Everything in the universe originates from the same eternal, unknowable source; and after a period of materialization returns to that source. The universe itself is an organic whole, alive, intelligent, and divine. Every aspect of it, including humanity, is in process of constant change, subject to the immutable law of karma, which ensures that balance and harmony are restored and maintained. Karma is the unfailing redresser of injustice and of all the failures of nature: it acts with complete impartiality and is inextricably interwoven with reincarnation.
Nature is an ebb and flow which regulates the evolution and involution of all life forms. The purpose of evolution is to gain experience and self-awareness of the universe's primal nature, which is compassion. Involution is the returning to this primal source with the experiences gained during manifestation. After a period of rest further reimbodiments take place to continue the evolutionary process.
Humanity, through innumerable cycles, has become aware of the spiritual source, the greater life. The ego, vehicle of the lower self and body, is subject to the impulse to gain further experience. The testing ground on which we evolve is the division between the yearning to express our spiritual selves, which are linked with the primal source, and the desire for ego-fulfillment. Our spiritual nature is submerged in our self-centered daily lives as we cater to immediate needs and desires, but the spiritual self is always there to guide us if we discipline our selfish desires.
Humanity's potential is infinite, and every being has a contribution to make towards a grander world. Universal brotherhood is a fact: the universe is intimately connected visibly and invisibly. Our every thought and action has its effect on us and on our surroundings. We are the cause of every joy and pain in our lives, set in motion by our thoughts and actions. Periodically the true nature of the universe is reaffirmed in human terms by the great teachers, the Christs and Buddhas who incarnate on earth to help humanity rediscover its divine origin. The key to this revelation is compassion and love for all that lives.
(From Sunrise magazine, April/May 1997. Copyright © 1997 by Theosophical University Press)