“Character” and “decency” emerged as the defining themes in the eulogies for Jimmy Carter, standing as a testament to a once-prevailing standard in American politics. Carter’s life, marked by integrity and service, reflects an era when public trust relied on the moral fiber of its leaders. This reverence for ethical leadership contrasts starkly with the election of the first convicted felon to the presidency—a moment signaling an extraordinary shift. It marks the fading of a political tradition where lawfulness and accountability were bedrock principles.

Carter’s presidency (1977-1981), though fraught with challenges such as the Iran hostage crisis and economic struggles, was rooted in a deep commitment to moral and ethical leadership. He prioritized human rights on the global stage, making it a centerpiece of U.S. foreign policy, and brokered the landmark Camp David Accords, securing a historic peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. At home, his administration emphasized energy independence, laying the groundwork for renewable energy initiatives in response to the oil crises of the 1970s.

Carter’s post-presidency only magnified his legacy. He became a tireless humanitarian advocate, working through The Carter Center to combat diseases, promote free elections, and champion global peace. His life was an embodiment of service and humility, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for decades of dedication to improving humanity.

This legacy of ethical and service-oriented leadership starkly contrasts with the election of the first convicted felon to the U.S. presidency—a moment that signals a monumental shift in the nation’s political character. Carter represented an era where integrity, humility, and a sense of global responsibility defined leadership. The current political landscape, however, raises profound questions about how much these values still resonate in the evolving narrative of American democracy. What does leadership mean when the qualities that once defined it—honesty, lawfulness, and decency—no longer hold sway?

A Century in Four Quarters: 1925–2025

The last hundred years have been a period of remarkable transformation, marked by profound crises, unparalleled advancements, and sweeping cultural shifts. In general terms,

• 1925–1950: Radio broadcasting and the Lost Generation writers. The Great Depression and the New Deal, the Spanish Civil War —a precursor to World War II, the Holocaust and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki— and the founding of the United Nations.  
• 1950–1975: Television. The Cold War (and the Space Race) pitted capitalist democracies against communist regimes while significant social movements (civil rights, decolonization) began to challenge existing power structures (1960s sexual revolution).
• 1975–2000: Music TV and the New Hollywood. Rise of environmental awareness, the end of the Cold War (fall of the Berlin Wall and dissolution of the Soviet Union), digital revolution (personal computers, the WWW, cell phones), and the accelerating pace of globalization (world trade, global pop culture).
• 2000–2025: Smartphones, social media and artificial intelligence. September 11, 2001, the 2008 financial crisis, climate crises and the COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the interconnectedness and vulnerability of modern society.

The Lost Generation

• Ernest Hemingway: Known for his terse prose and themes of heroism and masculinity, Hemingway’s works like “A Farewell to Arms” and “The Sun Also Rises” capture the disillusionment of the post-war era.
• F. Scott Fitzgerald: His novel “The Great Gatsby” is a quintessential depiction of the Jazz Age and critiques the American Dream.
• Gertrude Stein: An influential figure in the Paris literary scene, she coined the term “Lost Generation” and was a mentor to many writers of the time.
• T.S. Eliot: Although primarily a poet, his works like “The Waste Land” reflect the fragmentation and despair of the post-war world.

These writers often lived as expatriates in Paris, where they found a vibrant cultural scene that contrasted with the conservative values of post WW-I America. Their works continue to be celebrated for their exploration of themes like identity, alienation, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.

Hollywood

1. Early Beginnings (1900s-1920s): Hollywood began as a small agricultural community in Los Angeles. The film industry started to move there in the early 1900s to take advantage of the favorable weather and diverse landscapes. By the 1920s, Hollywood had become the center of the American film industry, with major studios like Paramount, Warner Bros., and Universal establishing themselves.
2. Golden Age (1930s-1940s): This era is marked by the dominance of the studio system, where major studios controlled all aspects of film production and distribution. Iconic films like “Gone with the Wind” and “Casablanca” were produced, and stars like Clark Gable and Katharine Hepburn became household names. The introduction of sound in films, or “talkies,” revolutionized the industry.
3. Post-War Changes (1950s-1960s): The post-war era saw the decline of the studio system due to antitrust laws and the rise of television, which competed for audiences. Hollywood responded by producing more epic films and experimenting with new technologies like Cinemascope and Technicolor. This period also saw the emergence of new genres and more diverse storytelling.
4. New Hollywood (1970s-1980s): A new generation of filmmakers, including Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, and Martin Scorsese, emerged, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative techniques. Blockbusters like “Jaws” and “Star Wars” redefined commercial cinema, focusing on high-concept films with mass appeal.
5. Modern Era (1990s-Present): The rise of digital technology transformed filmmaking, with CGI and special effects becoming integral to blockbuster films. The industry has also seen significant changes with the advent of streaming services, altering how films are distributed and consumed. Hollywood continues to be a major cultural force, producing content that reaches global audiences.

Throughout its history, Hollywood has been a reflection of societal changes, adapting to new technologies and audience preferences while continuing to shape global culture through its storytelling.

U.S. Presidents

1. Herbert Hoover (1929-1933): His presidency was marked by the onset of the Great Depression.
2. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933-1945): Elected to four terms, he led the country through the Great Depression and most of World War II. The New Deal.
3. Harry S. Truman (1945-1953): Took office after FDR’s death and was elected for a full term in 1948.
4. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961): A former WWII general, he served two terms during a period of economic prosperity.
5. John F. Kennedy (1961-1963): Assassinated in 1963, his presidency is noted for the Cuban Missile Crisis and the space race.
6. Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969): Took office after Kennedy’s assassination and was elected for a full term in 1964. Civil rights legislation.
7. Richard Nixon (1969-1974): Resigned due to the Watergate scandal.
8. Gerald Ford (1974-1977): Took office after Nixon’s resignation.
   
9. Jimmy Carter (1977-1981): His presidency focused on human rights and energy policy. A point of inflection in the 1925-2025 century. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter had solar panels installed on the White House roof as a symbol of his commitment to renewable energy and energy conservation. However, in 1986, during Ronald Reagan’s presidency, the solar panels were removed during roof repairs and were not reinstalled. Reagan’s administration had a different energy policy focus, which did not prioritize renewable energy.
   
10. Ronald Reagan (1981-1989): Known for his conservative policies and the end of the Cold War.
11. George H. W. Bush (1989-1993): Oversaw the Gulf War and the end of the Cold War.
12. Bill Clinton (1993-2001): His presidency saw economic prosperity and the impeachment trial.
13. George W. Bush (2001-2009): His terms were marked by the 9/11 attacks and the Iraq War.
14. Barack Obama (2009-2017): The first African American president, known for the Affordable Care Act.
    Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the pivotal 2010 Supreme Court ruling which held that corporate funding of independent political broadcasts in candidate elections cannot be limited under the First Amendment. This decision effectively allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns, leading to the rise of Super PACs and a significant increase in the influence of money in U.S. elections.
15. Donald Trump (2017-2021): His presidency was marked by significant political polarization.
16. Joe Biden (2021-2025): Focused on COVID-19 recovery, climate change, and restoring international alliances.
17. Donald Trump (2025- ): First convicted felon elected to the US presidency, conferred absolute immunity by the US Supreme Court for crimes committed as official acts of the presidency.

Notes from the Ageless Wisdom

Christ as the Forerunner of the Aquarian Age

In June, 1945, at the time of the full moon (so significant a day in the spiritual experience of the Christ), He definitely and consciously took over His duties and responsibilities as the Teacher and Leader during the Aquarian solar cycle. He is the first of the great world Teachers to cover two zodiacal cycles—the Piscean and the Aquarian. This is a statement easily made and written down, but again it involves the three modes or techniques of appearance to which I have already referred. His outpouring love and spiritual vitality (augmented by the energies of the Spirit of Peace, the Avatar of Synthesis and the Buddha) were refocused and channeled into a great stream, pulled through into expression (if I may word it so inadequately) by the words of the Invocation, “Let love stream forth into the hearts of men…. Let Light and Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.” (p.82)

***

The Stage of the Forerunner

Thus a great and new movement is proceeding and a tremendously increased interplay and interaction is taking place. This will go on until A.D. 2025. During the years intervening between now and then very great changes will be seen taking place, and at the great General Assembly of the Hierarchy—held as usual every century—in 2025 the date in all probability will be set for the first stage of the externalization of the Hierarchy. The present cycle (from now until that date) is called technically “The Stage of the Forerunner”. It is preparatory in nature, testing in its methods, and intended to be revelatory in its techniques and results. You can see therefore that Chohans, Masters, initiates, world disciples, disciples and aspirants affiliated with the Hierarchy are all at this time passing through a cycle of great activity. (p. 530)

The Tibetan Master in The Externalization of the Hierarchy published by the Lucis Trust.

Flawed meritocracy

• Inequality in Starting Points
  Meritocracy assumes that everyone begins on an even playing field, but this is rarely the case. Factors like socioeconomic status, race, gender, and geography influence access to education, healthcare, and other essentials. When some individuals start with significant disadvantages, their ability to succeed is hindered, making meritocratic outcomes inherently unequal.
• Unequal Access to Opportunities
  The system often overlooks how access to opportunities is distributed. For instance, wealthier individuals can afford better schools, tutors, or networking options—advantages that others cannot match, regardless of their talent or effort. Without universal access to resources, meritocracy benefits those who already hold privilege.
• Systemic Bias and Discrimination
  Implicit biases and structural inequities can skew judgments of merit. For example, hiring practices, standardized testing, or performance evaluations often favor certain demographics or perpetuate stereotypes. Such biases mean that merit is not assessed purely on skill or effort, but is shaped by systemic inequities.
• Difficulty in Measuring Merit
  Merit is not an objective, universally agreed-upon concept. Success can hinge on many factors like intelligence, creativity, work ethic, or even luck. However, systemic priorities often emphasize quantifiable achievements like test scores or financial output, sidelining intangible qualities that are equally significant.
• Reinforcement of Elitism
  Over time, meritocracy can evolve into an oligarchy of “merit elites.” Once people or groups achieve success, they often use their status to entrench their position, favoring their networks and limiting competition. This self-perpetuating cycle undermines the very principles of fairness and opportunity that meritocracy claims to uphold.
• Oversimplification of Human Value
  A merit-based system risks reducing individuals to their economic or academic output, disregarding the inherent worth and dignity of all people. When a society equates merit to value, those deemed less “productive” are marginalized, which contradicts democratic ideals of equality and inclusivity.
• Neglect of Structural Barriers
  Meritocracy often ignores the broader systemic forces shaping outcomes, such as institutional corruption, uneven policy impacts, or intergenerational poverty. It focuses on individual effort while failing to address collective barriers that prevent equitable participation.
• Erosion of Social Solidarity
  Framing society as a competition of merit can divide communities. It fosters resentment among those left behind and arrogance among the successful. Democratic societies thrive on cooperation and mutual respect, but unchecked meritocratic values can erode these principles, prioritizing competition over compassion.
• Overemphasis on Individual Failings
  Meritocracy tends to blame individuals for their lack of success, overlooking systemic obstacles outside their control. This narrative can stigmatize those struggling to meet arbitrary standards, deepening their disenfranchisement and alienating them from democratic processes.

By failing to address these limitations, a meritocratic framework risks reinforcing inequality and undermining the social justice it claims to promote. True equity requires more comprehensive strategies that go beyond individual achievement to dismantle systemic barriers and create inclusive opportunities for all.

Spiritual Meritocracy

This meritocracy would function as a compassionate hierarchy. Those who possess greater knowledge and skills would lead, not with arrogance or condescension, but with empathy and benevolence. They would guide others willingly, understanding that leadership’s purpose is service, not dominance. The task of such servant leaders would not be to impose but to enlighten, nurturing growth in others while preserving the dignity of all. True leadership would be marked by humility and a steadfast commitment to the common good.

–Imagine

A flawed meritocracy and a spiritual meritocracy represent fundamentally different principles and modes of operation, especially in how they approach equality, opportunity, and generational renewal.

1. Foundations of Equality

A flawed meritocracy assumes that individuals rise and fall based on their abilities and accomplishments. However, this ideal is undermined by systemic biases, unequal access to resources, and privileges tied to wealth, race, or family connections. These inequities distort the playing field, ensuring that success often reflects starting advantages rather than pure merit.

On the other hand, a spiritual meritocracy begins with the recognition of the essential equality of all human beings. This equality is rooted in the shared immanence of a divine essence, placing every individual on an equal footing as a spiritual being. Success here is not measured by external achievements but by inner growth, wisdom, and the ability to contribute selflessly to the greater good.

2. Approach to Opportunity

Flawed meritocracy places disproportionate emphasis on access to material opportunities, which are often concentrated in the hands of a few. Education, career advancement, and professional networks become gatekept by privilege. Despite the rhetoric of fairness, this system perpetuates cycles of exclusion by valuing measurable outputs like grades, productivity, or wealth, which themselves are tied to pre-existing advantages.

Spiritual meritocracy, by contrast, offers an open path of upward mobility to anyone willing and ready to undertake the inward work of spiritual maturity. It is inclusive in nature, requiring neither wealth, birthright, nor social standing for advancement. Opportunity in this system arises from the internal effort to develop virtues such as compassion, humility, and dedication to service, making growth accessible to all regardless of external circumstances.

3. Generational Transition

A flawed meritocracy often emphasizes protecting the positions of successful individuals and their descendants. Wealth and influence are passed down through familial or social connections, effectively limiting access for the next generation of potential talent. With elites preserving their status, the system calcifies, breeding resentment and stagnation.

Spiritual meritocracy, by design, avoids such stagnation. The transition of roles and responsibilities is guided by the readiness and maturity of spiritual aspirants, not by familial or financial inheritance. Older generations of accomplished servers of humanity step aside to make space for younger individuals who demonstrate the capacity to uplift others and carry forward the ideals of selfless service. This creates a living, dynamic cycle of renewal, untainted by nepotism or material ambition.

4. Objectives and Values

Ultimately, the two systems pursue divergent goals. A flawed meritocracy prioritizes material success and outward markers of achievement, often reinforcing competition and individualism. It risks sidelining those who cannot fit its narrow definitions of merit, reducing human value to productivity or social standing.

Spiritual meritocracy, however, is guided by selfless service and the collective upliftment of humanity. It values the moral and spiritual growth of individuals as a means to benefit the whole, fostering cooperation and unity. The system celebrates progress at all levels of maturity, emphasizing shared purpose and inclusivity while honoring the inherent dignity of every person.

A Choice of Path

Where a flawed meritocracy is plagued by inequity and self-interest, a spiritual meritocracy stands as an alternative model grounded in fairness, humility, and continuous renewal. It challenges society to look beyond material wealth and privilege, emphasizing the timeless truth that our shared humanity and spiritual evolution bind us more deeply than any worldly measure of success.

A Hierarchical Democracy is a form of constitutional government (of the enlightened people, by the enlightened people, for the enlightenment of the people) in which political power is exercised by consent of the governed, as a result of consensus between an enlightened meritocracy of servant leaders qualified by spiritual training and experience, and the free and fully informed (good) will of an enlightened public, adept in self-rule and right human relations. This system operates with full transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness, upholding civil liberties, protecting human rights, and ensuring equal representation. It features a robust separation of powers and impartial judicial oversight to maintain a balanced and fair governance structure.

–Promoting ethical government

Bridging Divides
Through Esoteric Advent

The concept of Advent carries an intrinsic call to pause, reflect, and prepare. Traditionally seen as a season of spiritual preparation, an esoteric reinterpretation of Advent could serve not just as a personal practice but as a communal one—a way to foster deeper understanding in a polarized political climate. By focusing inward through rituals imbued with meaning, such as the lighting of candles adorned with zodiac symbols, individuals may find clarity and a renewed capacity for connection with others. This practice offers a model for weaving introspective spirituality with a broader, empathetic engagement with the world.

… unveiling the esoteric significance of Advent, linking the four Sundays to the zodiac signs Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius as stages of spiritual preparation leading to Capricorn’s Winter Solstice. Virgo symbolizes inner readiness for rebirth, Libra calls for harmony and discernment, Scorpio represents transformation through struggle, and Sagittarius inspires vision and purpose. This cycle reflects a profound spiritual journey, beginning in Aries with divine ideation and culminating in Pisces with salvation and service. Advent mirrors the zodiac’s themes of rebirth, spiritual growth, and the call to carry inner light outward to help uplift the world. This mystical perspective invites readers to see Advent as a reflection of their own spiritual evolution.

– Esoteric Significance of Advent – Agni Yoga

The Rebirth of the Notre Dame Cathedral

At its heart, Advent is a time of renovation—a renewal of the self and of our relationships with others. Consider the recent reconstruction of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Destroyed by fire five years ago, it has now been rebuilt in full splendor, bringing together the best of the cathedral’s historic design and modern innovations like fire safeguards and durable materials. The restoration embodies the spirit of Advent. It balances reverence for tradition with bold creativity, creating something stronger and more enduring. This same philosophy can guide us in addressing political divides, blending the wisdom of the past with forward-thinking approaches.

A Path Toward Understanding

Advent promotes principles that can help bridge contemporary divides. Empathetic listening, for instance, mirrors the stillness and humility that Advent reflection encourages. Just as Notre Dame was painstakingly restored stone by stone, conversations across political and ideological lines require careful, patient effort. Listening to others—seeking not to refute but to understand—lays a foundation for trust and mutual respect. Imagine the guiding light of an Advent candle in this process, gradually illuminating darkness not through force but through persistent, gentle clarity.

To effectively engage with people who hold diverse viewpoints, it is crucial to step out of echo chambers and intentionally seek perspectives that differ from our own. This requires empathetic listening aimed at understanding others’ worldviews before expecting them to understand ours. We must also remain open to rethinking our own positions, practicing humility and being willing to adapt to new information. Avoiding assumptions about others’ motivations and resisting the urge to reduce them to a single opinion fosters respect and opens the door to meaningful dialogue. Identifying shared interests helps build trust and connection, while patience and a long-term perspective are essential for sustained progress. Solutions that benefit all parties are most effective, especially when approached creatively. Recognizing that facts alone may not sway opinions, we should focus on building human connections and using narrative, emotion, and trusted communication channels. Lastly, a proactive approach—offering ideas and engaging thoughtfully—can break down polarization and encourage cooperation for meaningful change.
-Narayan KMV, Patel SA. Addressing Polarizing Issues in Public Health: Ten Principles for Effective Dialog. Public Health Reports®. 2024;0(0). doi:10.1177/00333549241298100

The practice of humility echoes the restoration work itself. Much like Notre Dame now stands stronger against future fires, humility invites us to rebuild our views when necessary, integrating new insights to fortify our understanding. Advent’s emphasis on introspection encourages us to examine our positions with courage, just as builders addressed the cathedral’s flaws—prioritizing safety without compromising its original beauty. By doing so ourselves, we create space for dialogue that is grounded yet flexible.

Stories and Shared Meaning

Advent’s themes of preparation and connection also inspire us to find common ground. Stories—whether conveyed as parables or personal experiences—have the power to humanize and unite. A narrative can open hearts in ways that facts alone often cannot. Notre Dame itself tells a story. It’s a symbol of resilience, cherished not only by Parisians but by people worldwide. Its reconstruction resonates because it represents something universal—hope, faith, and the beauty found in renewal.

Similarly, in the polarized environment of US politics, stories can reveal shared human struggles and aspirations, reminding us that the forces dividing us are often smaller than those holding us together. A candlelit Advent practice can highlight this truth, each flame symbolizing a shared hope for transformation and a brighter future.

Balance Between Tradition and Innovation

Notre Dame’s restoration balanced tradition with innovation, just as Advent calls for a blending of introspection and outward action. The cathedral’s spire, once destroyed, has been reimagined—not as an exact replica, but as a beacon rising from the ashes with deeper strength. This serves as a metaphor for our political systems and relationships. Holding onto what works while redesigning what doesn’t is essential, whether it’s fireproofing a historic structure or reforming civic discourse to better handle disagreements. Like the careful integration of past and present in rebuilding Notre Dame, we can approach ideological divides with a balance of respect for tradition and openness to change.

By identifying common interests, we can shift focus away from the barriers that divide us and work creatively toward shared goals. Just as Notre Dame stands as a testament to the harmony of old and new, a thoughtful approach to political dialogue can blend our differences into a stronger, unified vision.

Proactive Renewal and Hope

Advent reminds us that change, like the rebuilding of Notre Dame, isn’t immediate—it’s a process of steady, intentional action. Starting with small, potent symbols—candles, zodiac keynotes, or the spiritual stillness at the heart of the season—can inspire broader transformation over time. Through constant reflection and intentional engagement, the fractured becomes whole and the polarized reconciled.

The framework of Advent, and the story of Notre Dame’s renewal, teach us the same lesson. To move forward, it’s not enough to repair what’s broken. We must rebuild in a way that guards against future harm while honoring the beauty of what came before. By opening ourselves to understanding, anchoring our efforts in empathy, and innovating creatively, we can transcend division and illuminate a path toward unity. When we light the flames of renewal—whether through candles or actions—we bring hope and possibility into the spaces where darkness once prevailed.

TRANSPERSONAL POLITICS

The unconquerable nature of goodness
and the inevitability of the ultimate triumph of good.
–https://hierarchicaldemocracy.blog/2024/11/07/transpersonal-politics/

“My concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side, for God is always right.” – Abraham Lincoln

In serving each other we become free

“May God grant us the wisdom to discover right, the will to choose it, and the strength to make it endure.” -King Arthur’s pledge encapsulating the values of the Knights of the Round Table as portrayed in film “The First Knight.”

World Day of Thanksgiving

Imagine Camelot at its finest hour—a realm defined not by conquest or riches, but by the ideals of service, freedom, and the shared pursuit of a meaningful life. If King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table were to host a World Day of Thanksgiving, it would not resemble the feasts of modern history tied to new beginnings on foreign shores. Instead, this day would stand as an enduring testament to their motto, “In serving each other we become free,” intertwining seamlessly with the universal aspiration for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

A Gathering of Equals

At the heart of Camelot’s Thanksgiving lies the Round Table itself, a symbol of equality, unity, and mutual respect. Here, there are no thrones, no elevated platforms for the powerful. Every knight, from the boldest warrior to the humblest squire honored for service, takes a seat at the circle, creating a space where every voice carries equal weight. This setting reinforces the idea that community thrives when no one stands above another, no one is above the law, drawing a parallel to the sacred promise of liberty—a liberty that demands participation and collaboration.

On this day of Thanksgiving, King Arthur would rise not as a king commanding allegiance but as a steward of shared ideals. His opening words might echo the wisdom of their creed, “The freedom we cherish is born from our care for one another. May we show gratitude for the bonds we have forged, for the lives enriched through service and to the One in Whom ‘we live and move and have our being’ for sustaining us—the turning of seasons, the bounty of the earth, and the strength we find in one another. May we live not only to receive these blessings but to share them freely, honoring the spirit that connects us all.”

Celebrating through Service

Rather than indulgence in celebration alone, this Thanksgiving would be a day of action. Across Camelot, knights and villagers alike would dedicate the morning to acts of service. Knights might fetch water from distant wells for the elderly, repair the homes of widows, or labor alongside farmers in the fields. They would lead by example, embodying humility and shared purpose, proving that strength lies in uplifting one another.

These acts would reflect the profound connections between service and liberty. Just as Camelot’s motto proclaims that true freedom is achieved through service, the act of giving reinforces the bonds that make liberty sustainable. Without unity—the willingness to shoulder one another’s burdens—the pursuit of happiness can become hollow. Camelot, on this Day of Thanksgiving, would demonstrate that serving others is not a sacrifice. It is a path to a deeper fulfillment.

The Feast of Harmony

When the afternoon sun sinks low and the work is done, the citizens of Camelot would convene for a communal feast. Decorated with garlands, fresh fruits, and bread from shared ovens, the Round Table becomes more than a meeting place; it transforms into a symbol of abundance achieved through collective effort. Each villager brings something—a basket of apples, a brace of hares, or a tale of the year’s blessings to share. Gratitude is not confined to material gifts but expressed in stories, songs, and fellowship.

Here, the spirit of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” finds its reflection. Life is honored through the food born of the land and labor; liberty is celebrated in the unbridled laughter of a free people; and happiness is captured in the seamless unity of diverse individuals gathered as one.

King Arthur might propose a toast, raising his chalice high to the motto that surrounds them, engraved on the great table itself. “To the bonds that sustain us, to the service —which is our freedom— that makes us strong, and to God Almighty: may we always be on His side.” His words would remind all present that freedom is not an abstract gift bestowed by a ruler but a living entity nurtured by every hand and heart in the kingdom.

Lessons for All Ages

Though the world of Camelot exists in legend, its ideals remain timeless. The motto “In serving each other we become free” speaks to a truth that transcends eras and nations. It shares kinship with the Declaration of Independence‘s affirmation of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” in that both emphasize the responsibilities that tie freedom to collective well-being. One cannot live fully without the freedom to serve others, and one cannot pursue happiness alone, separated from the needs of the community.

If Camelot can teach us anything, it is that Thanksgiving—true Thanksgiving—is not confined to gratitude for what we have. It must also be gratitude in action, expressed through the selfless commitment to others. On their World Day of Thanksgiving, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table would show us the way, celebrating not the triumphs of a single people but the enduring strength of humanity united through service, freedom, and shared hope.

A Call to Act

Today, the echo of Camelot’s example invites us to reflect on how we give thanks and what it means to live freely. Can we, too, create a community where our service to one another ensures the flourishing of all? Can we build a round table of our own, where no one stands above another?

The Knights of the Round Table understood that liberty’s promise hinges on something greater than individual ambition. It rests in the hands of those who see freedom not as an end, but as a gift magnified only through service. This Thanksgiving, in whatever way you can, may you honor that truth.

On the Wrong Side of History

“What I offer you is freedom; freedom from Arthur’s tyrannical dream; freedom from Arthur’s tyrannical law; freedom from Arthur’s tyrannical God… Men don’t want brotherhood, they want leadership.” -Malagant as portrayed in film “The First Knight.”

King Arthur’s toast stands as a beacon of hope, celebrating unity, service, and gratitude to God as the foundations of a just and flourishing society. In stark contrast, Maligan’s speech cynically rejects these ideals, casting them as oppressive and offering instead a hollow “freedom”—freedom from shared values, from mutual service, and from any sense of divine purpose. He glorifies leadership as dominance, dismissing the brotherhood Arthur cherishes as naive.

To progress, it is crucial for this society to acknowledge and address the influence of the Dweller. By doing so, it can dismantle the barriers that uphold divisiveness and the pursuit of selfish happiness. People have the right to pursue their own paths to happiness, as long as it does not infringe on the rights of others. This involves fostering dialogue, promoting empathy, and encouraging policies that reflect higher values. Only by overcoming these challenges can society evolve towards greater harmony and self-fulfillment, fulfilling its potential for both individual and collective enlightenment.

–The Dweller on the Threshold

History favors Arthur’s vision, where true freedom is born not from power or isolation but from the bonds of community and the pursuit of shared good. Maligan’s promise, stripped of responsibility and reverence, leads to fracture; Arthur’s dream inspires legacy.

On which side do we want to be?

From the center which we call the human race
Let the Plan of Love and Light work out
And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

Five Affirmations

1. Spiritual resistance does not resist evil, it closes the door where evil dwells.
2. Spiritual resistance does not engage evil in its own plane; it takes the higher ground, uplifting the adversary.
3. Spiritual resistance redirects the vectors of force of their adversary to the common good.
4. Truth does not resist evil; its light dissolve darkness.
5. Truth is. Evil is not.

So, when the adversary proclaims a post-truth world, spiritually resist evil affirming: not true!

Anger, hatred and their old ways: NOT TRUE!

From the center which we call the human race
Let the Plan of Love and Light work out
And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

Spiritual resistance is a practice of profound strength and clarity—not by fighting darkness, but by extinguishing its hold. It is not a clash of opposites, but a higher mode of engagement, one that transforms, uplifts, and reclaims the truth.

Closing the Door to Evil

Evil is powerless without a threshold to enter, so spiritual resistance begins by closing the door where it seeks to dwell. This is not a struggle; it is a refusal to give space to malice, deception, or hatred. Resisting evil in this way is not about conflict, but about leaving it no room to breathe.

Taking the Higher Ground

To meet evil on its own plane is to be ensnared by its terms. Spiritual resistance takes the higher ground, not engaging in battle but offering elevation. When faced with harm, it refuses to descend. Instead, it seeks to uplift—even the adversary—toward a condition of understanding and grace. This is not surrender; it is transcendence.

Transforming Forces

Spiritual resistance transforms. Rather than pushing back with equal force, it absorbs and redirects the energy of opposition toward the common good. Like an alchemist turning lead into gold, it transmutes negativity into something that serves higher purposes, altering the very fabric of conflict into cooperation.

The Light of Truth

Truth does not need to resist evil. Truth exists as light exists—when it shines, darkness vanishes. The presence of truth dissolves deception without brute effort. It is not a fight; it is a revelation.

The Paradox

Truth is. Evil is not. Evil persists only in the absence of truth; it is an illusion sustained by the shadows of ignorance or fear. To give it undue attention is to lend it credibility. But when truth asserts itself, the illusion disappears.

Resistance to Post-Truth

When faced with claims of a “post-truth” world, spiritual resistance does not argue; it simply proclaims, “Not true.” Lies gain their power from the energy we feed them. To declare the truth is to starve falsehood of its influence.

Affirming Truth

Anger, hatred, vengeance—these are tools of the old, broken cycle. They declare themselves loudly, but they are not true. To resist them spiritually is not to meet them with opposition, but to strip them of authority by naming their deception. We assert their irrelevance, saying with clarity and strength, “Not true.”

Living in the Light

Spiritual resistance is the act of refusing the shadows and living in the light. It relies not on force, but on the quiet, unshakable power of what is real and good. By closing the door to evil, uplifting those around us, and proclaiming truth, we dissolve the false and create space for a higher reality. To resist spiritually is, ultimately, to lead with love.

A Master Speaks on Non-Resistance to Evil

Your major job at this time is not to wrestle with the powers of evil and the forces of darkness, but to awaken an interest in and mobilise the forces of light and the resources of men of good will, and of right inclination in the world today. Resist not evil, but so organise and mobilise the good, and so strengthen the hands of the workers on the side of righteousness and love, that evil will find less opportunity.

-Esoteric Psychology Vol. 1, p. 691.

***

[Written during World War II] At this point I would like to pause for a moment and interpolate a word in answer to a perfectly normal question which is liable to arise in the minds of thinking students and aspirants today. Of what use is all this abstruse and abstract information to a world in agony and a world distressed? The major usefulness of this imparted information … lies far ahead in the period after the war when again the field of world service opens and men have time for thought and due reflection. World service is going on now perhaps in greater volume than ever before but it is restricted to the field of releasing from slavery and alleviation of pain [Page 443] and suffering, and, therefore, to the more strictly physical forms of help. The service to which I here refer is that educational process which will produce the coming civilisation and its attendant culture. This will be based on all the cultural processes of the past and of the present, but will discard all that has produced the disasters of today, as far as may be possible. That means a gradual future usefulness for the knowledge of the underlying potencies, for they can indicate the lines of least resistance to the emerging good and the developing crises which inevitably lie ahead in the period of reconstruction. But one potent good can emerge even at this time from a study of these matters, provided the student of esotericism rests not content with study (using it as an escape from the disastrous present) but parallels his understanding of the causes and conditions by a strenuous effort to be of aid in a practical and a definitely physical sense.

This is the dominant emerging fact to which all that I have said bears testimony: world conditions today—precipitated as they are by human greed and ignorance—are nevertheless basically conditioned by the will-to-good which is the primary quality of the energies and forces coming forth from the great Lives in which all that exist live and move and have their being. The Law of the Universe (and what is law but the working out of the purposes of these all-embracing Lives, of Their impulses and Their plans?) is to all eternity the good of the whole and naught can arrest this happening; for who can arrest the impact of these energies which play upon and through our planet. When I say this, I would at the same time point out that the attitude of many students, inevitably participants in world events, that “such is the Law and such is the Karma of people and nations and such is the pre-determined destiny” [Page 444] is far from right. They believe—sometimes sincerely—that all that should be done is simply to wait for results to appear and for karma and destiny to fulfil itself. Then and not till then, all will be well. But they forget that karma fulfils itself in relation to the form nature upon which it expends its energy and that where there is a static condition and a quiescent attitude, the process moves but slowly; the life then within the form fails to experience the needed, forceful awakening; inevitably then there lies ahead a repetition of the process until the time comes when activity and response is evoked. This then leads to resistance to the apparent karmic necessity and this brings about liberation. Only through resistance to evil (and in this world period and in this kali-yuga, as the Eastern teachers call it, it is an essential basic attitude) can karma be brought to an end. The law of matter still governs in the three worlds of human experience and “fire by friction” must burn up that which veils the steadily increasing brilliance of solar fire. It is the recognition of “solar fire”—as it shows itself in a transcendental idealism and radiance—by the unintelligent idealist, and his simultaneous refusal to cooperate in this period of karmic necessity, that is prolonging the difficult and cruel situation and leading him individually to sink deep into glamour. The simplification of the world’s problem in terms of matter comes through a recognition of the essential dualism underlying events. I commend this thought to all students, suggesting that they base optimism on the long range vision, endorsed by the Heavens and corroborated by the activity of the stars, and thus feel sure of the ending of this immediate tragic situation.

-The Tibetan Master in the book Esoteric Astrology published by the Lucis Trust

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