Luiz. Most of them also help the house financially as contributing members, since February 2003 when the center moved from Fairview to Newak.

2)  Passes (Laying-on-of-hands): Mrs. Bernadine Trubilla has become the first American to administer passes at the center. She works in the healing room side by side with the Brazilian mediums. They administer passes to approximately 250 persons per night. Since June 2003.

3)   Mediumistic Training - Seven members of the English Department have began studying the second sight in English, soon to become a full fledged Mediumistic Meeting. Since June 2003.

(Translated from the 25th Portuguese edition entitled "Nosso Lar". First Portuguese edition published in 1944 by Federação Espírita Brasileira, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.)

Chapter 29 - FRANCIS' VISION 

While Narcisa, was busy comforting the afflicted patient, I was called to a city communications device, similar to a telephone. It was Laura, asking for news. I realized that I had forgotten to tell her about my decision to remain in the Chambers for night duty. I apologized and informed her of the situation. Even over the wire I could sense her joy at the news. At the end of our short conversation she said:

"That's wonderful, my child! Love your work and fill your heart with the joy of useful. Only in this way can we bring about our everlasting edification. Now, just one more word. Remember, too, that this house is also yours."

These words encouraged me and brought me joy. Returning to the chambers, I found Narcisa struggling heroically to calm a young man who seemed to be suffering from a serious mental disorder. I tried to help her. The poor boy, staring out into space, cried out in agony:

"Help me, for God's sake! I'm frightened, frightened…"

With a panic-stricken look on his face, he went on:

"Sister Narcisa, 'he' is coming… the monster! I can feel the worms again! Here 'he' is, right there! Save me from 'him'. Send 'him' away!"

Calm down, Francis," answered the devoted nurse, "you will be free of him and will be left in peace, but it depends on your own efforts. Just pretend that your mind is a sponge, soaked in vinegar. You must wring out the sour substance. I will help you to do this, but the hardest part you must do yourself."

At Narcisa's tender, encouraging words, the patient became calm and showed himself willing to cooperate. But in a few minutes he turned ghastly pale again, and began to cry out:

"But sister, listen to me! 'He" won't go away. 'He' is back again to torment me! Look! Look!"

"Yes, Francis, I can see him," she agreed patiently, "but it is essential for you to help me drive him away."

"Oh, what a diabolical ghost!" He exclaimed, weeping like a child and inspiring my compassion.

"Put your trust in Jesus and forget the monster." She advised in a soothing voice, "And now, let me apply a magnetic pass, and the ghost will go away."

She gave him a magnetic treatment, filling him with invigorating, comforting fluids. He thanked her, looking greatly relieved. After the treatment was over he spoke again:

"Now I feel much better."

After kneading his pillows and making him comfortable, Narcisa asked an attendant to bring him a glass of magnetized water. Her example was edifying – her goodwill was contagious. Perceiving my earnest wish to learn, she seemed willing to initiate me in the sublime secrets of service.

"To whom was he referring?" I asked, greatly impressed, "Is he, perhaps, pursued by some shadow, invisible to my eyes?"

"Oh, no." She replied, "He meant his own corpse."

"You don't say so." I replied, take aback.

"The poor boy entered the spirit sphere after an accident due only to his own carelessness. He was excessively attached to his physical body, and for days he wouldn't leave his grave, refusing to conform to his new state. So deep were his delusions that he spent a long time desperately trying to raise his stiff body. He was terrified at the idea of facing the unknown, and utterly unable to muster even the slightest detachment from his physical sensations. Aid from higher spheres was of no avail he had closed his mental zone against all thoughts of eternal life. At last, the worms made him experience such atrocious pain that the unfortunate creature ran away from his tomb horrified, only to begin a dismal wandering in the darker regions of the Lower Zone. However, those who had been his parents on Earth enjoy considerable credit over here, and through their intercession he was rescued by the Samaritans who brought him, almost by force, to our Colony. His condition is so serious that he won't be able to leave the Chambers of Rectification for a long while. The friend who had been his physical father is now engaged in a difficult mission far from the Astral City."

"Does he come to see the patient?"

"Yes, he has already come twice, and each time I was deeply moved by his silent grief. The boy's mental disorder is so great that he didn't even recognized his generous and devoted father. He kept crying pitifully, under painful delusions. His father, who had come to visit him accompanied by Minister Padua of Communication, showed emotional fortitude while in the presence of the Minister to whom he owed his unfortunate son's hospitalization. They spent some time commenting on the spiritual condition of the newcomer. But when Minister Padua was called away unexpectedly, apologizing to me for his human gesture, he knelt by his son's bed, taking the boy's hands into his own, holding them tightly as if to transmit some invigorating vital fluids, kissed the boy's forehead, and wept. I couldn't keep back my tears, so I felt the room. I don't know what happened, but I noticed that from that day, Francis has been steadily improving. His condition of total insanity has been reduced to occasional crises, which are gradually diminishing."

"How touching this is." I exclaimed, deeply impressed, "But how can his corpse pursue him?"

"Francis' visions," she explained, "are nothing but hallucinations. Many spirits suffer from them after physical death. Those who are excessively attached to their material body, who make it the center of their existence, living only through it and for it, cannot abandon their corpses when called to the real life. They do not accept the idea of spirituality, and struggle desperately to retain their physical bodies. In time, however, voracious worms drive them away. Then, horrified, they fall to the opposite extreme. The sight of their own corpse, a strong creation of their own minds, torments them to the innermost recesses of their souls. They live in crisis for more or less lengthy periods of time and many suffer acutely until the ghost-corpse they have created totally disintegrates."

Noting how deeply affected I was, Narcisa continued:

"Thanks to our Heavenly Father, I have learned a great deal in these years of service. How profound the spiritual slumber of most of our incarnate brothers is! Still, we mustn't worry to the point of letting it hurt us. The chrysalis adheres to inert matter, but the butterfly will rise from it in easy flight. The seed is almost imperceptible, although it is to become the giant oak. The withered flower returns to the earth, but its perfume abides in the air. All embryonic life appears to sleep. We must never forget these lessons."

Narcisa fell into a silence which I dared not interrupt.

Chapter 30 - INHERITANCE AND EUTHANASIA

I had not yet recovered from my astonishment when Salustius came up to Narcisa and said:

"Our sister Pauline wishes to see her father in Pavilion Five. Before complying I thought I had better consult with you, as the patient is still experiencing a deep crisis."

In her usual gentle manner, she replied:

"Show her in at once. Pauline is devoting all her leisure time to the delicate task of reconciling the different members of her family, so she has Veneranda's permission to see her father whenever necessary."

The messenger left hastily, and Narcisa informed me:

"You'll see what a devoted daughter she is."

Less than one minute later we saw Pauline coming towards us. She was slim and lovely, reflecting angelical beauty, dressed in a light tunic of luminous silk. Her eyes reflected deep concern. The nurse introduced us politely. Probably feeling I could be trusted, she inquired anxiously:

"How is father, my friend?"

"A little better," Narcisa answered, "but still considerably unbalanced."

"It's a pity." Pauline continued. "Neither he nor the others will give up the mental attitude in which they obstinately persist. Always the same hate, the same lack of understanding."

Narcisa invited us to follow her, and in a few moments we were standing by the bedside of what looked like a disagreeable old man. With his bitter, scowling look, disheveled hair, deep wrinkles and retracted lips, he inspired more pity than sympathy. However, I endeavored to control my inferior vibrations and to see in this unfortunate sufferer only a spirit brother. My feelings of repulsion disappeared and my mind felt clearer. I applied the lesson to myself how had I arrived at the Ministry of Assistance? How repelling my own appearance must have been, with utter desperation written all over my face. When we consider other people's misfortune in the light of our own imperfections, there is always room for brotherly love in our heart. The old patient had no words of affection for his daughter, who greeted him tenderly. He looked like a caged beast as he frowned at her, eyes glowering with harshness and rebellion.

"Are you feeling better, father?" asked Pauline with loving respect.

"Oh! No!" The patient bellowed, "I can't forget the villain. I have no peace of mind. I can still see him by my bedside administering deadly poison!"

"Please, father, do try to forget all that." She earnestly entreated, "Remember that Edelbert entered our home as a son, sent by God."

"My son? Never!" shouted the unfortunate old man, "He is a loathsome criminal, unworthy of pardon. He is the devil's own son, that's what he is."

Pauline, eyes brimming with tears, spoke persuasively:

"Father, let us learn from Jesus to love one another. On Earth our family experiences are the means of teaching us real spiritual love. We must bear in mind that there is only one Father who is truly eternal, God. But the Lord of Life grants us the blessed opportunity of fatherhood and motherhood on Earth so that we may learn perfect brotherly love. They are the temples of sublime union, a preparation for universal solidarity. We have to struggle and suffer a great deal before acquiring the title of brother in the real sense of the word. The whole Creation is but one family under the loving care of only one Father."

Hearing his daughter's sweet voice, the patient broke into convulsive weeping.

"Father, forgive Edelbert! Try to see in him not only the reckless son but the brother badly in need of enlightenment. I have just come from our earthly home, where I observed serious disturbances. From your sick bed here you are constantly projecting poisonous fluids of bitterness and incomprehension to them. They, in turn, are doing the same to you. Thought, as subtle waves, never misses its target, however distant it may be. The exchange of hate and suspicion causes ruin and suffering to the soul. Broken down by continual sorrow, mother was unable to resist the atmosphere at home, and was taken to a mental hospital a few days ago. Amalia and Cacilda have brought a lawsuit against Edelbert and Agenor because of serious disagreements about the large fortune you amassed on the physical plane. A sad situation indeed, but one which might gradually improve, were it not for your vigorous mind steeped in plans of revenge. Here, in the spirit sphere, I find you distressed. On Earth, mother is insane and your children greatly disturbed, hating one another bitterly. Amidst all those unbalanced minds, a fortune in banknotes. What is the use of all that money, if it doesn't buy one moment's happiness?"

"But I left my family ample means." Retorted the unhappy old man, "I was anxious for their welfare."

Pauline continued, interrupting him:

"In the question of transitory riches, we don't always know what is the best thing to do. If you had assured your family's future by maintaining and atmosphere of moral tranquility in your home, and prepared your children to earn an honest living, your efforts might have been a great help. Sometimes, father, we accumulate money through pride and ambition. We are anxious to live above others, and while centering our attention on the external aspects of life we forget the more important, lasting side. Few are those who see to acquire worthwhile knowledge, and the precious qualities of tolerance, humility and understanding. Instead, we insist on bending others to our will, neglecting the tasks assigned to us by our Father and altogether forgetting to cultivate our spirits. No one is born on the planet merely to hoard money in safes and banks. Of course, during our sojourn we may, as faithful stewards who know how to manage wisely what is entrusted to them, claim our legitimate share. But it is impossible to be our Father's faithful stewards if we are greedy and overbearing."

"It was that false understanding of divine stewardship that ruined our home. I tried in vain to render spiritual help to the family, while you and mother sacrificed yourselves to increase your worldly goods. Amalia and Cacilda, disdaining any useful work, trifled away precious time, finally marrying idlers like themselves, who only married them for their money. Agenor, influenced by his worthless companions, wasted all opportunities of serious study. Edelbert graduated as physician, but was indifferent to the profession. He approached its noble activities only rarely, and even then only out of sheer curiosity. Spoiled by easily obtained money, and with minds fixed on the coming inheritance, they all ruined their fine spiritual possibilities."

The patient, terror-stricken, cried out:

"Cursed Edelbert! Criminal and ungrateful son! He murdered me pitilessly when I still needed to review the terms of my will. Malicious felon!"

"Please father, don't say that. Have mercy on your son. Forgive and forget."

But he went on cursing and swearing. Pauline was about to resume when Narcisa gave her a warning glance and called Salustius to help the patient, by this time aroused to a dangerous condition of emotional excitement. Pauline became silent, trying hard to keep back her tears. She continued by the bedside, stroking her father's forehead with a gentle hand.

Painfully impressed by the scene I had just witnessed, I followed Narcisa and Pauline out of the ward. The two friends talked for some time, and then Pauline took her leave with kind words of thanks. Her eyes showed sadness and worry. When we were again alone, Narcisa remarked:

"As a rule, inheritance cases are extremely delicate. With few exceptions, they cause great trouble for both testators and legatees. This case, however, is far more serious because of the euthanasia. Ambition for wealth created all kinds of complexes and misunderstandings in Pauline's family. Avaricious parents generally have extravagant children. I had accompanied her to her earthly home when her brother Edelbert, a gentlemanly doctor, used so called "easy death" on his dying father. We did our best to prevent him from carrying out this plan, but it was all in vain. For financial reasons, the distressed son was anxious to accelerate his fathers passing, and now you see the result – hatred and infirmity. God created beings and celestial regions, but we insist on transforming ourselves into diabolical spirits, creating our own individual hell.
  
Next chapters: 31 & 32.

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Thank you for your attention.

The Editors

Since ancient times man has noticed that some animal species show certain human-like behaviors that are called intelligent when referring to mankind. That was how animals as varied as dogs, crows, dolphins, parrots, chimpanzees and owls, among others, have throughout the centuries been associated with characteristics like fidelity, smartness, friendship, ability and wisdom.

From XXth century onwards the issue of “Non-Human Intelligence” captured the attention of scientists, resulting today in an abundance of scientists dedicated to the study of various animal species. Such scientists are divided in associative psychologists, a branch of science that was born in the USA in the 20’s and etologists, another branch of science, born in Europe in the 30’s. It is important to stress based on that information that there was no branch of science in the XIXth century entirely dedicated to the study of animal behavior, a fact that justifies Kardec’s hesitation to accept what the Spirits had said about the hominal form in the various worlds.

At the beginning of those studies the notion that animal intelligence had to be compared to that of man and evaluated according to it was predominant. According to that understanding science has compared among various species their brain’s absolute and then relative size, has used the encephalization quotient and estimated the amount of folding in the neocortex. None of those approaches were shown to be good enough. Many scholars nowadays are supporting the thesis that intelligence is something that cannot be analyzed interspecies. They understand that intelligence must be studied within each species only according to the way its members choose among many sets of information available which one will allow them to succeed in each challenge they have to face.

Having to face the uncountable studies available nowadays proving the intelligence of various species, someone might place an objection to their soul’s evolution saying that what they do today is basically the same as they did centuries ago or even since history has recorded their existence. Far from being a valid counter argument such an affirmation would only show, to our point of view, a mistaken perception about the evolution of human intelligence. The intelligence of human beings as much as that of other animals doesn’t show to have evolved much during the last millennia, as clearly suggested by the sophistication of the old scriptures and philosophical writings. The evolution that the human species really shows is predominately scientific and technological, and it has happened as a result of human ability to build tools and communicate in a sophisticated manner that we call language.

Therefore, if we want to know if another species is capable of reaching, some time in the future, a stage similar to where humanity is now, we need to know more than whether the species is intelligent or not, we need to know if its individuals are able to make tools and if the way they communicate among themselves is sophisticated enough to be called a language. We have to consider, nevertheless, that the stage where humanity is now doesn’t necessarily represent a compulsory stage for all animal species. If it is true that having a language stands out as a necessary evolutionary achievement, the same cannot be said regarding tool-making ability, which may or may not be necessary depending on the environment in which the species lives and on the conditions in which it has to survive.

Researchers have found sophisticated communication abilities and many more intelligent features in several species, some of them living in the sea, some on land and others perching on trees and moving through the air. In a future article to be published we will give an example of each kind in order to better characterize that information.

Bibliography

Blackstock, Regina. Dolphins and Man … Equals? February 2003.
URL: http://www.polaris.net/~rblacks/dolphins.htm.

Costa, Renato. Indelible Records of the Soul’s Evolution. Revista Internacional do Espiritismo, Year LXXVII, N 15. Matão: April 2003.

Davies, Gareth Huw. Maybe Birdbrains are in Fact Clever. February 2003.
URL: http://flatrock.org.nz/topics/animals/pigeon_spotting.htm.

Friend, Tim. Crows exceed expected intelligence levels. USA Today. Septemer 8, 2002.

Kardec, Allan. The Mediums’ Book. Rio de Janeiro: FEB, 1986.

Klinowska, Margaret. Brains, Behaviour and Intelligence in Cetaceans (Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises). January 2003.
URL: http://www.highnorth.no/Library/Myths/br-be-an.htm.

Marable, Kenneth. The Neurological and Environmental Basis for Differing Intelligences: A Comparison of Primate and Cetacean Mentality. January 2003.
URL: http://www.msu.edu/user/marablek/whal-int.htm.

Recer, Paul. Dolphins show language-like learning. South Cost Today. August 25, 2000.

Xavier, Francisco Cândido. Cartas de Uma Morta (Letters of a Dead Woman). Dictated by Spirit Maria João de Deus. São Paulo: LAKE, 1999.

_____, ____ e Vieira, Waldo. Evolução em Dois Mundos (Evolution in Two Worlds). Dictated by Spirit André Luiz. Rio de Janeiro: FEB, 111993.

Images

Spinner Dolphin - photo by Philipa Christian - URL: http://www.oneloveonespirit.com

Parrot - URL: http://www.thebestfree.net/

(Translated from the 25th Portuguese edition entitled "Nosso Lar". First Portuguese edition published in 1944 by Federação Espírita Brasileira, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.)

Chapter 31 - THE VAMPIRE 

It was nine o'clock in the evening, and we had not yet had a moment's rest except for the short consultations necessary for the solution of spiritual problems. Here I saw a patient begging for help, over there another in need of magnetic passes. On our way to assist two patients in Pavilion Eleven, I heard screams in a nearby ward. I would have run in that direction, if Narcisa had not held me back.

"Please don't go," she warned, "the sexually unbalanced patients are lodged there. The picture would be too painful to your eyes. Wait until you are better prepared."

I did not insist, but thousands of questions rushed to my mind. A new world was unfolding itself and my curiosity was great. I had to concentrate on Lysias' mother's advice so as not to become distracted from my legitimate duties. Soon after nine, a quaint little man, to all appearances a humble worker emerged from amidst the trees of the enormous park. I later learned that he belonged to the sentinel corps of the Chambers of Rectification. Narcisa greeted him and asked:

"What is the matter, Justin? What is your message?"

"I've come to inform you that an unfortunate woman is begging for help at the large gate that leads to the tilling fields. I believe she must have escaped the attention of the front line sentinels." He answered, anxiously.

"And why don't you help her?" Asked the nurse.

The guard gestured and hastened to explain:

"According to our regulations, we are forbidden to. The poor creature is surrounded by black spots."

"Really!" She exclaimed, taken aback.

"Yes, nurse. It's just as I tell you."

"Then it's a very serious cause."

I was filled with curiosity, and followed her for a considerable distance across the moonlit fields. We were surrounded by the silent park its shady trees rustling gently in the soft breeze. After walking for well over a mile, we came to the gate. There stood the pitiful figure of a woman begging for mercy from the other side. I saw nothing but a squalid creature dressed in rags with a hideous face, and legs covered with raw sores, but, judging from her startled expression, I realized that Narcisa saw many more details, still imperceptible to me.

"Children of God," she cried on seeing us, "please give shelter to my wary soul! Where is the paradise of the elect, that I may enjoy the peace I long for?"

I was filled with compassion at her tearful voice. Narcisa, though also sorry for the unfortunate beggar, whispered to me:

"Can't you see the black spots?"

"No, I can't."

"Your spirit vision isn't sufficiently trained. If it depended on me, I would let her in at once, but on dealing with creatures in this condition, I can't decide for myself. I must apply to the Chief Warden on duty."

She approached the poor woman, and said kindly:

"Please, just wait a few minutes."

We hurried back to the house, where for the first time I came into contact with the Chief of Sentinels of the Chambers of Rectification. Narcisa introduced us and then rapidly reported the occurrence.

"You were right to have come to me." He replied, "Let's go see her."

We were soon back at the gate. The Chief Warden carefully examined the newcomer from the Lower Zone and declared:

"For the time being, this woman can't receive our assistance. She is one of the strongest vampires [8]. I have ever come across. She must be left to herself."

I could not help but shocked at those words. Wouldn't it be neglecting our Christian duty to abandon this unhappy sister to her fate? Narcisa seemed to think likewise, and tried to plead with the Chief Warden:

"But, Brother Paul, wouldn't it be possible to shelter this poor creature in the Chambers?" Pointing to the beggar who was impatient at the delay and complaining loudly, he addressed the nurse.

"To allow her to enter would be to neglect my responsibility as a warden. Narcisa, have you noticed anything else besides the black spots:" Narcisa had not, and he continued.

"Well, I have. Count the black spots."

Narcisa looked intently at the woman, and, after a few moments, replied that there were fifty-eight. Brother Paul continued, patiently:

"Those fifty-eight dark spots represent so many children killed at birth. On each of these spots I can perceive the mental image of one of the little children whose life she extinguished, some by crushing blows, others by suffocation. This unhappy creature was a gynecologist who exploited inexperienced young women, committing heinous crimes under the pretext of easing the conscience of others. She is in a worse position than cases of suicide or murders who may, at times, show mitigating circumstances."

I recalled the numerous cases in my practice when, to save the mother's life, the unborn child had to be sacrificed. But, reading my thoughts, Brother Paul added:

"Of course, I'm not referring to legitimate measures which are forms of redeeming trials, but to the crime of killing those who have obtained the sublime right to live and are about to begin their sojourn on the physical plane."

Yielding to the feelings of compassion inherent in noble souls, Narcisa again attempted to intercede on her behalf:

"Brother Paul, I was also a great sinner in the past. Please, let's take in this unhappy woman. I promise to make her my special concern."

"My friend," he answered, I know we are all greatly indebted spirits. However, we have improved enough to acknowledge our own weaknesses and work to redeem our errors. All this woman wants, for the time being, is to create disturbance and confusion among our workers of good will. Those who haven't yet freed themselves from the bonds of hypocrisy emit destructive forces. Now, what would be the use of our vigilance if it were not to keep out dangerous influences?"

"Let's prove what I have said." He added, with a meaningful smile. He then approached the beggar and asked her:

"Sister, what do you ask of our brotherly cooperation?"

"Help, help…." She replied, dolefully.

"But, my friend," he reasoned, "we must learn to accept expiatory suffering. Why did you so often cut the life thread of helpless little infants, who, with God's permission, were about to begin their redeeming struggle on Earth?"

At these words she looked around apprehensively, assumed a hateful expression and shouted:

"Who is accusing me of this infamy? My conscience is at peace! I spent my whole life on Earth working on behalf of motherhood. I was charitable and pious, good and pure!"

"I am sorry, but the record of your thoughts and actions tell a different story. I believe, sister, that you haven't yet received the benefit of remorse. When you open your soul to the blessings of God, acknowledging your own needs, then you may come to us.

"Devil, Wizard!" She yelled furiously at him, "Satan's own follower! I'll never come here again! I am waiting for the promised heaven, which I hope to find."

"Then please go your own way. Your heaven isn't here. This is a place of work, where patients are aware of their infirmity and are assisted by brothers and sisters of good will to struggle back to health."

"I haven't asked for any remedy of assistance." She retorted angrily.  "All I want is the Paradise my good works entitle me to enter."

Shooting us a parting look of hatred, she discarded the assumed appearance of a wandering beggar and walked away defiantly, with firm steps and a haughty gait. Brother Paul gazed at the retreating figure for quite a while, then turned to us and added:

"Did you observe the vampire? She has crime written all over her and pleads innocence. She is obviously wicked and yet declares herself good and pure. She suffers desperately and feigns tranquility. She has created a hell for herself, yet pretends to be looking for heaven."

We listened respectfully to the Chief Warden, who closed his valuable lesson by saying:

"We must always be aware of appearances, either good of bad. Divine Providence never forsakes anybody. Therefore, that unfortunate creature will find aid elsewhere. But for the sake of legitimate charity, in the position I hold here, I couldn't possibly open our doors to her."

8 - By  “vampire” the spirit author refers to one who extinguishes life for personal advantage. (Translator’s note.)

Chapter 32 - LEARNING ABOUT VENERANDA

Returning across the moonlit park, I experienced a strange sense of fascination. Those big, shady trees and flourishing patches of greenery held my admiring attention. As we walked, I questioned her about the surroundings:

"This great park," she said, "not only contains the paths to the Lower Zone and the plants we cultivate for nutricious juices, but Minister Veneranda has also created delightful areas used for educational purposes."

Noting my curiosity she continued:

"They are known as the 'green halls', and are situated in the midst of the trees. They are perfectly suited for the lectures given by the Ministers of Regeneration. The most beautiful is reserved for the Governor's lectures when he visits us. Others are used for visiting Ministers and students in general. Their elegant trees blossom periodically, looking like small, colorful towers of natural charm. The sky is our sheltering roof, allowing us to enjoy the blessings of the sun and of distant stars."

"How marvelous these natural places must be!" I exclaimed.

"They certainly are." She continued, "Forty years ago Minister Veneranda's idea aroused great enthusiasm all over the Colony, and a campaign was begun to build a 'natural hall'. Every Ministry, including the Ministry of Divine Union, worked, with Veneranda's cooperation, to build delightful arbors all over the Water Park. I think the ones they built in the schools are the most interesting. They vary greatly in size and shape. One of them, which Veneranda built in the Educational Park of the Ministry of Elucidation, is star shaped, contains prodigious vegetation, and is ample enough for five large classes taught by five different instructors. In its center is an enormous apparatus, similar to a projector, which can simultaneously show five different projections. Their initiative improved the city, providing areas which unite useful service, practicality, and spiritual beauty."

"How are the halls furnished?" I inquired as she paused, "In the same style as earthly ones?"

Narcisa smiled and continued:

"No, it's different. Thinking of Gospel scenes of Jesus' passage on Earth, Veneranda suggested that all building materials be taken directly from nature. Each hall has benches and chairs carved out of the ground and covered with soft, sweet smelling grass, lending it a restful and distinctive beauty. Declaring that it would be fitting to recall the Master's sermons on the open beach during his travels along the Sea of Tiberias, she introduced the idea of natural furnishings. The halls require constant care, but they return so much in the way of beauty and lovely scenery.

The kind nurse fell silent for a moment, and then continued again:

"As I have already told you, most beautiful hall in our Ministry is reserved for the Governor's talks. Veneranda learned that he had always ancient Hellenic landscapes, and decorated it accordingly, shady bowers and seats composed of the interlaced branches of trees. Every thirty days the flowers change in species, and each month presents a new color scheme. The loveliest one is reserved for December, in honor of Jesus' birth when our Colony receives beautiful thoughts and earnest promises from our incarnate brothers, and we, in turn, send our hopes and service to the higher spheres in homage to the Master of masters.

"Perhaps you already know that the Governor visits us nearly every week, on Sundays. He stays for hours, conferring with the Ministers of Regeneration and talking to workers, offering valuable suggestions, examining our border lines with the Lower Zone, receiving our visits and good wishes, and comforting convalescents. Sometimes, when he has time in the evenings, he stays to listen to music and to attend shows staged by the youth of our schools. Most visitors in the Astral City come to our Ministry just to see that 'natural place' which comfortably seats over thirty thousand people."

Listening to Narcisa, I experienced a pleasant sensation, half joy, half curiosity.

"Minister Veneranda's hall," she added, enthusiastically, "is also magnificent. We give its upkeep special care and attention. All we can do in recognition of her great devotion is nothing compared to the outstanding service she has given us. This servant of the Lord has introduced numerous beneficial measures on behalf of the city's most unfortunate inhabitants. Her service record at the Astral City is considered by the Government as one of the most praiseworthy. She has the greatest number of working hours in our Colony, and is the oldest officer in the Government and in the Ministry. She has been in active service here for over two hundred years."

"How venerable she must be!" I exclaimed.

"You are right." She answered. "She is one of the most highly evolved beings in our Spirit Colony. The eleven ministers who share the direction of the Ministry of Regeneration with her always seek her advice before making any important decision. Even the Governor himself often consults her for her enlightened opinion. Only she and the Governor have seen the Master Jesus in the Resplendent Spheres. Yet she never mentions that distinction of her spirit life – she avoids all reference to it.

"I can tell you of another significant incident. One day, four years ago, the Astral City prepared to entertain the Fraternities of Light who rule the Christian destinies of America. They were coming to pay their respects to Veneranda and to bestow the 'Service Merit' medal on her for having completed one million consecutive hours of useful service with admirable devotion, perseverance and self-effacement. She is the first in the Colony to be awarded with such an honor. When presented with the medal, she only wept in silence. Afterwards, she donated it to the town archives, and transferred the honor to the Colony as a collective group, saying that she was unworthy of it. Despite the Governor's protests, she requested that all the celebrations be cancelled. She never again alluded to this incident."

"What an extraordinary woman!" I said,  "I wonder why she doesn't inhabit some higher sphere."

"Spiritually, she lives in planes far superior to ours, and only remains in the Astral City out of a great spirit of love and abnegation. I have heard that our sublime benefactress has been working for a thousand years to help a group of loved ones still on Earth. Meanwhile, she waits for them with untiring patience."

"How might I come to know her?" I asked earnestly.

Pleased at my interest, she answered:

  
Next chapters: 33 & 34.

Dear GEAE readers,

This month the Spiritist Messenger has a new section called Questions & Comments. Its purpose is to offer a place where you can read questions addressed to the GEAE editors and the comments that we wrote in reply to them. The Questions selected will only be those about issues of general interest.  We invite all of you to send us questions on the Spiritst Doctrine, on the Spiritist Movement or simply on any daily issue that you would like to see explained under the light of Spiritism. We hope and pray  that this may be a place very useful for all of us.

A section that looks new while being not is Spirit Messages, one where messages received from the spiritual dimensions will be placed. This section used to be called Spirit Word but since we chose Spirit World for a section to reproduce the book The Astral City, we thought it would be better to change the name Spirit Word to Spirit Messages. We will restart this new section with a series of messages from the book Entre Irmãos de Outras Terras (Among Brothers of other Lands), a book about the trip to the USA done by Chico Xavier and Waldo Vieira in 1965. The second part of the book consists of messages received during that trip, those corresponding to the odd chapters having been recieved by Waldo Vieira and those corresponding to the even chapters by Chico Xavier. We will start with the first message called Reincarnation and You reveived from the Spirit Ennest O'Brien through Waldo Vieira.

Finally we have to say that from now on the year counting of the Spiritist Messenger issues will correspond to how many years are past since the foundation of GEAE. So, the present issue will have the year count of 11th Year.

We hope that all of you like the little changes that were done.

Much Peace

The GEAE Editors

Images

Dolphins: The Eternal  Jokers - Photo by Paul Fitzpatrick - www.dolphin-adventure.com

Parrots: Much More than Funny Mimics - Photo by Arlene Levin – www.alexfoundation.org

Muriquis: The Successful Hippies  - Photo by José Caldas - www.josecaldas.fot.br

If we are all reincarnated, why don’t we remember our past existences? This remains an intriguing question, one that casts long doubts for many people.

Forgetfulness of our past, —that is, our previous lives— indicates God’s wisdom. Remembrances of episodes occurred in past lives would bring many inconveniences, not the least of them the following: a) a great humiliation due to unpleasant memories of our many moral missteps, especially if it involved third parties; b) the exaltation of our pride and self-importance due to high positions we might have occupied; c) damage to our social relations because by remembering our actions, we would certainly also remember actions of our path towards bliss and progress; and e) hate and vengeance that could undermine relationships and incite new aggravations. 

On the other hand, among the plentiful advantages of forgetting our past —and we repeat, all fruit of the Divine Wisdom— we can find: a) opportunities for new beginnings without disturbing remembrances; b) that the progress we reached so far will allow us to take steps for new advancements; c) reconciliation with old foes without the embarrassment of remembrances that could impede it; d) the overcoming of past traumas in renewed circumstances; e) new experiences and learning without the hindrance of a past that could interfere; f) and the acquisition of new experiences without any links with the past.

Those who do not know the process allege that forgetfulness would be an impediment for the rebuilt of our path, when in reality this “erasing of memories” brings true blessings. God benefits us with forgetfulness casting a veil so to say in our memory to prevent errors and equivocations from our past to turn into chains or weights that would impede us from building or rebuilding our own happiness.

However, if we still intend to find out what we were or what we did before our present life, it will suffice to observe attentively our tendencies, abilities, moral shortfalls, as well as ties that bond us to certain people, to get a sense of our conduct and behavior in previous lives. This close analysis will allow us to correct the direction of our current path.

To know more, dear reader, try to further read and reflect on questions 392 to 399 of the “Spirits’ Book” by Allan Kardec. The issue surely is gripping, nevertheless the Spiritist Doctrine recommends discernment  and avoidance of unnecessary curiosity. The essential point, in the end, is to adopt a good conduct now in order to construct a better future for later.

Reincarnation means that the soul returns to earth time and again in a human body. Only this doctrine explains the apparent injustices of life. It is truth.

In the succession of births man obtains experience and knowledge about himself and his destiny. Through reincarnation one learns that "as a man soweth, so shall he reap".

All life is eternal. The law of justice never fails. There is not a thought word nor action which does not have its echo. To possess, give. You must know this. Man creates causes and karmic law adjusts the effects. You may choose between good and evil.

Therefore, the best effort is self-improvement. Does it really matter in the long run? Education is the treasure of the soul. But what does it profit a man if he has such treasure and does not use it in good works?

Development of our spiritual awareness brings light within our beings. It is not enough for a man only to possess spirituality. He must employ and demonstrate it. The way to living is giving.

God has sent each one of us to be a laborer in His Kingdom. The fruit of culture is sown in works for God's bounty in the world.

On the other hand, knowledge is like seed; that which falls on the open heart brings fruit of perfection.

If our faith in God is supreme, God reciprocates in the same measure. Justice demands this and we understand accordingly. We are destined for happiness here or hereafter if, above all, we give happiness to others. This is the law of cause and effect: -- rebirth.

What's the use of knowledge without works?

Give love to mankind ans you receive love in all of its manifestations.

Every person is surrounded by endless opportunities and infinite possibilities. Karmic law responds to you as you accept it. Know yourself and practice good works always. Try it.

(Translated from the 25th Portuguese edition entitled "Nosso Lar". First Portuguese edition published in 1944 by Federação Espírita Brasileira, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.)

Chapter 33 - CURIOUS OBSERVATIONS

Just before midnight, with Narcisa's permission, I went to the gates of the Chambers. The Samaritans were expected at any moment. It was necessary, therefore, to watch out for their arrival, so that the last minute measures necessary might be taken in time.

With emotion, I walked down the pathway, here and there, among the shady trees, I saw tree trunks suggesting the Earth's hoary oak, and other leaves that bring to mind the acacia tree and the pine. In the open air I experienced a sensation of well being such as I had never felt in the Chambers, in spite of their ample windows. While advancing silently under the sheltering branches gently stirring in the breeze, I felt a profound peace fall upon me. I began to reminisce about events in my life after my first meeting with Minister Clarence. I wondered where the dream region was situated was it on Earth, or in this spirit colony? I wondered what had happened to Zelia and the children. Although I had received so many explanations about the most varied aspects of life, my earthly home was never mentioned. My own mother had advised silence and had only addressed this matter vaguely. It all implied that I should forget the problems of the flesh in order to achieve my inner renewal. Yet, probing deeply, I discovered that my longing for my family was still alive and strong. I yearned to see my beloved wife, to feel my children's caresses once again. Why should fate keep us apart, as if I were a castaway on some unknown shore. These questions perplexed me, but I was also comforted by the thought that I could not consider myself forsaken. If my earthly experiences might be classified as a "wreck", it was all my own doing. Now that I had the opportunity to observe the vibrations of intense and constructive work at the Astral City, I could not help wondering how I, when on Earth, could have wasted so much time on trifles.

True, I had loved my wife dearly, and had tenderly cherished our children, yet on examining my conduct as a husband and father, I realized that I had failed to build up anything solid and useful within the spirit of my family. I realized it only now, now that it was too late. Whoever advances along a road and neglects to sow the seed for a future harvest along the way, and fails to protect the fountain that quenches his thirst, cannot turn back expecting to find all he needs. These thoughts kept recurring in my mind with an irritating insistence. On leaving the physical sphere, I had been faced with the torture of incomprehension. I did not know what had happened to my wife and children, who were suddenly deprived of the accustomed domestic stability and confronted with the inevitable struggles of widowhood and orphan hood, but I saw no pint in asking.

A light breeze seemed to whisper lofty ideas, as if attempting to lift my mind to higher thoughts. Although tormented with these inner questions, I had to attend to the mission on which I had been sent. I approached the gate and scrutinized the distance beyond the tilling fields. All was moonlight and serenity, glorious heavens and peaceful beauty. I spent some minutes absorbed in awed prayer to the Creator of all things in contemplation of the lovely scenery before me.

A few moments later I saw two enormous shapes. They puzzled me – they looked like men of some indefinable semi-luminous substance. Strange filaments hung from their arms and feet, and there was a thread connected to their heads. They gave me the impression of two ghosts, and I could not bear their sight. My hair standing on end, I ran back to the Chambers. As I anxiously explained to Narcisa the cause of my terrors, she could hardly keep from laughing.

"Well, now," she said, good-humoredly, "didn't you recognize those forms?"

I was considerably abashed and did not know what to say. Narcisa smiled and explained:

"I had the same experience, and was just as surprised as you. The explanation is simple, though. The forms you saw belong to our brothers from Earth. They are highly evolved spirits on some redeeming mission on the physical plane, who, as worthy initiates of Eternal Wisdom, may temporarily abandon their fleshly bodies and travel freely through our spheres. The filaments and threads you observed are the characteristics which distinguish them from us. Therefore, you needn't fear. Incarnate men who succeed in reaching these regions are highly evolved spirits, though they may appear humble or obscure on Earth."

In an encouraging voice she added, "Let's go out and see. It's 12:40. The Samaritans can't be long in coming."

Satisfied with Narcisa's explanation, I followed her to the great gate. I could still see the two forms in the distance, calmly walking away from the Astral City. Narcisa gazed at them, and remarked:

"They are surrounded by blue light. They must be two advanced messengers from the physical plane on some mission we cannot know."

We stood at the gate for some time, lost in the contemplation of the silent fields. Finally, my kind friend pointed out a dark spot traveling across the moonlit horizon. They had arrived. Looking intently in the direction Narcisa was pointing, I saw that the caravan was moving slowly towards us under the clear sky. All of a sudden I heard dogs barking in the far distance.

"What's that?" I asked, startled.

"Why, dogs." Said the nurse. "They are precious helpers in the obscure regions of the Lower Zone, which is inhabited not only by discarnate men, but also by real monsters. This, however, is not the proper time to describe them."

Then, raising her voice, she called to the other servants in the distance, and sent one of them back to the Chambers with the news of the Samaritans' arrival. I gazed curiously at the strange group approaching slowly. I counted six big carts or stagecoaches, each drawn by animals which, even from a distance, looked like mules and preceded by a lively pack of dogs. What caught my attention most were the bands of large birds flying close to the carts and making strange sounds. At this sight I turned to Narcisa and inquired:

"Where is the airbus? Couldn't they use it in the Lower Zones?"

As Narcisa shook her head, I asked for an explanation. As usual, she was willing to oblige, and answered:

"It's a problem of the density of matter. Water and air are a good example. An airplane which flies through the air cannot do the same in water. We can build machines such as submarines, for instance, which can carry us through denser matter, but in deference to the suffering inhabitants of the region, communities of higher planes prefer to use this simple means of transportation. Besides, we often can't do without animal collaboration."

"Why is that?" I asked with astonishment.

"Dogs simplify the work, an mules carry weight patiently and supply warmth when necessary. Those birds," she added, pointing to them in the air, "which we call 'traveling ibises', are the Samaritans' great allies. They eat hateful and wicked thought forms, helping to fight against the dark shapes of the Lower Zone."

The caravan was growing nearer. Narcisa, gazing at me kindly, continued:

"There is no time now for further details. You can find valuable lessons on animals not here, but in the Ministry of Elucidation, where the parks of instruction and experiments are located."

Busily supervising the last-minute arrangements, the devoted nurse prepared to receive the new patients.

It was nine o'clock in the evening, and we had not yet had a moment's rest except for the short consultations necessary for the solution of spiritual problems. Here I saw a patient begging for help, over there another in need of magnetic passes. On our way to assist two patients in Pavilion Eleven, I heard screams in a nearby ward. I would have run in that direction, if Narcisa had not held me back.

"Please don't go," she warned, "the sexually unbalanced patients are lodged there. The picture would be too painful to your eyes. Wait until you are better prepared."

I did not insist, but thousands of questions rushed to my mind. A new world was unfolding itself and my curiosity was great. I had to concentrate on Lysias' mother's advice so as not to become distracted from my legitimate duties. Soon after nine, a quaint little man, to all appearances a humble worker emerged from amidst the trees of the enormous park. I later learned that he belonged to the sentinel corps of the Chambers of Rectification. Narcisa greeted him and asked:

"What is the matter, Justin? What is your message?"

"I've come to inform you that an unfortunate woman is begging for help at the large gate that leads to the tilling fields. I believe she must have escaped the attention of the front line sentinels." He answered, anxiously.

"And why don't you help her?" Asked the nurse.

The guard gestured and hastened to explain:

"According to our regulations, we are forbidden to. The poor creature is surrounded by black spots."

"Really!" She exclaimed, taken aback.

"Yes, nurse. It's just as I tell you."

"Then it's a very serious cause."

I was filled with curiosity, and followed her for a considerable distance across the moonlit fields. We were surrounded by the silent park its shady trees rustling gently in the soft breeze. After walking for well over a mile, we came to the gate. There stood the pitiful figure of a woman begging for mercy from the other side. I saw nothing but a squalid creature dressed in rags with a hideous face, and legs covered with raw sores, but, judging from her startled expression, I realized that Narcisa saw many more details, still imperceptible to me.

"Children of God," she cried on seeing us, "please give shelter to my wary soul! Where is the paradise of the elect, that I may enjoy the peace I long for?"

I was filled with compassion at her tearful voice. Narcisa, though also sorry for the unfortunate beggar, whispered to me:

"Can't you see the black spots?"

"No, I can't."

"Your spirit vision isn't sufficiently trained. If it depended on me, I would let her in at once, but on dealing with creatures in this condition, I can't decide for myself. I must apply to the Chief Warden on duty."

She approached the poor woman, and said kindly:

"Please, just wait a few minutes."

We hurried back to the house, where for the first time I came into contact with the Chief of Sentinels of the Chambers of Rectification. Narcisa introduced us and then rapidly reported the occurrence.

"You were right to have come to me." He replied, "Let's go see her."

We were soon back at the gate. The Chief Warden carefully examined the newcomer from the Lower Zone and declared:

"For the time being, this woman can't receive our assistance. She is one of the strongest vampires [1]. I have ever come across. She must be left to herself."

I could not help but shocked at those words. Wouldn't it be neglecting our Christian duty to abandon this unhappy sister to her fate? Narcisa seemed to think likewise, and tried to plead with the Chief Warden:

"But, Brother Paul, wouldn't it be possible to shelter this poor creature in the Chambers?" Pointing to the beggar who was impatient at the delay and complaining loudly, he addressed the nurse.

"To allow her to enter would be to neglect my responsibility as a warden. Narcisa, have you noticed anything else besides the black spots:" Narcisa had not, and he continued.

"Well, I have. Count the black spots."

Narcisa looked intently at the woman, and, after a few moments, replied that there were fifty-eight. Brother Paul continued, patiently:

"Those fifty-eight dark spots represent so many children killed at birth. On each of these spots I can perceive the mental image of one of the little children whose life she extinguished, some by crushing blows, others by suffocation. This unhappy creature was a gynecologist who exploited inexperienced young women, committing heinous crimes under the pretext of easing the conscience of others. She is in a worse position than cases of suicide or murders who may, at times, show mitigating circumstances."

I recalled the numerous cases in my practice when, to save the mother's life, the unborn child had to be sacrificed. But, reading my thoughts, Brother Paul added:

"Of course, I'm not referring to legitimate measures which are forms of redeeming trials, but to the crime of killing those who have obtained the sublime right to live and are about to begin their sojourn on the physical plane."

Yielding to the feelings of compassion inherent in noble souls, Narcisa again attempted to intercede on her behalf:

"Brother Paul, I was also a great sinner in the past. Please, let's take in this unhappy woman. I promise to make her my special concern."

"My friend," he answered, I know we are all greatly indebted spirits. However, we have improved enough to acknowledge our own weaknesses and work to redeem our errors. All this woman wants, for the time being, is to create disturbance and confusion among our workers of good will. Those who haven't yet freed themselves from the bonds of hypocrisy emit destructive forces. Now, what would be the use of our vigilance if it were not to keep out dangerous influences?"

"Let's prove what I have said." He added, with a meaningful smile. He then approached the beggar and asked her:

"Sister, what do you ask of our brotherly cooperation?"

"Help, help…." She replied, dolefully.

"But, my friend," he reasoned, "we must learn to accept expiatory suffering. Why did you so often cut the life thread of helpless little infants, who, with God's permission, were about to begin their redeeming struggle on Earth?"

At these words she looked around apprehensively, assumed a hateful expression and shouted:

"Who is accusing me of this infamy? My conscience is at peace! I spent my whole life on Earth working on behalf of motherhood. I was charitable and pious, good and pure!"

"I am sorry, but the record of your thoughts and actions tell a different story. I believe, sister, that you haven't yet received the benefit of remorse. When you open your soul to the blessings of God, acknowledging your own needs, then you may come to us.

"Devil, Wizard!" She yelled furiously at him, "Satan's own follower! I'll never come here again! I am waiting for the promised heaven, which I hope to find."

"Then please go your own way. Your heaven isn't here. This is a place of work, where patients are aware of their infirmity and are assisted by brothers and sisters of good will to struggle back to health."

"I haven't asked for any remedy of assistance." She retorted angrily.  "All I want is the Paradise my good works entitle me to enter."

Shooting us a parting look of hatred, she discarded the assumed appearance of a wandering beggar and walked away defiantly, with firm steps and a haughty gait. Brother Paul gazed at the retreating figure for quite a while, then turned to us and added:

"Did you observe the vampire? She has crime written all over her and pleads innocence. She is obviously wicked and yet declares herself good and pure. She suffers desperately and feigns tranquility. She has created a hell for herself, yet pretends to be looking for heaven."

We listened respectfully to the Chief Warden, who closed his valuable lesson by saying:

"We must always be aware of appearances, either good of bad. Divine Providence never forsakes anybody. Therefore, that unfortunate creature will find aid elsewhere. But for the sake of legitimate charity, in the position I hold here, I couldn't possibly open our doors to her."

1 - By  “vampire” the spirit author refers to one who extinguishes life for personal advantage. (Translator’s note.)

Chapter 34 NEWCOMERS FROM THE LOWER ZONE

The packs of dogs, led by strong workers, halted as they approached us. Within minutes, we were all crossing the broad galleries leading into the Chambers of Rectification. Many attendants were hurrying about. Some of the weaker patients were being helped indoors. Not only Narcisa, Salustius and the others were working; the Samaritans were also doing their utmost, eager to aid the newcomers, some of whom waiting humbly for their turn while others complained loudly.

As I also lent a hand, I noticed an old lady, trying with great difficulty to get down from the last carriage. When she saw me nearby she began to beg:

"Please, son, for God's sake, help me to get down."

I approached, interested.

"Good heavens," she went on, forming the sign of the cross, "thanks to Divine Providence I have escaped purgatory. Oh, the wicked devils which tormented me there. What a hellish place. At last, heavenly angels have come to my rescue."

I helped her down, again curious. For the first time I heard references to hell and purgatory from someone who seemed calm and reasonable to me. Prompted by my curiosity, I inquired:

"So, have you come far?"

Thus speaking, oblivious of Laura's advice, I affected great concern, as I had on Earth. The poor woman perceived my interest and began telling her story.

"Very far indeed. On Earth, my son, I was a lady of great virtues, charitable and pious, sincere in my beliefs. What can one do against Satan's wiles? On leaving the world, I found myself surrounded by monstrous beings which dragged me with them in a veritable whirlwind. At first I implored the protection of the Celestial Archangels, but the hellish spirits kept me prisoner. However, I never lost hope of being rescued at any moment, because I had left some money to have monthly masses celebrated for my eternal rest."

Yielding to my pernicious habit of meddling into matters which were none of my business, I insisted:

"How interesting your observations are. Didn't you try to find out the reason you were kept so long in those regions?"

"Absolutely not." She replied, crossing herself again, "As I have already told you, I did my best to be good and pious while on Earth. But you know that nobody is completely free from sin. As a rich woman, I might have led a peaceful life if it hadn't been for my slaves. They were always full of mischief and kept quarreling. Of course, punishment was often necessary. I had to be firm in giving my orders, always scrupulously carried out by my overseers. It wasn't rare for a Negro to die at the whipping post as a warning to others. Sometimes, to avoid trouble, I was obliged to sell slave-mothers, separating them from their children. I felt the sting of my conscience on those occasions, but every month when Father Amancius visited the plantation I went to confession. After having received absolution in the confessional, I was free from all those venial sins and again in peace with God and the world in general."

Shocked at these words, I began to reason with her:

"But sister, that kind of peace is false. The slaves are also our brothers, and to the Almighty Father, their children are just as good as their masters'."

She stamped her foot angrily in protest:

"God forbid! That could never be! Slaves are slaves, or the Church would teach us otherwise. If there were slaves at the bishop's house, why shouldn't there be on our plantation? Who would work the land if not the Negroes? Believe me, it was an honor for them to live in my slave quarters. On my plantation, Negroes never came to the guests' courtyard except to carry out my orders. Father Amancius, our virtuous priest, once told me at confession that Africans are the worst creatures in the world, born exclusively to serve God in bondage. Do you imagine, then, that I would have scruples in dealing with them? You can be sure that slaves are wicked beings, the devil's own children! I sometimes admire my own patience in tolerating them on Earth. Let me tell you, I passed over most unexpectedly from shock over the Princess' decree abolishing slavery [1]. Just imagine, setting those scoundrels free. It all happened many years ago, but I can still remember it perfectly. I had been feeling poorly for a few days, when Father Amancius came from town with the disastrous news. The blow was terrible, and I began to get worse. How could we go on living with those ruffians at large? Of course, they would want us to pay them back by making us serve them. Wouldn't it be preferable to die, than to serve them? I remember I made my confession with difficulty. When it was over Father Amancius gave me absolution and comforted me with encouraging words. It seems that all devils are African, spying on me all the time, and I have been obliged to suffer their presence until today."

"And when did you pass over?"

In May, 1888."

I experienced a strange sense of amazement. The poor slave mistress, gazing with dim eyes at the horizon, remarked:

"It's possible that my nephews forgot to pay the masses, although I left It clearly specified in my will."

I was about to answer her with new ideas on fraternity and faith, when Narcisa approached and said kindly:

"Listen, André, you seem to have forgotten that we are rendering assistance to patients and mentally deranged entities. What good will all this information be to you? Unbalanced people will talk incessantly and whoever listens wastes spiritual attention, and may be no more balanced than they."

She said those words in such sympathetic tones that I flushed with shame and was unable to offer an apology.

"Don't worry, my friend," she went on encouragingly, "let's see to the perturbed brothers."

"Are you including me in their numbers?" Asked the old lady, looking hurt. Narcisa, displaying her excellent expression of sympathy:

"Of course not, my dear, I didn't  mean you. However, I think you must be tired after your long stay in the purgatorial zones."

"Yes, indeed I am." The newcomer agreed, "You can't imagine my suffering and how I was tormented by those devils."

The poor thing was about to begin the whole story again, but Narcisa cut her short:

"Do not dwell on evil. I know all about the bitter suffering you had to endure. Now, just relax here while I see to your needs."
Turning to an attendant, she said:

"You, Zenobio, would you please go to the women's department and ask Nemesia to prepare a bed for our new sister awaiting treatment?"

1 - Slavery was abolished in Brazil on May 13, 1888 by a law signed by Princess Isabel, acting as a substitute for her father, Emperor Pedro II, who was traveling abroad. (Translator’s note.)
 
Next chapters: 35 & 36.

Question (received September 11 2003):

Dear friends,

I would like to know if there is any translation to English of the books of Francisco Candico Xavier (Chico Xavier), and how could I buy them. I am specially interested in the books written with the help of Emanuel, particularly "Paulo e Estevao", and "Ha 2000 anos". I'm living in Victoria, BC, Canada. I also would be interested in knowing if there is any study group of the Espiritist Doctrine in Victoria, both in English or Portuguese (I'm Brazilian).

Thank you very much! Much peace, Lilian.

COMMENT (reply sent September 12 2003)

Dear Readers,

In this issue we included a Special Section created so that we could publish a message that Yvonne Limoges, from the Spiritist Society of Florida and a member of this Editorial Board, sent to the United States Spiritist Council. We are presenting the message in this issue because the theme is extremely important for Brazilian Spiritists who are moving to the USA as well as for those who have moved recently. The name of the message is "The Spiritist Movement within the USA".

Another new section is called "Upcoming Events". In this section we will try to keep you informed about lectures and seminars that will be held in English speaking countries.

Much Peace

The Editors

We analyze the question about the influence of spirits upon the phenomena of the nature. Despite the confirmation of this influence from spirits, this subject was not studied deeply by Allan Kardec due to lack of scientific knowledge. The development of the theories of chaos and complexity allows us to analyze this question. It is shown that the influence of spirits upon the phenomena of nature is perfectly possible and that there is no need of a great amount of animalized fluid to produce the influence. We show how the knowledge of chaos and complexity helps us to understand the proposed solution.
 
KEYWORDS: Chaos; Complexity; Influence of spirits; phenomena of the atmosphere; physical effects; physical manifestations.

In issue 45 of the chapter XV of “Genesis”, Allan Kardec transcribed an event from the Gospel called as “The Calmed down Storm”[1]. In this event Jesus and his disciples were sailing from a margin of a lake to the other when strong winds suddenly appeared. The disciples became scared and asked the Master for help. Jesus, according to the Gospel, talked to the winds and to the waves in the lake making them calm down. As He always did, He took advantage of the moment and talked about the value of faith. Kardec, in issue 46 of the above reference and Cairbar Schutel[2] commented the event. Kardec said that we do not know  “the secrets of Nature in order to say if there are, or not, hidden intelligences controlling the action of the elements”. Cairbar Schutel goes further asserting that all seismic and atmospheric phenomena are driven by intelligent beings responsible by the manifestations of the Nature.”(our translation)[2]. Both quotations state the possibility of the action of spirits on the phenomenon of a storm but, as we shall see, there is no explanation in the spiritist literature about how it could happened.

The set of all phenomena known to the human being, from an apple falling on the ground to the most beautiful bright of a star in the Universe; from the nuclear fusion events occurring inside the Sun to all of our lives, must remind us that the rules and mechanisms of all these phenomena belong to Natural Law having therefore a divine origin. Throughout history the human being tried to understand Natural Law through the observation and study of all natural phenomena. In 1687 a leap forward was taken in the study of these phenomena. Galileu and, more formally, Isaac Newton started a new age in the way of making. Science. They developed the mathematical way of describing the mechanical phenomena of Nature.

In this paper, we shall present a possible explanation of how the spirits can produce an influence in the large phenomena of Nature like a big storm. We base our proposal in the developed scientific concepts of the Theory of Chaos and Complexity.

It is known that the atmospheric phenomena are chaotic and complex[3]. A system is said to be chaotic[4] when it is too much sensitive to small perturbations¹. Consider, for example, a billiard game with various balls. If the player makes a small error in the direction of the kicked out ball, the final result, that is the movement of all other balls, will be completely different from the player’s planned movement and not only a little different from that, as one could think of. This kind of dynamics, sensitive to the initial conditions is called chaotic. As a consequence, we lose, effectively, the power of foreseeing what is going to happen after the player’s action if he or she has no total certainty of the direction the ball will take.

A system is said to be complex [5] when its behavior is rich in unexpected and varied possibilities even if its structure is not complicated. The life is one of the best examples of complexity. The characteristics of the one of the simplest forms of life, an amoeba, for example, exhibit unexpected and varied qualities. Despite the great velocity in processing data, our best computers are less complex than the brain of a worm[6].

If we consider the gases that compose the atmosphere formed by lots of small particles, we can imagine that they are colliding with one another as in the billiard game. Therefore, it is natural to see that the atmosphere can present chaotic and complex behavior. Stephen Hawking, in his recent book[6], exposed this fact in a poetic form: “The hitting of the wings of a butterfly can produce rain in the Central Park in New York”. As he explains, it is not the hitting of the wings that, simply, will cause rain, but this small perturbation can influence others that can change the time evolution of the atmosphere elsewhere. That is why the weather is so difficult to forecast and makes us to consult the news about the weather every single week².

In order to make forecasts Meteorology uses theoretical tools to calculate the behavior of weather from a set of measured data. Edward N. Lorenz proposed the first theoretical model [7] for the dynamics of the atmosphere known as the Lorenz’s Model. Figure 1 shows an example of the so-called the strange attractor that is a solution of the Lorenz’s equations, obtained with his model.

Lorenz also showed [8] that there is a limit for the forecast of weather around 2 weeks. We emphasize that there is a limit for the human power of solving the problem of forecasting. It will be important when we analyze the capacity of the superior spirits in making better calculations and forecasts.

This paper is organized as follows. In section II we shall expose all information found in Allan Kardec’s books about the influence of the spirits in the phenomena of nature. We shall remember some basic ideas behind the phenomena of physical effects, since the influence on the phenomena of nature belongs to this class. In section III we shall show that this influence is perfectly possible and requires a small quantity of animalised fluid. Finally, in section IV we shall present the main conclusions.

Besides the citations in “Genesis” and in Cairbar Schutel’s book about the issues from 536 to 540 of the “Spirits’ Book” [9], there exists a small mention in the Revista Espírita of September of 1859 [10], whose title is “The storms”. This last reference does not add anything to the contents present in the “Spirits’ Book”. Let us rewrite some of these issues marking what we think important to our discussion. The first issue is number 536-a:

“536-a Have these phenomena (of Nature) always some reference to mankind ?

- They have sometimes a direct reference to man; but they have often no other object than the re-establishment of the equilibrium and harmony of the physical forces of nature.”

“536-b We fully admit that the will of God must be the primal cause of these phenomena, as of everything else; but, as we know that the spirits exercise an action upon the matter, and that they are the agents of the divine will, we ask whether some among them do not exert an influence upon the elements, to rouse, calm or direct them.

- It is evident that they must do so; it could not be otherwise. God does not exercise a direct action upon matter; He has His devoted agents at every step of the ladder of worlds.”

“537-a May there, in the same way, be spirits inhabiting the interior of the earth and presiding over the development of geological phenomena ?

- Those spirits do not positively inhabit the earth, but they preside over and direct its developments according to their various attributions. You will some day have the explanation of all these phenomena, and you will then understand them better.”(our marks).

“538 Do the spirits who preside over the phenomena of nature form a special category in the spirit-world; are they beings apart, spirits who have been incarnated like us?

- They are spirits who will be incarnated, or who have been so.”

“538-a Do those spirits belong to the higher or lower degrees of the spirit-hierarchy ?

- That is according as their post is more or less material or intelligent; some command, others execute; those who discharge material functions are always of an inferior order, among spirits as among men.”

“539 In the production of certain phenomena, of storms, for example, is it a single spirit that acts, or a mass of spirits ?

- A mass of spirits; or, rather, innumerable masses of spirits."

“540 Do the spirits who exert an action over the phenomena of nature act with knowledge and intention, in virtue of freewill, or from an instinctive and unreasoning impulse ?

- Some act in the one way, others in the other. (…) (about the inferior spirits) They begin by executing the orders of their superiors; subsequently, when their intelligence is more developed, they command in their turn, and direct the processes of the material world; (…)."

These issues are the basis of our discussion.Let us organize the main ideas in the following statements:

   1. The spirits are God’s agents for the action in accordance to divine wills.
   2. There are agents in all degrees of the evolutionary scale. There are some who command and make the decisions and others who execute the action upon the elements. The spirits that command have the capacity of calculating and forecasting the consequences of each action that the other agents do.
   3. A great amount of spirits meets together in order to execute the task.

Before going to the next section, where we shall explain how the spirits can control the phenomena of nature, let us remember the important basic principles of Spiritism that are necessary for a physical effect to occur. From chapter IV of the second part of “The Mediun’s Book” [11], we got the following statements:

    * A spirit can only move a solid object if he or she combines a portion of the universal fluid with the fluid that is detached from an appropriated medium.
    * A spirit can act and use the animalised fluid from mediums that are not aware that they are donating the fluids.
    * A spirit can act upon solid, liquid or gaseous matter.

With all these principles we can analyze the influence of spirits upon the phenomena of nature being aware that these phenomena are chaotic and complex.

As we saw in the previous section, the superior spirits taught that spirits, in general, are God’s agents for the actions upon the nature. We also saw that superior spirits (the commanders) and the others (the executers) work together for the compliance of divine tasks. In this section we shall show that in front of a large-scale phenomenon as, for example, a storm, it is not necessary that the action by the spirits takes place in every single part of the space where the storm occurs. We shall estimate the order of magnitude of the volume occupied by a storm on a relatively small city. We shall do this in order to see the unfeasibility of the action upon all space. After that, we shall discuss, with the help of the actual scientific knowledge, a proposal about how the spirits could really influence a storm acting in a much smaller region of the space where the storm is happening.

Let us consider a city whose area is 100km² (we can imagine a square area with side of 10km long). Let us consider also a set of clouds in a height³ of 5km. If we multiply the area by the height we can have the estimation of the space volume for this storm: 100 x 5 = 500km³. One cubic meter (1m³) is the same as the volume of 1000 litres. The unit of cubic kilometer (1km³) is equivalent to a volume of 1.000.000.000 of cubic meters (1 billion m³).

These are 1000 billions or 1 trillion of litres of volume for each km³ of space. Imagine that a spirit wishes to make an influence upon a litre of water or air in such a way to produce a given movement. One litre of everything is a significant volume of space when we think in a phenomenon like that. Let us suppose that one medium is enough to supply the spirits with animalised fluid. Imagine, now, that in order to produce even a very small action upon a storm we need to make the action in a volume of more than 1 trillion of litres of a mixture of air, steam and liquid water. How many mediums are necessary to do this task? Imagine, also, that several storms are occurring in several places around the world at the same time. If it was not enough, imagine that to make a storm go to another course it is also necessary to act upon the neighbor areas because they can have different temperatures and pressures that can prevent the storm from taking another direction. Figure 2 gives a good idea of the  magnitude of a storm compared with the size of our buildings.

It leads us to see the unfeasibility of the influence from the spirits upon all space. Even a great mass of spirits cannot act precisely upon the storm. However, if we take in account that the dynamics of the storm is chaotic and complex we can see a light in the end of the tunnel. We already know that a chaotic dynamics means that the system is sensitive to small perturbation in some of its parts. If we could calculate precisely the effect of a given perturbation or a set of  sequential perturbations in small regions of the space we could control the temporal evolution of the phenomenon to a desired result. We saw that superior spirits command the influence upon these phenomena. The principle number 2 (section II) tells us that superior spirits are capable of making these calculations and deciding the best action. In the Introduction we commented on the limits of human knowledge. We believe that it is perfectly possible to the superior spirits to perform much more precise calculations and forecasts for every perturbation executed by the other spirits. Therefore, it could be enough to act in a portion of the space less than 1% of the total volume. Although we cannot estimate what this size is (we must remember that our scientific knowledge cannot do that), we can say with all certainty that it is not necessary to act upon all space occupied by the storm. So, it is not necessary a great amount of animalised fluid in order to make this influence. Finally, it means that the influence of the spirits upon the phenomena of nature is perfectly feasible.

In the paper of reference [3], Dr. Ross N. Hoffman says that he thinks it is possible, in a close future, to control these large phenomena of nature. He uses the same theories of chaos and complexity to base his affirmations. If a scientist, representing a scientific opinion, believes that it is possible, it is correct to say that this knowledge is well developed in the spiritual world.

As we saw, the union of the intellectual advance of the superior spirits with the chaotic nature of the phenomena of nature permits one to understand how spirits could influence these phenomena without the necessity of consuming lots of animalised fluid. This proposal is in accordance to what the spirits answered in the issue number 537-a, about the explanation and understanding of that influence.

There is one point left for us to comment on. It is about the number of spirits needed to produce the influence upon the phenomenon (point number 3 of section II). That point says that there is the need for a large number of spirits to perform the task. Although, as we showed, it is not necessary to act upon all regions of the space where a storm is occurring it does not mean that this influence is something simple and that only one spirit is enough to do the task. As it is described in chapter 10 of “Missionários da Luz” [13], a physical effect like the materialization of a throat requires the presence of a great number of spirits.

Therefore, the complexity of the phenomena of nature also requires a large amount of spirits to provide the correct action upon them. Finally, we remember that this work presents one way by which the spirits could influence the phenomena of nature. We do not intent that this is the only solution for this problem.

¹ The word “perturbation” means a small influence that generates a small changing in a given system.
² And even so we fell surprised with the variations of the behavior of the atmosphere!
³ Clouds of storms have a base at 2 or 3km of altitude and its top can reach the maximum height of 20km[12]. In our estimations we chose the value of 5km, but if we consider the superior limit of 20km, the problem of the unfeasibility of the influence of the spirits upon nature becomes more evident.


Acknowledgements

The author is pleased to thank Mrs. Floriza S. A. Chagas, Dr. Alexandre C. Gonçalves, Dra. Hebe M. L. de Souza, Sr. Henri Barreto, Dr. Zalmino Zimmermann and Prof. Dr. Silvio S. Chibeni by critical reading of this compuscript and by valuable suggestions. The author would like to specially thank Mr. Antonio Leite for the incentive to produce a translation of the original paper from Portuguese and Mr. Renato Costa for a great review of this translation.

References

[1] A. Kardec, A Gênese, Editora IDE, (1992).
[2] C. Schutel, Parábolas e Ensinos de Jesus, Editora CASA EDITORA O CLARIM, 12a Edição, (1987).
[3] R. N. Hoffman, Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, 83, p.241, (2002).
[4] E. Ott, Chaos in Dynamical Systems, Cambridge University Press, (1993).
[5] Y. Bar–Yam, Dynamics of Complex Systems, Perseus Books, (1997).
[6] S. Hawking, O Universo Numa Casca de Nóz, Editora Mandarim, 2a Edição, (2002).
[7] E. N. Lorenz, Journal of Atmospheric Science, 20, p.130, (1963).
[8] E. N. Lorenz, Tellus, 34, p.505, (1982).
[9] A. Kardec, The Spirits’ Book, Editora FEB, 6a Edição, (1996).
[10] A. Kardec, Revista Espírita, 8, p.276, (1859).
[11] A. Kardec, The Mediuns’s Book, Editora FEB, 1a Edição, (1986).
[12] M. M. F. Saba, Física na Escola, 2, p.19, (2001).
[13] A. Luiz, Psicografia de F. C. Xavier, Missionários da Luz, Editora FEB, 26a Edição, (1995).

What are we doing about the Gospel?

The disciple must search his conscience. Let us look out for our thoughts. We must be honest with ourselves. Sometimes, we are inclined either to work without confidence or to confide without working. What kind of friends of Jesus are we? By some means or other do we really want to co-operate with Jesus in His job? Let us do it now, just now.

We are sinners. Christ knows our weakness. By the light of His love, Jesus removes our fears and troubles. For our own sake we must listen to Him. The disciple of the Gospel becomes one with his Master. Each of us can in his own heart be a shrine within himself illumined in His divine truth. Sometimes, we cannot remove circumstances and temptations under which our task should be done, but Jesus can do it.

Why seek to take out the strength of our Savior from within us? The subject brings back to our memory the words of Paul: "Your life is hid with Christ in God".

Many times we have suffered defeats. Christ offers us the strength to be a new kind of person. We should be patient in all tribulations. Faith is the result of daily trust. We are in the fellowship of Christ, going from darkness to light.

"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." -- Paul (Romans, 12-21)

(Translated from the 25th Portuguese edition entitled "Nosso Lar". First Portuguese edition published in 1944 by Federação Espírita Brasileira, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.)

Chapter 35 AN UNEXPECTED MEETING

We were busy putting away the patrolling equipment and seeing to the animals, when I heard a friendly voice beside me:

"Hello, André. Fancy meeting you here! What a pleasant surprise."

I turned around and was surprised to recognize the Samaritan – he was a former acquaintance of ours on Earth. Yes, it was old Silveira, whom my father, the inflexible businessman, had reduced to utter ruin. I felt acutely embarrassed. I wanted to acknowledge his greeting, to respond to his friendly approach, but my memories made me speechless. In this new environment, where countenances faithfully reflect ones true feelings, pretending was out of the question. Finally, Silveira himself noticed my discomfort and came to my help, saying:

"I didn't know you had come here. I had no idea I'd meet you here in the Astral City."

After this spontaneous kindness I was able to shake his hand and murmur a few words of thanks. I wanted to offer an explanation for our past attitudes but couldn't find the right words. I truly wished to apologize for my father's actions, which had forced him into disastrous insolvency. Standing there, it all came back into my mind. It was like seeing a film. I could hear his wife's tearful voice, trying to explain her husband's plight – he had been ill for a long time and, to make matters worse, two of their children had also fallen sick. Their expenses had risen, and medical attention cost so much money. I remember how the poor thing wept, begging for a respite. She spoke humbly, gazing pitifully at my mother as if attempting to find some sympathy and help in another woman. I remember how earnestly my mother pleaded with my father to forget the documents he had signed, to refrain from any legal action. Father, accustomed to successful transactions on a large scale, could not understand the retailer's difficulties and was adamant. He declared that, although he was sorry about his client's bad luck and would help him in different ways, there was nothing he could do but carry out the legal proceedings. He explained that he could not think of breaking the long established regulations of his firm. All he had to offer his wife in consolation was the thought that some of his other clients were in an even worse position.

I recalled mother's helpless sympathy as Silveira's wife tearfully took her leave, and how father, indifferent to the suffering before him, scolded her severely and forbade her to interfere in business matters in the future. Thus, there was nothing left for the poor family but to face utter financial ruin. I could still see the Silveira's piano being carried away to satisfy the implacable creditor's claims.

Humbled and penniless, Silveira moved with his wife and children to a small town, where they had probably led a life of hard work and poverty. I never again heard mention of the family.

I was anxious to apologize, but did not know what to say. I had, at that time, encouraged father in his merciless attitude towards the Silveira and had considered mother too sentimental in her views. Being still very young, I was dominated by feelings of selfishness and vanity. Impervious to the needs and suffering of others, I was unyielding in my attitude in spite of my mother's wise exhortations.

These memories flashed throughout my mind with incredible speed. In one short moment I had crossed the shadows of the past. I could hardly disguise my embarrassment. Silveira smiled, and called me back into reality:

"Have you already visited the 'old man'?"

The question, so filled with spontaneous caring, only increased my confusion. I answered that, although anxious to do so, I had not yet had the chance. Silveira sensed my constraint and prepared to leave. He patted me affectionately on the back and went on his way. Disconcerted, I went to Narcisa and told her of our unexpected meeting and the circumstances of our parting on Earth. I anxiously awaited her advice. After listening carefully, she replied:

"Don't be surprised at meeting old acquaintances here. Some time ago I found myself in a similar situation. I have already had the satisfaction of meeting most of the people here whom I had offended on Earth. I realize now that it's a great blessing granted us by the Lord, so that we may have new opportunities to take up friendships which have been interrupted, repairing the broken spirit links between us. Did you avail yourself of the chance offered you?"

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"Did you ask Silveira to forgive you? Remember, it's satisfying to be able to recognize our own faults. You have, by now, acquired enough understanding to be your own judge. You have acknowledged yourself as the offender. Don't miss the opportunity to gain a friend. Go to Silveira, my dear, and speak to him frankly. He is a busy person, and you may not get another chance soon."

As I hesitated, she added:

"Don't be afraid. Whenever we follow our head and heart in the practice of good, Jesus grants us the help necessary to succeed. The accomplishment of worthy actions, whatever they may be, constitutes a privilege to the soul. Keep the Master's Gospel in mind and go seek the treasure of reconciliation."

I no longer hesitated, but ran after Silveira, opening my heart to him and begging him to forgive both me and my father for our past errors.

"You see," I explained earnestly, "we were both blind to everything but self interest. Whenever money and vanity go together, few avoid taking the wrong path."

Silveira, greatly touched, cut me short.

"Listen, André, is anybody exempt from fault? Do you imagine that I led a blameless life? Besides, your father was a real teacher to me. My children and I are indebted to him for his valuable lessons in individual effort. Would we have made any spiritual progress, were it not for this firm defense of his rights? Over here, we renew all our old concepts of life and realize that our supposed enemies are really our benefactors. Don't brood over these sad memories. Let's look ahead to infinite life and work with the Lord."

Noticing my moist eyes, he patted me on the back in a fatherly way, and added:

"Don't waste your time over this. I hope I'll soon have the pleasure of accompanying you in visiting your father."

I shook his hand in silence, feeling a new joy in my soul. It seemed that a dark little corner of my heart had been suddenly flooded with a divine light… forever.

Chapter 36 THE DREAM

Work went on without interruption. Many sick patients needed urgent care, and other perturbed entities required devoted attention. By evening I had mastered the technique of magnetic passes, which I applied to many of the patients. Tobias returned to the Chambers in the morning, and more through generosity than any merit of mine, he encouraged me through his words of praise:

"Well done, André!" He exclaimed. "I'm going to mention you specifically to Minister Genesius, so you may receive your hour-bonuses in double for your first efforts."

As I was about to express my thanks, I was surprised to see Laura and Lysias coming towards us. After affectionate greetings, Laura said to me with a smile:

"We simply had to come to tell you personally how happy we all are. I followed you in spirit the entire night, and your first steps on the road of brotherly cooperation are a great joy to our family. I had the pleasure of giving the good news to Minister Clarence, who sends you his best wishes."

We talked for a while, and they asked to hear my impressions. I was happy to oblige. Although Laura and Lysias invited me to return home with them to rest, Tobias had offered me a room in the Chambers, where I could retire without delay. I felt an urgent need to sleep. Unbeknownst to me, the greatest joy of the day was still to come.

Alone in the spacious and comfortable room where Narcisa had made me a bed, I offered up a prayer to the Lord of all Creation, thanking him for the joy of having been useful. Then the "blessed fatigue" of those who have fulfilled their duties left me no time for further musings. Within a few minutes I felt a sensation of lightness throughout my body. I had the impression of being carried away in a small boat, sailing towards unknown regions. Where was I being taken? It was impossible to tell. A silent man sat beside me at the helm. I felt like a child, unable to describe the wonders before me. Ecstatic at the magnificence of the scenery, I let myself be carried along without a word. The little craft seemed to be sailing rapidly, and at the same time gradually ascending. After a short time I found myself in a marvelous harbor, and heard a voice calling me lovingly from the pier.

"André, André…." I could tell that voice from a thousand others. Overwhelmed with joy, I disembarked with childlike zeal, and a moment later I was in my mother's arms. She led me to a beautiful forest, where flowers seemed to retain light, offering a permanent feast of perfume and color. Luminous golden carpets stretched out under the rustling foliage of the great trees. I felt an ineffable sensation of peace and happiness, different from the dream states I had experienced on Earth. I was well aware that I had left my heavier body in my room in the Chambers of Rectification, and was conscious of being in higher sphere. My notions of time and space were accurate, and I felt the wealth of emotions I was experiencing grow more and more intense. After inspiring me with words of appreciation, my mother explained:

"I prayed fervently to Jesus that I might be granted the sublime satisfaction of your visit on your first day of useful service. As you already know, my son, work is a divine tonic for the heart. Many of our companions, on leaving the Earth, linger unproductively, awaiting miracles that never occur, their fine possibilities reduced to expressions of parasitism. Some plead discouragement from loneliness, others declare themselves maladjusted to the way in which they were called to serve the Lord. It is indispensable, André, to convert every opportunity in life into a reason to remember and serve God. Just as in the lower spheres the bowl of soup given to the hungry, the balm offered to the leper, and the gesture of sympathy towards one stricken by adversity, are sublime deeds forever remembered in the House of the Father. Here a look of understanding cast to the sinner, the promise of the Gospel brought to those in despair, and hope imparted to the afflicted are blessings of spiritual work which also weigh greatly in our favor."

I had never before seen my mother's face so beautiful. Her eyes seemed to shine with a spiritual radiance and her tender hands transmitted invigorating fluids and an indescribable sensation of bliss to me.

"Jesus' Gospel, André," she continued, "teaches us that there is greater joy in giving than in receiving. For out own happiness, let's learn to put this principle into practice in our daily efforts. Always give, my child, but above all never forget to give of yourself, in constructive tolerance, brotherly love and divine understanding. External charity is only a lesson, and a means to lead us to the more difficult practice of charity from within. Jesus gave more of Himself to redeem mankind than all the Earth's millionaires congregated in the fulfillment of material charity, however sublime their efforts may have been.  Don't be ashamed to offer aid to our sickly brothers or clear the minds of the disturbed entities that come to the Chambers of Rectification, where I spiritually followed your work last night.

"Work, my child, doing all the good you can. In all our spirit colonies, as on Earth, live restless souls anxious for novelty and distraction. As often as possible, try to avoid those amusements and devote yourself to useful service. Just as I, insignificant as I am, can see in spirit your efforts in the Astral City, while following your father's suffering in the Lower Zone, God sees and accompanies us all, from the most evolved messenger to the lowest beings in the scale of Creation."

My mother paused briefly, and I tried in vain to speak. Although tears of emotion had rendered me speechless, she understood my feelings. Looking at me with deep affection, she went on:

"In most spirit colonies, services are remunerated with the hour-bonus which unites two essential factors. The bonus represents the possibility of receiving something from our brothers and co-workers, or of recompensing someone sharing our efforts. However, the determination of the hour's value, just as on Earth, belongs exclusively to God. Because of our fallibility as evolving beings, errors may occur in awarding hour-bonuses. The real computation of the spirit hour is a private question between the worker and the Divine Forces of Creation. That's why our experimental activities on the road to progress, starting at the physical sphere, undergo continuous, daily modifications. The administrator to whom the Lord has granted the opportunity of cooperating in the Divine Plan of Life, experiment with tables, registers, and remuneration. He grants them this opportunity just as He grants His creatures the temporary privilege of being fathers or mothers on Earth or in other worlds, and all sincere administrators do their utmost to carry out the tasks assigned them to the best of their abilities.

"Every Father, conscious of his responsibilities, is full of devoted love; God also, my child is a careful Administrator and most loving Father. He never forgets any of His children and reserves His right to a direct understanding with His workers about real merit of the use of their time. All outward reward affects the personality undergoing the test, but the value of time concerns the eternal personality, the one that will always be present in our circles of life, on its upward march towards the Glory of God. This is why the Most High gives wisdom to those who spend time learning and a longer life and greater joy to those who know how to forget themselves in serving others."

Mother became silent. As I dried my eyes, she put her arms around me. Like a boy who falls asleep after a lesson, I lost consciousness of everything until I awoke in my room near the Chambers of Rectification with an invigorating sense of joy.

Next chapters: 37 & 38.

Dear Readers,

We had been pondering on what would be a good message to use as an Editorial for this December issue when we received an email from the Emmanuel Spiritist Center enclosing a very special message. After reading it we decided that it was perfect for the ocasion. We hope that you enjoy the lesson as we did.

Much Peace

The GEAE Editors*

The old man sat in his gas station on a cold Christmas Eve. He hadn't been anywhere in years since his wife had passed away. He had no decorations, no tree, no lights. It was just another day to him.
 
He didn't hate Christmas, just couldn't find a reason to celebrate.   There were no children in his life. His wife had gone. He was sitting there looking at the snow that had been falling for the last hour and wondering what it was all about when the door opened and a homeless man stepped through.
 
Instead of throwing the man out, George, Old George as he was known by his customers, told the man to come and sit by the space heater and warm up. "Thank you, but I don't mean to intrude," said the stranger. "I see you're busy. I'll just go"
 
"Not without something hot in your belly," George turned and opened a wide mouth Thermos and handed it to the stranger.   "It ain't much, but it's hot and tasty. Stew. Made it myself. When you're done there's coffee and it's fresh." Just at that moment he heard the "ding" of the driveway bell.  "Excuse me, be right back," George said.
 
There in the driveway was an old 53 Chevy.   Steam was rolling out of the front. The driver was panicked. "Mister can you help me!" said the driver with a deep Spanish accent. "My wife is with child and my car is broken." George opened the hood. It was bad. The block looked cracked from the cold; the car was dead. "You ain't going in this thing," George said as he turned away.
 
"But mister. Please help...." The door of the office closed behind George as he went in. George went to the office wall and got the keys to his old truck, and went back outside. He walked around the building and opened the garage, started the truck and drove it around to where the couple was waiting.
 
"Here, take my truck," he said. "She ain't the best thing you ever looked at, but she runs real good." George helped put the woman in the truck and watched as it sped off into the night.  George turned and walked back inside the office.
 
"Glad I gave 'em the truck. Their tires were shot too. That ol' truck has brand new........" George thought he was talking to the stranger, but the man had gone. The thermos was on the desk, empty with a used coffee cup beside it. "Well, at least he got something in his belly," George thought.  George went back outside to see if the old Chevy would start. It cranked slowly, but it started. He pulled it into the garage where the truck had been. He thought he would tinker with it for something to do. Christmas Eve meant no customers. He discovered the block hadn't cracked, it was just the bottom hose on the radiator. "Well, shoot, I can fix this," he said to himself. So he put a new one on. "Those tires ain't gonna get 'em through the winter either." He took the snow treads off of his wife's old Lincoln. They were like new and he wasn't going to drive the car.
 
As he was working, he heard shots being fired.  He ran outside and beside a police car an officer lay on the cold ground.  Bleeding from the left shoulder, the officer moaned, "Help me." George helped the officer inside as he remembered the training he had received in the Army as a medic. He knew the wound needed attention.  "Pressure to stop the bleeding," he thought. The uniform company had been there that morning and had left clean shop towels. He used those and duct tape to bind the wound.
 
"Hey, they say duct tape can fix anythin'," he said, trying to make the policeman feel at ease. "Something for pain,"  George thought. All he had was the pills he used for his back. "These ought to work." He put some water in a cup and gave the policeman the pills.
 
"You hang in there. I'm going to get you an ambulance." The phone was dead. "Maybe I can get one of your buddies on that there talk box out in your car." He went out only to find that a bullet had gone into the dashboard destroying the two way radio. He went back in to find the policeman sitting up. "Thanks," said the officer. "You could have left me there.  The guy that shot me is still in the area." George sat down beside him. "I would never leave an injured man in the Army and I ain't gonna leave you."  George pulled back the bandage to check for bleeding. "Looks worse than what it is. Bullet passed right through 'ya. Good thing it missed the important stuff though. I think with time your gonna be right as rain."
 
George got up and poured a cup of coffee. "How do you take it?" he asked. "None for me," said the officer. "Oh, yer gonna drink this. Best in the city. Too bad I ain't got no donuts." The officer laughed and winced at the same time. The front door of the office flew open. In burst a young man with a gun. "Give me all your cash!  Do it now!" the young man yelled.  His hand was shaking and George could tell that he had never done anything like this before.
 
"That's the guy that shot me!" exclaimed the officer. "Son, why are you doing this?" asked George. "You need to put the cannon away. Somebody else might get hurt." The young man was confused. "Shut up old man, or I'll shoot you, too. Now give me the cash!" The cop was reaching for his gun.  "Put that thing away," George said to the cop. "We got one too many in here now." He turned his attention to the young man.  "Son, it's Christmas Eve If you need the money, well then, here. It ain't much but it's all I got. Now put that pee shooter away." George pulled $150 out of his pocket and handed it to the young man, reaching for the barrel of the gun at the same time.
 
The young man released his grip on the gun, fell to his knees and began to cry. "I'm not very good at this am I? All I wanted was to buy something for my wife and son," he went on. "I've lost my job. My rent is due. My car got repossessed last week..." George handed the gun to the cop. "Son, we all get in a bit of squeeze now and then. The road gets hard sometimes, but we make it through the best we can." He got the young man to his feet, and sat him down on a chair across from the cop.  "Sometimes we do stupid things." George handed the young man a cup of coffee. "Being stupid is one of the things that makes us human. Comin' in here with a gun ain't the answer. Now sit there and get warm and we'll sort this thing out."
 
The young man had stopped crying. He looked over to the cop. "Sorry I shot you. It just went off. I'm sorry officer."  "Shut up and drink your coffee." the cop said.
 
George could hear the sounds of sirens outside.  A police car and an ambulance skidded to a halt. Two cops came through the door, guns drawn.   "Chuck! You ok?" one of the cops asked the wounded officer. "Not bad for a guy who took a bullet. How did you find me?" "GPS locator in the car. Best thing since sliced bread. Who did this?" the other cop asked as he approached the young man. Chuck answered him, "I don't know. The guy ran off into the dark. Just dropped his gun and ran."
 
George and the young man both looked puzzled at each other. "That guy work here?," the wounded cop continued. "Yep," George said. "Just hired him this morning. Boy lost his job." The paramedics came in and loaded Chuck onto the stretcher. The young man leaned over the wounded cop and whispered, "Why?" Chuck just said, "Merry Christmas boy. And you too, George, and thanks for everything."
 
"Well, looks like you got one doozy of a break there. That ought to solve some of your problems." George went into the back room and came out with a box. He pulled out a ring box. "Here you go. Something for the little woman. I don't think Martha would mind. She said it would come in handy some day." The young man looked inside to see the biggest diamond ring he ever saw. "I can't take this," said the young man. "It means something to you." "And now it means something to you," replied George.  "I got my memories. That's all I need." George reached into the box again.  an airplane, a car and a truck appeared next.  They were toys that the oil company had left for him to sell. "Here's something for that little man of yours." The young man began to cry again as he handed back the $150 that the old man had handed him earlier. "And what are you supposed to buy Christmas dinner with? You keep that too," George said. "Now git home to your family."
 
The young man turned with tears streaming down his face. "I'll be here in the morning for work, if that job offer is still good." "Nope. I'm closed Christmas day," George said. "See ya the day after." 
 
George turned around to find that the stranger had returned. "Where'd you come from? I thought you left?" "I have been here. I have always been here," said the stranger. "You say you don't celebrate Christmas. Why?"  "Well, after my wife passed away I just couldn't see what all the bother was. Puttin' up a tree and all seemed a waste of a good pine tree. Bakin' cookies like I used to with Martha just wasn't the same by myself and besides I was getting a little chubby."
 
The stranger put his hand on George's shoulder.  "But you do celebrate the holiday, George. You gave me food and drink and warmed me when I was cold and hungry. The woman with child will bear a son and he will become a great doctor. The policeman you helped will go on to save 19 people from being killed by terrorists. The young man who tried to rob you will make you a rich man and not take any for himself. That is the spirit of the season and you keep it as good as any man."
 
George was taken aback by all this stranger had said. "And how do you know all this?" asked the old man. "Trust me, George. I have the inside track on this sort of thing. And when your days are done you will be with Martha again." The stranger moved toward the door.
 
"If you will excuse me, George, I have to go now. I have to go home where there is a big celebration planned." George watched as the old leather jacket and the torn pants that the stranger was wearing turned into a white robe. A golden light began to fill the room.  "You see, George... it's my birthday. Merry Christmas."
 
George fell to his knees and replied, "Happy Birthday, Lord."

Recent research in Mathematics is showing that solidarity and cooperation lead a social group to evolve faster than selfishness. It constitutes an important scientific result favoring the essential lessons of the Gospel.

Unfortunately, a good part of our society does not enhance the religious teachings considering them as product of fanatism. The most scientists only see the selfishness as the only one reason for all acts of the human being and they say that it is in Nature when consider the idea given by the expression “the selfish gene”[1] that states that the evolution promotes the individuals that have higher capacity of proliferating themselves. In other words, the genes that reduce the success of being spread tend to disappear.

Despite the idea of the selfish gene be verified in several processes in Nature there is an intricate question for which the scientists does not have an answer yet. It is about the strange cooperative behavior and altruism between animals of different species and families [2,3]. The human altruistic behavior cannot be understood in terms of the gene-based evolutionary theories [4]. It is known [3] that Charles Darwin [5,6], the father of the Theory of Evolution, noted that the process of natural selection could not promote by itself the altruistic behavior where some individuals reach the point of reducing their abilities so as to favor other members of the species. We shall present here an interesting scientific research, motivated by these questions, whose solutions we interpret in a moral sense.

The subject of this paper agrees with some of Allan Kardec’s statements found in the issue 8 of chapter one of The Gospel According to Spiritism, with the title: “The Alliance of Science and Religion”[7]. We transcribe the following part:

“Science and Religion are the two levers of human intelligence, one revealing the laws of the material world, the other revealing the laws of the moral world. But seeing that these laws have the same principle, which is God, they cannot contradict themselves.”(Original remarks).

This statement is a fundamental idea that reveals the divine character of all creation. As Kardec says if Science and Religion contradict one each other than one or another will be incorrect because God, “the Supreme Intelligence, first cause of all things” (question 1 of the Spirit’s Book [8]. Our remarks.) did not intent the destruction of His own creation. We, spiritists, knew that it is in vain that the scientists, politicians and sociologists look for formulas for the social progress out of the Christian essential principles. Kardec [7] also said that:

“We have now reached a phase upon this planet when the teachings of Christ must be completed and the intentional veil cast over some parts of these teachings lifted. A time when science must desist in its exclusive materialism, so taking into consideration the spiritual element; when religion must cease to ignore the organic and immutable law of matter, so that both may become two forces, each learning one the other and advancing together in mutual concourse. Then religion, no longer discredited by science and no longer being able to oppose the overwhelming logic of the facts, will acquire an unshakable power because it will be in agreement with reason.”

Therefore, when the results of scientific research cannot be used against the religious teachings, these will acquire a strong power because they will be in accord to reason. But, if these scientific results start showing that the religious teachings are correct or sensible, the materialistic and selfish people will not have excuses anymore to regard the religious teachings to the plane of the blind faith.

So, who could imagine that just the most abstract science, Mathematics, could give rise to some results that verify some of the Jesus’ essential moral teachings? In this paper, we shall present the news about a research in Mathematics and Statistics where subjects like “cooperation” and “non-cooperation”, “altruism”, “selfish”, etc., are analyzed numerically using statistical models that reflect the behavior of a given population. We explain that these models do not say anything about a human behavior because the free will is not a mathematic function. These models only reflect the statistical behavior of a group of people where a given percentage, for example, cooperates, other percentage does not-cooperate, and so on. Despite the obtained results are amazing, the scientists usually try to explain them in terms of an acquired behavior in thousands of years of evolution, in the sense given by the Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.

The so-called Theory of Games [9] is the basis of the research [10,11] we shall present in this paper. This theory was developed to study the behavior of social groups interacting together, for example, in economic investments. There is a game called “The Public Goods Game” that is defined as follows. A group of players receives a given amount of money to invest in a common pool. The rules are: in each step the sum of invested money is doubled and then shared equally to all participants, independent of how much money each one put in the pool. Each player can invest the value he or she wants including the possibility of not investing anything. The maximum profit occurs if all players invest all money they have (all cooperate). But there is a temptation: do not invest anything and receive the other players’ interest (attitude of non-cooperation). The temptation occurs because who does not-cooperate always gains more money than who cooperates after each step of the game (see table 1). However, by seeing that someone did not-cooperate, the other players tend also to not-cooperate and the final consequence is that all players do not-cooperate, anyone gaining anything (table 1). Therefore, in common public goods, actions based on purely selfishness lead to own prejudice (is this thinking not familiar in the Gospel?). It is a social dilemma appearing in the dynamics of several social activities as, for example, the Health Plan. If each person, that belongs to a Health Plan, thinks that he or she have to use the service all time only because it is being paid, the consequence will be the increasing of the price or the bankruptcy of the company. If all cooperate using the Health Plan only when it is really needed, it will be possible to make the service to get better and even the price to get down. Therefore, all participants will have the advantage of the cooperative behavior.

Table 1: Examples of different strategies in the Public Goods Game, where the invested money is doubled and then shared equally to the participants. Players A, B, C and D received, initially, US$10,00 to invest in the common pool. “BEFORE” and “AFTER” mean the values that each player owns before and after a step of the game. In the strategy 1, all cooperate investing all money, gaining the double of what they had before playing one step of the game. In the strategy 2, all do not-cooperate not investing anything and therefore, not gaining anything. In the strategy 3, only the player A does not-cooperate and his or her interest was higher than that of the other players that invested all money they had. If the player A does not invest anything, the sum of invested money by the other players is equal to US$30,00. After doubling this value, the total amount to be shared with all players is US$60,00. After dividing by the 4 players, in accord to the rules of the game, it results in US$15,00 for each player. As the player A did not invest anything he or she owns US$25,00, while the other players own only US$15,00. That is the reason of the temptation of not investing anything and receiving the interest from the others’ investments. But if all players act like that, nobody gains nothing.

Numerical simulations in a computer machine showed how the social groups evolve where each individual, in order to make the most profit, may choose changing of strategy among the possible ones as cooperate, not-cooperate, or even, not-play (in the last case the player does not receive anything from the common pool). Under varied conditions as, for example, the payment of a tax to make an investment, after some time (or after running the game for various times), several situations are verified that predominate within the social group as the cooperative or non-cooperative behavior. In an interesting scientific work, Szabó e Hauert [12] showed that, in these computational simulations, voluntary participations of whom usually does not-play, prevent the group from increasing the number of the non-cooperators (the ones that do not invest anything and receive part of the total interest).

But, the main purpose of such a research is not to see the Christian teachings. We note that there exist economic motivations behind that. However, it is impossible not seeing the moral consequences that the results of this research present. It is interesting to note how these moral results rise naturally from the computational simulations of this game without consider them as hypotheses. We see that when the society really follows the Christian teachings, summarized in the phrase: “you must love God and your neighbor as yourself”, then the humanity will evolve much more quickly, in all senses, because all cooperate and all will fell the good consequences of this cooperation. What do we think is important to see is that this conclusion is becoming a mathematical certainty.

The dynamics of the Public Goods Game has some similarity with the process of evolution of a spirit. After many selfish steps, that represent non-cooperative attitudes of the spirit during the life, the principle of cause and effect (Chap. V of The Gospel According to Spiritism [7]), returns to us the consequences of our acts and decisions, compelling us to “play” in a charitable and kind way (i.e., to cooperate) in the next opportunities of the life. We suggest the reading of a great article of Richard Simonetti [13], that stimulate us to invest in the “Bank of the Providence, assisting all people who lives in material difficulties, people who needs every kind of help, assisting them in these needs.”[13](Our translation from the original in Portuguese).

We call the spirit of Emmanuel, in answer to the question 69 of the book called O Consolador [14], to conclude our paper (by talking about the spiritual value of the abstract sciences. Mathematics is one of them):

“We cannot neglect the cooperation of the abstract sciences to the educative postulates, by training the intelligences, dilating the spontaneity in the spirits, in order to establish the facility of understanding of the value of the planetary life, but we have to acknowledge that its activities, almost always related to the world problems, are processes or means by which man reaches the science of life in its deepest spiritual revelations, science that symbolizes the divine aim of all investigations and analysis of the organization of the Earth.”(Our remarks and our translation from the original in Portuguese).

The results of the above research reflect each individual’s choices with respect to the acts performed during the life. This choice depends on each one’s degree of evolution. Therefore, all efforts in our innermost reform constitute the greatest investment for a real good future life, with peace and love. May God continue helping us to make this effort!

The author would like to thank Mr. Renato Costa and Mrs. Marcia for correcting the translation of this paper from the original in Portuguese into English.

Referênces

[1] R. Dawkins, The Selfish Gene, Oxford University Press, (1989).

[2] K. Sigmund e C. Hauert, Current Biology, Vol. 12, p. R270 (2002)

[3] F. Michor e M. A. Nowak, Nature (London), Vol. 419, p. 677 (2002).

[4] E. Fehr and U. Fischbacher, Nature, Vol. 425, p. 785 (2003).

[5] The reader will find a complete description of the Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution and its connection to Spiritism in the book of the reference [5].

[6] H. M. L. de Souza, Darwin e Kardec Um Diálogo Possível, Centro Espírita Allan Kardec Dep. Editorial, (2002).

[7] A. Kardec, The Gospel According to Spiritism, The Headquarters Publishing CO LTD (London), 1st. Edition, (1987).

[8] A. Kardec, The Spirits’ Book, Editora FEB (Brasília), 2a. Edição, (1996).

[9] J. von Neumann e O. Morgenstern, Theory of Games and Economic Behavior, Princeton Univ. Press, New Jersey, (1944).

[10] M. A. Nowak, R. M. May e K. Sigmund, Scientific American, Vol. 272, p. 76 (1995).

[11] K. Sigmund, E. Fehr e M. A. Nowak, Scientific American, Vol. 286, p. 83 (2002).

[12] G. Szabó e C. Hauert, Physical Review Letters, 89, p. 118101 (2002).

[13] R. Simonetti, Reformador, Agosto, p. 14 (2003).

[14] Emmanuel, Psicography of F. C. Xavier, O Consolador, Editora FEB, 20a. Edição (1999).

On what basis shall we localize the problem of death? Of course, there is no death. Life itself demands death as a rebirth; between both our conscience remains.

Experiences may come and experiences may go; in the meantime, conscience goes on. Conscience is Divine Justice within us. Do not forget you live always.

A spirit must be seen for what he is; therefore he can only continue hereafter in the place for which he has adjusted himself. One goes through the gate of death to live again. As you know, one finds one seeks.

Later on you will receive happiness in the beyond according to your own deeds now. Think about this. Make believe you are in your own plain after death and look over your obligations before you contract them.

Each morning ask yourself: What am I looking for? First of all hear your conscience; do not beat about the bush. Each one of us must bow to the truth.

When you are wrong it is better to admit your mistakes without reservation and henceforward repair them. You are called upon to hurt yourself, but do not cheat yourself out of it.

Education for happiness in the beyond revolves about our daily troubles. You cannot achieve good works without effort.

Trials reveal character. If you promise to help someone, do it now. If you want improvement do not leave it for tomorrow. Do it today.

You are born from heaven and you will get back there carrying in your conscience the fruit of your works. Before you go back to the beyond you must cleanse your inner world. Above all keep a good conscience. The field of thought is free. Truly you live in acts and not dreams.

Where God is joy is, but where God is there is also responsibility. Use the gifts lent to you in the good of all, because when death arrives you have everything that you gave to others. Here and there may God’s love be seen through you.

The family unit is the most important and primary learning ground for spirits who have incarnated into the material plane of existence from the spirit world. The particular family a spirit is born into, is the ideal place where the spirit (based on their actions or non-actions on ties with others from previous material existences) can expiate and/or make reparation regarding those immediately around them, which provides the spirit the most perfect circumstance for their own personal spiritual growth.

(Translated from the 25th Portuguese edition entitled "Nosso Lar". First Portuguese edition published in 1944 by Federação Espírita Brasileira, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.)

Chapter 37  VENERANDA'S LECTURE 

All through my work the following day, I looked forward to Veneranda's lecture, which was scheduled to take place after the evening prayers. Knowing that I needed permission to attend, I sought out Tobias.

"These talks," he said, "are only attended by truly earnest spirits.  The instructors here can't afford to waste time. You may go along with the hundreds of workers and patients of the Ministries of Regeneration and Assistance."

"I trust you will profit by it." He added, encouragingly.

My new day was spent in intense activity. The visit to my mother and her enlightening words on the practice of good had filled my spirit with sublime contentment. At first her explanation of the hour-bonus had raised certain doubts in my mind how could compensation be granted by God? Wasn't the reckoning of time a task of the spirit or human administrator? Tobias explained that the task of recording the period of service was generally assigned to administrators, as was that of fixing standards of wages and privileges according to a worker's merit, but only the Divine Forces could accurately calculate the essential value of time. There are workers who, after devoting forty years to some activity, end up just as inefficient as they began, a sure sign that they accomplished their task without the least spiritual interest. Likewise there are people who after a hundred years of earthly life will depart just as ignorant as they arrived.

"To understand how precious your mothers concept is," Tobias said, "it is enough to compare the hours spent by good men to those wasted by bad ones. The former become fountains of divine blessings, while the latter are instruments of torture and remorse. Each living being must settle accounts with the Father for opportunities received and work accomplished."

At the hour appointed for the lecture, following the evening prayer, Narcisa, Salustius and I made our way to a large "natural hall". The hall was a wonder of shades of green, and we sat on comfortable benches formed from the vegetation. Various flowers glittered under the light of the chandeliers and scented the air with ineffable perfume.

I looked around curiously. I noticed twenty of them sitting decidedly apart from the crowd, between us and the flowery mound which supported the lecturer's chair. I inquired, and Narcisa explained:

"We are seated with the regular audience. The brothers in the special seats are the most advanced students on the subject to be covered this evening. They are the only ones allowed to ask the instructor questions or present arguments. They have acquired this privilege through their applying themselves to that particular line of study. We may also attaint such a privilege, in time."

"Aren't you allowed to sit with them?" I asked.

"Not this evening. As yet, I may sit there only when the lecture deals with the treatment of disturbed entities. However, some my stay for lectures on more than one topic, according to the degree of the knowledge they have already acquired."

"A curious procedure." I remarked.

"The Governor," she continued, " established the procedure in all classes and lectures in the different ministries to keep them from being converted into futile discussions of unfounded personal beliefs. Any worthy doubts or differing viewpoints may be duly considered and elucidated, but only at the proper moment."

She had hardly finished speaking when Veneranda entered the hall, accompanied by two women of distinguished bearing, who, Narcisa informed me, were Ministers of Communication. Every face lit up with joy at the sight of Veneranda, who looked nothing like the old lady her name seemed to imply. She appeared to me to be noble, simple, and unaffected. After a brief exchange of words with the brothers in the special seating, she began by saying:

"As usual, our short meeting does not allow for long bursts of eloquence. I am here to talk to you about certain thought processes. Among us tonight are a few hundred listeners who are still surprised about the similarity of forms on the physical plane and in our spirit sphere. They have learned that thought is the universal language, and have been told that mental creation is the most important factor in spirit life. Numerous brothers are asking themselves questions, such as why they find earthly dwellings, utensils, and even the same forms of speech here.  Yet this fact should not be a motive of surprise to anyone. We must not forget that, up to now, while in the physical body, we have lived in circles of antagonistic vibrations. Thought is the basis of all spiritual relations, but we must keep in mind that we are millions of souls in the Universe still far from perfect obedience to universal laws. We cannot, as yet, be compared with our older and wiser brothers nearer to the Divine Spheres. We are millions of entities living in the undisciplined 'inferior worlds' of our Ego. The great instructors of physical mankind teach divine principles and expound eternal truths, but in our earthly life we generally learn these laws without obeying them; we acknowledge these truths without consecrating our lives to them.

"Now then, do you imagine that by just admitting the power of thought, man can be purged of his inferior condition? Certainly not, it would be impossible. A hundred years on the planet represent much too short a period of training for us to become divine cooperators. During our earthly apprenticeship, we learn the principles of mental force, but forget that, for thousands of years, we have used our thought energies to form destructive mental creations, or at best creations harmful to ourselves.

"We follow courses of spiritualization in the various religious schools of the world, yet, with most of us, it is frequently a question of mere verbal adherence, of lip service and nothing else. No one, however, can attend to his duty through words alone. The Bible teaches us that the Lord of Life Himself did not stop with the Word, but put His creative work into Action.

"We all know that though is an essential force, but we overlook the fact that we have misused that force over centuries. We all know that it is man's duty to provide for his own children; likewise each spirit is compelled to maintain and nourish his own creations. A criminal idea will produce mental creations of the same nature; a lofty principle will observer the same laws. Let me illustrate the fact with a more objective example. After rising to great heights, water is purified and carries vigorous vital fluids, returning as the vivifying dew and generous rains. Keep it on Earth, mixed with the impurities on the soil, and it will become   a foul mire, a habitat for destructive micro-organisms.

"Thought is a living force everywhere. It is the creative atmosphere involving the Father and His children, the Cause and Effects in the Universal Home. Through it men become either angels on their way to heaven or devilish fiends on the road to hell. Have you grasped the importance of this? Of course, evolved minds, both discarnate and incarnate, may communicate mentally without any need for form. Thought is, in itself, the basis of all of the mind's silent messages within the marvelous planes of intuition shared by beings of all kinds. Within this principle, a spirit who has lived only in France can communicate, mind-to-mind, with one in Brazil, regardless of language barriers. The language will always be that of the receiver. This, of course, depends on perfect attunement. However, we are not yet in the spheres of mental purity where all creatures are perfectly attuned to one another. Here we attune to one another in isolated groups and are compelled to carry on the transitory tasks of the planet so that we may return to it with a higher degree of efficiency.

"Therefore, the Astral City as a transitory spirit colony is a great blessing granted us as an 'additional mercy' in order that a few may prepare themselves to rise to higher spheres, and the majority may return to Earth on redeeming missions. I beg you, my friends, let us all realize the importance of the processes of the mind and live up to them from now on."

"Who is willing to try?" She said as she smiled to the audience after a long pause.

Soft music filled the air with melodious strains. The instructor continued to speak, radiating love, comprehension, sympathy and wisdom. Then, without any preparatory phrases or gestures, she closed her talk with a question.

"What? Is the lecture over already?" I asked, surprised to see the audience rising to leave.

"That's Veneranda's way." The nurse answered with a smile. "She always finishes her talks when the listeners are the most enthusiastic. She likes to say that the lessons of the Gospel began with Jesus, but no one knows when and how they will end."

Chapter 38   TOBIAS' HOME 

On my third day in the Chambers of Rectification, Tobias delighted me with a pleasant surprise. After work, when the night attendants had taken over, I was taken to his home, where moments of instructive entertainment awaited me.

When we arrived he introduced me to two women, one already elderly and the other approaching middle age. He explained that the first was his sister, the second his wife. Lucian and Hilda, both gracious and affable, welcomed me cordially.

We gathered in library, where I noticed beautifully bound books, all works of great spiritual value. Hilda invited me into the garden to see some delicately shaded arbors. Each residence in the Astral City seemed to specialize in raising certain flowers. Lysias' home contained gloxinias and hundreds of lilies, while numerous hydrangea banks rose luxuriantly from a carpet of violets at Tobias' home. Here and there rose clusters of slender trees, reminding me of young bamboo, whose upper branches were joined by enormous flowery bows of a curious climbing plant, forming a graceful canopy.

An intoxicating fragrance floated in the air. I couldn't put my admiration fully into words. We were speaking of the beauty of the landscape in general, as seen from that angle of the Ministry of Regeneration, when Luciana called us back to the house for a light meal.

Enchanted with the simple and cordial family atmosphere, I could find no words to give thanks to my host. After some friendly talk, Tobias said, smiling:

"My friend André here is a newcomer to out Ministry, and probably doesn't know my family background yet."

They all smiled at me, and, noticing my silent interest, the head of the household continued:

"In fact, there are several families similar to outs here. You see, I was married twice…."  He added, pointing to both ladies good humouredly.

"Yes, indeed." I stammered, extremely confused, "You mean that both Hilda and Luciana shared your experiences on Earth."

"Exactly." He answered calmly.

Hilda turned to me and said apologetically:

"You must excuse our Tobias, brother André. Whenever we entertain newcomers from Earth he always starts talking about the past."

"And why not?" Tobias asked, good humouredly. "Shouldn't it be a motive of legitimate joy to conquer the monster of jealousy, acquiring at least a small degree of true brotherly love?"

"The problem really does concern us all." I remarked. "There are millions of people on Earth who have twice made sacred marriage vows. Ho would we resolve such a delicate sentimental problem in the face of spiritual survival? We know that physical death merely transforms without destroying, and that spirit ties continue unbroken throughout infinity. How to proceed, then? Condemn the man or woman for marrying more than once? We would find millions of creatures in the same circumstances. I have often wondered at the passage in the Gospel in which the Master, referring to marriage in Eternity, promises us the life of angels."

"We must remember, however," added the kind host, "with all due respect to out Lord, that we aren't yet in the sphere of angels, but that of discarnate people."

"But how can we cope with such a problem here?" I asked.

"Very simply. We know that between the irrational animal and rational man there are a series of gradational positions. Likewise, between ourselves and the angels there is a great distance to travel. Therefore, how could we aspire to the company of such angelic beings if we aren't even fraternal with each other? Of course, there are strong hearted travelers who, in a supreme effort of the will, face and surpass each obstacle they meet. The majority, however, can't do without bridges or the charitable help of devoted guides. Because of this truth, cases of this nature are settled through genuine brotherhood, keeping in mind that true marriage, a union of souls, can never be broken."

Luciana, who had kept silent, joined in"

"However, it's only fair to add that we owe our present condition of happiness and comprehension to Hilda's spirit of love and self-denial."

But Tobias' wife protested with humble dignity:

"Oh, please. Don't bestow virtues on me which I don't possess. But, so that our guest might learn from my painful apprenticeship, I'll try to summarize our story."

With an introductory gesture, she began her touching story:

"Tobias and I were married while still very young, in deference to the sacred spirit affinity we felt. I don't think it necessary to describe the happiness of two souls who, united by real love, are joined in the holy vows of matrimony. Death, however, seemed jealous of our great bliss, and ended my physical life when our second child was born. Our grief was indescribable. Tobias wept hopelessly while I felt incapable of controlling my own despair.

"Oh, the sad days I spent in the Lower Zone, stubbornly clutching to my husband and two children, deaf to all exhortations sent me by my spirit friends. I wanted to fight, like a mother hen defending her nest, yet I realized that Tobias had to reorganize the home and that the children were badly in need of maternal care. My sister-in-law, who was single, couldn't stand the children, and the cook only feigned dedication to them. The two young nurses were unreliable girls, incapable of assuming any serious responsibilities.

"Faced with that unbearable situation, Tobias could no longer put off an urgent decision, and one year after my death he married Luciana. If you only knew how I fought against it I was like a wounded tiger! In my ignorance, I went as far as to struggle against the poor girl, trying to kill her. It was than that Jesus, in His great mercy, granted me the providential visit of my maternal grandmother, who had passed over so many years before. I was greatly surprised to see her arriving somewhat casually, as if for no special purpose. She sat down and drew me to her lap, just as she used to when I was a child. She asked, tearfully, 'well now, my grandchild. What is your role in life are you a lioness or a soul conscious of God? Don't you see that our sister Luciana acts as a mother to your children, keeps your house, tends to your garden, and puts up with your husband's moods? Do you think she isn't good enough to become his temporary companion in the struggles of life? Is this the way to show your gratitude for divine benevolence and reward those who serve you? Do you want to accept Luciana as a slave, but despise her as a sister? Hilda, have you forgotten the teachings of the Crucified? My poor, misguided grandchild'.

"Throwing my arms around my grandmother's neck I cried my heart out. I abandoned my old home in her company and came to serve in this blessed spirit colony. Luciana became as one of my daughters, and I began to devote all my energies to serious studies and to the moral improvement of my inner self. Tobias raised another family, which also became mine by sacred spirit bonds. I tried to help everyone in my old home, without exception. In time Tobias came to join me here, and finally, to out great joy, Luciana also arrived. This, my friend, is our story."

"But Hilda didn't tell you how much she had to go through to teach me with her example." Added Luciana.

"Now no …" objected Tobias' wife, stroking Luciana's hand. Luciana continued with a smile:

"Thanks to Jesus and to Hilda I learned that there are different kinds of marriages: those of love, of fraternal motives, of tests, and of duty. The day Hilda granted me forgiveness with a fraternal kiss I felt that my heart broke away from the monster of jealousy. Spiritual matrimony forges a bond of souls, while others, even though sacred, are merely covenants of duty needed for the readjustment of past errors of fulfillment of redeeming processes."

"And so we organized our new home based on true brotherhood" Tobias added.

"How are marriages made here?" I asked, availing myself of a pause.

"Through vibratory combination," Tobias explained kindly, "or to make it clearer, by perfect attunement."

Unable to control my curiosity, and forgetting my manners, I went on:

"But what is Luciana's position, exactly?"

"When a married Tobias, a widower, I should have known that our union would probably be fraternal. Yet it cost me much suffering to understand that. In fact, it is only logical co conclude that when a couple suffers from restlessness, incomprehension and sadness their marriage is only a physical union, not a spiritual bond."

I still had another question, but could find no words to express it without seeming unduly indiscreet. Hilda sensed my thoughts, however:

"Don't worry, Luciana is already spiritually betrothed. Her companion of many earthly existences returned to the physical sphere a few years ago and she'll follow him next year. I think the happy meeting will be in Sao Paulo."

We all smiled joyfully. At that moment Tobias was called to the Chambers of Rectification to attend to a serious case. Thus our pleasant talk came to an abrupt end.

Next chapters: 39 & 40.