Ex-Premie.Org

Forum III Archive # 22

From: Aug 14, 1998

To: Aug 31, 1998

Page: 4 Of: 5



Mel Bourne -:- SHAME! CLINTON SHAME! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:36:14 (EDT)
__John -:- SHAME! CLINTON SHAME! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 11:02:25 (EDT)
____Jerry -:- SHAME! CLINTON SHAME! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:09:41 (EDT)
______John -:- I beg to differ -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:34:00 (EDT)
________Jerry -:- I agree -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:54:21 (EDT)
____JW -:- SHAME! CLINTON SHAME! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:49:47 (EDT)
______John -:- SHAME! CLINTON SHAME! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:22:39 (EDT)
________Mike -:- A Correction.... -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:34:54 (EDT)
__________John -:- And another correction -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:41:56 (EDT)
____________Scott T. -:- And another correction -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:19:34 (EDT)
__________VP -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:48:56 (EDT)
____________JW -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:06:28 (EDT)
______________Mike -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:25:42 (EDT)
________________JW -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 16:28:37 (EDT)
__________________Mike -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 17:49:31 (EDT)
____________________JW -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 19:22:05 (EDT)
______________________Mike -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:05:56 (EDT)
________________________JW -:- What I heard this AM -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 02:17:51 (EDT)
__________________________Mike -:- What I heard this AM -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 20:26:42 (EDT)
____________________________JW -:- Specifie (again) -:- Tues, Aug 25, 1998 at 17:28:23 (EDT)
________________JW -:- Libya -- WRONG -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 02:38:34 (EDT)
__________________JW -:- Libya -- WRONG-Correction -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 14:04:21 (EDT)
____________________Mike -:- Libya -- WRONG-Correction -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 20:04:22 (EDT)
______________________JW -:- Libya -- WRONG-Correction -:- Tues, Aug 25, 1998 at 17:35:00 (EDT)
________________________Mike -:- Libya -- WRONG-Correction -:- Wed, Aug 26, 1998 at 13:50:56 (EDT)
______________VP -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:32:58 (EDT)
______________Scott T. -:- What I heard this AM -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:36:08 (EDT)
______Scott T. -:- He has no shame, but so what? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:13:15 (EDT)
______jethro -:- SHAME! CLINTON SHAME! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 17:52:56 (EDT)
__Nigel -:- Definitely not *my* leader! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 18:01:39 (EDT)
____Mike -:- Definitely not *my* leader! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 18:28:09 (EDT)
____Jerry -:- Definitely not *my* leader! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 18:56:54 (EDT)
______Becky -:- US lingo: limey? -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 08:58:47 (EDT)
________Jerry -:- US lingo: limey? -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 23:04:03 (EDT)
________Mike -:- US lingo: limey? -:- Tues, Aug 25, 1998 at 00:19:33 (EDT)
__________Becky -:- Thanks Mike -:- Wed, Aug 26, 1998 at 08:48:49 (EDT)
____________Mike -:- Burgery??? -:- Wed, Aug 26, 1998 at 13:34:59 (EDT)

petebear -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 23:26:48 (EDT)
__Brian -:- Anticipation and BS -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:05:57 (EDT)
__Selene -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:47:15 (EDT)
____petebear -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 02:45:25 (EDT)
______Robyn -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:50:26 (EDT)
______Selene -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:27:34 (EDT)
__Jerry -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 09:16:15 (EDT)
__Katie -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:07:15 (EDT)
____Robyn -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:12:25 (EDT)
__Scott T. -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 15:25:00 (EDT)
__Judith -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 02:23:40 (EDT)
____petebear -:- Charisma and BM? -:- Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 20:57:04 (EDT)

Laura -:- Don't be jealous -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 21:49:29 (EDT)
__Selena -:- Don't be jealous -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:34:17 (EDT)
____Jean-Michel -:- About 'meditation teacher' -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 03:19:04 (EDT)
______Selene -:- About 'meditation teacher' -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:13:30 (EDT)
__TD -:- Don't be jealous -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:34:25 (EDT)
__JW -:- Meditation Teacher -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:13:50 (EDT)
____Mike -:- Meditation Teacher -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:44:21 (EDT)

Sir David -:- In the ocean of peace -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 15:41:17 (EDT)
__Carol -:- In the ocean of peace -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:46:49 (EDT)
__Judith -:- In the ocean of peace -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 19:49:20 (EDT)
____keith -:- In the ocean of peace -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:53:51 (EDT)
______Sir David -:- In the ocean of peace -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:18:55 (EDT)
________VP -:- In the ocean of peace -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:03:51 (EDT)
__________Sir Cheddary -:- Fine art -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:43:57 (EDT)
____________Laura -:- Fine art -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:53:55 (EDT)
______________Sir Cheddary -:- Link to The Premie Web Site -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:23:00 (EDT)

Jean-Michel -:- Check ARTI online -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 11:33:58 (EDT)
__jethro -:- Check ARTI online -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:03:44 (EDT)
__Katie -:- the site looks great -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:05:32 (EDT)
____VP -:- the site looks great -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:24:44 (EDT)
____Jean-Michel -:- grace still working! -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:34:37 (EDT)
__JW -:- Check ARTI online -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:32:56 (EDT)
____Jean-Michel -:- Check ARTI online -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:39:23 (EDT)
__Laura -:- Check ARTI online -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 22:39:43 (EDT)
__Carol -:- Check ARTI online -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:46:07 (EDT)
____Jean-Michel -:- Check ARTI online -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 03:14:14 (EDT)
__Nigel -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 15:49:55 (EDT)
____Jean-Michel -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 16:56:03 (EDT)
______jethro -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 19:25:22 (EDT)
________Jean-Michel -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 05:26:42 (EDT)
__________jethro -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 10:02:57 (EDT)
____________Jean-Michel -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 12:35:01 (EDT)
______________jethro -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 16:04:53 (EDT)
________________Jean-Michel -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 17:46:32 (EDT)
__________________jethro -:- Arti: Missing intro verse -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 19:34:15 (EDT)

keith -:- maharaji and prem pal -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 23:48:27 (EDT)
__Gail -:- Start thinking for yourself. -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 00:55:06 (EDT)
__eb -:- Multiple Personalities -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 01:49:10 (EDT)
____el presidente -:- Multiple Personalities -:- Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 05:12:17 (EDT)
__Richard -:- maharaji and prem pal -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 06:15:17 (EDT)
____Jerry -:- Maharaji's gift -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 10:43:08 (EDT)
______Robyn -:- Maharaji's gift -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 20:13:18 (EDT)
____VP -:- gifts and givers -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:03:43 (EDT)
__Robyn -:- maharaji and prem pal -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 08:29:12 (EDT)
____Keith -:- maharaji and prem pal -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 11:56:26 (EDT)
______VP -:- live and let live, Keith -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:18:19 (EDT)
________Robyn -:- live and let live, Keith -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 20:18:39 (EDT)
__________keith -:- live and let live, Brian -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:59:55 (EDT)
__________VP -:- Thanks, Robyn! -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:27:39 (EDT)
______TD -:- maharaji and prem pal -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 02:00:11 (EDT)
________Robyn -:- maharaji and prem pal -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:55:40 (EDT)
________KK -:- maharaji and prem pal -:- Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 07:57:05 (EDT)

Diz -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 07:27:37 (EDT)
__red heart -:- What could it be -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:09:44 (EDT)
__Katie -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:47:31 (EDT)
____VP -:- Katie, channeling the master -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 13:00:24 (EDT)
______Katie -:- Maharaji vs Prem Pal -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 13:13:51 (EDT)
________Scott T. -:- Maharaji vs Prem Pal -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:22:45 (EDT)
__________petebear -:- Maharaji vs Prem Pal -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 22:55:28 (EDT)
__Jean-Michel -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 10:15:52 (EDT)
__Jim -:- Beyond question -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 11:27:07 (EDT)
____Katie -:- How come he keeps doing it? -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 14:38:10 (EDT)
______John -:- It's all he knows how to do! -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 15:30:27 (EDT)
______JW -:- How come he keeps doing it? -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 15:32:09 (EDT)
______Scott T. -:- How come he keeps doing it? -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:32:58 (EDT)
__John -:- A pointless question -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 11:44:00 (EDT)
__JW -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 13:53:22 (EDT)
____x -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 15:22:14 (EDT)
______Katie -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 16:38:20 (EDT)
________Mike -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:03:01 (EDT)
__________JW -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:42:42 (EDT)
____________VP -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 18:16:13 (EDT)
______________x -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 22:13:54 (EDT)
________________VP -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:32:13 (EDT)
__________________Katie -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:52:22 (EDT)
____________________JW -:- Deliberate exploitation -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:00:49 (EDT)
______________________Katie -:- to JW - slightly off topic -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:16:02 (EDT)
________________________JW -:- to JW - slightly off topic -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:31:08 (EDT)
__________________________John -:- even farther off subject -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:52:10 (EDT)
____________________________Katie -:- even farther off subject -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 15:06:27 (EDT)
__________________________VP -:- to JW - very off topic -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:57:18 (EDT)
____________________________JW -:- to JW - very off topic -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 14:37:12 (EDT)
______________________________TD -:- to JW - very off topic -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:11:13 (EDT)
________________________________JW -:- M's Valet -- Patrick McCracken -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:54:28 (EDT)
__________________________________TD -:- M's Valet -- Patrick McCracken -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:12:36 (EDT)
____________________________________KK -:- M's Valet -- Patrick McCracken -:- Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 03:01:34 (EDT)
______________________________________TD -:- Oops. Pilgrims, not puritans -:- Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 18:07:08 (EDT)
____________________________________VP -:- Puritans and Criminals, TD -:- Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 14:05:52 (EDT)
______________________________VP -:- to JW - very off topic -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 19:17:54 (EDT)
____________________Katie -:- M and money -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:06:01 (EDT)
__Jerry -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 09:04:14 (EDT)
____Diz -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:33:42 (EDT)
__TD -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 19:34:24 (EDT)
____KK -:- Deliberate exploitation? -:- Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 07:44:07 (EDT)

Jean-Michel -:- 3rd technique changes -:- Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 13:19:57 (EDT)
__John -:- 3rd technique changes -:- Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 14:10:20 (EDT)
____Jean-Michel -:- 3rd technique swing -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 03:23:51 (EDT)
__Diz -:- 3rd technique changes -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 07:35:06 (EDT)
__Jerry -:- 3rd technique changes -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:29:55 (EDT)
____katie -:- 3rd technique changes -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:56:20 (EDT)
______Gail -:- 3rd technique changes -:- Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 00:45:18 (EDT)

Richard -:- Greetings -:- Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 11:38:49 (EDT)
__Robyn -:- Greetings -:- Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 13:24:56 (EDT)
____VP -:- Can't post on the premie forum -:- Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 14:51:08 (EDT)
__Nigel -:- Yes, thanks... -:- Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 22:23:56 (EDT)
__Katie -:- Greetings -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 10:24:02 (EDT)
____Richard -:- Greetings II -:- Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 11:27:38 (EDT)


Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:36:14 (EDT)
From: Mel Bourne
Email: mbvictoria@hotmail.com
To: Everyone
Subject: SHAME! CLINTON SHAME!
Message:
How convenient to attack Sudan and Afghanistan to divert the attention of the world and the American public from your own dishonest and dishonourable personal dealings.

How can you expect intelligent people to believe your excuses for these attacks when you so blatantly have lied and deceived them about your personal issues and been CAUGHT OUT doing so.

Your cynicism and contempt for people is only surpassed by your incredible political arrogance.

How convenient that your last two standoffs with Iraq coincided with the domestic legal pressure regarding your crooked penis' exploits.

How many people will have to die because you have a congenital inability to keep your fly done up and cannot admit it!

You are bringing your country into great disrepute, and if it wasn't for the deaths caused by these attacks, it would be pathetic and laughable
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 11:02:25 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: Mel Bourne
Subject: SHAME! CLINTON SHAME!
Message:
Hey bro, aren't you jumping to conclusions? Far be it from me to defend US military might, but what about the terrorist attacks? It's pretty bad what these terrorists do to people. Let's say the U.S. really thought they could nail the terrorist operation with these missiles. Should Clinton not try to get them because he is involved in a personal scandal? Also, do you really think Clinton can order the military generals to do something on a whim that the generals don't believe in? I don't think they would go along with that.
Also, politicians lie. What's the big surprise?
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:09:41 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: John
Subject: SHAME! CLINTON SHAME!
Message:
Also, do you really think Clinton can order the military generals to do something on a whim that the generals don't believe in?

The President is Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces. What he says goes, no questions asked. Only Congress can veto a Presidential decision to use military force, and then only if he's looking for an official declaration of war.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:34:00 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: Jerry
Subject: I beg to differ
Message:
Jerry:
Theoretically sure, he's the commander in chief, but do you really think it works like that?
Do you really think Clinton can tell General Whoever 'okay, I want you to execute a strike against...oh, hell, I don't know, some out of the way country, like...uhmm... Afghanistan! yeah, hit em with missiles, I don't care where, just some out of the way place...Huh? Why? Because I said so dammit! I'm the Commander in Chief aren't I? Just do it!!'

I don't think it works that way, and if it did work that way, then General Whoever would sure as hell say so.

But regarding the problem of terrorists, for years we have been at the mercy of terrorist groups who get away with murder. Organizing a response to those groups makes sense to me. I think the Republicans whining about the timing of this strike are doing what they do best which is simply playing politics.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:54:21 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: John
Subject: I agree
Message:
Of course I agree with you that there has to be a good reason why the President would launch a military strike. I wasn't trying to suggest that even if the President was certifiably stark raving mad that his generals would just obey orders. I was merely pointing out, that under normal circumstances, the President has the final word on military operations.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:49:47 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: John
Subject: SHAME! CLINTON SHAME!
Message:
I don't think those military attacks have anything to do with Clinton's personal problems either. I kind of wish they did, but, unfortunately, I think they reflect a much bigger problem. And I think the problem is the US reacting in a military fashion, bombing the capital city of another country for example, that creates lots more animosity and won't do much to quell terrorism, and in fact will give those terrorists a lot more support. It's also interesting that one of those supposedly accurate cruise missles actually hit one of our allies, Pakistan, killing a bunch of their civilians. We also flew over their airspace without their permission. Can you imagine the US for ONE MINUTE standing for that? Lots of hypocracy here. I'm seeing Madeline Albright as more of a war-monger all the time.

I think it's interesting that the republicans in congress are backing Clinton's action and not suggesting it has anything to do with the Monica Lewinsky thing. It seems to be others that suspect other motives. Also interesting that the US is being roundly condemned around the world for this action, except by the usual suspects, Britain and Israel.

The weird thing, but very common in US foreign policy, is that the very people the US is trying to attack, we financed and armed just a few years ago. Those Islamic fundamentalists in Afghanistan were FINANCED and armed at the cost of hundreds of millions of dollars when they were fighting the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. (So did the Saudis, by the way.) And they continued to be financed and armed even after the Russians left, including under the Clinton administration. Anyhow, after the Russians left, they didn't just disappear, they went on to new endeavors, including opposing the US through terrorism for our policies in the Middle East. This isn't the first time that things the CIA has done come around and bite us in the ass later.

The problem with these military strikes, aside from the innocent casualties they cause, which is immoral in my opinion, is that they don't do anything to get to the root of the problem. If anything, they just give legitimacy and more support to the people we are accusing of terrorism and does about zero to reduce their capability to bomb our embassies (or the World Trade Center) in the future.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:22:39 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: SHAME! CLINTON SHAME!
Message:
Well, that's the first I heard that we missed the target and hit Pakistan! Wow! That's pretty disturbing.

I'm still withholding condemnation until I learn more about what we knew, that made us think we could accomplish something.

And actually, I know less than nothing about the problems in Africa which precipitated the embassy bombings.

It must be a real rush for the terrorists, whoever they are, to know that they have provoked the big bad USA into firing missiles which miss the target!
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:34:54 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: John
Subject: A Correction....
Message:
John: For what should be obvious reasons, I wasn't going to chime in on this subject. But to clarify: In an UNCONFIRMED pakastani report, it appears that ONE missile (not missiles) hit the border of pakistan and killed 6 people (too many, but not what I would call a BUNCH). Again, this is not a confirmed report (at least not this morning), but a report from pakastani sources. If you note where the terrorist bases are/were located within afgan territory, you will also note that it is very close to the pakastani border. No the missile should not have missed the intended target, assuming the report is true, but I would wait for the confirmed reports before making any comment on that.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:41:56 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: And another correction
Message:
Actually, I just went over to CNN and now Pakistan is denyng that a US missile hit them.
Wierd, huh?
So, how did they come up with the original story that their civilians died from a US missile?
Geez!
OR, did the US just send them mucho bucks to keep them quiet?
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:19:34 (EDT)
From: Scott T.
Email: None
To: John
Subject: And another correction
Message:
John:

The Pakistanis are under a lot of pressure from the Taliban in their own country, which recently issued a demand that Pakistan be converted to an Islamic state (underr strict moslem law dispensed by the mullahs) by Aug. 31. The Taliban in Pakistan might well have been the source of the unconfirmed reports.

-Scott
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:48:56 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Mel Bourne
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
Here's what I heard on CNN this morning. Of course, this is coming from the US press, but just so you know where the president stands. I don't know what you have heard down under.

US missiles targeted one building where  terrorists were meeting in Afghanistan. A wealthy son of a Saudi developer (sorry, can't remember his name) has declared terrorist war on the U.S.  He has ammassed an organization and is supposedly claiming responsibility for  the bombing of the African embassies and also several other terrorist attacks in the past several years.

According to US intelligence sources, (whatever that is worth!) they were having a meeting yesterday to further plan this 'holy war' on the US. The building where they were meeting was the strike target. It was reported that the leader escaped unharmed.  I didn't hear any causualty reports at that time.

The building Clinton bombed in the Sudan was (again, according to US intelligence reports) a chemical weapons plant operated by this same terrorist.  The Sudan is denying these charges and their president has said that they have the right to retaliate against the US. Haven't heard any further updates.

Most of our allies are supporting this military move and under international law, it is considered legal because this terrorist leader publicly declared war on the US.   Also most of the Republicans are supporting the President (including some of the guys who have been crucifying him on his sexual antics lately).  Of course Republicans seem to love military action, so that isn't saying too much-snicker!

JW, Mike, John, please advise me if the story has changed since I heard it this morning.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:06:28 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: VP
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
VP, did the reports say anything about a missle hitting inside Pakistan? I think people have heard conflicting reports about that.

In Sudan, the plant that was bombed is IN the captial city of Sudan: Khartoum. According to the Sudanese, it is the only pharmaceutical plant in Sudan, and makes all the medicines sold there, including antibiotics and medicine for malaria. The Sudanese government (and the people) are very pissed.

Madeline Albright said something about the plant 'potentially had the beginnings of the capability to make chemical weapons,' or something pretty weak like that. My understanding is that the plant is owned by some Saudi Arabian, but NOT by the terrorist that the US was after. (Did CNN really say this?) And did CNN show the pictures of the thousands of Sudanese in the streets angry because the US bombed their country?

I also heard that the terrorist used to be in Sudan, but that Sudan had expelled him a couple of years ago, under pressure from the US and that's why he was in Afghanistan, if he was.

I listened to a couple of 'terrorist experts' on the radio this morning who said that these bombings would do 'nil' to diminish the capacity of these people to do future terrorist acts, but rather it was the US 'sending a message.' They also said that the bombings would increase the legitimacy of these groups and make it easier for them to recruit members against the US 'great satan.'
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:25:42 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
JW: Just one question (a poser, if you will). When you looked at the picture of the 'pharmaceutical plant,' did you notice the plant sign had english words on it? Why would english words be on a sign in a country that doesn't recognize english as an established language? The same ruse (if it is a ruse) was used in Iraq when they put up an english sign that said, 'Baby Food Factory.' Oh yeah, the 'baby food' was one of the precursors to VX (that is an established/published fact, by the way).

The Saudi Arabian that owns the plant IS the terrorist leader that runs the camps in Afghanistan. It's the same guy.

Before I 'chime out,' again for obvious reasons, I would ask that everyone give it a little time before jumping on any bandwagon. The reports aren't all in, the data hasn't been thoroughly analyzed and the gathering of data isn't complete, either. Afghanistan is NOT an ally, so don't expect them to let the US in to do damage assessments (it's going to take time). Same with Sudan.

The last poser I would like to bring up is this: To those that think a raid against known terrorist targets is ineffective, consider Libya. Everyone (and I do mean EVERYONE) said it would only increase Libya's resolve after the US bombed their training camps. Haven't heard anything significant from Khadafi in years... Was Khadafi's relative silence, after the bombing, a coincidence? (Remember, he was VERY active into terrorism) I don't think it was a coincidence at all.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 16:28:37 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
JW: Just one question (a poser, if you will). When you looked at the picture of the 'pharmaceutical plant,' did you notice the plant sign had english words on it? Why would english words be on a sign in a country that doesn't recognize english as an established language?

I didn't see any pictures, so I don't know about the sign, but Sudan is a former British colony and English is widely spoken there, actually English is the second language of the more educated Sudanese, and is the first language for a lot of business transactions, so this wouldn't be surprising if a sign was in English.

The Saudi Arabian that owns the plant IS the terrorist leader that runs the camps in Afghanistan. It's the same guy.

I think this is false, according to what I read online from the New York Times.

And I just heard that Pakistan is filing a protest because we flew accross their airspace (or sent missles over their airspace) without their permission. Obviously, we didn't have the permission of Afghanistan or Sudan either. Again, what would be our reaction if some foreign power attempted to do that to us?

Libya is quite a different case. There, a government was actually the target. In this case, the target is a very mobile terrorist organization. There isn't a certain 'government' or 'country' to attack, although it seems like the organization situates itself in countries that are torn by strife and civil wars, like Sudan and Afghanistan. My understanding is that it is a highly decentralized organization, making attacks by conventional military means highly ineffective, except to 'send a message.' I guess we will have to wait and see if that is effective, although I know the US is now on high alert for retaliatory attacks, warning Americans overseas, etc.

I still think these attacks will just increase the legitimacy of these organizations among others in the Middle East who would ordinarily not sympathize with them. And given that the Middle East peace talks are effectively dead, and our stanglehold on Iraq continues with the sanctions, to the detriment of, and death, of hundred of thousands of Iraqi children, we may see a lot more of these desperate types of actions in the future.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 17:49:31 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
JW: We will have to wait and see, but I have to fully agree with Scott's post below. Considering the cost of launching those missiles (it is formidable, believe me), I don't think the US was making an example out of a pharmaceutical plant. As to the ownership of the factory, I think proof will be forthcoming that bin Ladin did, in fact, have substantial financial interest. (The New York Times has been known to make mistakes). Remember, the intelligence that drove this operation isn't likely to be released any time soon, especially if it would compromise a source (e.g. get an operative killed, etc). The information we are receiving is mainly from a bunch of journalists who are scrambling around trying to scoop each other. I don't put much stock in anything journalists say until it is corroborated by a more reliable source.

JW, what YOU should find most interesting is the near-unanimous, bi-partisan support for this action. If the operation were basically flawed, I think we would be hearing from many congressmen/senators to that effect. Come on, they would relish the chance to take a jab at the President. But NO, quite the contrary; full support.

Knocking out training camps is a very effect way to slow terrorism. If they have no safe place to train, they can't be 'effectively' trained. Training facilities, for terrorists, are not cheap and they aren't readily available. Again, as Scott mentioned in his post below, terrorists are becoming more marginalized. Most governments are trying to distance themselves from these guys because to do so is in their best political and financial interest (e.g. loans from the world bank, etc).

I don't agree that Libya is, in any way, different. The terrorists in Libya were NOT all Libyan citizens. A government that sponsors, or turns a blind-eye to, terrorism IS a terrorist government. This applies to Libya, Sudan and Afghanistan, alike. If they don't like being attacked, then get the damn terrorists out of the country, period! Until they do, they are vicariously responsible (at the very least) for any acts that these terrorists perpetrate. The fact that the governments themselves were not attacked should show that a great deal of restraint was exercised by the US. This was a surgical strike aimed, solely, at the terrorists (and their facilities), not the governments that turned a blind eye to them. Again, quite alot of restraint shown by the US.

As to the Iraqi children: The sole onus falls on one person, Saddam Hussein. These are UN sanctions, not US sanctions. Damn JW, remnants of VX were found on iraqi missile warheads. They had told the UN inspectors that they had NEVER placed ANY nerve agent on any warhead. BULL! Are we a bit skeptical about their (iraqi) forthright nature? Damn right! We're talking about weapons and delivery systems that can dessimate an ENTIRE POPULATION, JW. This isn't a joke. These guys are for real! If we don't fight them now, then when? After they destroy an entire city/country? I'm not trying to be condescending, but some real choices have to be made here and now. If you had ever seen a person under the influence of a nerve agent, burned by a nuclear blast or blistered by a deadly pox, this discussion would not be happening. Yes, I know the US has nuclear warheads and that they were used in Japan. After that use, the policy became respond-in-kind. In other words, don't use them on us and we will not use them on you. This is NOT the case with rogue governments like Iraq. Given the opportunity, they can and WILL use them (or supply them to terrorists who will use them).

JW, I guess my last question (really) would be: OK, some terrorists bombed a couple of US Embassies and killed/maimed alot of innocent people (both American and locals). These same terrorists consider killing children to be the same as killing combat troops. They are planning to do more killing soon. Tell me, what would you do? Turn the other cheek? Wait and see if they are serious about future attacks? Oh yeah, I forgot, your own child is in the embassy that will be bombed next. Now, tell me what would you do? This retaliatory strike may not stop terrorism, but it will convey the message that if you target US citizens, YOU will be targeted. It may not be the best answer, but can you come up with a better one? I think the President would want to hear from you if you did.

Again JW, I was not intending to insult you in any way. Obviously, terrorism is a subject that gets my blood boiling. (Yes, I do see red when that happens).
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 19:22:05 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
Considering the cost of launching those missiles (it is formidable, believe me), I don't think the US was making an example out of a pharmaceutical plant.

I don't know what was in the pharmaceutical plant, I only know what the US government is saying was potentially in the pharmaceutical plant, and all they are saying is that it had the potential to make nerve gas. Maybe it did. I'm not doubting that there was a real military objective there. But I do think that the major point was to SEND A MESSAGE, and I don't for a minute think the US government is concerned about he cost of doing that, so the fact that it cost millions of dollars does not in anyway lend evidence that the target might have been militarily significant. We have a history of spending lots of money on the military to 'send a message' but do very little to actually reduce the overall threat, at least in the long run. I think the military attacks are short-sighted and reflect our tendency to react militarily in situations that demand other solutions.

Remember, the intelligence that drove this operation isn't likely to be released any time soon, especially if it would compromise a source (e.g. get an operative killed, etc). The information we are receiving is mainly from a bunch of journalists who are scrambling around trying to scoop each other. I don't put much stock in anything journalists say until it is corroborated by a more reliable source.

Sorry, but I think journalists might be a lot better source than our 'intellegence' agencies. The CIA didn't know that India was about to explode an atomic bomb, didn't know that the Soviet Union was falling apart, and actually falsified information to make people think the Soviet threat was greater than it was, didn't know that our embassy in Teheran was about to be occupied, didn't know that the Soviets had troops in Cuba for 10 years, didn't know that one of their own high-up operatives was turning over all the intelligence to the Soviets, etc. etc. And there are a LOT more failures. Aside from the really rotten stuff the CIA does, like assassinations, and support of brutal death squads, they are a pretty incompetent bunch. The CIA is completely discredited in my opinion. I don't know how they hold their collective heads up in public. Plus when they screw up they investigate themselves and whitewash it. So, I wouldn't put too much stock in what our 'intelligence' agencies say.

By the way, the CIA under Bush and Clinton supported the fundamentalists in Afghanistan, the very people who this terrorist group draws its support from and also the Taliban, which now runs most of Afghanistan.

Knocking out training camps is a very effect way to slow terrorism. If they have no safe place to train, they can't be 'effectively' trained. Training facilities, for terrorists, are not cheap and they aren't readily available.

Well, how often to we have to 'knock them out?' Moreoever, even if it 'slows' some terrorism, what is the effect in the long run? How much hay do you think can be made among the populations of Sudan and Afghanistan that the US is an agressive power and needs to be brought down? It may be a case of being penny wise and pound foolish. We should be trying to reduce popular support for their terrorist groups, not increasing it.

Bombing terrorists is very popular in this country, always has been. I am not at all surprised there is bipartisan support. Who wants to be seen as 'soft on terrorism?' Certainly not the republicans.

There is a BIG difference between this situation and Libya. The Sudan and Afghan governments, as well as their countries, are in shambles. Both are emeshed in civil war. Even if we bomb their countries, it isn't going to do much to get them to do what we want, because they probably can't anyway. Besides, it might just have the opposite effect. Notice the number of Sudanese in the streets shouting death to the US? Think the terrorists might get any support out of them? If I am an independent country, and you bomb a pharmaceutical plant in my capital city, I wouldn't likely see that as 'restraint.'

Well, those Iraqi children have sure suffered at the hands of Hussein, haven't they? Hundreds of thousands dead. Look, the inspectors have concluded there is no nuclear capability in Iraq, and they haven't found any chemical capability either, although there is evidence there was one once. They have actually concluded that there ISN'T any chemical capability, but MAYBE there is a biological one. Moreover, the Iraqi's have no capability to deliver any chemical or biological weapons they do have. The US is the main culprit in the UN for continuing the sanctions. The US is almost completely isolated on this in the UN. Even in regard to this last resistence by Hussein regarding the inspectors, the US is so isolated that it is giving up on even trying to get the UN to react in any way. All we can do is use our veto power to keep the sanctions in place. Hussein is not a good guy, but it's gone on long enough. It's just us and Britain who are STILL in favor of the sanctions everyone else has abandoned us.

Here's something to keep in mind. A while back, with the US kicking and screaming all the way, the UN modified the sanctions to allow Iraq to sell some oil to get medical supplies and food for the kids. First, the US has vetoed the import of oil production equipment so that Iraq could actually produce enough oil to sell to get the income they need. Second, the main problem for the kids now is contaminated water, and yet the US has prevented the import of equipment to purify the water because they say, in both cases, Iraq might use if for military purposes. This is getting a little ridiculous.

The current US position seems to be that Iraq has some scientists who could develop biological weapons. It appears they all have to die before we will be satisfied and the sanctions can be lifted.

Plus the sanctions are a public relations disaster for the US in the region, especially now, EIGHT years after the gulf war. I don't think continuance of the sanctions is at all justified, either on humanitarian or military grounds. Once the US sanctions somebody they rarely are lifted voluntarily. The goal posts just keep getting raised. Do you think we should still be sanctioning Cuba after all these years? Do you think that is justified? Is that country a threat to us or the world?

Regarding how to deal with terrorists, well, a military response is one option, and perhaps it can be effective in certain situations, I just don't think this one is. Moreover, I think with terrorism you have to get to the root of the problem and, if at all possible, decrease popular support for the terrorists. As you said, without that kind of support, it's very difficult for them to operate. As I said, I think this kind of military action, doesn't do much of anything to reduce this group's ability to export terror, and actually gives them increased popular support. I don't think in the face of that 'sending a message' does much, except for the message send for domestic consumption here in the US. From the terrorist experts I've heard so far, they uninimously agree that this bombing NOTHING more than SEND A MESSAGE and won't reduce the terrorist capabilities. Question is, what is the message? Is it: 'we will get you if you resort to terrorism? or is it: 'we are an aggressive, violent power and will bomb your arab brothers if we feel like it so you might as well get us where you can.'

I don't feel at all insulted, Mike. I just think it might be better not to see 'red' and instead maybe the US could actually try to get to the roots of what is giving these terrorists support. Like if we lifted the sanctions on Iraq and maybe resisted the Israeli lobby and pushed them into some kind of peace with the palestinians, I think we would go a long way in helping reduce the 'terror' of people who feel disenfranchised and powerless to do anything else. I don't condone terrorism, I condem it, but I think we should deal with it in a way that actually makes sense, rather than engaging in sending 'messages' that also kill people.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:05:56 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
JW: Thanks for not feeling insulted. I guess we will have to agree to disagree. The US has tried 'other' methods. They've tried 'political solutions,' ad nauseum. Terrorists don't give a damn about politics, they are KILLERS. They use the guise of religion to 'justify' their cause. Terrorists don't have the same respect for life that you do, JW. They don't think like you and, in fact, they want YOU dead. You are an American and you are not Muslim. The Muslim fundamentalists think you are an infidel. They have declared jihad on infidels. You ARE an infidel (assuming you are not muslim, of course). They don't care that YOU are a really nice guy. I know this is hard to take/understand, but I have been there. They REALLY don't care about life. Saddam Hussein couldn't care less about the children in his country. You had to see what he did in Kuwait to appreciate that sentence. I would and could describe, in very vivid detail what I SAW with my own eyes. However, that would likely make you very sick to your stomach (because you are obviously a person with a good heart and a fine conscience). I am glad there are people, like you, in this world that DO care about all of the killing. If there were many more like you, then maybe people like me never would have had to exist. I can tell you from first hand experience, JW, that taking a life is the last thing ANY military person wants to do. We don't want a war because we know 'who' is going to be fighting it. We hope to be as mean, nasty looking and competent as we can. The purpose? So that no one, not even someone on drugs, would want to pick a fight with us. But there does come a time when ACTION has to be taken to defend OUR people. I would defend YOU, even if you didn't want me to... It was my job (it's their job now).
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 02:17:51 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
Very interesting, Mike, although a little disturbing that you see things in such black and white terms. Clean lines between good guys and bad guys exist only in the movies. It is much more complicated than the simplistic scenario you suggest.

Plus, it's really irrelevent. I am not suggesting that it's a matter of letting bad people get away with what they do, I am suggesting that we should do what is actually the most effective in solving the problem. The military solution, in this situation, exacerbates rather than solves, especially without us changing our own foreign policies, like towards Iraq and Israel.

I am also not suggesting that anybody 'likes' the military solution. We just do it because we can, and it's the easiest, and it gives the best PR play to the American people. Plus, we've got all these weapons we've spent trillions or dollars on, we might as well use them!
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 20:26:42 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
JW: You said, 'We just do it because we can, and it's the easiest, and it gives the best PR play to the American people. Plus, we've got all these weapons we've spent trillions or dollars on, we might as well use them!'

- JW, are you really that cynical? Do you actually believe that statement? Do you think this government, and the people in it, are THAT evil? Do you really think the majority of americans would fall for the PR, if that was all it was?

You said, 'The military solution, in this situation, exacerbates rather than solves, especially without us changing our own foreign policies, like towards Iraq and Israel.'

- Ok, but what would you do, specifically. If you read one of my posts further up the board, I thought we (all of us) had pretty much beaten the horse on the 'why' issue, to no real avail. I think it might be more constructive and less devisive to discuss the positive, e.g what do you think it would take to fix it. The only 'rules of the thread' would be that you have to be specific. If you say, 'change policies towards iraq/israel,' that isn't good enough. You have to say 'specifically' what/how.
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Date: Tues, Aug 25, 1998 at 17:28:23 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: Specifie (again)
Message:
Mike, I think I've been quite specific as to what policies towards Israel and Iraq we should change. I don't think I need to repeat them. But, for starters. We might start be stop our support for the family-run police state in Saudi Arabia. We might also end the sanctions against Iraq. Regarding Israel, we should use all our leverage to force Israel to accept a Palestinian state, remove the more obnoxious settlements in the west bank, and return to the peace talks with the palestinians.
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 02:38:34 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: Libya -- WRONG
Message:
To those that think a raid against known terrorist targets is ineffective, consider Libya. Everyone (and I do mean EVERYONE) said it would only increase Libya's resolve after the US bombed their training camps. Haven't heard anything significant from Khadafi in years... Was Khadafi's relative silence, after the bombing, a coincidence? (Remember, he was VERY active into terrorism) I don't think it was a coincidence at all.

Just recalled that your rendition of events is kind of our of kilter here and probably can't be used as an example of a military success in preventing terrorism and its supposed effectiveness.

. The US bombed Iraq in retaliation for bombing of that military disco in Germany. But we DID hear from Khadafy a few years later. Recall the Pan Am airliner that blew up over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing hundreds of people? Notice that the US appeared to learn its lesson and did NOT bomb Libya again after that, despite saying repeatedly that Libya was behind one of the worst terrorist acts in decades. And it all took place after we bombed Libya.
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 14:04:21 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: Libya -- WRONG-Correction
Message:
Sorry, the US bombed LIBYA, not IRAQ for the bombing in Germany. My fingers were not connected to my brain. Not the first time.
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 20:04:22 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: Libya -- WRONG-Correction
Message:
JW: Is okee dokee partner. Are you sure? I thought the pan am bombing was just prior to the raid. I could be wrong, obviously. Also, I know that he is harboring the fugitives, but was Libya actually found to have anything to do with the bombing or was it another group? That would be the question in my mind. If it was Libya and the US didn't bomb it, then there's THE problem, in my opinion. If you take a course of action, then you have to follow through with it. On again, off again responses don't work and they send a terrible signal. It's not like we haven't done THAT before.
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Date: Tues, Aug 25, 1998 at 17:35:00 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: Libya -- WRONG-Correction
Message:
No, the Pan Am bombing did not take place until around Christmas, 1988, and the bombing of Libya was years before that and was specifically in response for a bombing in Berlin. The US has claimed the Libya was behind the bombing of the plane, but your point also shows how the Libya bombing and the current ones are VERY different. With Libya the US was actually bombing a STATE, for its policies of supposedly sponsoring terrorism, and the bombing actually resulted in the death of one of Khadafy's children. In the current bombings, no STATE was targeted, rather it was a more amorphous, terrorist group, which isn't really tied to any one state.
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Date: Wed, Aug 26, 1998 at 13:50:56 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: Libya -- WRONG-Correction
Message:
JW: Yes, you are quite correct concerning the order. I had looked it up earlier and had forgotten to mention it...sorry. A recently declassified document obtained via the freedom of information act indicated that: At the time of the pan am bombing, and for a considerable time after, the US thought that iran had done it (in retaliation for the airbus shootdown). That may be why no further action was taken. After all, we screwed up shooting down the airbus.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:32:58 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
I heard the President himself (so what, eh?) say that it was Afganistan that we bombed. Then a CNN reporter came on and said they had an uncomfirmed report that it was Pakistan, not Afganistan that had been hit. There are conflicting reports.

Yes, they did show the wreckage of the chemical/medicines plant in Sudan and the people demonstrating in the street. A reporter who was live in the Sudan said that the region was 'hot' meaning angry and alive with protest. I do think the US is the evil bad guy with respect to that region of the world. These attacks did nothing but reinforce that.

I heard the same report that the terrorist (what IS his name?) was expelled from the Sudan. I also have heard two conflicting reports on ownership of that chemical plant so far today: the one I mentioned above that the terrorist himself owned it (yes, this on CNN) the other report that I heard was that someone associated with his group owned the plant. I hope they had more to go on than that. So far it doesn't sound very substantial, does it?

I'll have to turn on the news again and see what the latest is...
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:36:08 (EDT)
From: Scott T.
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: What I heard this AM
Message:
Joe:

RE: I listened to a couple of 'terrorist experts' on the radio this morning who said that these bombings would do 'nil' to diminish the capacity of these people to do future terrorist acts, but rather it was the US 'sending a message.' They also said that the bombings would increase the legitimacy of these groups and make it easier for them to recruit members against the US 'great satan.'

This is just the beginning, but the fact is that worldwide extremist movements are on the decline (see CS Monitor article today or yesterday), which is precisely why thay have become more violent. They are increasingly marginalized. There are some really ugly things about human nature, and terrorism is one of them. Combatting it is nearly impossible, but I sincerely doubt that the US military establishment is dumb enough to spend what amounts to millions of dollars in order to bomb an aspirin factory. Sure the Sudanese are pissed. They not only got caught with their pants down, but got their whatsis whacked off. (The Sudanese government is a radical Islamic regime that was almost certainly complicit. They booted Osama Bin Laden because we forced them to, not because they had some change of heart. Incidentally, Bin Laden has also been linked as the financing behind the World Trade Center bombing as well as the attacks on the US barracks in Saudi Arabia. Right now he rivals Hussein as the most dangerous person on the planet.

-Scott
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:13:15 (EDT)
From: Scott T.
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: He has no shame, but so what?
Message:
Joe:

I like you, but your comments here ma;ke me really glad you're not in charge. The possibility of further bombings launched from the command/control center was immanent, not to mention the fact that the Sudanese factory was apparently in process of producing nerve gas. The gentleman in question has indicated quite clearly that he makes no distinction between civilians and non-civilians, which is in effect a declaration of war. Have you any conception of what the price of innaction might be? How about the population of San Francisco, or L.A. or D.C.? Do you really doubt the will or the capacity of these, and other, terrorist groups? You are really making me nervous. I don't mean to be condescending, or to cut you off. All views deserve to be expressed. Suppose we just let Saddam do whatever the fuck he wants, and wait to see what happens? A little experiment that won't cost more than a few million lives at the outside. Then we could stop arguing altogether.

-Scott
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 17:52:56 (EDT)
From: jethro
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: SHAME! CLINTON SHAME!
Message:
'It's also interesting that one of those supposedly accurate cruise missles actually hit one of our allies, Pakistan, killing a bunch of their civilians'

According toi the new here int he UK, Pakistan have withdrawn the above allegation.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 18:01:39 (EDT)
From: Nigel
Email: nigel@redcrow.demon.co.uk
To: all
Subject: Definitely not *my* leader!
Message:
(nt)
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 18:28:09 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: Nigel
Subject: Definitely not *my* leader!
Message:
Nigel: we know, we know...you lovable limey you.... ;-)
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 18:56:54 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: Nigel
Subject: Definitely not *my* leader!
Message:
You win again, Nigel. Ha ha ha!
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 08:58:47 (EDT)
From: Becky
Email: None
To: Jerry
Subject: US lingo: limey?
Message:
Can you explain to me what this is? Cheers.
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 23:04:03 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: Becky
Subject: US lingo: limey?
Message:
There's a thread in the inactive index now where somebody, I think VP, described Bill Clinton as the leader of the free world. Nigel responded with a post titled 'Not *my* leader'. He's just letting us know again that Bill Clinton is definitely not his leader after Clinton's retaliation to the the terrorist strike.
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Date: Tues, Aug 25, 1998 at 00:19:33 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: Becky
Subject: US lingo: limey?
Message:
Becky: I was the one that used the term in my post to Nigel. Of course, it was a JOKE. It's a term the us colonials used to use when refering to someone from Britain. As originally used, I believe it was supposed to be an insult. I believe the term originated from the fact that 'limes' were carried aboard British sailing ships and eaten by the crew to prevent scurvy (or was it ricketts). Anyway, that's what it was about. How'd I do Nigel?
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Date: Wed, Aug 26, 1998 at 08:48:49 (EDT)
From: Becky
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: Thanks Mike
Message:
I believe it was scurvy they were trying to avoid. I guess an contemporary equivalent to Americans by British people would be 'burgery'. however, don't attribute this to me. I am definitely not in the least patriotic. Britain is up its own ass most of the time.
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Date: Wed, Aug 26, 1998 at 13:34:59 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: Becky
Subject: Burgery???
Message:
Becky: I'd never heard that one before. That's pretty good... Again, the original post to Nigel was a JOKE. Jeez, I hope he took it that way. I forget that some folks may not appreciate colonial humor.... ;-)
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 23:26:48 (EDT)
From: petebear
Email: petebear@ozemail.com.au
To: Everyone
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
I am still developing my thinking around the area of charisma and BM - and charisma in general.

My experience was that there were times when I was gob-smacked by simply being in the presence of 'the lord'. A wavy, emotional heightened senses type of experience, somethimes with intense tears, othertimes not so much. I am sure many of you had this at times. This was one of the things that drove me to keep returning to the lotus feet. Which of course was a very expensive exercise coming from Australia to US/Europe.

There were other times when I wasn't gobsmacked in any way at all. Such as going to Rome in 1977, getting constipated (8 days), feeling nothing and of course, in good premie tradition, blaming myself and trying to learn from it. Mind you, it was quite amusing watching other premies when they'd say 'How was it for you?' and I'd say - terrible I wish I'd never come'. However I tried to juice some positive devotional stuff from it - mostly though I was dissappointed. Unfortunately I 'recovered'.

However in the early 90's I went to Amaroo (after being out of it for 4-6 years) - didn't enjoy the satsang, questions etc - hot, and not good radio reception. But when I was where BM drove past - I couldn't help myself - I got excited, I ran over to the car/jeep, he drove past slowly, smiling, I again felt the experience of old. This was very disturbing - I felt stupid for even going there, doubts about leaving arose - anyway I let that go and got on with my life.

Now that charisma stuff is very powerful - emotional, biological, social, communal and other things. I also see people having a similar experience from other people/gurus etc.

Is it only my pre-preparation, my anticipation, my 'programming' from long times of fantasising (hours, days, weeks, years) - or is there also something that is 'projected' off from a person with charisma - not a magical projection but what is it???. As I ask this I kind of have my own answer. It takes two to tango.

Anyway I would be grateful for some thoughts from you out there. I am sure some of you will be able to relate to it.

Cheers for now

Peter Howie
Brisbane, Australia
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:05:57 (EDT)
From: Brian
Email: brian@ex-premie.org
To: petebear
Subject: Anticipation and BS
Message:
Maharaji is ultimately in Showbusiness. Nobody walks onstage without some buildup happening, and knowing that 'it' is coming is a large part of the experience. He even uses his own videos as a warm-up act.

But there is nothing special about Prempal Rawat. His mother knew him all his life, and ultimately she lost interest. So either he's a nobody that's being viewed by devotees as a 'somebody', or Mata Ji failed at creating the 'devotee' experience within herself when in his divine presence. Either way, there's no 'presence' there except for that supplied by the fans.

One of the reasons that he hated to fly with ordinary people in First Class sections of airplanes was that they didn't fall to the floor when seated next to him. He may partially believe in his divinity fantasy, but he needs to keep distance between himself and his devotees in order for them not to see through it.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:47:15 (EDT)
From: Selene
Email: None
To: petebear
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Hi Peter
I do think there is something to 'charisma'.
Have you ever experienced having it? I have. I know when I have it and when I don't.
And when I do have it, well, it's like Brian discribed, it's like being in showbusiness. Actually, I just 'know' when I am on, and
on those times I can convince anyone of anything. I have seen this too many times to doubt it.
To me , that is what charisma is. It's something you project and it influences most people who come in contact with you. It is powerful.
So, take this a step further. Imagine being in the charismatic leader business. Imagine how much energy you have to re-inforce
you belief in your charisma.
I can see how it could escalate and become the weird cult that it has.
Brian is right, there is nothing special about M, except that he got into this whole thing big time, and has made a lot of moneyat it, and won't let it go.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 02:45:25 (EDT)
From: petebear
Email: petebear@ozemail.com.au
To: Selene
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Thanks Selene,

your post added to the previous one.

The question you posed is relevent because I work as an Organisation Consultant as well as a Group Therapist. I am often in a position of influence and I am very wary of getting off on the 'thrill' of being the leader. I find I get real satisfaction when participants in groups I run, feel like they have done it all themselves. They congratulate themselves and each other and forget about what I have done.

I remember someone pointing out to me how BM used to speak with great manipulative ability. This person was an experienced sales rep. 'See how he says a joke and while we are all laughing - he sticks some real deep point in that catches you off guard and goes right in' they used to say. They were pretty accurate - and these comments helped me leave when I was leaving. BM is a master of delivery if nothing else.

I imagine BM must suffer from role fatigue at times. When is he going to go through his mid-life crisis.

Cheers
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:50:26 (EDT)
From: Robyn
Email: sundogs@hotmail.com
To: petebear
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Dear Petebear,
I think that charisma is a 'need two to tango' thing. I also can see where he is good at the timing when publicly speaking but I think the content is just not there. The sincere connection between him and his words. Like when the Jehovah's Witnesses came to my house and convinced me to 'study' with them. When they came back I said I would study the real bible with them but that the book they left me was at a 2nd grade level and I wouldn't be bothered with it but when you are into the trip I guess all those inane statements are full of love and power.
I too have felt somewhat charasmatic at times in my life, not in convincing anyone of anything but just the fact that lots of people are attracked to me, gather around me and if I was good at manipulation I could cultivate it into manipulation. NO interest in that though.
Love,
Robyn
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:27:34 (EDT)
From: Selene
Email: None
To: petebear
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
I remember someone pointing out to me how BM used to speak
with great manipulative ability. This person was an experienced
sales rep. 'See how he says a joke and while we are all laughing - he sticks some real deep point in that catches you off guard and
goes right in'


yup. And I have commented here often about the way he uses cadence and volume to make his speech more dramatic. Yelling one moment about the angst of life, than softly speaking of the 'solution' in a seductive whisper. I told people hwo on my crappy car cassette it's amazing I didn't have an accident the way I was always adjusting the volume! :)
And to think, we assumed those unexplained one person accidents were due to killer bees.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 09:16:15 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: petebear
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
When it comes to charisma, BM is the best I've ever seen. Long after K failed to satisfy, I remained devoted to him. And I never thought of myself in that light before, as having been devoted. But in my own way, out on the fringe, I guess I was. And all because of BM's incredible charisma. I ended relationships because of him, broke family ties, I was aiming for a life where it would be just me and him, nobody else. I thought he was IT. No one has ever come close to capturing me the way Big M did. THAT's charisma.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 12:07:15 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: petebear
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Dear Peter -
Some thoughts on M's charisma:
Like you, I got K when I was 16. I practiced from 1972 till 1977. (I left prior to that festival in Rome, thank goodness - I've rarely heard anyone say anything positive about it!). I didn't see or think about M until last year, when I found the premie forum, and then this forum. Since then, I've watched several recent videos, and also have watched 'Lord of the Universe', which is a documentary of the Millenium festival in 1973.

Now here are my observations: I don't find Maharaji to be charismatic at all in his more recent videos, but I did think he appeared to be quite charismatic in the old Lord of the Universe video. My husband, who was never a premie, watched the Lord of the Universe video with me and said he found Maharaji to be totally UN-charismatic. So my conclusions were that a lot of M's attraction for me was based on old conditioning, which had been dormant for 20 years. I still think M was much more attractive when he was a teenager than he is now, but I don't think this is an objective observation - I think it's a result of the fact I looked at so many pictures of M (and occasionally M in person) SO many times during that period of his (and my) life.

I also think that there is some kind of crowd dynamic that operates when M is on stage or surrounded by premies. I would guess that that is probably what you experienced at Amaroo. He seems to both absorb and reflect the adoration and love of the premies and get 'bigger' somehow. I remember someone posted on here that they had run into M on the street a few times and were amazed by how ordinary he seemed.

I know this doesn't exactly answer your question, but hope it helps you put some thoughts together.

Regards,
Katie
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:12:25 (EDT)
From: Robyn
Email: sundogs@hotmail.com
To: Katie
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Dear Katie,
Odd you should say that no one you knew had a good experience in Rome. I apartment sat for a friend whose young son was in school. She went with her husband and new baby. The baby was sick the whole time and at the airport messed herself, the baby, and her clothes and her mom's clothes. My friend went into the bathroom to clean up and the plane left without them. Her husband was on the plane. She was hysterical as the whole thing had been an ordeal with a sick baby and then finally stopped the plane on the run way and lifted her up toward the open plane door as premies hung on each other making a chain of 2 or 3 to reach down, grab her while she held the baby and pull into the body of the plane.
Another good friend, Katie, remember me telling you a bit about her. Her tubal pregnancy of twins was discovered there and she had to stay and be in the hospital!
Maybe there is something to that theory!
Love,
Robyn
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Date: Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 15:25:00 (EDT)
From: Scott T.
Email: None
To: petebear
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Peter:

Now that charisma stuff is very powerful - emotional, biological, social, communal and other things. I also see people having a similar experience from other people/gurus etc.

We basically arrange our response to authority according to three criteria: tradition, charisma and rationality. Charisma is the most mysterious because it appears to have to do with the capacity of the charismatic leader to get outside of the other two criteria somehow. It supercedes rationality as well as tradition. Still, I am not certain that the reverence for M is entirely charisma. I think it derives partly from the traditions out of which he comes. It is a little bit like the healing powers that were attributed to European monarchs. It's a combination of a magical tradition, involving lineages and so forth, and investing a personality with 'awe.' Anyway, that's the reason it overcame your 'rational' mind. I think we are just hard-wired with this 'weakness,' because it is a way of escaping from traditions and rational considerations that would otherwise keep us bound to beliefs and institutions that had been outdated. It is a way of updating our software, with the inherent risk of injesting a virus.

-Scott
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Date: Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 02:23:40 (EDT)
From: Judith
Email: None
To: petebear
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Hi peterbear
Read your post today and it's a few days old now, but here's my thoughts for what they're worth.

Well I saw Maharaji at Amaroo in the early nineties; but lost track of what year it was. He was in a dark-coloured jeep and he drove slowly up the dirt track with one hand held out. I suppose he did that on more than one occasion at Amaroo.

Well I have had that same feeling, for instance that time at Amaroo but on other occasions felt nothing but my own 'shit'. I guess all these kinds of feelings are brought up by expectations one has that being 'at the feet of the master' will naturally clear out all the 'darkness' and make you feel 'good inside'?

I think on one hand it could be just that a wonderful synchronicity does happen at times in life on certain occasions and people's hearts do feel joined and touched. It does happen. As well though I was thinking that Maharaji is available for adoration. I mean there is he is, larger than life and encouraging people to love him and feel love. He is so very available at those times and it gives the illusion one could always love and be loved, and have all the pain taken away permanently.
Those are some thoughts to contribute to your interesting post.
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Date: Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 20:57:04 (EDT)
From: petebear
Email: None
To: Judith
Subject: Charisma and BM?
Message:
Thanks to you all for your thoughful and insightful posts.

Peter
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 21:49:29 (EDT)
From: Laura
Email: None
To: Everyone
Subject: Don't be jealous
Message:
I just received Issue I, 1998 'Connect, Inspiration & Information' the new gmj/premie 8 1/2 x 17, 32 plus pages magazine. Lots of pictures, articles and quotes. I just may read through and find some really good(sic) stuff. In this newsletter, and as of May 1998, gmj is still staying he is the master - read this quote, 'My master gave me the opportunity to be free. I am indebted, eternally grateful.' 'This is the gift of the master.''Master, I bow down at your feet, etc. etc. I would like to know where some people on this forum heard that he is saying he is just a meditation teacher.

This is my life he was/is messing with and I am VERY ANGRY!
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:34:17 (EDT)
From: Selena
Email: None
To: Laura
Subject: Don't be jealous
Message:
Hi Laura
I would also like to hear specifics on when M called
himself a meditation teacher. I do know that when I
was last involved (December of last year) (!)
he was doing this ambiguous thing of soft peddling the devotional stuff for newcomers and intro videos and calling this a
meditation and himself a teacher, etc. while at the
same time amping up the devotional master-guru act for the people already 'initiated'. (dancing (ick) and darshan, etc..)
This obviously contrived duality is what started to give me the creeps. Premies will rationalize it though.
I had one say to me that it prooves what a good businessman
M is, that he knew when to 'tone it down and keep a low profile'.
As if that prooves him worthy of our endless devotion??

Always bemused by premies..... Selene
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 03:19:04 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: Selena
Subject: About 'meditation teacher'
Message:
I never heard him say this.

That was (and very likely is) the words used by the PR and many premies to present m to people who don't know him.
I've been in EV's seminars where the issue was discussed, and everybody agreed to use these words, or an equivalent.
It's almost verbatim what's printed in the new EV's status!
I think I dumped the copy I owned, maybe someone has one: Gail?
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:13:30 (EDT)
From: Selene
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: About 'meditation teacher'
Message:
I think you are right JM
I didn't ever hear him directly say 'I'm a meditation teacher' It;s more like what he *doesn't say* in those intros.
He infers his knowledge is some 'realize your potential and the beauty of life' thing, based on meditation techniques.
The inference that he is the teacher of this is implicit.
This pretense is quickly dispelled as soon as someone goes to one of his 'birthday' events or any non-restricted gathering and the same old devotional stuff is all over.
Good thing for me! I might still be hooked otherwise.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:34:25 (EDT)
From: TD
Email: None
To: Laura
Subject: Don't be jealous
Message:
From what I know and gather, the term 'meditation teacher' is one of the non-emotive, generic titles used by EV officials when describing the Big M to either media or in response to general enquiries from the non-premie public (say for example they ring up the EV office and ask who the Big M is). I don't know if this is still the case, probably it depends on the situation, who's asking and who's responding!

Sounds like a flash book. Why not post some of the more profound (!!) quotes, but can you wait until after we've eaten...

Regards, TD
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:13:50 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Laura
Subject: Meditation Teacher
Message:
From what I've seen, as Selena said, the 'meditation teacher' idea is used to get new people involved. It seems innocuous enough and nobody talks about devotion, the master, lotus feet, or any of that stuff until people are MUCH more involved.

The introductory video I saw, and the last time I saw M, which was at an introductory program, he just talked about 'a beautiful place' and that knowledge could show you how to get there. The printed flyer handed out at the program, said M taught a meditation that revealed the 'beautiful place.' Period. If I didn't know what he was REALLY about, and what blatant misrepresentation this was, I would assume he is saying he is a 'meditation teacher.'

My position is this. If people want to get involved with M, that is their option. But I think Maharaji and the premies are openly deceptive about what M is about and so people get slowly hooked in because a lot of information is withheld that would turn most people off at the beginning.

I think if people, at an introductory program, or at least VERY early in the aspirant process, aren't told about:

1. Maharaji's past and being called guru, perfect master, lord of the universe, the superior power in person, greater than god, etc.,

2. Darshan, devotion, lotus feet, service, where M gets his money, the ashrams, etc.,

3. The fact that there are lots of ex-premies who think he has ripped them off,

He is openly deceptive and completely misrepresents what he and his cult are REALLY about. The misleading 'meditation teacher' idea is just one of the more recent deceptions.

Come to think of it, even back in the 70s, we were trying to present M in a more relatable fashion. Remember those posters that said 'Discover the Sunny Kingdom through Meditation?' Even then, we were trying to persuade people who didn't know who he was that he was just about meditation, while at the very same time, he was screaming at programs about how this was the path of devotion and that the devotee had to 'SURRENDER' to him.

But then, back then, we had nightly satsang, and premies were actually allowed to speak, and not just read idiot, canned scripts, and it was a lot harder to hide the other stuff from people, than it is now, when everything is so rigidly controlled.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:44:21 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: Meditation Teacher
Message:
JW: I think you are right on the money (obviously!). Although I hadn't noticed it before, your statement that 'everything is so rigidly controlled' really hit me. I remember the 'out of the tube' satsangs he used to give. Little did I expect it meant out of the tube and into a vice grip....
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 15:41:17 (EDT)
From: Sir David
Email: David.Studio57@btinternet.com
To: Everyone
Subject: In the ocean of peace
Message:
After all these years, my own brand of meditation, a sort of modified version of the third technique, is still very real for me. I never could get the hang of meditating Maharaji's way and in the end I gave up and just did my own method of meditation. If you'd like to read my thoughts on this then go to my web site which is linked below.


My web site


OK so the site's not got any bells or buttons on yet but it is a start.

The reason I am saying all of this is because I've realised it is important to trust your own judgement. For years I tried to practise knowledge and do things Maharaji's way but it was like putting a square peg in a round hole. It didn't fit. Now I realise that my methods are for me, the best way. No more will I listen to the advice of gurus or other people about how to find peace, because I already naturally know how to find it. Now, the words of Maharaji mean very little to me because he wouldn't even understand my experience. And my experience is too real, too much a part of me to have it messed around with by someone else, who doesn't understand.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:46:49 (EDT)
From: Carol
Email: None
To: Sir David
Subject: In the ocean of peace
Message:
I have read your site and am going to refer some friends to it. I also may get back into more frequent meditation. It is very helpful and freeing to have support and encouragement to meditate in my own most personal way without feeling the guilt (or resistance) of trying to do it the guru's way.
Thanks,
Carol
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 19:49:20 (EDT)
From: Judith
Email: None
To: Sir David
Subject: In the ocean of peace
Message:
Dear Sir David
I just want to say I read your post and really agree with what you say. I am just finding out the same kind of thing also, but find it hard to put into words. Thankyou for saying it and sharing it, it is very encouraging.
Judith
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:53:51 (EDT)
From: keith
Email: None
To: David
Subject: In the ocean of peace
Message:
David , fancy meeting here too .
I want to say , I too am modifying the meditation techniques to suit myself . Have been for many months now .
The actual experience of the meditative state is I feel very
precious ; more than words can possibly convey .
I'm glad you posted the above .
keith
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:18:55 (EDT)
From: Sir David
Email: David.Studio57@btinternet.com
To: keith
Subject: In the ocean of peace
Message:
Glad you appreciated my post, Carol and Judith. And Keith, I haven't mentioned my modified light and music techniques yet. I always found the prescribed techniques utterly impossible and not condusive to relaxation. I'll no doubt put them on my web site soon. The 'Holy Name' technique I found on the net the other day using the mantra So Ham. I never think of a mantra with the breath because it defeats the object to me. Why invent a mantra when the breath is fine just on its own. Also a mantra is like meditating on your thoughts and counterproductive, in my experience.

But on the same site the guy was talking about listening to the music within and elswhere, I've seen the 'light' mentioned many times. Only Maharaji has prescribed doing funny things with your eyes to see it which again I think is counterproductive since you don't see it with your eyes. In the book, 'The Secret of the Golden Flower' the gathering of the light is mentioned in detail with pretty pictures to boot. There's nothing new under the sun, as they say. That book was written centuries ago.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:03:51 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Sir David
Subject: In the ocean of peace
Message:
I haven't mentioned my modified light and music techniques yet. I always found the prescribed techniques utterly impossible and not condusive to relaxation. I'll no doubt put them on my web site soon.

Please do put this on your site when you get a minute. And while you are at it, how about a photo of yourself...with some cheese maybe???

BTW who was the author of 'The Secret of the Golden Flower'?

Thanks.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 14:43:57 (EDT)
From: Sir Cheddary
Email: David.Studio57@btinternet.com
To: VP
Subject: Fine art
Message:
Put a photo of myself on my web site? I've only just figured out how to use FTP and upload pictures. Now I'll have to learn about scanners too. This Maharaji thing has got me all internet literate. I was a complete dunce before.

Anyway, I managed to upload a masterpiece of fine art up to the premie web site and you'll see this fantastic example of creativity on the home page of the premie site. They don't call me Piccasso for nothing.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 15:53:55 (EDT)
From: Laura
Email: None
To: Sir Cheddary
Subject: Fine art
Message:
How do I get to the premie web site? Thank you Sir Cheddary.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 20:23:00 (EDT)
From: Sir Cheddary
Email: David.Studio57@btinternet.com
To: Laura
Subject: Link to The Premie Web Site
Message:
You can get to the site by clicking on the link below.


Go to the Premie web site


Lots of fun for all the family. It's slow, it's sleepy and Keith is the only one awake.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 11:33:58 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: Everyone
Subject: Check ARTI online
Message:
I tried to put our ex-beloved Arti back together
from the recent posts.

Could you please check if it's OK?

Arti online

After satsang tonight! Don't forget premieji ....

Arti

Our Lord is the maker of all things created
He keeps them and brings them
all home to his word

Our Lord is the superior power in person
I bow down before such a wonderful Lord.

Jai Gurudev Maharaj Ji
Your glory fills the world
Protector of the weary and the weak
You bring the death of attachment
You bring the mind true detachment
Save us from the ocean deep
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Creator, Preserver, Destroyer
Bow their heads and pray to You
All bow and pray to You
Scriptures sing Your glory
Heaveny hosts sing Your praises
Your virtues are ever true
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Chanting, fasting, charity, austerity
never bring you knowledge of the soul
will never reveal your soul
without the grace of satguru
without the Knowledge of Satguru
rites and rituals never reach the goal
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

In the river of bondage to maya
All are swept out to sea
All are sinking in the depths of the sea
Guru's boat is the holy name
Guru's ship is the holy word
In seconds he has set us free
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Anger, desire, attachments
Rob us of eternal life
Take away our heavenly life
Satguru gives us true Knowledge
Satguru is eternal Knowledge
The sword that kills our problem life
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Religions harp their own glories
Call to follow their own path
Welcome me to follow their own way
The essence of all was revealed
The seed of all was revealed
I walk on the true way today
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Ambrosia from Satguru's feet is
Holy and it cleans us of our sins
So sacred in cleaning us of sin
When he speaks, darkness flies away
When he speaks, darkness cannot stay
Doubts removed, new life then begins
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Mine, thine, Heart, Time
Give them to the lotus feet of love
Give them to the lotus feet of the Lord
Give yourself to Satguru
Sacrifice yourself to Satguru
Be united with the blissful Truth
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Bible, Gita, the Koran
Sing the glory of Your Name
They all sing the glory of Your Name
Angels sing Your great glory
Heavenly hosts sing Your praises
They find no end to Your fame
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Desires have robbed me and left me
Trapped in the darkness of the night
Yes, they've trapped me in the darkness of the night
Guru gives holy Name and Light
Guru gives Holy Name and Sight
Cross the ocean by His Love and Light
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Many past forms you have taken
Now we have come in your control
Again You have come to save the soul
In this time of darkness
To lead Your devotees from darkness
You have come as Hansa the pure soul
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Come to the shelter of Guru's grace
Come with your heart and your soul
Bring Him your heart and your soul
Cross the worldly ocean
Cross it by your devotion
And attain the supreme goal
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Jai Gurudev Maharaj Ji
May Your glory always spread
You bring bliss to those who come to you
You dispell our illusions
You dispell our illusions
And free us from the ocean of dread
Jai Dev, Jai Satgurudev

Twamev Mata, chaa pita twameva
Twamev bundu chaa sikha twameva
Twamev vidya dravinum twameva
Twamev sarvum muma deva deva
Twamev sarvum muma deva deva

You are my mother and you are my father
you are my brother and you are my friend
you are riches, you are wisdom
You are my all, my lord to me.
You are riches, You are wisdom
You are my all, my Lord to me.

Guru Maharaj Ji, my life is within You
From You I was born and to You now I go
Forever I'm Yours, my longing is endless
This heart of mine aches to be one with You
Forever I'm Yours, my longing is endless
This heart of mine aches to be one with You
Wherever I look, Your face is before me
Your golden Love melts all my troubles away
I give You my heart, for in You it will mellow
Maharaj Ji my Lord, my life is Your play
I give You my heart, for in You it will mellow
Maharaj Ji my Lord, my life is Your play
Oh wondrous Lord, my Guru Mahraj Ji
Your grace is a river which flows on and on
You fill my heart with Your Love overflowing
Let me come home find my rest at Your feet
You fill my heart with Your Love overflowing
Let me come home find my rest at Your feet

Tasmey Shri, Guru Deva Deva
Guru Vishnu, Guru Deva
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:03:44 (EDT)
From: jethro
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Check ARTI online
Message:
hey JM,
I remember for a few years we had to say the following 'prayer' after satsang, anyone else remember?
'Oh my grur maharaji,
you are all powerfull,
there is nothing in this world you cannot do,
you can do everything,
kindly save me,
kindly protect me,
and thank you my Lord for everything'
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:05:32 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: the site looks great
Message:
Hi Jean-Michel -
I can't remember more than a few lines of Arti (thank goodness), but your page looks great. I'm impressed!

The DLM/EV Papers
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:24:44 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: the site looks great
Message:
Jean-Michel,
The lyrics do dispel the notion that M is a just simple meditation teacher-snicker ;)
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:34:37 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: grace still working!
Message:
I can't believe it myself!

There mus be SOME grace ..... I don't know whose ....

And I haven't been turned into a rabbit or into a frog!
Can you believe it?

What does it mean?
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:32:56 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Check ARTI online
Message:
Thank you JM, it sounds right to me, although I frankly do not remember singing the last 'regular' verse that begins;

'Jai Gurudev Maharaj Ji
May Your glory always spread....'

For some reason I do not recall that one at all, but it's been a long time so maybe I just forgot it. The rest of it sounds exactly right.

It's kind of creepy to read those words again. It's so obvious how M portrayed himself as god, and how many of us believed him.

Thanks, I think it's very important that Arti be remembered, despite how much Maharaji would like to cover it up and forget it.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:39:23 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: Check ARTI online
Message:
I think he doesn't even try to cover it up anymore.

He's going to loose whatever is left if he tries.

I spent an hour on the phone with a very devoted premie this morning: he is totally in the devotional trip, openly.
He says it's an old tradition bla bla ...
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 22:39:43 (EDT)
From: Laura
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel and GMJ
Subject: Check ARTI online
Message:
Thank you for taking the time to put this all together. It helps to remember why I bought into it - I was promised God.

Shame on you guru maharaj ji. You should be reading this forum. You promised all of us everything and instead you robbed us. You robbed me of my life, my youth and my innocence. I wanted to end my life because without God, life wasn't worth living. So, I heard about you and you promised to show me God. I believed, I practiced, i did service, i had darshan, i believed in YOU. i did as you instructed me. Guess what? I am not fulfilled, I am not happy, I am not at peace. and I am no longer bowing at your feet. It will take me a while to puke all this out - then i will be rid of you. You should not have done what you have done. Save yourself. Ask for our forgiveness. Be human, because that is what you are.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:46:07 (EDT)
From: Carol
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Check ARTI online
Message:
Hi, I hope you didn't have to type it all in yourself, because I did that here a week or two ago! As Jim pointed out then, there were a few minor discrepancies, such as instead of 'Ambrosia' we sang 'nectar'. Glad to see it on-line!
Carol
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 03:14:14 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: Carol
Subject: Check ARTI online
Message:
THAT WAS YOUR WORK, thank you!

and some cut & paste

'Ambrosia' we sang 'nectar'.

I had never heard 'ambrosia', and as Jim confirms it's nectar,
maybe he had some taste of it?
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Date: Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 15:49:55 (EDT)
From: Nigel
Email: nigel@redcrow.demon.co.uk
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
Thanks, JM. Well done.

However, I am absolutely certain that the verse from Twamev Mata that is used as an introduction here is wrong, and the verse that does belong there is missing. Here's how I remember the beginning from every night in satsang and at festivals during the late '70s and early 80's:

>
Meditation begins in the form of our master,
( ) begins at the feet of our lord,
Dedication begins in the word of our master,
Liberation begins in the grace of our lord

Jai gurudev etc...
>

(I have forgotten one word, here, and can only remember 'Humiliation' from Larkin's version.) Possibly 'Education'?

The verse that goes 'Our lord's the superior gobshite in person' or whatever, comes in the slow section at the end.
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Date: Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 16:56:03 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: Nigel
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
Meditation begins in the form of our master,
( ADORATION ) begins at the feet of our lord,
Dedication (CONCENTRATION ?) begins in the wordS of our master,
Liberation begins in the grace of our lord

I'm not 100% sure

There have been numerous verions of it, long short etc

Twameva was at the end, that I'm sure now.

There was also a second Indian Arti, totally different,
not in use anymore.
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Date: Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 19:25:22 (EDT)
From: jethro
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
The missing verse is
guru vishnu, guru brahma, guru sakshat maheshware,
Tas mai shri...something something...

It's at the end of 'My sweet Lord'
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 05:26:42 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: jethro
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
Where ?

After which verse ?

Could you check ?
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 10:02:57 (EDT)
From: jethro
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
'Where ?'

i remember this being sung sometimes in the early 70s before the beginning of Arti.
Many Hindu groups sing this before Arti.
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 12:35:01 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: jethro
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
Why don't you go check at

Sing Arti at M's Lotus Feet online

and tell me?

Have fun!
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 16:04:53 (EDT)
From: jethro
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
JM,

I think the 'Guru Vishnu, guru brahma...' bit may have only happened at the Indian statsangs I used to go to.
Your site is great. I'm sure it is appreciated by both premies and others to see what they escaped from.

Regards jethro
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 17:46:32 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: jethro
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
Thank you.

I think I had to somehow prove to myself that the ex-Lord of the Universe has NO power at ALL anymore (if he ever had any).

He never turned me into a frog, I'm feeling perfectly OK, and everything is fine for me!

I've even been able to make something nice and useful out of all this awful pictures and souvenirs.
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 19:34:15 (EDT)
From: jethro
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: Arti: Missing intro verse
Message:
'I've even been able to make something nice and useful out of all this awful pictures and souvenirs.'

Now this is the action of a true lover of life.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 23:48:27 (EDT)
From: keith
Email: None
To: Everyone
Subject: maharaji and prem pal
Message:
We all play games with names ; come on now .
This entire manifestation is like a game .
We are all multi-dimensional and multi-faceted.
Prem pal alias Maharaji or Keith alias whoever I call myself
are merely externals ; how petty to get so wrapped up in
the superficial externals !
That man ---Big M (why do others give names but one can't do
that oneself?) or p.p , despite everything else that he does
and does not ; despite everything else that is said or thought
about him , has pointed and shown something that is
priceless . A seed that could grow into an amazing garden .
And may be one such seed that helps humanity rescue itself
from a pit of lost despair .
I'm referring to the space that Knowledge IS .
All the negative words on this forum can never change one
iota the self evident TRUTH of THAT universal
consciousness . Maharaji as a public performer and an
orchestrator of his own circus show ; well , I am bored
with all that . All the rules ; no thanks . But there is
something else going on . And for reminding me of THAT and
helping to put me in touch with THAT he has my heartfelt
and eternal gratitude .
All the words of this forum put together cannot even come
close to giving me what Maharaji has given to me .
So there ! I'm already ducking !
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 00:55:06 (EDT)
From: Gail
Email: None
To: Keith
Subject: Start thinking for yourself.
Message:
Jeez, Keith. You could have gotten the techniques out of a book. This sounds like pure programming to me. The K doesn't work without belief and dedication to MJ. That's why the new folks don't stay. Look around your community. How many new devotees has your town acquired?

Remember, Keith. The last thing you learned when you got K was--DON'T THINK! Since that time, if you don't think, it's very easy to adapt to each new whim of the cult.

As the propaganda changes, it is easy to adapt because you are not thinking for yourself. Why did MJ say to stop practising the 3rd and 4th techniques (holy name and nectar) throughout the day? Why the name change from DLM to Elan Vital. By the way, I have a feeling that VISIONS and ELAN VITAL will soon be gone, too.

Remember when he said he wanted to do away with the organization. It's even bigger now than it was back then.

Please wake up, Keith.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 01:49:10 (EDT)
From: eb
Email: None
To: keith
Subject: Multiple Personalities
Message:
Dear Keith,
I don't get to check in here often, but whenever I do it seems you've jumped the fence again. Must be rather tiring, really.

I appreciate your points about playing games and changing names. My hubby likes it when I play Monica to his Bill. But we know when we're playing, and we know when we're being real.

I hope you find what you're looking for, Keith. It sounds like you want to get some attention, maybe provoke a good fight. Or maybe you're sincerely in search of truth, as I believe most of us are who post here on the forum. In which case, I suppose you continue to show up here because your doubt about Maharaji keeps you coming back. Sort of like a drunk who attends AA meetings hoping someday to achieve sobriety.

Good Luck!
eb
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Date: Sun, Aug 23, 1998 at 05:12:17 (EDT)
From: el presidente
Email: None
To: eb
Subject: Multiple Personalities
Message:
Is your husbands name Bill? or has he named his
private part that?

Hi eb
the other bill.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 06:15:17 (EDT)
From: Richard
Email: None
To: keith
Subject: maharaji and prem pal
Message:
1. has pointed and shown something that is priceless .

2. what Maharaji has given to me

Keith, many people have shown me amazing things. The girlfriend who first turned me on to Herman Hesse, the uncle who first took me fishing, the first girl to show me love... there are many of them. They include the mahatma (Prakash Bai) who first showed me how to meditate properly. All these experiences were amazing and remain with me.

At first I confused the experience with the person, perfectly natural, but time showed me that these things are mine, as of right. Giving someone a gift does not tie that person to you or make the experience dependent on their gratitude.

This is Maharaji's mistake. A gift, once given, is gone. It belongs to the person to whom it was given. There is no debt...

Many people use wealth as a baited gift, one that attempts to tie the recipient to the giver. It is done out of fear and loneliness in the mistaken belief that, while the money flows, loyalty will be maintained. Wisdom is another baited gift from the father who wants his children to believe that they will always need him.

If Maharaji gave or showed you something valuable, great! But it is now yours. Continued and protracted gratitude and overweaning loyalty will diminish him as it does you.

regards

Richard
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 10:43:08 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: Richard
Subject: Maharaji's gift
Message:
A gift, once given, is gone. It belongs to the person to whom it was given. There is no debt...

...at least not one that is demanded. K is no gift. It is a bargaining chip which M uses to secure devotion. Gifts are given freely with no strings attached. Before you can receive M's gift, you have to dedicate your entire life to him. Some gift.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 20:13:18 (EDT)
From: Robyn
Email: sundogs@hotmail.com
To: Jerry
Subject: Maharaji's gift
Message:
Dear Jerry,
God that was so simple and profound. What a gift that you spend the rest of your life, or as long as you can stand it, putting your own welfare and that of your children and loved ones and even your survival after re PAYING that gift! god!
Love,
Robyn
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:03:43 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Richard
Subject: gifts and givers
Message:
'This is Maharaji's mistake. A gift, once given, is gone. It belongs to the person to whom it was given. There is no debt...

If Maharaji gave or showed you something valuable, great! But it is now yours. Continued and protracted gratitude and overweaning loyalty will diminish him as it does you.'


Richard,
These are some of the wisest words I have ever read on the forum.

You post shows how premies are stuck. They are stuck being grateful for something that is supposed to be FREE-a gift given.

The unfortunate thing is that Maharaji tells people that they are not worthy to receive the gift. If they believe they aren't, then he 'has them'.

Premies, you are worth any positive experience in your life you choose to have. Anyone who tells you otherwise is manipulating you. There is nothing wrong with being thankful or grateful to someone, but you do have to move beyond that and nurture your own spirit yourself. Please examine the fact that Maharaji does not want you to do this.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 08:29:12 (EDT)
From: Robyn
Email: sundogs@hotmail.com
To: keith
Subject: maharaji and prem pal
Message:
Dear Keith,
I am sure you know this about me but I will say it again, Knowedge is, I believe, a natural ability that humans have. These techniques and more are taught by other gurus and found in books. I am so curious why you and many premies think that ability is a gift from M, why then does it still work for those ex's that practice it? I believe you received K years ago, maybe I'm wrong but I received K from a mahatma, unlike most I never paid much attention to his name and so I don't now and didn't then think that I was given that ability as a gift but that I was shown how to tap into my own abilities as a human being. Of course that was before M banned satsang and started being the only one to show K to people and before he changed the word, which for me is connecting to that energy part of myself, to thinking of him on a flipping swing. What the hell is that anyway. I think he is dishonest, even possibly with himself and cares not one ioda for his premies other than what they can do for him.
I hope you don't feel attacked by this Keith as it is just how I feel but I would really like to know why people think K is a 'gift' from M.
Love,
Robyn

The thing about your being all these different people here is you take it beyond for instance, the fun way that Bill Burke and Sir David change their names when they post. You let MB loose on the forum and he was very angry and mean, I didn't read many of his posts. I understand you felt attacked and I have already emailed you about that but seems like there is another way to deal with that. My first thought is to leave as staying and arguing solved nothing, changed no one's mind to your view and only resulted in further hurt for you and those you lashed out at.
They say when you come from an abusive family that you don't like to play games, I never have, board games to head games. Especially head games are just a waste of time.
Love you still though, say hi to Mirabi,
Robyn
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 11:56:26 (EDT)
From: Keith
Email: golddiva@wire.net.au
To: Robyn and all
Subject: maharaji and prem pal
Message:
Hi Robyn ,
I certainly agree that there would have been better ways
to express my anger than posting as M.B . Like , for
instance realising how angry I was at that time .
Ah well, not all experiments are raving successes , are they ?
But it's not that any of my so-called sub-personalities are
NOT ME as against the one and only real me .
Rather they all express a part of me .
It's a bit like role playing parts of oneself .
How easy and convenient it would be if one could be whole and
all of oneself at every moment .
But whatever is the dominant aspect (feelings and thoughts)
at any given moment is simply a part of me and not the whole
of me .
Many of those who have responded to my above post seem
to think that because I value Knowledge and feel gratitude
towards Maharaji that I therefore must also be tied to him
in a neurotic way .
This is an understandable assumption perhaps but is not true .
I feel no obligation to be a devotee ; nor do I behave like
one .
I do not like the 'organisation' and have hardly anything to
do with it .
My gratitude is primarily to do with my appreciation for
having been shown knowledge not by M (it was an initiator
who revealed the techniques to me ) but BECAUSE of M .
Sure , one could read about the techniques in a book .
But how many people have ever come across such a book?
And for many people like myself , reading about something in a
just doesn't cut the cake .
For instance , I needed to be shown how to drive a car , use
a computor , read and write and even do many simple things .
And the fact that there are many others who have shown me or
given me things that are precious too is true ; but I feel
grateful to them as well.
All the other stuff that goes on around and within maharaji
is complex . At least for me . And much of that 'stuff'
I reject .
Including the label 'premie' ; as if having and practicing
Knowledge needs to be a kind of exclusive club .
I reject the notion of Maharaji as being my master .
But , that is my free choice . I will not assume that I
know what is best for others .
Anyway , the simple motto , 'live and let live ' still
sounds good to my ears ; as long as the living does not
inflict obvious cruelity to others against their wishes .
Robyn , I shall pass on your hello to Mirabai .
Hoping this post finds you in good health and spirits .
Love from Keith
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:18:19 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Keith
Subject: live and let live, Keith
Message:
'Anyway , the simple motto , 'live and let live ' still
sounds good to my ears ; as long as the living does not
inflict obvious cruelity to others against their wishes.'

Keith,
This sounds good to me, too. The problem I perceive with it is that sometimes when people get too wrapped up in this sect (how about THAT, Scott:) they DO negatively impact the lives of others. Sometimes being in with Maharaji's lifestyle is the ultimate cruelty to family members.

I have seen this evidenced in my own life with my family and also I have read letters from families on this forum that testify to this. If anyone is unsure, check out the letters to the site page. There, amid the glowing accounts of love for Prem Pal, are letters where people need advice on how to resolve family problems due to the Maharaji lifestyle. (fraternity)

Keith, for what it's worth, I think it's a good thing that you reject Maharaji as your master. I think it is a good thing that you also reject the organization. I think it is also a good thing that you are questioning everything. It must be hard to think about the things that you have had to face on this site. I am pulling for you to work it all out.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 20:18:39 (EDT)
From: Robyn
Email: sundogs@hotmail.com
To: VP
Subject: live and let live, Keith
Message:
Dear VP,
Haven't 'talked' to you here for a long time. That was a great post. Especially that last paragraph. Just wanted to tell you that.
Love,
Robyn
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 00:59:55 (EDT)
From: keith
Email: None
To: keith
Subject: live and let live, Brian
Message:
I'm posting this to find out whether Brian has allowed me
an increase in my daily quota of posts which was two .
Has the wizard of EX been touched by this new attitude of
live and let live ?
If this post appears in the thread then I've been granted some kind of reprieve . If not ,then this has been a waste of time ..
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 13:27:39 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Robyn
Subject: Thanks, Robyn!
Message:
I haven't talked to you 'here' in a long time, you are right. Thanks for that nice post.
I was very sincere about pulling for Keith.
Love, Veep
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 02:00:11 (EDT)
From: TD
Email: None
To: Keith
Subject: maharaji and prem pal
Message:
Sure, one could read about the techniques in a book. But how many people have ever come across such a book? And for many people like myself , reading about something in a just doesn't cut the cake.

A meditation book doesn't do much for me either Keith, but why does Maharaji keep people waiting a minimum of 6 months (for most people much longer) to be shown something you could be shown in one hour on one occasion? As he often says, the techniques are very simple, so therefore, from a meditation point of view, the whole aspirant/premie process is entirely unnecessary.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 07:55:40 (EDT)
From: Robyn
Email: sundogs@hotmail.com
To: TD
Subject: maharaji and prem pal
Message:
Dear TD, Keith, and all,
I was shown K after only one or 2 months, now BM wants to be sure he's got his hooks in good before passing on the secret. Knowing you can walk and do just what you want with it really and have it be benificial to your life so he wants that needy relationship with him firmly in place with new devotees.
I wouldn't want to learn the techniques from a book either, I am a auditory and tactile person (after thinking about the thread on forum lite for some time). Some people do just fine learning things from books though.
Love,
Robyn
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Date: Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 07:57:05 (EDT)
From: KK
Email: None
To: TD
Subject: maharaji and prem pal
Message:
The waiting time is crucial for the programming. It distracts the individual away from an evaluation of the quality of the technique transferral process and puts him/her into a state of mind where that is irrelevant. It also ensures that the person becomes part of a 'community' setting.

It's deliberate.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 07:27:37 (EDT)
From: Diz
Email: None
To: Everyone
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
I wanted to pick up on some comments that were made in response to the letter from the long-time aspirant below. Some posters spoke about the way that instructors use rejection of some aspirants to instil fear and good behaviour into others. I don’t believe they do this deliberately - I think they think that they’re doing a good job in keeping people from getting K before they can be sure that they’re going to practice it. I have no doubt that the effect of this noble aim is to make other aspirants feel vulnerable, and thus more likely to toe the line. It also ensures that the hooks to MJ are well in before anyone gets K. All in all, it’s very effective manipulation. But I don’t believe it’s conscious manipulation.

J-M remarked at some point that Maharaji believes absolutely in what he’s doing. This fits with what I’ve seen. Even if he does act like a dorky human at times, he still, I suspect, believes that in his real self he’s the LOTU, who can do no wrong, and who is being the milk of kindness in allowing premies to give their money, work their guts out, etc.

So here’s a proposition for debate:

that Maharaji and his initiators do not engage in exploitation and manipulation with malicious intent. Rather, they believe their actions to be motivated by the highest good.

I am not arguing that exploitation and manipulation do not occur. I’m absolutely sure that they do.

Neither am I suggesting that being motivated by lofty ideas is less destructive than being cleanly motivated by greed, a desire to subjugate, or whatever. In fact, I think it’s probably a lot more destructive, as it makes the dangers much harder to expose. Premies who hear ex-premies and non-premies attacking Maharaji for being worldly, greedy, exploitative etc can dismiss these arguments with their understanding that Maharaji is sincere - and in a sense they’re right: he sincerely believes in himself, and in his rationalisations for what others may see as greedy, destructive etc. Coming to terms with the fact that Maharaji’s message, and its medium, have caused, and can continue to cause, great harm to individuals and families is hard when you’re wrapped up in a worldview where everything is supposedly about love and sincerity.

What do others think? I’m still trying to sort this out in my mind. It has a bearing on that question 'why do they stay?' and also on the question 'what might help them get out??' It seems to me that the ties that bind people to MJ are very subtle and very strong
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:09:44 (EDT)
From: red heart
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: What could it be
Message:
Love and Samadhi. Those are my favorite 'hooks' and yes, they are quite deliberate.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:47:31 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
Hi Diz!
You proposed the following statement:

that Maharaji and his initiators do not engage in exploitation and manipulation with malicious intent. Rather, they believe their actions to be motivated by the highest good.

I believe this is true, at least with respect to Maharaji, and the more I read the testimony of people on this forum, the more I believe it's true. I do think that Maharaji is sincere. However, I think believing that you're motivated by the 'highest good' can be incredibly destructive to both yourself and others. I think it precludes self-examination, and in Maharaji's case, may make one feel like one's slightest whim is the will of God.

About initiators - I think they probably think that they are working for the highest good most of the time. Judging from the evidence that people have given on this forum, they do lose it sometimes, and act disgracefully. I can't believe that they think they are working for 'the highest good' then. But probably when they are doing knowledge selection, as you say, they believe that they are doing M's will. Even if it means turning down some people for little to no reason.

This is slightly off-topic, but I have also heard some long-time devoted premies say that Maharaji has a kind of duality about him - that he is both Guru Maharaj Ji (incarnation of god) and Prem Pal Rawat (just a guy). I don't understand enough about this to say anything about it, but it's an interesting question. It is almost like Prem Pal 'channels' Maharaji at will.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 13:00:24 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: Katie, channeling the master
Message:
'I don't understand enough about this to say anything about it, but it's an interesting question. It is almost like Prem Pal 'channels' Maharaji at will.'

Since Maharaji is just a regular human being, I would have to say that this is simple roll playing. Look at Keith, Vacol k.c.s. and MB for example. Another example of this would be actors playing a role in a movie or play.

I do think Maharaji used to think he was LOTU, but now I think he knows he is a regular guy. (Based on the Mishler interview) My guess is he looks at it like it is the family buisness. They are spiritual leaders--it's what they do. I do think he believes he is doing something good for others bringing them knowledge. Maybe that is how he justifies some of the things he does. Or it could be that he has a totally different perspective than we do about right and wrong. At least his perspective is very different from mine after listening to him slam morality in a few of his videos.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 13:13:51 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: VP
Subject: Maharaji vs Prem Pal
Message:
Hey Veep - I think someone else (an ex, not a premie) referred to what M does as sort of a stage persona, so your analogy is probably more correct than mine. (I was trying to come up with a better word than channeling, with all the new agey connotations, but I couldn't think of one.)

Regarding the family business though, M's father was supposed to be the Perfect Master, and I think that M thinks he is too. In other words, I think he still believes he is THE ONE person on the planet who can reveal THE TRUE knowledge.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:22:45 (EDT)
From: Scott T.
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: Maharaji vs Prem Pal
Message:
Katie and Veep:

I find it rather difficult to conclude that M, or for that matter Kirpal Singh, Sawan Singh, or any of the other 'Perfect Masters' didn't know in their hearts that they were basically ordinary guys. At the very least they clearly don't have the integrity, education, or intelligence of J. Krishnamurti. Plato, in 'Republic' describes 'the tyrant' as someone caputerd by a satellite self identity that he calls 'the beast.' This notion that these people are 'captured' and lack the strength to escape appeals to me.

-Scott
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 22:55:28 (EDT)
From: petebear
Email: petebear@ozemail.com.au
To: Scott T.
Subject: Maharaji vs Prem Pal
Message:
Your post got me thinking about the story/myth of Jesus and his own personal doublts about 'divinity'. I think the story/myth of Buddha has him going through much the same process.

Self-doubt being overcome! Different contexts though. JC was working at a time of great social complexity and change and was more of a social activist than a religious person. And religion was seen as a form of activism.

I remember 'overcoming' my own innate sceptisicm/cynicism when I was first involved with BM at the ripe old age of 16. I later (15 years later) met premies who didn't do this. They stayed sceptical and say they only took a part of what BM offered and didn't make any major structural changes to their live either financially or otherwise. When I heard this I actually began to reconstruct and revive the sceptical, thoughtful approaches that I used to apply pre-BM. This greatly assisted my ability to move away.

Cheers
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 10:15:52 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
'why do they stay?' and also on the question
'what might help them get out??'


Almost every premie I know had bad experiences of
various types with m & EV, and this is what finally
helps them to leave.
Except maybe for some die-hard,
there is a strive to self-protection in every person.
When the inner fight becomes to hard, you have to turn
to a safer protection, and m&k's is not that good! Then
you slowly drift away, to the point you realize you
don't agree that much anymore with the cult's
philosophy, premies, EV's politics, etc.
The leaving process might be more or less radical, some ex-followers
keep m in some sort of new age pantheon as I can see,
very likely like most 'fringe premies'. The whole
process is not easy at all, as you have a lot to leave
behind.
What I found very helpful for some (now) exes
I know was to tell them my real feelings about some
serious issues (money, abuses, m's personal behavior,
etc), ask for their own opinions, and discuss it
without any compromise - if they are not too shocked
by my attitude!
Most of the premies know what's wrong:
they are not used to discuss it. Once they start
discussing it, and they know some of their friends
who used to be premies don't agree at all with m
anymore, the discussion becomes really interesting.
I think there are limits to this: you have to be familiar
enough with the premie you're talking to, and not
look like an enemy, specially when m stated he now has
'enemies'.
There is an other alternative: Ted Patrick's
deprogramming technique .... I don't know if I would
go into that!
The information published on m&EV on
the Internet is also a very efficient tool. M & EV's
policy forces premies to stay alone with their problems.

There is a lot more to write and publish about m & EV
than what's been already done, I think that being a
part of it can also be very efficient.
In spite of m's advice not to go on the Internet,
more and more premies lurk here, and discuss what
we're talking about.
If the materials available are good, like most
of it is, it has a lot of impact.

I thought premies would be afraid of me! Maybe some
are, but I happened to meet quite some, and they've
always invited me, even for week-ends, and we've
spent days talking!
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 11:27:07 (EDT)
From: Jim
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: Beyond question
Message:
Diz,

There can be no doubt that Maharaji intentionally manipulates and exploits his flock. No question at all.

1) Re-read the Mishler interview. Maharaji knew exactly what he was playing with in terms of persona/cash-flow back twenty years ago. Either that or Mishler's lying.

2) He has avoided answering not just poeple here who announced against him but also premies who have not yet decamped but who simply have questions. At a certain point, that speaks volumes. He passed that point a LONG time ago. As I mentioned here, even his own brother, Raja Ji, once told me that Maharaji refused to address any difficult questions with him. At a certain point it becomes absurd to attribute good-faith to someone who avoids all accountability.

3) When Maharaji HAS ever-so-lightly tried to answer for some of the outrageous deficiencies in his success at delivering either personal fulfillment or indeed world peace, he's very blatantly dissembled like crazy and tried to wrongly displace blame on anyone but himself. Same point with good faith. No one could carry on like that and have it.

Really, with all due respect, considering Maharaji a good-faith if deluded guru flies in the face of his entire history and modus operandi. It's a completely naive position to take. I hope you don't settle there. For if you do, I can't imagine anything that might dislodge you. Ater all, the evidence to the contrary is already there by the truckload.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 14:38:10 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: Jim
Subject: How come he keeps doing it?
Message:
Seriously. It is sort of hard for me to reconcile the fact that he keeps on touring, making videos, etc., with the idea that he's totally insincere and just in it for the money. I don't think there's all that much money in it anymore (if there is, I wonder where it's coming from), plus he's probably got enough to live VERY well for the rest of his life. I am sure he could keep a lot of his closest supporters (and their adulation) even if he just retired to Malibu and never toured again. He seems to have some compulsion to do what he's doing, and that's the part I don't think is insincere.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 15:30:27 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: It's all he knows how to do!
Message:
All he has ever done is talk in his inane way and have worshipful premies sit and listen worshipfully without question or objection.

Wouldn't you keep doing it?

Let me tell you from first hand experience, having thousands of people worship you is very addicting. It's not something that is so easy to let go of. (It took me years to finally kick the habit and get rid of all my devotees.)

Also, he probably feels some responsibility towards these zombie brained premies who do sit and worhsip him. They need him and he needs them. It's a really strange, wierd, sick relationship.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 15:32:09 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: How come he keeps doing it?
Message:
Katie, I think he tours for a few of reasons.

First, I think he likes it. I think he likes being worshipped, fawned over, flying his plane, going all over the world, etc. After all, he just does it when he wants to and doesn't do it when he doesn't want to. If he cancels a program, or sits on his ass in Malibu, nobody is going to fire him.

Second, I think he deceives himself at times that he is divine. Touring and programs reinforce that deception, and also continues his (and the premies') illusion that he is doing something important, maybe even bringing peace to the world, or whatever.

Third, I think he does do it for the money. He likely has a lot of money stashed away, but he spends money in a fashion most of us cannot even imagine. JM also tells us that he has incredible debts regarding the plane, and maybe even other obligations, and KK said MONEY was always his major concern. I think he has discovered that if he stops touring, donations tend to diminish, and so he tours for that reason as well. He also videotapes everything and so the program might make some money, including the selling of trinkets, but then he will make more off the video sales.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:32:58 (EDT)
From: Scott T.
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: How come he keeps doing it?
Message:
Katie:

He seems to have some compulsion to do what he's doing, and that's the part I don't think is insincere.

I live in a part of the country where the primary motivation is power rather than money. Is it possible that's what we're dealing with here?

-Scott
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 11:44:00 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: A pointless question
Message:
Really this whole question you raise is irrelevant, in my humble opinion. I hate to use Hitler as an example, but he is a good one. Let's say he really and truly sincerely believed that the German people are God's gift to humanity, and he REALLY believed humanity as a whole would be better off with the Germans ruling everyone's lives.

Was he still an ass hole and an idiot?

YES!

So, who cares what motivates the former LOTU? Anyone who says the kinds of things he says is an ass hole and an idiot!
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 13:53:22 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
Like John said, on one level, whether Maharaji is sincere in his deception, maybe to the point of self-deception, is kind of irrelevent, because it is still deception and people who are conned into believing it suffer, if for no other reason, than by whasting their sincere dedication on someone who isn't worthy of it and who doesn't care about them.

But I have always felt that it is more complicated than 'sincere v. insincere' when it comes to BM. I think it varies from time to time, almost like he has a multiple personality disorder.

I recall he used to go through severe mood swings while I was CC in Miami. We would hear that M was really pissed off and would go through 'the residence' bitching and screaming. [This was especially true when the residence was on Palm Island.] I saw him do the same around premies doing 'service' for him at that time. Things were going badly at the time, financially, with his marriage, propogation-wise, and with the plane project, and he, I think, was doubting he could be the perfect master if his mission was so fucked up. After all, where was his grace?

Other times he seemed happy and satisfied, usually when he was in front of thousands of adoring premies at a big program. My point is this: Maharaji is probably conflicted himself about who or what he is. And when events don't go well and he doubts himself, he has mood swings, probably drinks, smokes, cheats on his wife with Monica Lewis, etc, until he can have a big program and prove to himself, by the adoration of the premies, that he must be divine. It's almost like he self-medicates with alcohol, sex, and devotees.

And when he has premies adoring him, he feels like he must be the perfect master and he is quite happy and satisfied. I personally think he held that darshan line in Australia recently as much for his own ego reinforcement, as to raise money.

I have also heard from people who were close to M that around 1983 that he really wanted to quit the whole thing of being 'the master.' That, and the Mishler interview, and other things I have heard, including how crass and superficial he is when you hang around him on a personal level for any length of time, lead me to believe that at times M is SURE he is just a guy playing a fake role to keep the business going, and other times his ego gets inflated enough that he might actually believe he is the lord of the universe. But I think he flips back and forth. Sometimes he might get so deluded that he sincerely believes he is god. But I think that's pretty rare these days, and certainly he has known in his own mind for quite sometime that he is playing a charade. The way he has tried to manipulate how he is presented in recent years, and how he has tried to hide his past, are indications of that awareness as well.

Keep in mind also that Maharaji keeps himself very isolated from anyone who might criticize him or have a negative opinion of him, especially us ex-premies. He surrounds himself by sycophants, who never tell him a discouraging word, and if they do they have to leave or he fires them. It makes it very hard for someone to have a clear view on who they really are it that's the way they live.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 15:22:14 (EDT)
From: x
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
I agree with the theory that bm is fully aware that he is far from being anything other than human. He seems to be very competitive financialy, like Donald Trump or Bill Gates. I think he views the world in a primitive way, where the bottom line is all that matters. The bottom line being access to resources and power over others. The best way to acheive these goals is by getting all the money you can, by any means avaiable, regardless of who gets hurt in the process. Maharaji is nothing more than a petty tyrant, who like most of his ilk desires nothing less than ruling the world, or at least as much of it as possible. People like him only really respect people higher up the pecking order. Therefore he thinks privately that his premies are total idiots, he barely respects people who despise him, for at least being smart enough to see through his bullshit and he is probably envious and impressed with Bill Gates. I'm not sure why some people feel better thinking he is sincere and misguided, rather than devious and aware, but like Jim says look at the evidence.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 16:38:20 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: x
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
The problem I see with your assessment, x, is that Maharaji appears to be a TERRIBLE money manager. If the bottom line was really the most important thing to him, he wouldn't have done a lot of the truly weird things that he's done (for example, having free premie labor to design and build his house but not having adequate materials or supplies? That's just plain dumb.) I am sure he could and does have good financial advisors, too. If he's envious of Donald Trump or Bill Gates, he ought to at least take some business classes, or listen to some people who have.

After reading the posts on this thread, I guess I agree with JW - I think that there is PART of M which functions as you describe, but I also think that there is PART of M which really believes he's the Perfect Master and is going to bring peace to the world. Otherwise, it's hard to explain some of the stupid things he's done financially, not to mention the intelligence and integrity of some of his followers.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:03:01 (EDT)
From: Mike
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
Katie: You may be right, but another take would be that he isn't educated in business and is more like an impulsive kid in a candy store. We know (or should I say knew) that he wasn't a high school graduate. I'm not sure if his status has changed and it may not even be germaine. When it comes to his purchases, it looks like he just decides he wants something and the premies are then 'expected' to deliver. Just an observation...
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 17:42:42 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Mike
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
Mike I think you're right. Free premie slave labor, and the ability to get money he doesn't have to earn, means he has never really had to become efficient, although I'm sure he has to some degree over the years. KK has mentioned, and I saw it myself, the incredible waste of resources that goes on around Maharaji. He not only spent money like water, he never seemed to have much concern about economizing on anything, unless he absolutely had to.

If he has premie slave labor, including all their skills, as well as their donations, what is the impetus to be efficient? I'm sure he has had SOME good money managers over the years, but he has had some really bad ones too. I would think he is getting some professional outside financial advice, but he is so paranoid that he might have refrained from that as well. I think in his entire life, he has always gotten what he wanted, and especially because he was just a kid when he came into the vast fortune of money raised in the West, his formative stage of life did NOT teach good financial skills. And he is incredibly materalistic. He never has enough 'stuff.'
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 18:16:13 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
I have never seen a person who owned so many amazing suits. When your 'mantra' is 'enjoy this life', I guess you begrudge yourself nothing. HA!

Does anyone here who was closer to him (Malibu Mole? Mr. Ex?) know more about his real finances. Like does he have cash stashed in the Camans or Switzerland? He could be loaded and just ask for more more more from his devotees. The impression I have been given is that he is always hurting for money. Do we know this for a fact, or is this just a ploy to get more?

Just asking. I have no idea myself.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 22:13:54 (EDT)
From: x
Email: None
To: VP
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
I agree that bm is uneducated and therefore not good at
investing wisely. I would think he would have a hard
time with people advising him, that takes a certain
amount of humility. He has açcess to an endless pool of
money, the money the devotees earn and turn over to him.
This is the only way he has to get fresh money. I think
maybe he has large investments and savings, but
considers them unspendable and prefers to save the bulk,
plead financial problems, and try to get more and more
donations. I just can't believe that he has multiple
personalities or anything like that. He knows what he is
doing and is doing it well. Its exactly like
tele-evangelists, they even use the same wording,
gratitude, gift, donation etc. When you are as
materialistic as bm you never have enough money. His
mantra is MORE MORE MORE.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:32:13 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: x
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
x,
I don't think he has multiple personalities, I just think that he gets into some role playing with the Perfect Master identity. I agree with you that he knows what he is doing.

Speaking of MORE MORE MORE, did you read the post where someone (Selene??) said M got up at a recent program and had graphs (pie charts?) showing how much money they still needed?? Does anyone remember that post more accurately than I do?
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 12:52:22 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: VP
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
I remember that post, VP, although not who posted it. The funniest thing was that the person said that there weren't any actual NUMBERS on the graphs - just bars!

P.S. I don't think M has multiple personalities either (I am not sure if ANYONE really has multiple personalities). I think he's just deluded, in denial, whatever the best word is. I really do think that there's a part of him who believes he's the perfect master, and that's what makes him able to convince people who are otherwise very intelligent and sane that he is. (You know how the best salesmen really have to believe in their products, at least WHILE they are selling them.)
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:00:49 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: Deliberate exploitation
Message:
I really do think that there's a part of him who believes he's the perfect master, and that's what makes him able to convince people who are otherwise very intelligent and sane that he is.

Katie, this is what I basically believe as well.

I may have confused things a bit because I was the one who used the words 'multiple personality disorder.' I didn't mean to imply Maharaji HAS such a disorder, only he can flip back and forth from believing he is satguru and not believing it in a way similar to people who have the disorder.

M has had an incredibly weird life, from an early age. And given that he isolates himself from any honest reflection or challenge, he probably has an extremely screwed-up self image.

And although it might seem improbable given the objective evidence, I think he does deceive himself in believing he is divine. People do that all the time.

For example, objectively, it seems nuts that Bill Clinton could carry on for over a year having sex in the white house with a 22 year old intern and get away with it. But I think it's just possible he deceived himself (at times at least) into thinking that very thing. And I think when it comes to sex and righteous magalomania, self-deception is even more pervasive.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:16:02 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: to JW - slightly off topic
Message:
Joe - did you see the recent article in Newsweek which compared Clinton to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde? (I think they called him Dr. Clinton and Mr. Bill...) It was very interesting, and does relate to this discussion we're having about how Maharaji sees himself.

Also, there was an article in the New Yorker a few months back that said that the diagnosis 'multiple personality disorder' was just an extension of the old 'hysteria' diagnosis used for women (people who are diagnosed with MPD are almost always women). The authors thought that there was not really such a thing as MPD, that the reported cases were induced by psychotherapy. I didn't save the article, but it was very interesting, and believable.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:31:08 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: Katie
Subject: to JW - slightly off topic
Message:
I saw the Newsweek article while sitting in a waiting room and read about he first two pages and I didn't get a chance to finish it. What I read made sense.

I also read that New Yorker article and since I tend to distrust the psychiatric establishment, I tended to agree with it.

I think it's very interesting that right now there are 'reputable' psychiatrists who are supporting this whole 'gay conversion' mania at the moment, supporting the wacko religious right-wing, when the mainstream psychiatric establishment says it's bunk. [Even here in supposed liberal/tolerant San Francisco, a full-page ad appeared in last Sunday's paper, paid for by some Christian hate groups, saying that by accepting Jesus, I could be saved from my unhealthy lifestyle. It was quite amazing, and somewhat shocking, to see.]

Also, until 1971 the American Psychological Association still said the homosexuality was a psychological disorder, and they didn't change that until they were embarrassed into doing so. So, I'm pretty skeptical of labels that those people put on supposed mental 'illness.'
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:52:10 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: JW, Katie
Subject: even farther off subject
Message:
So what's your theory on why Hilary stays with Bill?

I just don't get it. If she murders him in cold blood I think most of the country would agree she had every right to. So what is she, some kind of masochist? Does she like the incredible humiliation that must come with being connected to him? She should have walked out of the White House and made a public announcement that they were separating.

Or does she really think that he will be able to reform himself?

Well anyway, my theory is that years ago they decided to stick together for his political career. They realized they didn't love each other, who knows maybe she now prefers women, and she told Bill he was free to roam wherever he pleases, just don't get caught. But then that doesn't really explain why she should still hang around. Or why she should want Chelsea to be in the middle of this.

It's all very wierd.

Hilary's next book:
It takes a village...to satisfy my husband.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 15:06:27 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: John
Subject: even farther off subject
Message:
John - I think she still cares about him, and she seems to be a very loyal person. I think she thinks she's doing the right thing. I can see her leaving him as soon as he leaves office though. Although they may have had some arrangement re his extra-marital affairs, I can't believe that would include this level of public humiliation (not to mention the prior humiliation that she's had to endure for not being the 'right kind' of First Lady).
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:57:18 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: to JW - very off topic
Message:
JW,
In college I took a course on the psychology of sex. It was great. We learned that most homosexuals are born. The professor cited examples of scientific research in this area. This directly contradicts the idea that gays can be converted. If anything, they would be repressing their natural sexuality, which would be wrong.

I currently know someone who has done this twice. He has had two marriages and children in each. Each time he has had to go back to his gay lifestyle leaving his wives and kids devastated. Before each marriage, he has attended church to try to 'rid' himself of his 'disease'. The churches have done nothing but harm to him.

My rant for today.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 14:37:12 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: VP
Subject: to JW - very off topic
Message:
Hi VP,

That's what is so sad about all these 'conversion' lies. People end up hurting themselves and others, like the guy you mentioned, by denying who they really are. I have personally met a number of married men, with children, who are leading double lives. It just seems like it would be SO difficult.

I think it's also really bad for teenagers. Gay kids have something like 5 times the suicide rate of straight kids. So much personal hatred and personal destruction, fueled by supposed christian people. And sticking god into the middle of it, just makes it ripe for abuse. And it appears to be a backlash to the advances gay people have made. I just hope that is really IS better, and that young gay people don't have to go through all the crap my generation had to.

I saw a documentary on these christian gay-conversion ministries. It was really funny, but also very sad. These people despised themselves so much that they were willing to do anything to change who they were, partly because of the homophobia we are all raised with, and partly because they believed it was a sin and that god hates homosexuals (just like Pat Robertson said).

In one of the scenes they were showing lesbians how to wear makeup, wear frilly clothes, and 'act feminine.' It was hysterical. Then, what happened, was that the two guys who were running the whole ministry, called 'Exodus International,' fell in love with each other, split, and produced this documentary denouncing the whole concept. Ironic, huh?

I think the scientific literature suggests that there IS a genetic pre-disposition to homosexuality, for example, if one identical twin is gay, there is a 70% chance the other twin is gay, even if they were raised in different homes, but it doesn't explain it completely. There is other research that suggests it has something to do with hormone levels while the baby is still in the womb. But pretty much the whole scientific community agrees that orientation is set VERY early, at least before age one. I don't think environment has much of anything to do with it. Otherwise, why did my four brothers and sisters, all raised with me in the same home, turn our straight and I didn't?

And it seems that with men it's much more extreme. Most claim to be with exclusively straight, or exclusively gay, with few who claim to be bisexuals, but with women it isn't so much that way. It seems to be more of a continuum for them. Personally I think I'm a 'Kinsey 5.' :)

Anyhow, you can condition 'behavior' regarding just about anything. But it doesn't change who you are. As I heard one researcher say, 'you can change who people have sex with, but you can't change who people WANT to have sex with.'
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:11:13 (EDT)
From: TD
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: to JW - very off topic
Message:
Fuck this makes me angry. Like racism, homophobia is SO very passe, and yet it continues to be such an issue for small-minded bigots! There are two topics that I always seem to get into screaming debates with people and its Christianity and Homosexuality, and sad to say, the two are usually interwoven.

It's always funny at Mardi Gras, because outside one of the churches near the parade, a guy called Fred Nile who's a Christian MP here, always has signs saying 'We love you, but we hate your sinning'. Needless to say, a massive paper mache figure has been made of him and it always features in the parade in varying kinds of sexual positions with some other infamous bigot!

Does anybody know Patrick, the Big M's valet? I heard he's Irish, but that doesn't surprise me with his name. Has he been a premie since the very early days???

Regards, TD
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:54:28 (EDT)
From: JW
Email: None
To: TD
Subject: M's Valet -- Patrick McCracken
Message:
I think Maharaji's valet is Patrick McCracken. I guess that name is Irish, or maybe Scottish. He is from San Francisco, and although I vaguely knew him, I didn't know him well. Yes, I think he's been a premie since the early 70s. Funny you bring him up in these posts, because I think it's pretty common knowledge that Patrick is gay. I heard he was in the closet for a long time, but that perhaps that isn't true anymore.

I heard from people that M sometimes made homophobic jokes (Dennis Murphy) who had been Maharaji's cook told me this, and so maybe that's partly why Patrick had to hide it, but I also heard that M encouraged Patrick to come out of the closet at some point, according to OP. This is all second-hand, so I don't know for sure.

I cannot imagine even BEING a valet, let along M's valet. The things Patrick must have seen!!! Wonder what he thinks of the lifestyle Maharaji lives.

Regarding gay-bashing, I think there is a backlash happening, just like with any other civil rights movement. When some oppressed group starts to get incorporated into the general society, there is a backlash. Plus, it's an election year in the US, and the republican party, uses gay-bashing to motivate their most rabid right wing, in this case 'christian right wing' supporters. You can just look at what people like Trent Lott, Dick Armey, and other republican leaders say to see it. I think the republicans think there will be really low turnout in the upcoming election and so they are willing to appear rabidly bigoted to motivate their own supporters and don't think they need to appear moderate.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 01:12:36 (EDT)
From: TD
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: M's Valet -- Patrick McCracken
Message:
I cannot imagine even BEING a valet, let along M's valet. The things Patrick must have seen!!! Wonder what he thinks of the lifestyle Maharaji lives.

This premie I was talking about who was staying in the same hotel as the Big M because of his assisting role, said that he once saw the food spread that Patrick had arranged for the Big M in his room and it was pretty phenomenal - and just for one person. He said that Patrick also asked him to go and get all the menus for all the restaurants in the area so that the Big M could decide where he'd like to eat that evening. He said it was a total hassle, because a lot of restaurants don't just like to give menus to complete strangers who aren't going to eat there!! He also mentioned that the Big M never uses hotel linen and that Patrick has to make sure that the Big M's very own linen is taken to every hotel.

As for social/political backlash, Australia's not having a gay one, but a bit of an indigenous one by some factions - there are a lot of people who think that aboriginals shouldn't be given more assistance than whites, that their benefits shouldn't be more than what a white person can get. Very hot issue at the moment...

The gay community in Sydney has become so popular and influential in Sydney with support from a lot of mainstream politicians, so touchwood, a backlash doesn't feel likely here in the immediate future. They now have public support from the police which is great too, considering coppers reputations. And besides, it's the biggest money earner of the year for Sydney, with a lot of corporate and political sponsorship and it brings out around 400,000 people a year to watch the parade which is now televised in primetime around the country. I love Sydney for that fact.

I remember seeing an American comedian here called Penny Arcade (I think that was her name - many years ago now) who said that America will always have more problems with the right-wing Christian faction, because it was settled by puritans, whereas Australia less so, because we were settled by criminals!! We have the extreme right-wingers, but they're not necessarily Christians, more just your average gun-toting redneck.
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Date: Fri, Aug 21, 1998 at 03:01:34 (EDT)
From: KK
Email: None
To: TD
Subject: M's Valet -- Patrick McCracken
Message:
Patrick McCracken is an extremely pleasant and genuine man whom I knew well over the years he toured in the Pacific as an initiator and in the US after he became MJ's valet and I used to visit Malibu.

He is from San Francisco where he used to work for the Mail Service and live in the ashram.

He is an American with Irish/Scottish whatever descent only.

The personal care scenario you raise is typical of many 'celebrities', I guess. Madonna wants only xyz type of mineral water, Diana Ross has 1 Greek salad and fresh strawberries, Jerry Seinfeld has his particular requirements. kd lang apparently gave tall 'vegetarian' orders in Sydney. In is my experience the particular idiosyncracies you identified for MJ are true. Of course, I'm not sure that that's the reason I choose not to be a premie anymore. I'm pretty fussy about hotel rooms myself as I travel a lot for my work and they can be very patchy as can local cuisine. Always take my own pillows!
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Date: Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 18:07:08 (EDT)
From: TD
Email: None
To: KK
Subject: Oops. Pilgrims, not puritans
Message:
Thanks KK. I've heard that Patrick is a very nice guy as well, and the Big M does refer to him quite fondly in a lot of satsangs. Yeah, I agree a lot of hotel rooms do feel a bit dodgey, but the Big M only seems to stay in the deluxe (a couple of grand a night type) suites which surely have a lot more individual touches then the run of the mill rooms down below!!
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Date: Mon, Aug 24, 1998 at 14:05:52 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: TD
Subject: Puritans and Criminals, TD
Message:
TD,
There is one US state that was also settled by criminals. It has lots of 'gun-toting rednecks', but also plenty of right wing Christian fundamentalists which sort of blows the comedian's theory. (Also many of the pilgrims were considered to be riff-raff. England didn't really want them, according to our Thanksgiving legend.) We probably have more in common with Australia than that comedian knew. ha ha!
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 19:17:54 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: JW
Subject: to JW - very off topic
Message:
Yes, it is very sick to suggest to someone that God won't love them because of their sexual preferences (or any other reason really.) One reason I have been so disillusioned with many Christian churches is because they do not allow homosexual members. I think that is total hypocrisy. These people are supposed to be filled with love, turn the other cheek, etc. yet they won't even accept differences in other people? They are full of hate and fear. I'm sure there are some Christian people out there (like Mickey the P) who aren't hypocritical on this subject, but the religious right wing is just crazy to me.

The research I was talking about was the hormone level research you mentioned above. It does show a predisposition, but you are right, it probably doesn't explain everything. I also agree that it isn't environmental. I am heterosexual and have a homosexual sibling. Whether or not a person chooses to be gay really SHOULD NOT BE be an issue anyway. Whether they are born gay or choose it, people should not be judged for their sexual preference. To judge that is insane.

I am really glad that you have happiness in your life. I'm sure it wasn't easy getting there. I, too, hope that future gay generations have an easier time finding and being true to themselves. This after watching a member of my family struggle with it.

As I heard one researcher say, 'you can change who people have sex with, but you can't change who people WANT to have sex with.'

Ain't it the truth!
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 13:06:01 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: all
Subject: M and money
Message:
Also, although I don't know this for sure, I am pretty sure that M keeps 'his' money VERY separate from 'EV' money. He might be a multi-millionaire, and EV could go broke. I think he has expectations of the things that EV should provide for him. I really started thinking this when RT wrote about doing some free engineering work for M's new house and M didn't even provide a computer. You know that M has got to have a bunch of computers - so it didn't make sense to me, except that M probably thinks that HIS computers are HIS, and EV should provide the ones to be used for the premies to build his house.

By the way, I don't know very many people who think they have 'enough' money. It seems like the more you get, the more you need. I know there are a lot of people who really do not have enough money for the necessities of life, but beyond that, it seems like the rest of us just always want more. M appears to be an extreme example of this - I also feel like he thinks he is entitled to all the money and other stuff because he's sacrificed so much by being the Perfect Master. I think as well that there's a part of him that's never grown up since he became 'perfect', and had to start working, at the age of eight. I am sure most of you know how many toys eight-year-olds would want if they could have them! (My niece would probably have me buy her a whole Target store if she could.)

Just my humble opinion (I do like to analyze peoples' motivations, maybe too much...),
Katie
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 09:04:14 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
I don't thik M is so sincere. He leads people to believe that K is a shot in the arm that's going to transport you direct to heaven and then he leads you on for as long as he's able that it's because you haven't surrendered, that you just can't accept it, that you're caught up in concepts, that you haven't been transported yet. If he was genuinely sincere, he would just cut people loose, admitting that K might not be for everybody. But I've never once heard him do this. Is it because there's no money to be made if he did? Hmm.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 18:33:42 (EDT)
From: Diz
Email: None
To: everyone
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
Thanks for the great response, everyone. I won't make detailed responses at this point, partly because I've got to do some work sometime - all this internet hanging-around takes time! But also because it will take me a while to absorb all the input.

Getting free of 20 years of conditioning isn't easy. I don't want to take short-cuts which deny reality, even if that reality isn't comfortable. For instance, I don't want to deny the fact that for me, meditation felt wonderful (still does, at times). Neither do I want to deny the destructive aspects of MJ's trip - god knows I spent enough time trying to do that, and got very squelshed in the process.

For several years before I left I struggled with the pull of the experience, and the push of the increasing pile of doubts I was having - about the lifestyles premies lived, especially family neglect; about the way MJ and premies wouldn't allow debate, saw even attempts at constructive criticism as 'mind'; about the way you had to believe, say and do the right things to be accepted; etc. Finally I decided that even if MJ was the PM, that I couldn't keep my integrity (such as it is) and continue to follow him.

Am I really free yet? Probably not. This forum is great in that it provides a venue for both information and ideas. Thanks for your contribution, each and every one.

Diz
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 19:34:24 (EDT)
From: TD
Email: None
To: Diz
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
Great thread Diz! Welcome!

There are a couple of things I want to say which draws upon a lot of what other people have already said on this thread.

Firstly, unless Maharaji is a better actor than Meryl Streep, there are events/videos that I've been to, where I did feel that M was being sincere and passionate when he talked about this existence and Knowledge. Even as a cynical ex-premie, I cannot entirely dismiss my response to some of those videos, although it is possible that my brainwashed receptive state somehow played upon the experience. Hmmm.

I tend to think that the Big M does flick between the two roles, that of Prem Pal and the Big M, and I think that it must be a kind of automated response he goes into prior to an event, much the same way a band member has to 'switch' into the concert mode night after night, even if they don't feel like going on stage.

As for the Hitler analogy, I saw a doco on him and one guy was saying that Hitler didn't wake up everyday going 'Ha-ha. What nasty bit of evil can I commit on humanity today?' but rather 'What glorious thing can I do today for the German people and the Fatherland. I know, why not invade Poland. That will be a good thing for Germany, give us Aryans a bit more room!'

I think the ability for certain premies to totally accept the two roles he has, read between the lines as KK said and disregard any contradictory behaviour of his, will ensure a place further up the EV food-chain. One premie I know who assists him here when he does a tour, told me that the Big M only has people close to him who are very conscious! I now realise that to look conscious, all you have to do is have a blissful peaceful look on your face, be very gracious and helpful and generally keep your ideas to yourself and your mouth shut!! He told me once that he said something stupid in front of the Big M, and the Big M purposely didn't answer and thus 'left me with my own unconsciousness. A good lesson for me'. Gag. Puke.

As for why premies stay, I would love to do an indepth survey on premies. Mind you I'm surprised EV hasn't done it already to go along with the bar-charts. Would help the Big M narrow down his target aspirant audience!! Speaking of which, I've seen them and they made no sense to me at all, and I look at graphs a lot in the course of my work! Same with the graphs that showed the increase of K around the world. Exponential increase - my arse!!

I think it would be amazing to note the underlying similarities between the different factions of premiedom. It's been a great relief to feel affinity with ex-premies here and know that my journey echoes other ex-premies' journeys. Just as we share certain similarities, I reckon that hard-core premies would find a lot in common with each other, whether it be family life, personal insecurities, spiritual journey etc etc. I think we'll find that the existence of this web-site and the resulting controversy and subsequent defection will ensure that the hard-core premie scene becomes more intense, isolated and self-reliant.

Regards, TD
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Date: Sat, Aug 22, 1998 at 07:44:07 (EDT)
From: KK
Email: None
To: TD & Diz
Subject: Deliberate exploitation?
Message:
Very interesting discussion. This is what I like about the Forum. The chance to draw a few subtle and lifechanging distinctions!

Unfortunately TD, in over 14 years of being a premie I didn't ever perceive that MJ was sincere. I saw him everywhere (India, Asia, Oz, Taiwan, NZ, Fiji, Tahiti, Europe, UK and programs [back and front stage], airports, restaurants, hotel rooms/lobbies, at home, etc etc, with the public, mahatmas in India, impoverished premies, wealthy premies, business meetings etc etc etc). I'd call the 'satsangs' full of ennui and trite. Sometimes like in the late 70s, they were unintelligible (anybody remember Montreux). Other times, I felt like we were keeping him up. I recall personally hearing him comment about wanting to get the program/s over. A very human response. The stage entertainer analogy is correct in my view. You see, it didn't matter to me as a premie because I was unconscious of the precise significance of this lack of accountability.

When you say BM and Prem Pal, you mean a persona called BM, don't you? Not an altered state. To me, there is no holy state.

I've heard the premie trip about 'only those who are conscious' etc. Only the other day someone told me this. I said 'hang on a minute. He couldn't care less. Like all people he has a right to like some people and dislike others. I go shopping at one bakery and not another because I prefer the atmosphere and manner of one shop assistant over another. It's not a very deep process to make the decision' This grabbing for- and justifying the granting of- darshan crap is infantile. I know another premie who has never been looked in the eye by M in all the years of doing security service and is starting to get PISSED OFF!

I've discovered premies arequite negotiable when they find out their worst fears i.e. that MJ lives in a way that is entirely at odds with everything they've assumed by conceptualisation and implied speculation. I tell them the truth. A few have left. My joy is not in stuffing up the bar garphs but in encouraging some of my old friends to be the people they humanly are rather than the 'premie' they imagine they have to be .... in order to justify being on the planet.

It's all very bizarre.

P S TD You know how popular Pauline is. There are a helluva lot of Pauline-type people out there, that's why. A lot of premies are similar to M - looking for a cosy way of life - F*** the world, I know where it's at.

Oo roo
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Date: Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 13:19:57 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: Everyone
Subject: 3rd technique changes
Message:
I've spent some time with 2 recent exes this last weekend.
They have been involved in EV until recently, and were not
aware at all of the recent changes m made in the 3rd technique
explanation.

I can understand a lot of the reasons why m is trying to have the premies building his picture in their mind during the meditation practice, as it's fully a part of the radhasoami tradition he belongs to.

But I can't understand why he doesn't introduce it to all the premies!

Somethin really twisted ....

Anybody having an idea?
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Date: Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 14:10:20 (EDT)
From: John
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: 3rd technique changes
Message:
I don't think he has a clue as to what he is doing. He is winging it. He is not really The Master of My Inner Self. He's making this up as he goes along. One decade the technique is so-hung, the next it's imagine you are in a swing, the next it's floating on waves in the ocean, the next it's imagine your a bird floating on the breeze. Anything to make it seem interesting and magical and new.

I think he has some vague idea that the more he changes it the more dependent the premies will be on him and the more they will think they have to make it to the next event.

In the ten years I followed him I don't remember him ever mentioning any technique. Maybe he just recently learned them himself?
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 03:23:51 (EDT)
From: Jean-Michel
Email: None
To: John
Subject: 3rd technique swing
Message:
Maybe he just recently learned them himself?

Yeah! Maybe the ex-premie.org website helped him in that way!

My concern was: what do the faithful premies think of this? The rumor of the technique's change hasn't widely spread maybe, but I wonder what it's impact will be.
Like when he advised to leave the beragons in the early 80s.

Still wondering ....
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 07:35:06 (EDT)
From: Diz
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: 3rd technique changes
Message:
Hi Jean-Michel

I must have missed something. What changes?

Diz
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:29:55 (EDT)
From: Jerry
Email: None
To: Jean-Michel
Subject: 3rd technique changes
Message:
Before this post, I never heard of such a thing. I thought the whole premise on what made K so special is that their was no mind play involved. I find it difficult to believe that M has made this dramatic a leap. Where did you hear about this? Do you really believe it? I have my doubts.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 09:56:20 (EDT)
From: katie
Email: None
To: Jerry and Diz
Subject: 3rd technique changes
Message:
Hi Jerry and Diz -
Both Jean-Michel and I heard it from the same source: a premie who got knowledge a few years ago from Maharaji himself. In that knowledge session, Maharaji described the third technique as breathing in and out while imagining your master swinging you back and forth on a swing.

I was pretty skeptical when I heard it too - I even asked the person what initiator had told them THAT!? But it came right from the mouth of M.
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Date: Thurs, Aug 20, 1998 at 00:45:18 (EDT)
From: Gail
Email: None
To: katie
Subject: 3rd technique changes
Message:
MJ did say to focus on what was behind the breath. He also said to imagine that the master is swinging you on a swing.

The student does nothing. The master does the meditation for him. In other words, every breath comes from the master to the devotee.

Yup!! Without that devotion, there is no experience. That's why he's got to get the student to think of him. He doesn't overtly have the LORD OF THE UNIVERSE trip running. It has to be more subtle.
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Date: Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 11:38:49 (EDT)
From: Richard
Email: r2harris@plymouth.ac.uk
To: Everyone
Subject: Greetings
Message:
Hey everyone,

I've been away, dealing with some stuff, but I'm back, at least temporarily. Nice to see you are all still here.

Hey Nigel, did you get my message?

BTW, I just hopped over to the premie forum to offer them my best wishes and I'm hoping for a reply any year now.

regards

Richard
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Date: Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 13:24:56 (EDT)
From: Robyn
Email: sundogs@hotmail.com
To: Richard
Subject: Greetings
Message:
Dear Richard,
Welcome back honey! Does this mean you are set up with Internet access? Good to see you here!
I posted on the premie forum at the first and red heels came here and blasted me and Nigel for posting there so good luck to you!
Love,
Robyn
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Date: Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 14:51:08 (EDT)
From: VP
Email: None
To: Robyn
Subject: Can't post on the premie forum
Message:
Robyn,
The premie forum says that it is a place for premies or friends of Maharaji. Since I am neither, I am out of luck-snicker.
Love,
VP
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Date: Tues, Aug 18, 1998 at 22:23:56 (EDT)
From: Nigel
Email: None
To: Richard
Subject: Yes, thanks...
Message:
and I replied - though I wouldn't know which archive it's in.

Welcome back!
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 10:24:02 (EDT)
From: Katie
Email: None
To: Richard
Subject: Greetings
Message:
Hey Richard -
Glad to see you here again - I was just thinking about you (noticing your absence from the forum, that is) the other day. I hope all is well.
Regards from Katie
P.S. Any chance on getting that Journeys entry from you? I think it would be a great addition to the site.
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Date: Wed, Aug 19, 1998 at 11:27:38 (EDT)
From: Richard
Email: r2harris@plymouth.ac.uk
To: Katie, Robyn etc
Subject: Greetings II
Message:
Hi,

I'm sort of back temporarily. I'll be off on a teacher training course (maths) for a year come September but I hope to buy my own computer soon so I will re-establish connections including the net and email.

I WILL DO MY JOURNEY SOON, I promise.

BTW, the premie forum is OK, it lacks a bit a vitality due to paranoia but I have hopes. I had two replies so far and have asked a question which I hope will be taken seriously. I have promised not to reproduce anything here to avoid accusations of ridicule but you can always go and have a look.

Talk again soon.

regards

Richard
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