Beginning with the ordinary light
formations visible to the open eye, up to the complex fires of
the heart, we are led into the realm of the Fiery World. Fiery
World I (1933), paragraph 1
While observing the fiery signs one may note certain
subdivisions of people. Some strive eternally and cannot exist
without this uplifting movement—be assured that these belong to
the element of fire. Even though they err, they cannot remain
inactive. Observe them, and you will invariably discover the flaming
force. But do not seek the creative Fire in the inertia of earth,
the rolling undulations of water, the gusts of air.
We do not wish to extol the fiery
people unduly, but in truth it must be said that they move the
world. One should not forget that these people do not find it
easy to be in the midst of all other combinations. What is said
about the Fiery Angel with scorched wings is correct. When he
rushes to save the world, his phosphorescent wings brush against
the rocks of Earth and are scorched, and the Angel is weakened
thereby. Thus is disclosed the marked difference between the earthly
world and the Fiery.
The earthly eye, though it be highly
sensitive, does not usually assimilate even the subtle manifestations.
But, in turn, the Subtle World does not discern the fiery dwellers
to whom the flaming heart can lead one. Thus one can understand
the veneration for Fire. Human strivings are needed for a natural
affinity with the World of Fire. From early years they bear in
themselves, as it were, a reflection of the Higher Fire. It is
as if these sparks compel them to withdraw from contact with other
elements; and those elements do not like these fiery orbs. Yet
one cannot traverse the earthly path without contact with Fire,
hence it is better to know its essential nature. Fiery World (1933),
paragraph 2
When we speak of the non-scorching
fire, we must also not forget the consuming Fire. When the nun
moans, “I burn, I burn!” no physician knows how to alleviate it.
The physician may even apply cold water, forgetting that oil cannot
be submerged in water. Fire can be allayed only by fire—in other
words, by the energy of the heart, which flows during so-called
magnetism. We treat inflammation with a current; such inflammations
may flare up in various centers. But, actually, the chief danger
lies close to the heart, the solar plexus and the larynx.
These centers, being the most synthetic, may be exposed to the
most unexpected attacks. Whoever has even once experienced the
inner fire understands the danger of the conflagration of the
centers. He knows what agony is experienced when the fire breaks
through. In most cases man is not responsible for this, except
perhaps because of irritation. Often the fire bursts out due to
extraneous influences, and in the case of a refined state of the
organism, from cosmic causes. Fatigue of the heart actually
opens the gates to the enemy. Thus the creative Fire can be transformed
into a destructive flame. This should be remembered, for the outbursts
develop from small beginnings. It should also be remembered that
the use of fiery energy requires care. Great is the evil of needlessly
spending the fiery energy of another. An Arhat can never be a
vampire—this is a fundamental law of life. Therefore, wise is
the law of eternal giving. It may seem that there is nothing in
common between sacrifice and Fire; however, flaming sacrifice
is mentioned in all Covenants. Fiery World I (1933), paragraph
5
A fire is not kindled under water.
Achievement is not created in the comfort of a hothouse. In the
midst of human burdens let us ask ourselves, “Is this not already
an achievement?” In the midst of oppression let us ask, “Is this
not forcing us toward the gates of achievement?” In the midst
of explosions let us ask, “Have we not sufficient strength within
us to ascend by ourselves?” Thus, let us examine every manifestation
as to whether it leads to achievement. Thus, let us note everything
that moves us toward achievement. Who can foresee precisely what
counterblow will put new circumstances into motion? But without
a blow, matter will not be brought into motion. These blows upon
matter are called “hearthstones of achievement.” Only those who
understand the creative substance will realize that what is said
is not merely encouragement but the just assertion of a law. One
may turn the law into a misfortune, but it is correct to apprehend
the usefulness issuing from the foundations of being.Fiery World
I (1933), paragraph 271
Is not fear of Fire caused by the
fact that only its destructive aspect is apparent to the physical
eye, whereas its fiery creativeness is not realized in the physical
state? One must with especial conviction disclose to people that
by reason of their very nature they have a unique path to fire.
Can the physician who has an aversion to his patient be a good
physician? Or will the warrior whose spirit trembles with fear
be victorious? Hence, we shall set before us the highest task,
and in this way we shall not notice the steps of transition. Each
element primarily precludes fear. To overcome fear momentarily
does not mean to eradicate it. We must not be like small children,
who are courageous today but may tremble with fear over an empty
phantom tomorrow. Nor must we be like the pampered ones who seek
daring adventure today but on the morrow will bury themselves
in downy pillows. Let us not be under the threat of tomorrow,
for of all the elements precisely Agni will not tolerate fear.
We must comprehend Agni not as a destroyer but as a creator! In
these two aspects of Agni lies the true touchstone of our nature.
Fiery World I (1933), paragraph 499
You, my young friends, who have approached
art and creation, you should be able to utilize your gifts as
a condensation of your forces; for sound and color, thought and
rhythm are the foundations of the Universe and of our existence.
Sound and color, knowledge and creation are the chalice of Amrita,
the Chalice of Immortality!
Eternal, continuous creation of the
universal Life surrounds us, and we, being part of this great
creation, should create every moment of our life—create by thought,
by word, by action.
My young friends, fill up the treasury of your spirit.
Absorb all the sounds, all the colors, all the rhythms from the
fathomless sources of space. These finest vibrations, consciously
absorbed, will refine your receptivity and your thought.
The refinement of receptivity will
give you the possibility of penetrating into the Sanctuaries of
Space, and will open the joyous path of achievement and continuous,
endless ascent.
My friends, labor with all the tension of your forces
because only by reaching the limit of your tension do new possibilities
come to you. The laws are alike in everything. We know that sublime
energies are born of the greatest efforts. Therefore, only increased
activity and intensified strength will bring the achievement of
beauty.
And I beg you, do not fear difficulties.
Display readiness to meet all obstacles, for each obstacle strengthens
you and leads you to the future victory. Try to love the difficulties,
and say, “Blessed be the obstacles, through them we grow.” Courageously,
inspired by striving, realizing the majesty of the endless perfecting
of creative life, strive toward the calling Infinity—infinity
of lives, infinity of achievements, infinity of knowledge, infinity
of construction, infinity of beauty!
My young friends, hearken to the Call of Creative
Infinity! Letters of Helena Roerich, Volume 1 (1929-1938), pp.
4-5 |