A Light Eternal

2010-07-16T12:07:00.009-06:00

A Light Eternal by Rick P. Avery

Table of Contents:

The Life of Light
Outer Darkness
Like Minds
Elo
Ela
The Gift of Spirit
God's Children
Seeking Kin
Growing Up Spirits
Spirit Animals
Delicate Life Design
Mik
Earth Design
Luf
Yova
Close Ties

The Life of Light
Light! Everywhere there was light! Flooding, burning, turbulent light. Explosive light. Flames leaped from the sun like weightless hands reaching to grab an unseen object, only to fall back to the surface in failure.
As flames went on in an eternally brilliant spectacular display, speeding photons flew out into the darkness of space. A constant stream of them shot in all directions to fill the universe with an infinite number of the massless particles.
A few of the photons were propelled into celestial bodies such as planets, comets, or moons, brightening the object briefly, and then vanishing. Some photons happened to strike the eye of a living organism who turned to glance at the far away star they originated from, chancing to collect a minute sample of these long seasoned space voyagers.
Most of the photons however, traveled on, uninhibited, toward the darkness of space. Their paths were straight and true, their velocity constant. If uninterrupted, they would eventually reach outer darkness, a place of no light, where all is empty, and where it would seem that little hope for change could be found. That would be the eventual destiny for the majority of these solar offspring, but one supreme being watched over them all. He would not forget them. Not even one.
As had happened countless times before, a small spray of light particles were headed to oblivion, barely aware of each others existence. They had traveled in the same close proximity for as long as they could remember. The moment of emission from their sun, now a far distant star, was a blurry memory. Since then, all they had experienced was travel at the speed of light. These photons had no way to communicate, and no method of navigation. All they could do was travel in a straight line in single file, getting further and further from other parallel beams as the trip progressed.
When they started the journey, each photon could sense light everywhere. Now there was so very little light it could hardly be detected. Photons “felt” an occasional object in relatively close proximity. These objects were of great mass, emitting some energy, but not in organized form. They were just massive jumbles of protons, neutrons and electrons, material in its rawest state.
Suddenly, each of these lost and forgotten photons felt beckoned. Something familiar called them. Something asked them to “obey and return”. Return to what? They knew not who or what had called. They knew not where they were being commanded to return to. But they felt sure of the voice and the familiar feeling it gave. Some, by simply answering “yes”, obeyed immediately. Some hesitated for a moment, then obeyed. Others considered the options, wondered who the caller was, then just in time decided to obey. Those who answered “yes” to the beckoning, instantly were taken from their travel on the doomed path. They immediately were transferred to the presence of he who called them. They were instantly brought to the presence of a servant of Elo.
The remaining photons simply traveled on. Moments later, they crossed the boundary and entered outer darkness. Everything seemed significantly different there. They felt overwhelmed by a sense of singleness, abandonment, and darkness. Panic struck the very center of each photon as it realized it was now in unfamiliar and unpleasant surroundings. They tried to obey the earlier beckoning, but it was too late.
Their speed reduced to a crawl. Their path ceased to be straight. They began to float aimlessly in a sea of darkness. This was not a darkness of space, with the stars as a comforting backdrop, but a thick darkness that blanketed and engulfed all who entered. Lost in an eternal existence of loneliness, each photon felt its energy drain as it dimmed out into submission to the darkness that had swallowed it. One by one their lights went out.
!
!
!
Outer Darkness
“My light has gone out!” thought one photon. “I can feel the presence of other extinguished light particles surrounding me. There are so many others, that I feel helplessly trapped. There is no where to go, and movement is becoming more and more impossible.
“In flight, I can vibrate at varying frequencies for some controlled movement. But these masses of fellow photons prevent all efforts to gain freedom. There is no speed, no direction, only stillness. The massless bodies of photons are everywhere.”
Still it tries to vibrate over and over again, hoping for some movement.
* * *
After what seemed like a very long while of struggling, the photon gave in to the inevitable.
“I give up. There is no use. I have stopped trying to move. I shall just let the surrounding masses force me to an undetermined direction and destination. I can't communicate, so there is nothing to do but wait. There is no way to determine time. It's passing is irrelevant anyway, since there appeared to be no end to this nightmare.”
Though it was undetectable by the photon, there was actually a change slowly occurring. As the masses were pushed into the darkness, their density began to be reduced, ever so slightly. Then all at once, as if by magic, the photon felt something give way. The masses that surrounded it began to break free. It started moving for the first time since it could remember.
“Ah, I have managed to maneuver to what feels like a sizable space. It is nice to not be crammed up against other photons from all sides. We seem to be moving deeper and deeper into the darkness, but I will do anything to be freed of that crowded mess. It is just nice to feel some hope. I believe I am accelerating a bit, but why?”
A wormhole had developed near the photon's location. The masses of photons were being pulled away from each other and into the mouth of the wormhole.
“Yes, my speed is increasing. I think I will be going my natural travel rate soon. Finally, something normal! Wait, what was that?”
They entered the mouth of the worm hole like a bit of dust being pulled into a vacuum cleaner. They were instantly in the throat of the space-time shortcut that took them to another part of this dark expanse and further from their point of origin. A new force pulled countless photons through the hole at several times the speed of light, and out the other end.
“Wow! That is the fastest I have ever gone! It was much faster than normal. But where am I now? I can feel that it is much roomier in this part of the darkness. I also feel the presence of other life forms. They feel sad. They are not here by choice. But where is here?
“What now? Something just changed! There is still no light, but now I feel plenty of room to move. Here comes the thick darkness slowing down my velocity. Yes, I have now returned to the floating state. My direction and destination have no meaning. I do not have the crowded conditions as before, but now there is nothing. No time, no location, no travel, no destination, no tight quarters, no purpose, only solitude. This is worse than before.”
* * *
Much later, the darkened photon thought again, “It has been so lonely for so long. I have not felt the presence of any object for an eternity. I vaguely remember a communication long ago, but perhaps I only thought it. I am no longer sure of anything.
“Wait! What is that? An object is approaching me! Can it be real? It brings a feeling of peace.”
A telepathic message said, “Would you obey my word and escape this place?”
“Yes!” the photon responded. “Without a doubt!”
“Then think of the brightest light you have ever felt. When you can imagine it, ask for help. If you are sincere, the beckoning call will return.”
“Oh, but it has been so long ago. I was just doubting that it had ever happened at all. I must try to remember the great light I emerged from, but it was thousands of cycles ago, and will be so hard to recall. Nevertheless, I need this help, so I must try as hard as I can!”
After what seemed like a very long while, the photon thought, “Wait, I can feel that feeling of power and knowledge that I have so dearly missed from the time with my sun. Oh! I feel my glow returning! It was real. I did exist as light once!”
Suddenly the photon knew it had to ask, and so it did. “I do not want to be in darkness again. I promise if I can return to light, then I will serve that light throughout my remaining existence. May I return to the light?”
Suddenly it heard the beckoning, a distinct request, “Will you come?”
“YES!”
The photon found itself immediately in a place of light. Then the most wonderful transmission came to it's mind.
“Hello Kib. You are welcomed by Elo. I am his servant.”
Thus began the existence of Kib.
!
!
!
Like Minds
Kib called himself Kib, for the servant of Elo had called him thus. Kib liked the pleasure it brought when he thought it. Kib had been away thinking, and it pleased him to do so. He thought of light, and of knowledge. He thought of travel, and of places he had been, of feelings he had felt. Kib thought of the moment he became an Intel.
Kib wondered why he had been chosen to be an Intel. All photons had a level of intelligence, But not all photons were lifted to Intel status. It was quite an honor. Kib had been a photon for such a long time that the change had come as quite a shock.
“Though I seek seclusion,” thought Kib, “I know I am not alone. No intelligence is ever alone. Countless photons pass by continually. Though they do not respond, they are aware of my existence. Yet I hardly ever notice them, for they are not Intels. I do not have the power to change them into Intels. It is simply a fact. There are those, however, who have such powers. But they are the chosen ones.
“There are Intels nearly everywhere. They pass by me, not as photons do, in a predetermined, unwaivering path, but as purposeful, thinking entities. This god-bestowed gift has been given to them for obedience. They choose now where to go, what to think, and who to share with.”
“Some Intels spend all their time being clever.” Kib's thoughts continued. “They spend time entertaining themselves and others. They gather together and share such entertainment with each other for eons ad infinitum. I am not thus.
“Other Intels spend time seeking knowledge, absorbing it instantly. They are attracted to places of learning, places of light. There they feed on truths and insight. They benefit from others who have already learned, sharing what they have acquired with those who so desire. I am more in line with them.”
Pausing in thought, Kib suddenly yearned for sharing.
“I choose to find others.” thought Kib.
And off he went, in search of one of life's greatest pleasures, sharing.
“I can find other sharing Intels in places near light.” He thought. “I will find them at the great light for sure. I suppose Intels love light so much because we are light. When we were changed from photon state, we retained our ability to produce light, and that throughout our Intel existence. We can feel light when we are in its presence. Light feels comforting, welcoming, powerful and full of knowledge. All Intels like knowledge. At least the Intels that are like me.
Kib's thoughts continued. “Of all Intels, I like Ish the most. When I think about Ish, it gives me great pleasure. She seems special among other Intels. Sometimes when I begin forming a thought, before my transfer is complete, she will have already transferred back a response.”
“How can Ish know me so well?” Kib pondered. “No other Intel can do this with me. It pleases him immensely. It is as if we are becoming one.”
“I will scan for her.” he thought. “I simply search for her spin and her frequency. Since she is female, her spin is cycle-synchronous, just as mine is counter-cycle-synchronous. I have scanned for Ish so many times, I know her imprint better than my own.”
If Kib could smile, at that moment he would have. He began to scan for Ish. Ish was usually easy to locate. She loved knowledge more than any other Intel Kib knew. Thus, he was not surprised to detect her near the greatest light, the greatest source of knowledge Kib was aware of. Kib transferred instantly to Ish’s realm.
“Hi Ish. What are you learning?” transmitted Kib.
“I have found a line of reasoning new to me!” she responded.
“Transmit, please!” thought Kib, using their private frequency for privacy.
“The universe is composed of two types of objects, that which acts, and that which may be acted upon. The former is Intelligence, the basic source being photons. The latter is Element, made up of protons, electrons and neutrons.” transmitted Ish.
“We are Intelligence,” responded Kib, “for we are both Intels. But what is…”
“Element is the new line of reasoning I am pondering.” She transferred, finishing Kib's thought. “It appears to exist initially as unorganized, and comes from the large forms of energy and mass we have encountered near the dark place. I remember encountering them as I approached the end of organized space. But with limited capabilities, I was unable to gather much information.”
“Ah, yes! You were a photon, and since photons are not as advanced as Intels, you would have had limited memory and reasoning skills.”
As Kib thoughts returned to the dark place, his fear of it grew stronger. The dark place was lonely. There was no knowledge in the dark place, only fear and loathing. It did not please Kib to think of it. He had escaped from the dark place many cycles , or galaxy rotations, ago. He did not ever wish to return there again.
“I was in the dark place with many Intels.” Kib transmitted. “But they had little knowledge, for the trip to the edge of the dark place offered almost nothing to learn. Elo had sent a messenger to give me and other photons a second chance. Unlike you, I had chosen not to come when first beckoned. I felt none of my traveling companions breaking rank. I feared that to leave them might be a mistake. I did what I had always done. I went straight ahead. I entered into the dark place and regretted the choice for thousands of cycles. When the messenger offered a chance to transfer out of that horrid place, I anxiously agreed and followed his directions.
“I was beckoned again. This time I obeyed, found myself transferred to a place of light, the home of Elo, and ceased to be merely a photon. By Elo's servant, I was made an Intel. He gave me the gift of communication and an enhanced ability to learn. All this because I had chosen to obey Elo's command.
“I am glad to be in the light place now! But as I think back, I find the large forms of energy intriguing. They had unfathomable mass, but the energy seemed chaotic, not organized like the great light, and without functional form.
“With so much unorganized mass in existence, it would seem that organizing it would be a priority. How do you and I go about acting upon these raw forms of mass?” thought Kib.
“That is what I am reasoning out,” answered Ish. “I am beginning to understand that there are methods of manipulating Elements to give Intels pleasure and satisfaction. But these methods require something Intels do not have. The great knowledge informs me that we must take on the form of a body to do such things. I would like to act upon Elements. Would you, Kib?”
Kib's light brightened. “That would please me greatly! We could do such things in tandem. But just what is a body, and how do we obtain one?” transmitted Kib.
“The great knowledge transmitted that a body is a gift. Intels may obtain a body, but we must be patient. To obtain such a gift would be truly a wonder.” transmitted Ish. “And the great knowledge informed me that having a body would accelerated our ability to obtain knowledge.”
Kib's thoughts race with excitement! “We have shared the joy of obtaining and transmitting knowledge ever since I first encountered you. I cannot count the number of times the great light has cycled since that joyous event, but it has been many! I met you after the dark place, for no happy meetings occurred in the dark place, only impressions of unlit photons streaming about in random confusion.”
“To gain a body would be of great worth to me.” thought Kib. “We must inquire of Elo, for this is a very complex topic, and he will know best what all of these things mean.”
!
!
!
Elo
Scanning for Elo, Kib pondered this great being.
“Elo is always so very busy, but never seems to be too busy to communicate with Ish or me. Elo's messengers had beckoned both of us to the light place, at two separate times. He had transformed both of us into Intels, for he is a chosen one. We both highly revere Elo, as do most of the Intels who dwell near the great light.”
“Elo knows so much!” transferred Kib to Ish. “There is nothing Elo does not know. And there is no being like Elo, for the knowledge, light and power with Elo is more than any other being we have encountered.”
“Yes!” replied Ish. “And to share with Elo is the most intense joy that we have felt with any being! Elo has a body. I sense a difference in form of Elo compared to Intels. I have asked Elo why there was a difference. He has told me about a body and what it entailed. But I do not know where Elo obtained it or what Elo had to do to receive such a gift. This we must find out.”
“I found Elo!” transmitted Kib. “No, my mistake. What appeared to be Elo initially is in reality Luf. Luf tries to simulate Elo's pattern. I think it is to attract attention, but for whatever reason, it is just an annoyance. I will scan further.”
Ish agreed. “Luf is indeed an annoying spirit. It seems whenever there is trouble, Luf is near by. Remember when Luf talked a group of spirits into going to an earth that was forbidden by Elo. That earth was in preparation for it's mission, and trying to finish it's pre-man hosting stages. It was in an important animal hosting phase in order to create resources for later use. Luf was trying to get the animals angry with each other in order to cause a war between several species.”
“Yes!” transmitted Kib. “It worked to a point, and many animals suffered needlessly. But the greatest concern was that Elo had specifically forbidden any Spirit from visiting that earth. Though Elo was quite passionate about the disobedient actions of Luf and the others, it did not seem to phase Luf in the least.”
“Wait! I have located Elo on the reverse side of the great light.” transmitted Kib. Both Kib and Ish transferred in tandem.
* * *
“There is Elo”, transmitted Ish to Kib. “Elo is sharing with others. If you and I wait, Elo will sense our presence and share with us also.
“Kib, what do you think a body is?”
Kib replied, “From Elo’s sharing, I understand a body to be controlled energy and a specially formed mass that obeys an Intel’s thoughts. Any thought can be transferred into action. An Intel can relocate and even restructure other forms of mass if given a body. Elo has said that mass can be restructured to produce new and varying forms of mass, and that there is no end to the sizes, shapes and variety of forms. The only limits are those in the mind and in faith. And as the mind expands, and faith grows, so also does creation. The great light was formed by Elo from both energy and mass. It would be joyous to create light!”
“I do not think light can be created, only formed and manipulated. I would enjoy greatly the ability to control light. Light is truth and life. Light is what I exist for.” transmitted Ish.
“I remember when Elo called me on the edge of the dark place. I knew very little of light. Light was not something to be seen but felt. And as we approached the dark place, that feeling grew weaker and weaker. Without stimuli, and no source of knowledge, a photon's existence was meaningless.” continued Ish.
“Yes!” agreed Kib. “In the dark place, no cycles of the great light existed to indicate durations. I was not called Kib. I was not called at all. I felt no pleasure, only darkness. Then a messenger came and taught me of self worth, and then Elo called, and selected me. Why I was chosen from so many photons, I will never know. But I know Elo cares about me, and since then, I has learned to care about myself and about others too.”
Elo turned his attention to the Intels. “What can I do for you two?” He asked. He did not need to ask, for Elo knew everything. And yet he enjoyed the chance to allow others self expression. It gave them opportunity to grow, and continuous growth was always emphasized by Elo as a top priority. The passion of His existence was to help others become perfected.
Kib and Ish both felt a sense of joy beyond description when Elo shared with them. It was an honor to share with Elo.
“We wish to ask of thee questions.” transmitted Ish to Elo. “What does an Intel need to know about a body, and how would an Intel obtain such a gift?”
“These are very good questions, and the fact that you have asked them proves that you are ready for the next stage in your progression!” said Elo. “I have watched you two for a long time now, ever since I beckoned you here from the dark place. You both obeyed my voice, Ish without hesitation, Kib with renewed faith once taught by the messenger I sent. You are both advancing well, in thought, in emotion, and in character. You are not selfish, sharing readily with others the knowledge you have obtained. Though you are not yet perfect, you strive to be so. This pleases me greatly.
“A body is a wondrous gift. It opens up new opportunities to learn different things. But there are many types of bodies. There are bodies of mineral, plant bodies, animal bodies, and there is man, the body formed after mine. Which type are you willing to inhabit? Each has its cost, its responsibilities, its temptations, its potentials and its glories.”
Ish responded first. “I desire a body like unto thine. What can I learn with such a body?”
“You desire the greatest form I offer. It is the form I would choose for you. First you will receive a spirit body. It has many of the attributes that mine does. It provides you with limited senses. You will be able to see and to hear.” said Elo.
“I too would like to have such a body. But what does it mean to see and to hear?” transmitted Kib to Elo.
“It is hard for an Intel to comprehend these things, for they come only through the use of a body. Intel’s communicate by thought transferal. That is how I share my thoughts with you. But those who have a body use other forms of interaction. While you scan for another being, a spirit body will let you visualize their location. While you transmit and receive thoughts, a body will let you speak and hear words from another. This spirit body is a very special gift. It is only the first of many, for I shall give you every gift you are prepared to accept, each bringing you closer to a state of perfection.”
“It seems too good to be true!” transmitted Ish to Elo. “What must Kib and I do to receive this first gift, this spirit body?”
“If you are committed to this choice, then you shall have the ability to gain a spirit body, and become my spirit children.” said Elo. “It is a very important decision, but you both have worked long, and you have made valuable progress. For it to happen, you must want to become members of my family. You must become my children, and have faith that I can give this spirit body to you. In that faith, you must ask. Do you think you are ready for this step?”
“With all the faith I have, I ask thee to please create a body of spirit for me to become thy child!” transmitted Ish.
“And I ask in faith as well, for thou canst do anything that is good. And to have a body of spirit is, to me, a very good thing. To become thy child is even better!” agreed Kib.
Elo smiled, but a small tear came to His eye. “Then I will begin the process. I will tell you both when your bodies of spirit are ready.”
“When you master the use of a spirit body, and advance in knowledge and experience, you will have the opportunity to prove yourselves worthy of a physical body. That will be your next goal.”
“I have one more point to discuss. A body comes in two genders. My body is male. My wife Ela has a female body. Gender is not chosen randomly, but is determined by your spin as a photon. Those who spin cycle-synchronous are male. Those who spin counter-cycle-synchronous are female. Kib is thus male and Ish is female. This is very important, for the gender of the body greatly affects the experience. You will live your eternal life, spiritual and physical, in the body given you. It is up to you to grow within it's boundaries.
“I want you to ponder what I have said, then continue your discussion on gender with Ela. She has great insight into this matter, and can help prepare you for the experience.”
!
!
!
Ela
“I am scanning for Ela.” transmitted Ish to Kib. “Ela is at her home. Do you wish to communicate with her together? “
“Yes, we can transfer in tandem.” replied Kib. “The sooner we understand about a body, the sooner the process of receiving a body can begin. I am sure Ela will help us both in understanding.”
“Then transfer to Ela’s realm at once.” answered Ish.
* * *
I always feel welcome when coming to the home of Elo and Ela. It is a place of light, of knowledge, of love. It is filled with others. Some seem to have spirit bodies, while some are Intels. But they all are in search of knowledge and spend most of their stay thinking and sharing.” transmitted Kib.
Ish's radiance brightened. “Yes, I love it here as well!”
“Ela is busy sharing with many.” transmitted Kib. “The others who are sharing with her seem to have spirit bodies. They share on different subjects than Intels do. To transform from an Intel to a Spirit must cause many unforeseen changes. I wonder more and more about having a spirit body. Will it change the way you and I share? I do not wish to lose the bond I have developed with you. The things we do in tandem are pleasing to me.”
Ish replied, “I feel the same way. Let that not change after the gift of spirit bodies is bestowed upon us. Along with sharing about gender with Ela, we will share about relationship changes. Some things must change, but some things must stay the same.”
* * *
“Kib, Ish! It is so good of you to visit me,” said Ela. “You have been away too long. What have you been learning lately?”
Like Elo, Ela knew the minds of these Intels. But her tradition was to give all the power of expression to others. This helped Intels to grow and made them feel important.
“Ish and I have discussed the possibility of receiving a spirit body with Elo. Elo has agreed to prepare a body of spirit patterned after His. We wish to know more of gender differences. Can you expand on this?” transmitted Kib.
“Yes, of course. I would love to.” smiled Ela. “Elo and I will have to discuss more about these bodies he is preparing! I am sure I will be involved. “
She smiled, though the Intels could not see her expression.
“Gender is a wonderful thing, for it gives us both strengths and weaknesses. The strengths we share with others. But if all had the same strengths, then sharing would not be necessary. We have weaknesses to allow others to help us. This builds dependencies, and dependence builds and strengthens bonds.
“As we strengthen bonds with others, they become a part of us, and we become a part of them. This oneness is a godly attribute that Elo and I teach and encourage in all others.
“I sense that you two, Ish and Kib, have developed a bond. You have been together a long while, and in being together, you have grown to depend on each other. This is very good.”
Both Kib and Ish's radiance brightened at this thought.
“We are pleased that you have recognized what we thought was our secret. We have bonded, and sharing with each other has become a major part of our existence.” transmitted Ish.
“How can Kib and I continue to strengthen this bond as we move into a spirit body form? This question worries us both.” Ish continued.
“Yes!” agreed Kib. “We would be saddened if this bond should ever be severed. How do such things continue?”
“Your questions prove you are ready for a spirit body.” said Ela. “Progress is an eternal thing. There is no end unless you desire there to be. By your actions, you choose to progress or to stay at your current state. Heeding Elo's beckoning made you worthy to be transformed from photons to Intels.
“As you go from one state to another, you carry with you knowledge and relationship bonds. Knowledge can be veiled for short periods of time, but bonds are always kept alive. You will develop many types of bonds, some of friendship, some of admiration, some of obligation. But the strongest bond of all is of oneness. Those who share it will feel it in every circumstance, in every realm, in every world. To sever the ties of two bonded together is one of the greatest pains known. To foster and nourish the bond of oneness is mine and Elo's work. It is the center of all power, of all that is good.”
This validated the thoughts that both Ish and Kib had pondered for a long while. The bond they felt was good, and was stronger after every interaction. They wanted it to continue from one state to the next. But then, as if on queue, they both thought the same question.
“How does gender play in this bond?”
“That is a very good question,” said Ela. “As I said before, dependence builds and strengthens bonds. So the best way to make two individuals become one is to have them depend upon each other. Each of the two genders has natural strengths and weaknesses. Where the male may be good at protection, the female may be good at nurturing. The male may be good at dealing with details, the female may be good at seeing the complete situation.
“There must be a core of common attributes to attract two individuals. But beyond these are the separate strengths and weaknesses inherent in all. When two individuals balance these out, they become dependent on each other. There is no law holding one gender to a list of strengths and weaknesses, only tendencies and patterns. But because there are so many combinations of strengths and weaknesses, the task of finding a mate is highly probable. In each state of existence, you will meet potential mates to bond with. Eventually, you will meet a mate that just naturally fits your needs, and you will feel the bond together. Then you may ask Elo to have that bond sealed. If you are worthy, He will have the sealing performed, and you may be together forever.”
“Art thou and Elo sealed together?” queried Ish.
“Yes, we are,” said Ela. “And we have been for as long as I can remember.”
“Then I am glad to be female if Kib is male. Perhaps this bond we feel may be sealed one day as yours.” transmitted Ish.
“Then you are pleased with your assignments! I will tell Elo and we will do the rest. I will call you when your spirit bodies are ready. I am so happy you have chosen to be in our family. You will be a welcome addition!
“One more question must be answered before we continue. When going from one realm to another, there is only one way to guarantee a couple will stay together. That is called twinning. You may be twinned together as spirits, then each of your transformations will be shared.
“But if you choose to be joined as Elo and I, then the best that can be done for you is to have both born with physical bodies in the same times and locations, and it will be your responsibility to find each other, even though you will not remember your former lives.”
“But what about our spirit lives? May we share with each other then?” queried Kib.
“Oh YES!” answered Ela. “Your entire spirit lives may be spent together. That will be your choice. Many couples bond so tightly as spirits that they attract immediately when they meet each other in earthly form. But there is no guarantee. Are you willing to take that chance?”
“I want to have what thou and Elo has. Thy bond is sacred and holy. It brings with it a form of love that is inseparable. That is what we long for.” replied Kib.
“Yes!” agreed Ish. “We want what thou hast. Please show us what we must do.”
Ela smiled, “I will.”
!
!
!
The Gift of Spirit
As they shared thoughts and feelings about receiving their spirit, Ish and Kib grew more and more excited.
“What will we look like?” asked Kib. “How will we learn to control such a gift? What if we do something foolish? Will it hurt the spirit? If we do not do well, will Elo take our spirits from us?”
“Good questions! I have shared our decision to become children of Elo and Ela with other Intels.” said Ish. “I was surprised at the various responses. Most Intels said they had chosen to become animals, plants, even elements, such as minerals, water, or gases. But there were a few that agreed with us. They too want to become children of Elo and Ela.”
Kib and Ish exchanged many ideas and impressions, causing both of them to think more deeply about what they had chosen. They knew two things, they wanted to be like Elo and Ela, and they wanted to be together.
It seemed like a long while had gone by, but then they felt a prompting. Without another thought, both transferred in tandem to the home of Ela and Elo. There they found the Celestial pair, hand in hand, awaiting their arrival.
* * *
“We are pleased you two have come.” said Elo. “We want to welcome you into our home as new family members. In a moment, you will become our children. This is a sacred ordinance. It is the first of many for you. But because it is the first, it is very special.
“You two have always been able to make choices.” he continued. “These choices have brought you here. Your choice to heed the beckoning call was the first. It proved you can obey. I will give you many commandments as my children. None
will be meant to harm you, although you may not like some of them. All will be for your good. I ask you to always be obedient. If you are, I promise that you will grow line upon line, and precept upon precept, until you will be ready to accept a fullness of what I have to offer.
“If you choose not to obey my council when your own reasoning goes against mine, you must suffer the consequences. There are laws that are eternal. I must follow them and so must you. Because of my position as a god, if I do not follow each law, I will cease to be a god. If you do not follow the laws I give you, you will cease to be on the path that I have planned for you. That path leads to eternal happiness. The longer you stray from that path, the less likely you will become as Ela and me.
“Someday I hope that you will become as us. Through obedience, you will realize this goal. I know you both have the capacity to obtain this blessing. The only question is are you willing to endure the challenges that will come your way throughout the test? Only you can answer this. And you will do it one choice at a time.
“Are you ready?”
“Yes!” they both responded.
“Then I will now join each of you to your spirits. Ish, you are first.”
And with that, Kib waited while Elo reached his right hand out toward Ish and pointed to Ela with His left hand.
He then said, “Let there be life!”
Ish felt a strange pulling sensation toward the direction of Ela as her thoughts went blank, and her glow began to brighten. Kib waited in silence, not knowing what would happen next. Kib could feel the presence of Elo, Ela and Ish, but the intensity of Ish's being seemed stronger, unlike that of an Intel. It had become more akin to that of Elo and Ela. After what seemed like a very long time, Kib's silent state was broken.
“Ish, it is time to come forth,” said Elo.
And with that, Ish and Ela became two again. Kib wondered at this miracle, for he knew it was still Ish, but not the same Ish he had grown so close to. For the first time, fear came to him. What had they done? Would they ever be the same?
But before Kib could ponder further, Elo turned to him.
“Now Kib.”
In the same stance, Elo said again, “Let there be life!”
Kib felt the pulling, as he followed the path Ish had gone, into the very center of Ela's body. The next thing he knew, Kib had opened his eyes to the first experience of sight in his very long existence. The light was dim and blurry. He looked around to examine his surroundings. Instinctively Kib reached out with his hand. He was amazed to see this extension of himself obey his desires.
“It is me.” transmitted Kib. “It is the gift of a spirit body!”
With the celestial light from outside penetrating Ela's body, Kib examined the details and rounded shapes. Sight was a new and wondrous thing, but it was only a preparation for what was to follow.
Kib realized that he now had a spirit. He was no longer formless. But this spirit body had its limitations, and he would have to learn what it could and could not do. Kib was within the womb of his mother, Ela. She had prepared their bodies of spirit and they had been joined within it. They now had life!
“Kib, it is time to come forth,” said Elo.
And with that Kib once again felt the pulling force that gently guided him from this dimly lit cavity, through the walls of the tiny room within his mother, Ela's body, and into the outside world.
* * *
Everything was so bright, no wonder Kib had always been attracted to this home! Two smiling figures looked down on him, and he was filled with pure joy. Then Kib looked to his right. There was something waving back and forth. It seemed to move on its own, but when it stopped, he realized that it must be a part of his own body. It looked like the object that Kib had first seen in Ela's body. He waved it some more and could feel how his thoughts made it react. He brought it close to his sight, and examined it in detail.
“What is this?” Kib thought. Then he heard Ela's voice.
“It is your hand, my child. You have a second one to your left.”
He did not know what left was, but he turned his vision and saw a mirror image of the first one. He smiled!
“How delightful! What are they for?”
“They will have many uses. You will accomplish much with them in time. They are meant for the purpose of ministering to others. But for now they are just images of what your physical body will look like.”
Kib then noticed two things flailing about just beyond the hands.
“What are those things?”
“They are called feet. They are at the end of your legs. You will use them to stand and move, just as we do,” said Elo.
Kib smiled again. But his smile turned to a look of concern.
“Where is Ish?” he queried.
“Why, she is right next to you. Don't you see her?” asked Ela.
Kib looked a bit farther beyond his right hand and saw a small spirit. He heard a strange sound, the sound of laughter. It had come from that same small spirit next to him.
“Ish, it is you!” he transmitted to Ish.
Their eyes met for the first time and they could not help but smile. Both laughed, Kib making the first sound in his existence. Ish made an attempt to speak, carefully enunciating the name, “Kib!”.
The two lay on their backs side-by-side, taking in the beauty of their surroundings. Once their eyes adjusted to the light, they saw that they lay on a nearly flat surface brilliantly white and very soft. It felt good lightly pressing against their spirit skin.
Ela placed beautiful robes on each of them as they busied themselves looking at all the objects in their view. Though they did not know what it was that they saw, they were in awe of the intricacy and grandeur that surrounded them.
Then they looked into the faces of their parents for the first time. Elo and Ela both looked so very knowing. The eyes were penetrating and so full of wisdom. Their pure white hair adorned them as soft and flowing as the wind. Each smile was one of pure satisfaction, and both pairs of eyes filled with tears of joy, as they looked at their two latest creations.
The two exalted beings wore flowing robes, Elo's being pure white, while Ela's was mostly white, but included touches of gold on the lining. Their brightness seemed to fill the room, and indeed the whole mansion. Elo's face was covered in a white beard making him look most wise, while Ela's face looked soft and caring.
The feeling of the room was more impressive than any other detail. There was a presence of reverence and holiness unlike anything the two had experienced before, though they had been in this same house countless times.
These bodies of spirit, gifts from the gods, allowed for a new depth of emotion. Whereas before they longed to be here for the intelligence it offered, now its simple feeling of pure love and trust drew them. They felt as one with all the surroundings and in particular with their new parents. They felt at home!
!
!
!
God's Children
The two youngsters were playing together in the nursery. Ela had shown them how to use spirit matter to create things. Both Ish and Kib seemed to like the game.
“There is plenty of spirit matter in the bowls here.” said Ela. “Just open the lid and scoop out what you need. Be sure to put it away on the shelf when you are finished. I am going to check on the older ones. Shay will watch you play while I am gone. I will be back for story time in a while.”
“Thank you Mother.” said Kib as he plopped a handful of spirit matter on the table and began shaping it into a ball. Shay laughed when she saw the new project Kib was working on.
“Another ball? You need to come up with some new ideas.”
Kib smiled. “I'm thinking, and a ball helps me to think.”
“At first we could barely move matter. It was as if our hands could not react to what our minds told them.” said Ish. “But with great effort, we have learned to both move and form it. The feeling is exhilarating!
“What amazes me is that there seems to be no end to the forms one can make. When I look around me at this mansion, all the furniture, fixtures, intricate designs, and beautiful colors, I see that I have much yet to learn. For we are only dealing with spirit matter. Manipulating physical matter will not be possible for us until we obtain physical bodies. That will be many cycles from now.”
Kib turned from his newly formed spirit ball. “There is time to work within this world. I plan to gain much knowledge and develop many skills here while I can. It gives both pleasure and experience.”
While Kib sat tossing his ball up and catching it, other Spirit children worked with matter in the nursery. Pim sat nearby at a table, making a small structure.
“What is that Pim?” asked Kib.
“It is a temple.” Pim beamed. “It is like the one Mother told us about at story time.”
Kib looked at the model Pim had formed with awe. “That is a very good temple! I must make one like it.”
With that, Kib began reforming his ball into a foundation for his temple. Suddenly he had new purpose, for what was only an image from a story was now taking spiritual shape. He joyed at the thought. Ish turned to watch the two as they worked on their structures. She smiled, then went back to making her miniature horses.
* * *
Ela reentered the nursery and looked at the progress of her children.
“Ish, your horses are looking better with each new attempt. I am very pleased!”
Ish grinned. “Thank you Mother. They make me smile. I think of them always from story time. They are my friends.”
“And they always will be my Dear. Never forget that.”
Then Ela turned to Pim and Kib. “Now I see that you two have changed course. These are not balls and ropes. Why, they look like the temples I told you about last story time.”
Both boys beamed to know Mother recognized their new projects.
“Pim started one, and I just had to try it too.” said Kib. “What you told us about temples was simply the most wonderful story of all. No project can be as grand as a temple of God.”
“You two are so very pure in heart and mind that you are perceiving the heart of your Father. I am glad you are my sons. And you are absolutely right, nothing created by God's children can compare with the temple when it is built to your Father. I bless you both that this truth will never leave your hearts, not in this life nor the lives to follow.”
With those words came a shared peace that permeated throughout their very beings. Both boys were visibly touched, and a tear came to each eye as they looked at their mother's loving face.
Ela then turned to Ish. “And I bless you my daughter, with a love for Father's living creations, both great and small. You will bless them in your eternities and they will love and bless you.”
Ish felt that same peace and a sweet joy come over her. Her eyes watered as well, and she knew then what her mission in life would be.
* * *
“It is story time children.” proclaimed Ela. All of the nursery was at once filled with excitement.
“Let's sit close to the front.” suggested Ish.
“There is room to the left. We should fit fine there.” replied Kib. “Pim, come with us.”
The three friends managed their way to the front and sat on the floor near the wall. All eyes were fixed on their mother, Ela. She sat at the front smiling as she waited for the room to quiet down.
“Last time I told you about temples. That topic touched the hearts of many, and I am very pleased that it did. Now I have chosen to talk to you of service. You see, without service there would be no need for temples.
“There once was a spirit named Heth, who desired a body. More than anything else did this Spirit man want a physical body. He had made a commitment to a sister spirit named Timra, wherein she promised that she would go to her earth and when the time came, she would bare a son. The sister did go to earth, and lived a wonderful childhood.
“When she grew to be an adult, she chose a good man. The two married and began to raise a family. One by one, children arrived into the couples life. Heth had prearranged with Timra to arrive as the fifth child. But after four children, Timra became very ill. Her earthly existence was in question. It became difficult to provide normal services for her family. She worried that she would not be able to continue without much extra effort. Her husband was forced to take on many tasks that she had always been able to do herself. Many on her earth advised her not to have any more children. But she felt that there was one more to be born to her.“
All the children sat watching as Ela described the torment that Timra went through in her earthly life trying to decide weather to have one more child or not. The concern on each Spirit's face showed how they could relate to the story. Some day they would be waiting for such a body. Would they be denied?
Ela continued. “Elo gave Heth permission to make a visit. He was allowed to communicate once to perhaps persuade Timra to allow him a body. He made the attempt on a quiet evening, when Timra was by herself, thinking of what she would do next. Heth came to her and said, 'Mother, please do not forget me.' That was all Heth was allowed. But it appeared to be enough.
“Timra's eyes teared, but a knowing smile of relief appeared where doubt once reigned. She had her answer, and now she knew her path. For the rest of her life, Timra's thoughts turned back to that moment of choice. It was a turning point in her earthly existence.
“She went on to give birth to Heth, born in pain and toil. But she was blessed to raise him up to be a valiant son on earth. Their relationship had a bond stronger than the powers of darkness could ever break. This sacrifice Timra made of both health and even life provided a service that no other could give. For though another could have given Heth a body, only Timra had the ability to complete the promises made to him in the spirit world.
“Service to others may come in innumerable ways. You may serve in sharing, in providing comfort, in preparing for others needs, in teaching the word. But regardless of the manner you choose, to serve is a godly trait that will always be rewarded by your God. For in doing good to man, you are only doing good to your Heavenly Father. All are his beloved children, and no kind act toward them will go unnoticed.“
The children marveled at the truths Ela had expounded. The spirit of truth resided amongst them, and all partook of its sweet peace. As Ela stepped back, indicating that story time was over, many children approached her to ask questions. Pim, Ish and Kib turned to each other, talking about what they had learned. They were all visibly moved, and joyed in the feeling that they had for their family.
!
!
!
Seeking Kin
The nursery was alive with color and design. There were many objects to learn from. Yet Kib seemed to always gravitate toward the building toys. So intent was he at his play, that Ish had to seek him out to share time with him.
“Are you building another temple?” Ish asked. “It looks interesting.”
Kib smiled, “It is a new temple design I just thought of.”
He was getting much better at controlling items of spirit with his hands, placing them one-by-one in patterns that pleased him. He had started with a strong foundation and was trying to stack the spirit blocks to a height double that of the base he had lain.
“ I am working with light and subtle repeating patterns.” he smiled.
“You are getting better. It is even nicer than the last one you made. Mother will be pleased.” smiled Ish.
“It is so gratifying to create.” replied Kib. “ It is no wonder that Father enjoys it so. I love to organize. There is no end to the pleasure. To make something beautiful where before there was nothing. And to have others enjoy it is greater still. What have you been doing?”
Ish scowled a bit.”Don't you remember? I said I was going to work with my animals. I have been talking to my cats and dogs. I do love them so! They have such great plans to receive real bodies and live on an earth. The females will make good mothers, and the males will provide shelter and protection for all of their children. In the mean time they give me companionship and conversation. I do love them all.”
“Well, before you go back to your life with animals, would you like to take a walk?” asked Kib. “There is time before family meeting, and I need to get out and see mother's garden.”
Ish beamed. “That sounds great. I need to get out a bit myself.”
The two youngsters walked side-by-side toward the garden. Ish smiled and waved at a group of her sisters talking in a common room. They all shouted back, then went on with their conversations.
“Brother Lod has been working in Father's garden. He loves plant life and is very good with colors. He asked if I would like to spend time with him caring for Father's garden. I think I would.”
“I do not know Lod very well. He is always talking to others, and seems like a nice spirit. Will we see him now?” asked Ish.
“ Yes, I think I know where we can find him.” winked Kib.
“Lod is an interesting brother. He wants to do well, and has a good heart. He has already committed to a gospel-family. He says he will be born in the last days. That intrigues me. I too want to come in the last days. I am thinking of submitting a request to link with him. We have similar features. I want you to meet him and tell me what you think.”
Ish looked thoughtful. “OK. But it seems that you are too young to be requesting links to families already. Are you sure you feel right about this?”
Kib stopped and looked Ish straight in the eyes. “I do not know why, but I feel that Lod and his intended kin need me. There is a draw to my innermost being. I feel that I can make a difference in someones eternal lives. And he has a friend that he has bonded with. Her name is Ama. You will like her. She is much like you. When I am with her, I feel as though I am with Ela. She and her intended kin , though not a gospel-family, are very close to the spirit. Much temple work will be required. I would like to request link to her also.”
“My, you have been doing some serious thinking, haven't you. Would they make good earthly parents?”
“Yes, that is my feeling. They are both assigned to the last days, and are well respected in the council. I feel it is where I belong.”
“The stories they tell of the last days make me shiver.” replied Ish. “I don't know if I am strong enough for them. And to raise children in such times would be hard indeed.”
“True. But what must be must be. I have to follow the whisperings. And they seem to lead me thus.”
Ish smiled, “You know I will follow, don't you? I can not be without your care.”
“I was hoping you would say that. Together, we will make it back home. And we will bring with us those you bare.”
Ish looked down, but smiles at the thought.
The two walked past the tree groves and into the tulip area. There they found Lod. He was planting bulbs for an upcoming earth project. A beautiful female spirit worked by his side.
“Hi Lod! How are the plants?”
“Kib! It is so good to see you.” answered Lod. “The plant life is thriving! Father selected some excellent spirits for this crop, and they are very enthusiastic about the up-coming earth project. Ama and I have been talking to them about insect hazards and weather problems. A plant's life is not as easy as one might think.”
“I suppose not. Ama, It is so good to see you again. Lod, Ama, do you know my friend Ish?”
Ama smiled and said “Ish! We have heard so much about you from Kib. Of course I have seen you in our passings, but have never had the pleasure of stopping and talking to you. It is so good to meet you finally. Kib says nothing but good about you.”
“Thank you. I have been an admirer of your gardening for a long time. You both seem to have a gift for this calling. I love the color display. It is truly inspiring.” answered Ish.
“Thank you for such kind words.” continued Lod. “We have been greatly blessed and work as hard as we can to please Elo, for he has given us much.
“I suppose Kib told you why we wanted to talk to you.”
Ish glanced at Kib. “Well, he didn't actually tell me you wanted to talk. What do you have on your mind?”
“Ama and I have been together many cycles. We have decided it is time to request family ties with spirits worthy of a good life. I have committed to a family that will have the gospel in the last days. They will be a part in the final dispensation. I am looking for a son that will help lead our kin to return to Elo. I believe Kib is that son. Since you and he are bonded, it seemed proper to discuss this possibility with you too.”
Ama said softly, “Sit here, under this willow. Let's share thoughts, and perhaps we can be of help to many in Fathers plan.”
The four sat talking about their love for Father Elo and Mother Ela. They shared hopes of the future and a common longing to be as their spirit parents. By the time they were finished, they had convinced themselves that requesting a link was appropriate. Lod offered a prayer of thanks in their behalf, and Kib and Ish departed the garden in the direction of the mansion, for it was nearing family meeting.
!
!
!
Growing Up Spirits
Kib sat pondering the words of Father Elo. Turning to Ish, he said “Remember when Father spoke of spirit children? He said that they are not like mortal children, for they have no forgetfulness. We remember everything from before our spirit life. We can speak and think as adults, for we existed unmarked time as photons, then were Intels for billions of cycles. Age and time are irrelevant, for we have no real beginning, only milestones. And there is no end, just changes in forms.”
“It is true” replied Ish. “We have, however, had to learn how to work with our new forms. Our bodies began in infant state, and it was a great challenge to learn how to use them. But within one cycle, our bodies grew to adult size. Now, along with our brothers and sisters, we enjoy full access to Father's instruction and direction. It is a grand life we live.”
“But now that we are more then a cycle old” continued Kib, “we must make some important choices. I know I want to continue learning. My play time in the nursery taught me how much I like creating. I desire to do more of that in the next level of classwork. Will you continue your work with animals?”
Ish laughed. “Of course I will! They are my everything. Remember Mothers blessing on me? I will always have a love for Father's creatures.”
“Good. Then I will sign us up for classwork. We can attend together if you like.”
“Kib, I know I will enjoy learning with you. Just make sure we take classes that strengthen both of our needs.”
* * *
The home of Elo and Ela was filled with physical objects. All physical objects have an identical spiritual twin and the two coexist as one. But there are spiritual objects that have not yet obtained a physical embodiment. These are the objects that spirits are limited to.
“Ish, come here, dear. I want to show you this looking glass.” Ela held a beautifully ornate mirror in her hand.
“What is this Mother? I have never seen anything so exquisite before.”
“It is something your Father made. Hold it up to your face that you may look inside.”
In surveying the new object, Ish first noticed the handle. It was silver with inset pearls. She reached out and grasped it. The handle was very smooth, and fit perfectly the contour of her spirit hand. Ish slowly turned it, looking at every detail. The back side had a raised image of a sun, with a smaller moon beside it, and several stars and planets around the edges. Next, her eyes focused on the trim around the glass. It had various planets of different sizes. But each was an emerald green with oceans of blue set in different patterns.
Then she looked into the glass. As she did, Ish saw for the first time her own image. It surprised and fascinated her.
“It is like the pictures, but it moves. Who is it?”
“It is you, my dear. It is your image reflected and returned back that you may view it.”
“But Mother, I never dreamed that I would look this way. I am almost as beautiful to look at as you. How can this be? I do not deserve such a body!”
“Elo and I determined that your mission in life will give you a need for this body. It is not just beautiful. It is patterned after someone in mind. You will see soon enough.”
Ish smiled in her sweet and trusting way. She never doubted her parents. Everything they had done for her up to this time was good. She returned to looking in the glass for facial features she had never seen before.
“I must find Kib and show him the glass. I am sure he would love it!”
“Of course you should!” grinned Ela. “You may take it with you.”
Ish ran out to the garden where Kib was talking with Pim.
* * *
The garden was breath taking. Trees formed a canopy high above the floor. Below this ceiling of leaves was a variety of bushes and smaller trees. Many of the trees bore fruit. Some yellow, red, green and gold. Spirits do not eat, so Ish had never tasted them. Besides, they existed in physical form. But she loved their colors and various shapes.
Along the gold cobblestone path grew strawberries and pansies. Behind them tulips, snapdragons and baby roses flourished, each a rainbow of colors. The many varieties of flora required a book to help remember their names. But the bright and vivid colors made Ish simply stop and sigh every time she saw them.
Song birds perched almost everywhere. They seemed to never tire of singing, and in a harmonic voice that pleased the ear. Ish was so grateful for the gift of hearing. It was a sense that spirits shared. And beautiful sounds are always welcome. She hummed their tune as she walked down the path to where she was almost sure Kib would be.
As she turned the corner, there on his favorite bench sat both Kib with Pim, his best friend.
“What do you remember about the dark place?” asked Pim.
“I remember the loneliness. I could feel other photons all around me, but they had lost their light. They no longer traveled fast. They had no direction. It was like slow motion, where everything took too long to occur, but the feeling of darkness was so thick that it made you not even care. I didn't want to share with anyone, nor did they want to share with me. We just existed in a sea of depression. Worst of all it was so crowded most of the time I could not move.”
“Then how did you obtain your freedom?” asked Pim.
“A messenger from Elo came. He had a mission. He was sent to find those photons who regretted their choice and wanted to heed the beckoning. He called out for all to listen to him. Most had no desire, being filled with self pity and lacking any interest in reaching out. But a few of us showed interest in what he had to say.
“He offered hope. He said there was a better way. He told us if we felt sorrow at all, then we had a chance to escape. The more he explained, the better I felt. I could feel my light coming back. I could feel hope. So I asked what I must do, and the messenger said to pray.”
“Did you even know how to pray? As a photon, I did not.” said Pim.
“Nor did I.” said Kib. “I asked him how. He said I should think of the brightest light I could. Then, as I was thinking of the light, I should ask for help. If I was sincere, the beckoning call would return.
“It was the hardest thing I had ever done. I remembered the great light I had emerged from, but it was millions of cycles ago, and hard to detail in my mind after so long a time. But I wanted help, so I tried as hard as I could, and finally I began to feel a presence. It started from within me, then filled my being. Suddenly I knew I had to ask, and so I did.”
“What did you ask? How did you ask it?”
“I simply thought that I did not want to be in darkness again. I promised if I could return to light, then I would serve that light throughout my remaining existence.
“Then suddenly I heard the beckoning, and I answered it. I answered without hesitation. And I found myself immediately in the home of Elo.”
“That is where I appeared when I answered the beckoning, but I did it before the darkness.” replied Pim. “I am so glad I did. Your experience is enough for me. I will never go to the dark place!”
“Nor I! Not ever again!” confirmed Kib.
“Well then, how about seeing something in the light?” asked Ish as she walked up the path to meet the friends.
“Mother let me see into this glass, and it is most remarkable. I could see my own image!”
Ish handed the looking glass to Kib, who examined the beautiful object. He was immediately impressed with its design and texture. And then he looked into it.
“Who am I seeing? He looks like a friendly sort, but he is trapped in this thing, what did you call it?”
“It's a looking glass, and you are seeing an image of yourself! That is how we see you,” said Ish.
“This is amazing! I actually look like this? Well it is not nearly as bad as I feared. My ears are a bit big, but I like my eyes. Pim, have you ever seen this?”
“Oh yes. Mother lets all the newbies see it. You two have many more experiences ahead of you that will make the looking glass seem simple. But I do agree it is quite fascinating at first.”
“It is that!” said Kib, looking intently into the glass and trying to see the back side of his reflection.
“I think if I had two of these glasses, I could see the back of my head!”
Pim seemed impressed. “I thought of that too, but not until I had looked at it for quite some time. You, Kib, are a very smart spirit!”
Just then, around the corner came Ela with a young spirit that Ish had never seen before, though she looked familiar. Kib and Pim both stared in wonder.
“Hello children! Here is someone I would like you to meet. Her name is Shay. She had her one-cycle celebration just today. She hasn't had a chance to meet anyone yet. Shay, this is Pim, Kib, and your sister, Ish!” smiled Ela.
Then Ish realized where she had seen the face before. It was the spirit in the looking glass. It was like her! Shay looked just like her.
“It is incredible!” said Kib. “You two are identical.”
Pim nodded, “I have never seen two spirits look so much alike! How will I ever tell you apart?”
Ish smiled, it was a quizzical smile. “Mother, why do we look so? What does this mean?”
“When your father and I met Shay as an Intel, she reminded us of you so much that we decided you needed to be sisters, not just in spirit, but in likeness. You will see. Your actions, thoughts and abilities are almost identical. So I designed a body image and your Father approved it. You both share the same pattern.
“But that is not all. You will share the same missions in this world, and in worlds to come. I prophecy that you will become inseparable.”
Shay approached Ish with an Ish-like smile. She reached out for Ish's hand.
“I am excited to be your sister in body. I hope you will be too!”
“Oh, this is more than I could ever ask for. I am very pleased. We will have a joyous time together. I can't wait to show you around. There is so much to see. I just love everything here.”
“I have a feeling if you love it than so will I.” grinned Shay.
“Let's escort her together.” offered Kib.
“Great!” echoed the look-alikes, then both turned and laughed in harmony.
“This is what I expected.” smiled Ela. “You two should get along just fine.”
The three raced off together, with Pim just behind, shouting, “Wait for me!”
!
!
!
Spirit Animals
Shay had already seen a lot of the house, so the group decided to explore the grounds.
“You must see 'Equestrian Meadow'!” exclaimed Ish. “It is my favorite place, just down this path.”
She gave Kib a glance. He knew how much the meadow meant to her. He smiled and walked just a little closer.
The four walked on a path of gold cobblestone. Along both sides were flowers in bloom. Many of the blossoms hosted a bee or butterfly in the act of “gathering nectar”. Some of the insects had celestial bodies, having earned them through righteous obedience to Elo. on one of his earths They were drawing out the precious liquid for food. Others were in spirit form, and thus could take no nourishment. They performed the ritual in practice only, learning the art from their embodied counterparts, that one day they would follow in step as gracefully as their more advanced siblings.
“How is the nectar today friends?” asked Pim.
“Heavenly!” chimed in most of the bees and butterflies.
The foursome laughed, then continued on.
“The last time I came down here with you two”, said Pim, “the celestials were teaching the spirits how to buck! I don't know about you but I think when they get bodies, that herd will be very scary! You won't see me asking for a ride!”
Ish and Shay laughed!
“You poor little spirit! Those horses can't hurt you. They can't even touch you for now. And they are so smart that I think you'll find them quite friendly on our earth.” said Ish.
Passing a grove of trees, Ish tried to describe the magnificence of a horse to Shay. It was an animal that had captured her imagination at first site.
“The meadow is just past these trees! Some of my best friends live there. They are swift, sleek and so very wise. My favorite is Fire. Her eyes dance with excitement, and she runs like the wind. When she looks at you, it is as if she sees into your deepest thoughts!”
Shay gazed in wonder as Ish described these magnificent animals, but even so, it could not prepare her for what happened next. As they came to the end of the grove, there opened before them a lush meadow filled with grass about ankle high. In the midst of that grass were thirty animals in spirit form, and another fifteen celestial counterparts. The vision was wondrous!
One spirit horse, a bay mare with two white socks and a white blaze on her face, came charging at them, bearing down in earnest, then ran right through Shay! Even though spirit matter passes harmlessly through other matter, it is quite unnerving to have a full-grown horse run into and through a person's body!
Turning around to face the group, Fire glanced at Shay, then turned and looked Ish directly in the eye.
“Where have you been young lady! I haven't seen you in a quad-cycle, and while you were gone, we added five members to the herd!”
Ish smiled. “I have been so busy with studies and new friends that I simply forgot the time. I promise to come more often! But I have come to introduce you to a new friend. Shay, this is Fire.”
“Pleased to meet you Fire.” Shay said quietly. She was taken back by the size and potential strength of Fire. When she receives her physical body, it will be very powerful!
“The pleasure is mine!” said Fire. “Sorry for the run-through! I got a bit carried away. At first I thought you were Ish. My, but the resemblance is astounding! I can tell you two apart close up, but from any distance it is hard for someone not to know which of you is which. Will you be twins at birth?”
“Ela says we will be sisters, but the details are not yet reveled.” said Shay.
“Well, I am requesting to be born in the same time and local as Ish, so if you are sisters, I hope to see you both on the earth!” said Fire.
“I would like that!” said Shay.
The four then went around and met all of the horses in the herd. After a nice conversation and a few demonstrations of speed and agility, and of course the promise of a horseback ride when they received physical bodies, Fire and the others bid goodbye to Kib, Ish, Shay and Pim. The foursome wanted to see Kib's friends the lions next.
Going back to the grove of trees they had passed on the way to the meadow, the troop then turned onto a smaller trail; one that led into the thickest part of the grove. As they passed into the trees, the area seemed to expand. In the center was a cave, but there were no signs of lions.
Kib cleared his throat, and said “Is anyone here?”
No movement or sound was detected. After a while, they decided to enter the cave and see were the lions were.
Their spirit earth was always bright with light provided by Elo's presents. So long as He or Ela were on the planet, it was self-illuminated. This did not inconvenience the residence since they never required sleep. But underground was different. After a few paces into the cave, it became dimly lit. The four had to stop and allow their eyes to adjust. When they could see again, they continued forward.
“Where are all your friends, Kib?” asked Pim. “I thought they would come out to greet us.”
“They must be down here. Let's check out the main cavern.” said Kib.
The girls seemed uneasy about the dark and unknown cave. Ish walked close to Kib and Shay to Pim. Their eyes strained for images ahead.
They had to “feel” the walls to continue, as the tunnel led deeper into the earth, and the surface light was less and less visible. The sisters held each others hands to keep together. As the tunnels twisted and turned, they began to doubt the decision to go inside so quickly. The tunnel widened into a cavern, and they stopped to get their bearings.
Just then, without warning, a full grown lion bounded into the cavern, roaring at the top of his lungs. His teeth bared, claws out. All four spirits fell over each other, startled by the frightening site.
“Oh, sorry about that!” said the now docile lion. “Gallant was showing me how to pounce with fervor! He was one of the best on his earth and promised to show me a few tricks. We practice in the cave so as to not frighten the other animals. I didn't know you were here.”
“Nobel! You frightened us nearly to nonexistence! But judging from our reaction, my guess is you will be one of the best on our earth. Remind me not to tangle with you then.” said Pim as he picked himself up from the floor.
“I have never been frightened before.” said Shay. “That was quite invigorating! It was like a huge rush of emotion in a very compressed time period. I will have to be more careful from now on with lions!”
“They're usually not like this.” Kib responded with a smile. “They take naps more than anything else. I fully expected the pride to be lying in a heap when we came into this cavern. Speaking of that, where are the others?”
“They all went out to practice hunting.” said a celestial lion, just entering the cavern. “Oh, hi! I'm Gallant. Nice to see you folks. Sorry for the scare. Nobel is getting pretty good! He will need these skills on your earth for self preservation. It is not an easy life in the telestial world.”
“I suppose we need to learn how to get along before we are born.” said Shay.
“No. Animals must train beforehand to have what is called 'instinct'.” explained Kib. “Humans will enter with no previous memory, and be taught what they need by their parents. This is because earth is intended for man to become god-like. Animals play a big part in this, but the main purpose is to have worthy spirits gain a human body and use it to prove that they can become as Elo. Animals, like Gallant here, must go through a life being the best they can. If they are successful, they too may become celestial. Those that are, return to the presents of Elo, aiding him in his work back here on his celestializes Earth.”
The two lions described the process of preparing for earth life some more, and Gallant gave some insight into life in the telestial earth. It all sounded very scary yet exciting. He told many earthly stories, but the best one he saved for last.
“One day, deep in the jungle, I heard a sound new to me in my earthly life. It was a tinkling sound, like a tiny bell coming toward me. I crouched in some thick bushes, hoping the sound was announcing something to eat. I tensed every muscle as the sound grew nearer and nearer. Then a second sound, that of a big two footed beast crashing through the brush, came to me. It was following the bell, whistling and calling out loud. They were both very close, maybe five trees away. Then the wind changed, and I smelled them! I knew it was man, it had to be. But what was the other smell?
“The bell stopped, but the man kept coming. He was headed right at me, so I prepared for the kill. I could see that he was close enough to reach if I pounced my furthest, but then he too stopped. I smelled fear. The man knew I was near. I needed to act fast, or the element of surprise would be lost. With just one more settling adjustment, I sprang into the air, straight at the man, teeth and claws all flashing.
“Just before I hit him, I discovered what the other smell was, a dog. He caught me in mid air and caused me to miss the man. I was angered by the interruption, and turned to the dog for the kill. He growled and stood his ground, though I clearly had the advantage in size and weapons. I made my threat cry hoping it would cause him to lose heart, but he only growled more loudly. Then I sprung at him, ready to kill at first bite. I heard a loud clap of thunder and felt a sting in the back of my head. The next thing I remember was being greeted by my parents, both dead long before. The man had used something to kill me. I was no longer in the telestial earth, but had passed on to the spirit earth with all of my ancestors. I was glad to see them, and immediately lost my desire to kill.”
“Wow! That is an amazing story!” said Kib. “And what a coincidence. We have one more stop to make, to a family of dogs. They live just down the path.”
“Ah, yes, I know the place. They are actually quite nice, and I hold no grudge with them. To be honest, the dog and man did me a favor. This is a far better place than my old earth. Please be sure to say hi for me.” said Gallant.
“It is always interesting to hear your tales of the wild earth, but we had better get going. Thanks for being so obliging.” said Kib.
With that, the foursome all bowed, then turned and headed out of the cave the way they had come. It felt nice to get back out in the light again. It seemed to refresh them all. They followed the small trail out of the grove of trees and back to the main trail. They turned right toward Elo's home and as they walked, talked more about the wild things of earth.
“Can you believe those stories that Gallant told. Do you really think a lion would try to eat a man?” asked Shay.
“They seem so gentile and friendly. I think he was exaggerating. But the stories did seem very real the way he told them.” Ish replied.
Kib smiled, “If you two ever have any lion problems, just call for me. When I have a body, it will be so strong the lions will all run away. Anyway, they are my friends. What would they do to me?”
“How do I know where to find you when I am on earth?” asked Ish.
“You won't have to find me, Ish. I'll find you. I promise!” Kib said with a tone of certainty.
Ish reached her hand out to touch his. Though it went right through, Kib smiled at the attempt, and did the same to her.
“Here is the turnoff to the dog family.” said Pim. “You are going to love these animals. They have a heart of gold.”
“That story Gallant told was so good!” said Shay. “Imagine an animal that would be willing to give their life for someone. That man was very lucky.”
Pim jumped up on a large bolder. The other three stopped to watch him. “You are about to meet the most kind, generous and loyal animals on this earth. They are hand picked by Elo to become dogs. You will see just how special they are!”
At the sound of his voice, Pim managed to attract the attention of three members of the dog family. They all came running up to him wagging tails and speaking all at once!
“Pim, so good to see you! Where have you been!” said the tri-colored sheltie.
“Come play with me Pim!” barked the black on white Shepard. She grabbed a branch and ran in circles hoping to get Pim's attention.
“Scratch my ears please!” whimpered a golden retriever. “Pleeeeease!”
Pim reached down and scratched the retrievers ears, then turned to speak to all the dogs, “I have come with friends. This is Kib, and these two are Ish and Shay. They are very good hearted spirits, and want to meet your family.”
The sheltie, who was called Truth, said “You are always welcome to our home. Come sit and tell tales. We long for your company.”
With that, the three dogs turned and walked down the path, to an opening just a few paces from where they met Pim and the rest. In the opening was a house. It was a ranch style home with a lovely front porch who's floor was covered in dog beds. Many of them were filled with all varieties of dog breeds.
“So many breeds of dog! How are they all members of the same family?” asked Shay.
“On the physical earth, man will have the skills to cause different attributes to be manifest in dogs. Elo knows this, and has prepared a spirit family branch for each breed. They are all from the same family, but each breed specializes in different skills and looks.” replied Pim.
Just then a chocolate Lab with a very muscular build came bounding up to Pim, and sat dutifully by his side.
“Pim, it is so good to see you! Would you like to come meet the newlings?”
“Of course! Let me introduce you to my friends first. That's Kib, Ish and Shay. This is my best animal friend, Arrow. We are trying to line-up our earth lives to meet.”
“Nice to meet you Arrow.” said Shay. “Did you say you have newlings in your family? I would love to meet them.”
“Yes! They just arrived. As you know, the Celestials are able to give birth to spirits, then as their parents, they raise the puppies to young adulthood. We are given the privilege of teaching them after one cycle. They become part of the family.”
The group followed Arrow down a path that led to a grassy field. There the newling Labs were out chasing each other in what looked like a form of tag, but everyone was “it”. There were about fifty of them. Some of the dogs saw the group and came running to greet them.
“Arrow, are these the men you talked about?” asked one.
“Do we sniff their hands like you said to?” asked another.
“ I thought we were suppose to lick their hands.” said a third.
“No, that is only after you decide that they are friendly.” said the second.
All the newlings were talking at once, asking questions and practicing how to be a real dog. The questions were very concerning to the newlings, and Arrow answered as many as he could, but the four friends just laughed at the confused attempts to teach under these conditions of mass queries. It was similar to the first days in the nursery for them.
“OK, settle down a bit.” said Arrow, trying to regain control of the situation. “I suggest you all practice wagging your tails. That is what good dogs do when they are happy and waiting for attention. Would you four mind them practicing a greet?”
They all smiled. “Sure, what do you want us to do?” asked Shay.
“Look at Ish. She is doing just what we need.” replied Arrow.
Ish was on one knee, looking into the eyes of a newling. Her hand was held out to the young spirit dog, and he was trying to sniff her as directed by Arrow. The other three friends joined in, getting at eye level to the spirit dogs and holding out their hands. One-by-one they allowed each dog to try what they had been taught. Arrow explained that they were to wait their turn and be patient. But that did not always happen. Pushing and nosing in were the most common breeches of protocol.
“OK, I think that is enough for now.” said Arrow after the crowd got too rambunctious. “We will try this again another time. Thanks for the help our friends. You has been a great support.”
The group then adjourned to the porch, where they sat and talked for the longest time. Arrow told stories, and everyone listened intently to his tales of life on an earth. He told of having a body, smelling spring, chasing squirrels in the fall, plowing through snow in the winter, and rolling in the grass on a summers morning. It sounded so grand. The spirits agreed, a physical body was the greatest gift of all.
!
!
!
Delicate Life Design
Kib, Ish, Shay and Pim had many discussions with other spirit children of Elo and Ela as one big family. Their parents had just the home for it. Innumerable rooms of all types, shapes and sizes filled the halls. Each was designed for a specific purpose.
The grand rooms held large meetings. Many chairs and sofas provided a place to sit while discussing things. But there was also a large area to stand in. A raised platform at the head of each grand room had a podium for whoever might desire to speak to the audience.
Music rooms filled with spirit instruments of all sorts allowed thousands of players and instructors to share in the wonder of sound. Every spirit was encouraged to learn as much about each instrument as they could. Singers sang and heavenly music abounded.
But most impressive to the viewer would be the abundance and variety of classrooms. Countless halls on every floor held classroom after classroom. Each door to each classroom had a label on it. It identified the subject taught and the name of the instructor.
As family members, they had an opened invitation to attend any classroom they desired and had access to. So they began walking the halls and looking at the labels. The first one they decided to enter was one of the planning rooms. The label said “Delicate Life Forms: Sister Atha”.
This planning room was filled with chairs and a large center table. At the head of the table was an angel. She looked very wise with a tall slender body, draped in a white robe with a whiter sash. She was leading a discussion on delicate life forms. One of the students raised his hand.
“Sister Atha, may we design any delicate life form we choose?”
“You may, but it must have a purpose.” replied the angel. “Remember, all things must have a purpose in life. Sometimes it is to maintain order. Perhaps it is to provide food for a higher life form. It can even be to challenge higher life forms, in particular, man. But there must be a purpose behind the project. So name a valid purpose!”
“Sister Atha, would beauty be a purpose?” asked Shay.
“Of course! Father insists on beautifying many of his creations! So how can we make this delicate life form beautiful?”
“Bright colors?” offered Pim.
“Yes, good start! Now what shall we place the bright colors on?”
“If we made wings on the life form, perhaps we could decorate them.” Ish said quietly.
“Wings? Did I hear wings? What a grand Idea. That will give our life form mobility and beauty. Who said that?”
“Me... I'm Ish, sister Atha”
“Thank you Ish. Very good! Now we have something we can really design.”
Sister Atha raised her hand and waved it in a circular motion. Suddenly there was a large pair of wings suspended above the table.
“Now these are a simple pair of wings. What will we attach them to? Remember, it will have to be light to allow the wings to lift it.”
There was momentary silence, then Kib chimed in. “What about a slender body and a small head?”
“OK, lets try it.”
Atha waved her hand again and a simple body and head appeared at the base of the two wings. The whole structure was in three dimension and could be rotated at the designers will by the motion of a finger.
“I will give each of you a copy, and you can decorate the wings as you wish. But in decoration, give me a purpose! We can work on the body details later.”
She waved her hand again and a smaller version of the initial prototype appeared before each student in the classroom.
The four each had their own model, and tried to color their wings, but they didn't know where to start. Sister Atha came by and asked if they needed help.
“Yes, it's our first attempt. How do we control the form?” asked Ish.
“It is all done with the priesthood. All things are. Hold your hand up, then move it in the direction you want the form to move, while praying in your mind for assistance. It will obey.” said Atha.
Shay tried, and it moved a bit. Ish did about the same. Kib and Pim's didn't even do that.
“You need to put more authority into it. Willing objects only obey when you have true faith that they will respond.”
The four tried again with about the same results. The rest of the students didn't seem to be having much trouble, so they thought they should be able to too. But the more they worried about it, the less success they had.
“Here, try this. Focus only on the object. Firmly tell yourself that you are in control. Look into the object with a piercing stare, then in your mind pray that you may have the power to control the object. Now move your hand in the direction you want the object to move.”
Determined, the four tried again. Three were able to move the object. They smiled and repeated the act. Kib still had trouble getting his wings to move. He stopped and thought. The last time he had this challenge was in the dark place. Then, he had prepared himself by thinking first of the great light. So he closed his eyes and pictured the greatest light he knew of, that of Elo's radiance. As he imagined it, a sense of peace overflowed about him, and confidence that he was not alone. Then, he raised his hand and prayed that the wings would move. They responded without hesitation. Kib and the others all smiled in a knowing way. They had called upon Father for power, and he had given it to them.
“Very good! You're getting the hang of it. Now picture a design in your mind. Concentrate on it until you can almost touch it. Then pray to the Father that the wings take on that pattern. If you do it just the way you moved the objects, the wings will turn the new colors.”
Ish smiled, “This will be fun!” Then she made a bit of a twisted face, closed her eyes, and the wings turned orange.
“That's all that I could think of. Besides, I like orange.”
Shay imitated her sister and produced a pail green set of wings. “I have only had sight for a little while, but I saw this color on a picture in the grand room and it struck me as beautiful.”
Kib smiled, then made his own attempt. Still feeling the power, he made a very serious face, closed his eyes to just a squint, then the wings changed to a blue trim, white outline, and then blue again. There where black circles at the corner of each wing.
“Just as I had imagined it!” he smiled.
“Now tell me. What is the purpose?” asked Atha as she turned the projects for a better view.
“Mine is orange because I like it.” said Ish.
“ And mine green for the same reason.” smiled Shay.
“Mine is blue, black and white because it looks like the colors of some of the song birds in the garden, and I thought that might serve to protect this fragile life form if it is mistaken for a bird.”
“Oh, yes! I see the similarity. Good idea. Camouflage is a very good method of survival. Excellent Kib.”
“Now you try it.” Sister Atha said to Pim.
He made a very deep stare at the model, then closed his eyes, and the wings turned a bright yellow with black trim and black spots. “I decided to color it yellow to warn the other life forms that this life form may be poison.”
“Good! It is very beautiful and easily seen, but carries the warning of danger. This gives it protection and still lets the viewer enjoy the colors.
“Now I want you all to think about purpose some more, and see if you can make a design change that would benefit the life form. I will come back in a while to check your progress.”
Ish sat back and frowned a bit. “Your purpose was so much better than ours. How did you come up with it?”
Kib grinned. In the garden there are butterflies that look so much like the flowers, I can hardly see them. I have thought about why they used that color. When Sister Atha mentioned purpose, I suddenly realized it was the reason. They hide from danger. I don't know why. Who would hurt such a lovely creature? But I decided to try my own version. It was fun.”
“Well, that makes me feel a lot better.” sighed Ish. “We have always been so much alike, I couldn't imagine how you jumped so far ahead of me. But I can see you are learning quickly, and I will have to work hard to keep up with you.
“Shay and Pim, you both did so well! You seem to be naturals?” Ish continued.
“We will all work hard.” said Pim. “There is so much to learn, we can help each other and learn together. It makes learning more fun!”
“ I agree.” smiled Shay. “Let's improve these wings!”
The four went back and forth improving both the colors and the shapes of the wings until Sister Atha returned.
“My, you all have certainly come a long way! I love the wing shapes and colors. They are much better that the original prototype I gave you. Now I want you to think about nourishment. How will the life form eat? I will give you a hint. They will be able to fly from flower to flower where food can be found in liquid form. How will the life form take it in? Think about it and I will check back in a while.”
“OK, Kib. We need inspiration here. How can it eat?” asked Shay.
“Food has to go in the mouth, so how about dipping its hand in the liquid and placing it in the mouth?” answered Kib.
“I don't think it will have a hand. Hands require a larger life form.” said Ish. “We gave it four feet. We can give it two more for eating.”
“No Ish. We need something that is specifically for eating. The butterflies in the garden spend most of their time just on flowers.“
“How about something close to its mouth, like a tongue?” suggested Pim.
“Yes! Close to the mouth, and long to reach the flower.” beamed Shay.
“OK, lets try it.”
Kib then waved his hand and a long tube-like probe attached itself to the creature's top lip on his model. It looked a bit clumsy.
“It will get in the way, and make it impossible to fly.” said Ish.
“Your right.” said Kib. We need another idea.”
Pim smiled. “What if it curled up to make it smaller when not in use?” It will look round like a snail, and it will be out of the way.”
The others had never seen a snail, so they had Pim make the adjustments on Kib's model.
“That looks nice. And it has a purpose!” grinned Ish. “I like it!”
Then they all went back to their own models and added the new feature to their design. For the rest of class they worked together and apart, making improvements on this newly conceptualized, not yet created, delicate life form. By the end of the session, they had all learned a great deal.
!
!
!
Mik
They went from class to class, learning more about designing living things. They learned that there are basic principles to good planning. Purpose was always the foundation. But simplicity, functionality, creativity, and originality played a part in all of the successful designs.
As they completed an assignment, they submitted it to the instructing angel over the class. The instructor evaluated the finished designs and gave them constructive feed-back. It was all a part of developing the intelligence of each individual spirit.
Occasionally a project was so well done that it would be presented to Elo. If He accepted it, then it would be added to the Populated Planet Library. This was a great honor, for once a design enters the library, it may be selected to become part of a spirit planet.
Though they had gone to literally millions of work labs, and turned in several projects in each, none of the designs Ish, Kib, Shay or Pim developed were accepted into the library. But all four of them had received honors for their work from time to time.
Kib excelled in minute details of small living forms. Ish developed a flair for colors once she had captured the vision of color combinations and shading. She loved working with birds of the tropics. Shay also had a flair for color and loved the sea world. She focused on exotic fish. Pim loved plant life. He spent his efforts mostly on trees of the forest, underbrush, and plants that helped recycle foliage after death.
They loved their studies, and grew with every new challenge. To find their next challenge, they would search the halls of their parent's home, like one might open a new book to see what was in it.
One day they found themselves in a hallway they had never seen before. Elo and Ela had designed the house with hallways of revelation throughout its expanse. Each hall was filled with rooms that required a level of competence and experience. If a spirit was not ready for a level, that hall was kept hidden from them. Likewise, if they had successfully completed a subject, that hall would be found in the area of review. It was always accessible, but not immediately in view. Their current challenges always loomed before them.
In this new hallway they came across the lab that many other students had told them about. It was the Planet Design Lab! Here spirits designed a planet of their own. It required all they had learned and more. As they approached the door, they all felt the same sense of awe. It humbled them more than ever.
“Dare we go in?” asked Kib.
“I'm not sure I am ready for such a challenge.” replied Shay.
Ish smiled, “You are ready, probably more than any of us with your sea specialties. You could lead a team with your skills.”
“It's true.” replied Pim. “You have come closer to library acceptance than any of us.”
Shay smiled shyly. Though she knew it was true, she dared not admit it aloud. She was humbled by the praise, and wanted only to work harder to deserve it.
“How could I fail with such intelligent and loyal friends as you?”
They all laughed, and Ish turned the gold knob on the white door. The foursome entered into their next challenge, Planets!
The lab was full of spirits hard at work on individual projects. They had been organized into teams of ten. Each team was assigned a work room. The work rooms backed into the conference room walls and faced the center. The see-through walls made it possible for the activities to be observed, but conversations contained.
Each work room had a large model of a planet suspended in the center, and the team members surrounded it, hard at work. Some students shared conversation, while others silently contemplated. Some found answers in prayer, obviously asking for needed inspiration. This was indeed the most challenging class they had seen to this point.
They first noticed how the planets seemed to be at different stages. One was a fiery ball, another a black-crusted char. Some, enshrouded in clouds, received needed rain. Some had oceans and deserts. Some enjoyed lush green plant life. Still others looked drowned, having been blanketed in water.
As they watched in wonder, an angel approached them. He had a friendly and sincere smile with blue eyes that pierced to the very depths of a spirit's being. His white robe was brighter then most, and his hair flowed down to his shoulders like white clouds resting on the foot of a mountain range.
“Ish, Shay, Kib and Pim! I have been expecting you. Elo said you would be arriving soon. Welcome! I am Brother Mik, the instructing angel of this class.”
The four all smiled. They felt his strong spirit as he spoke. This was a favored son of Elo. They knew by his presence. Every word he spoke was as if Elo himself had mouthed it. His continence was grand, and demanded respect. But his caring way made them love him immediately. Some angels had glorified bodies of flesh and bone as Elo and Ela, but not all. Other angels had bodies of spirit. Brother Mik was in spirit form.
“Here, let's step into my office. I would like to give you an introduction to the lab.”
They followed Brother Mik into the first work room to the right. Like the others, it had clear walls and a large planet suspended in the center. Six spirits sat in the room. The four friends sat in the remaining chairs all facing the center.
“Now that our team is complete, let me give you a quick summary of this class. You will be taught the making of a planet. It starts hot with elements blessed and donated by unorganized matter sources. These are found in explorations then directed to assemble in a working area.
“While hot, the planet is commanded to organize itself with proper elements in their proper locations. Once it has obeyed, it is commanded to cool.
“We then command it to go through a step by step metamorphosis that allows it, in stages, to develop layers of natural resources. Each layer is required to produce a final planet that, if it were in physical form, could sustain mortal life.
“Since this is a spirit planet, it requires an Intel to reside with it. We select Intels specially adept at enduring the rigors of stress and change that a planet must endure. These stages test the Intel to see if she will obey our commands in every way.
“Two things to note! We use female Intels for inhabitable planets. They have a nurturing personality, and thus tend to endure better the activities their inhabitants may participate in. They have an endearing love for their inhabitants, and consider themselves the mothers of all who dwell thereon.
“Second, this planet must have enough and to spare in resources to support habitation by a full populace for seven of our days. They will be put in a different relative time line, so to the planet, it will be seven thousand of its years. The system must be self-sustaining for those seven thousand years. That is your goal, to provide such a system to reach that end.
“I will give you the requirements for each zone on your planet. You will decide as a group where these zones will exist and how to produce the needed sources for each zone. You must work together as a team, but individually in carrying out your assignments.
“I have prayed to the Father, and am told that Nif shall be the leader of this group. He will serve you by keeping focus on the final outcome. His first and second assistants will be Pim and Shay. Together, the three will lead this group to as good a planet as you can produce. I know you will learn much and receive great satisfaction in this project.
“Remember, creation is what gods do. They create organization from chaos and allow others opportunity to advance. Our work and glory is to provide joy for others. In doing so, we bring joy to ourselves. This project will give you much joy, I promise.
“Now, all rise and follow me!”
Brother Mik then took them to their work room. It was just two doors down, and surrounded by two other team rooms, both with teams and planets in the fiery ball stage. As they walked into the room, Brother Mik stopped Kib, smiled and said, “Do you remember me? I was the missionary in the dark place that taught you. You are doing very well. I must say I am pleased with your accomplishments. Keep it up!”
Kib halted and looked puzzled, but then it dawned on him what Brother Mik was saying. His face softened, and his eyes welled up.
“I never thought I would find you again. I never thought I would get the chance to thank you. You have made all the difference in my life. I don't know how I can ever repay you Brother Mik. Thank you so very much!”
“You can repay me you know. Go back to the dark place and find those who are lost. If the Father ever asks you to go, say yes. You will find there is no greater joy!”
Kib looked like he was in shock. One moment he was feeling the greatest joy, having found his missionary! The next moment he was terrified. No thought evoked greater emotion than that of the dark place. It was the worst experience in his very long life. He never wanted to go back. But somehow he heard his own voice saying, “I will.”
Brother Mik smiled understandingly and squeezed his shoulder. They entered the workroom together.
!
!
!
Earth Design
The work room was round. In the center was a bowl-shaped waist-deep pit. There were chairs set on either side in two semicircles, facing each other. There were five chairs on each side. At the head of the room was a podium decorated with suns, moons, stars and planets. Behind that, a large screen. Mik took his place at the podium.
“Now that you are in your home room, it is time to meet your team mates. Nif, you first.”
“Hi! I'm Nif.” said the first male spirit. “I know all of you from other classes, although none of you have ever been my partner. I enjoy creating animals, especially large ones. I am also good with grains and grasses.”
“I'm Bim.” smiled the tall male spirit next to Nif. “I love flowers. I worked hard on developing new species in class. It was very enjoyable. I am excited to be on this team. I think it will be fun!”
“I am Min.” said the first female spirit. “I like working on lake and stream environments. I have had the best results with fresh water fish and bottom dwellers. Bim and I have been friends since Intel state, but the rest of you I have only seen in other classes.”
“I'm Matu.” grinned the next male spirit. “My strength seems to be in salt water life. I have succeeded in a lot of projects with seaweed, fish and underwater mammals.”
“I'm Tia.” said the next female spirit. “I like working with desert life. Plants, fowl, bugs. I love them all. I know Ish, Shay, Kib and Pim from other classes.”
“I'm Tiffy.” said the last new female spirit. “I love micro-life forms. I have worked with viruses, flu strains, simple one-celled animals and anything that is hard to see. I love the challenge!”
Kib, Ish, Shay and Pim introduced themselves, and then the team all started talking at once. They shared experiences and expectations. It didn't take long to see that they would work out fine as a team.
After a while brother Mik called the room to order. His intent was to get the team off to a good start. He explained that just as they first have received a spirit body before they were prepared for a physical body, planets and the components they are made up of, must initially be formed in spirit. Thus, there are stages of creating a spirit planet and stages of creating a physical planet. He then explained the seven stages of creating a spirit earth and the importance and reasoning for each stage.
“There are many planets, used for many purposes. The subject of this class is earth design. An earth is a special category of planet used for hosting Elo's children. The planet we are on now is an earth, though it is in celestial state. At one time it was a spirit earth, evolving into a telestial, and later a celestial earth. Whenever you start the process of creating an earth, you refer to the commencement as 'the beginning'. Your earth starts now, in the beginning.
“Although you are the laborers, this is Elo's work. He has already formed the plan, and you are an extension of his hands. This is what you are being taught, how to be the hands of God. If you succeed, then you will be given greater works, and greater tools to work with.
“The first step is to obtain unorganized spirit matter. This is a spirit project. The results will be in spirit form. We need spirit matter in the construction of this project. We keep the spirit matter in the vessel by the back wall.”
Near the back of the room sat a beautiful vas, about waist high, and decorated in suns, moons, stars and planets. It reminded Ish of the looking glass. Brother Mik waved his hand and the lid floated up above the vase. Out of it, seemingly of its own will, came a swarm of particles that paraded to the center of the room, and took their place above the pit in the center. All of the students sat mesmerized.
“This is not just any matter. It came from the spirit of our home earth, here where we dwell. Because of it's source, it is obedient to our commands. Each particle has an Intel assigned to it. All of them have been tested and are obedient to God's command. You may trust that all commands will be obeyed.”
With that, Brother Mik commanded the room to be darkened, and the matter to assume 'embryonic form'.
Immediately, the lights dimmed and the spirit particles took shape, forming a globe about the size of a spirit, and encircled by a shroud of water. The water was clear, so the students could see the planet inside. It was void, without detailed form. It was smooth and very plain, like a gray marble engulfed in a large drop of water.
“These are living waters, and have the properties to give life to that within their embrace. At this time, the globe is just an infant spirit planet. But because of the embryonic waters, it may grow and develop into so much more.” said Mik.
Brother Mik then turned to a silent observer. They had not noticed before, but up near the ceiling there was a dimly lit Intel, patiently waiting. Brother Mik pointed first to the Intel with his right hand and the planet with his left, saying, “Let there be life!”
The dim light of the Intel began to brighten, and slowly at first, then faster and faster, the Intel was pulled toward the spirit earth. It entered the waters, and took residence in the globe. A flash of light shot from the center, then it returned to it's previous color. The union was complete.
“We call this work the first day. It marks the beginning of life, the beginning of a new being. For us, it is but a moment in time. But for this earth, it is everything. I have started it with a light source and commenced it's global rotation, giving it day and night.
“As we proceed to develop this miniature spirit earth, you may view details on the screen above. It will scan the earth's surface regularly for detailed images of our progress.”
Brother Mik then turned to Matu. “The infant spirit earth will grow and flourish there, but it is of no real value unless it can sustain life. You have lived on this earth of ours for a long while. To advance the infant spirit earth, what would you add to it next?”
Matu thought, then said, “It is covered in water. I would provide it air.”
“Very good!” said Brother Mik. “It must have an atmosphere to be of any worth. Matu, command the protective waters above to be separated from the life giving waters below by an expanse made of air. The same kind of air we dwell in here.”
Matu waved his hand and said “Let the protective waters above to be separated from the life giving waters below by an expanse of air.”
The little globe obeyed, and a thin layer of sea covered the surface while the remaining waters stayed above, with a buffer of air between the two.
Matu smiles and said “It obeyed!”
Mik then turned to Tiffy. “The embryonic waters are no longer needed. Command the waters above to be removed from the newly born planet.”
Tiffy waved her hand and said “Let the waters above be removed from the newly born planet.”
The little spirit globe obeyed, and the embryonic waters broke down into unorganized spirit matter and returned to the vessel in the back of the room.
“It obeyed.” she said.
“We call this work the second day. It marks the beginning of useful elements created for the future residents of this planet.”
Mik then turned to Nif. “What is missing in the topography of this spirit earth?”
Nif smiled and said “There is no land, only sea.”
“You are right! Command the land to form, and the sea to roll back to it's place.”
Nif waved his hand and said “Let the land form, and the sea roll back to it's place.”
The little spirit globe obeyed and about one third of the surface rose up to become land, while the remainder of the surface retained the waters and became a sea surrounding the land.
“It obeyed!” reported Nif, and Mik nodded approvingly.
“Kib, if we are to beautify the land, what are we missing? What catches the eye and gladdens the heart?”
Without hesitation Kib said “Plants. All that grow in the ground and cover the barren land.”
“Right! And more than that, in the physical world they support higher life forms, thus we must establish them before introducing the others. Kib, command the spirit earth to grow spirit plants, that this might support life and beauty.”
Kib waved his hand and said “Let the spirit earth grow spirit plants, that it might support life and beauty.”
The dusty gray land then turned a luscious green. With the blue waters, it became very beautiful to see.
“It obeyed!” said Kib.
Mik smiled. “We call this work the third day. It marks the beginning of life on this earth. Each plant is a spirit with an inner Intel. Each Intel works in harmony with the spirit earth's Intel. The earth keeps all of nature working together, that this spirit earth may become a home to some of Elo's children.
“To aid the plants in their proper growth we must have seasons. Min, command the spirit earth to revolve around the sun, tilting at an angle to give seasons in their time.”
Min waved her hand and said, “Let the earth revolve around the sun at an angle that would support seasonal growth for the plant life.
“It obeyed!” grinned Min.
“Very good.” said Mik. “Now we need a light for the night sky. Shay, using spirit matter, command a moon to circle the earth providing light by night.”
Shay pointed to the vessel, waved her hand and said, “As the sun lights the day, let the moon light the night.”
From the vessel ascended more particles, forming a moon that set itself in orbit around the earth they had formed.
“It obeyed.” said Shay.
Mik looked impressed. “Very good. There are some improvements we can make on each of these processes, but we will talk about that later. We call this work the fourth day. The earth is now ready for animal life. Each living creature has an Intel within. As long as the earth's spirit inhabitants live a celestial existence, all lives will work in harmony with the spirit earth itself.
“Next, we populate the sea and air with spirits of living creatures. Ish, command an assortment of spirit sea creatures from Elo's library to populate the waters.”
Ish waved her hand and said, “ Let the seas be filled with life forms intended by Elo to populate these waters and give life to the earth.
“It obeyed!” said Ish.
Mik winked, then said, “Pim, command an assortment of flying creatures from Elo's library to populate the atmosphere we created earlier.”
Pim waved his hand and said, “Let the air be filled with life forms intended by Elo to populate this atmosphere.
“It obeyed!” said Pim.
“Excellent!” said Mik. “We call this work the fifth day. With winged animals and the sea filled with life, we have many living systems that in their physical form will be dependent on the earth for sustenance. The earth is now ready for more advanced life forms. The next step is to populate the land with both animals and with man.
“Tia! Command the beasts, the herds, and the delicate things from Elo's intended library to populate the earth.”
Tia waver her hand and said, “Let the beasts, the herds, and the delicate things intended by Elo to populate the earth, to do so.
“It obeyed!” said Tia.
Mik turned to Bim and said, “Now that we have prepared this earth and we have seen that all our commands were obeyed, what would be the next step?”
Without hesitation Bim said, “It is ready for man! We can place him on it!”
“That is partly right. The intent of all earths is to place man on them eventually. On spirit earths, we place spirits of man. On physical earths, we place physical man. But this earth is not ready for man. It is an exercise to learn the process we must take to create a spirit earth. But without the watchful eye and blessing of Elo, this is not worthy of man. It is only to learn. Someday you will have the privilege of making an earth under the direction of Elo. That is when your planet will be worthy of man.”
“For now, you may observe the activities on this planet and see where improvements can be made. Watch the animal life closely and take note of things that need changing. I will go for a while, but will return to discuss with you what you have learned.”
With that, Mik left the work room and the class watched the detail screen for close-up views of the miniature earth. They began to discuss what they saw and had learned.
!
!
!
Luf
“Without the spirit of man, observing an earth gets a bit tedious. I have seen grazing and gathering, roaming and herding, but it is just more of the same day after day. I think I need to do something else. Let's take a break.” suggested Pim.
“Good idea.” Ish responded. “We have worked on this project for a while now, and I would like to see what others have been doing.”
Kib grinned a bit. “Great! We can go to the common room and see if any friends are there. We have plenty to share, and I like getting new ideas on other classes. That is how we found out about this one, and it is my favorite so far.”
“Can Min and I tag along?” asked Bim.
“Sure!” said Pim. “We could use the extra company.”
The friends walked out of the lab and into the conference area. There were several spirits sitting in chairs and talking in small groups. Ish thought she heard Luf's name mentioned. She wondered why, but did not pay it much thought.
“Just outside the classroom door I saw a common room as we came in. Let's see if anyone is there.” said Pim.
As they entered the room across the hall, there were many spirits, all standing in a group, listening to someone on the podium. Ish recognized Luf standing up in front, talking about something that held the group's interest.
“The problem with these classes”, said Luf in a deep and inviting voice, “is there doesn't seem to be an end. You take one, and three more pop up. How much do we have to learn? When do we get to just relax and enjoy our earth?
“I took a walk earlier to the top of a mountain just past Equestrian Meadows. When I got to the top, I could see so much beauty it made me feel the greatest joy I have felt in five cycles. The flowers there are unique and of every color in the universe. The wildlife roves through the area by the scores, and the peace of solitude gives you chance to reflect, and ponder who you are and what you are worth. There is so much more to life then Elo's classes. You spirits need to get out and do something with your lives.”
“Many of you are in the Planet Design Lab. Do you really think you will get a chance to make a planet? And for what? Is this not a fine planet already? Do we not have before us the opportunities we want to enjoy our lives? Elo says he wants us to have joy. When are we suppose to have joy if all we do is learn?”
“What is Luf grumbling about now?” Pim asked Kib.
“It does seem that he has a new complaint regularly. This one is laughable, for anyone who takes classes knows how much pleasure they bring. And if a spirit does not take the time for recreation, that is their own choice. We have gone on many explorations together, and have found them uniquely educational in their own way.”
Ish shook her head in agreement. “It is good to break away from the classrooms from time to time, but too much of anything is not good for any spirit. We must learn to balance our activities to gain a good growth experience. It would seem that for some reason Luf wants to discourage others from learning. What would he want to do that for?”
“Good question.” agreed Bim. “He seems to like causing trouble.”
Luf's voice raised a bit more. “What we see here is Elo and Ela trying to keep us under their control, monitoring our every move. They do not want us to learn for ourselves. Your instructors are little more than slave drivers, demanding that you do as they say, and think as they teach. How will we ever become gods by acting like sheep? We need more freedom, not more classwork.”
To the friend's surprise, several of the spirits shouted in agreement. This was nothing short of rebellion, and it had no place in the hearts of those who truly loved their parents. Especially when Elo and Ela have given these spirits everything they posses.
Luf continued. “And the most foolish class of all is the one taught by Yova. What a waist of time 'The Plan of Salvation' is. It pretends to teach you that someday you will be unclean, unworthy to be in Elo's presents. What great wrong will we commit to be given this condemnation? Do you plan to become evil? How can Yova accuse you of this? I say that you have done nothing. And I see no cause for any of you to ever do so. Yet he claims that you will require a savior, one to cleans you from your evil state. Do you see how he tries to make you even more dependent on him and Elo? Do you see how they wish to control you?”
“He belittles our oldest brother?” asked Shay. “What kind of madness is this? There is no one more like Elo than Yova! He came to the nursery many times when I was growing up, and his visits were always joyous. We sat on his lap and he kissed us on the cheeks, treating us as angels and precious in his eyes. His stories of future blessings were so real and promising that I can still clearly see visions of them. That was pure love. This is something quite different! I will not stay here and listen to another word.”
Shay turned and walked toward the door. The other five all agreed, and followed her lead. When they got into the hall, they stopped. Shay was noticeably upset.
Pim looked her in the eyes. “These lies of Luf's are hard to understand. This is the third time I have heard him spout such accusations. But I have heard others discussing them much. He has many issues with father that don't make sense. Elo gives us freedom to do as we will. Attending classes is an option. Certainly exploring the lands and the creations that dwell on them is open to us. But we are also allowed freedom to think and to share. Luf's sharing seems wrong, but it is the cost of freedom. If he disagrees with Yova or even Elo, he may express those views with any and all of us. He is a son of the morning, and therefore holds a lot of respect in Elo's kingdom. But it does not mean he is right!”
“Yes!” said Min. “Don't let him get to you. His troubles started long before our birth. Follow Father, and all will be well.”
Just then the common room door opened and Luf walked through with twelve spirits. “While the others are in class, I will show you a secret place I found. It is just passed the meadow, and so beautiful that you will never want to leave there. If you ever see these fools again, maybe you will show them where real happiness lies.”
The group all laughed, and marched passed the six friends. One pointed at them and sneered.
“Have fun in class!”
They turned the corner and were gone.
“Wow.” said Kib. “ That was almost a third of the spirits that were listening to him. Luf can be very persuasive.”
“Well, he never will persuade me. Do you know the feeling you have when Mik talks to us?” said Ish. “That is what truth feels like. Luf has none of it. I just felt cold.”
“Exactly!” agreed Shay. “I know one thing for certain. The next class I am taking is 'The Plan of Salvation'. Why is Luf so angry about that class, especially when Yova is such a good teacher?”
Bim spoke up. “Well, that part is easy to guess. Luf wanted to teach that class. He requested that Elo give it to him. But Elo assigned it to Yova. That may be what this whole 'anti-learning' thing is about. He is angry that he was not selected. He is very capable, but as you pointed out, Luf does not bring the spirit of truth with him. Apparently, 'The Plan of Salvation' is an important class, and Elo wanted it taught by the best instructor he has.”
“Well, that makes sense.” replied Shay. “Luf needs to learn obedience. He is a good spirit, but without humility, it is all wasted. How can we be one when our highest priority is self-interest? Let's go back to class. I need to feel some truth after that display.”
Kib, Min, Ish, Bim and Pim agreed, and they all went back to the lab.
!
!
!
Yova
As they walked in the countryside on the next break, Shay turned to Kib and asked, “I know he is the eldest son, but what is the true position of Yova?”
Kib looked thoughtfully, then replied, “Without a doubt, he is the most impressive of Elo's children. Always obedient, he has become second in command in running the kingdom. Elo has many projects to oversee, and his will is often carried out by Yova. There were always earths to watch, and events to support in their advancement. When Elo cannot be there, Yova is his hands and voice.
“Many times others are sent, just for the experience I think. For I have seen Elo stay here, on our earth, while his children go out and do his bidding, then return and report the state of the task to Elo. This way, Elo's will is done, but another grows in the doing. Many times that messenger is Yova.”
“That makes sense.” Shay said. “There is so much to do, the best way to accomplish it all is in delegation. It seems that we are all commanded in things, then simply observed to see if we will obey.”
“Exactly!” said Min. “From the beckon call we received as photons to the information we gathered as Intels, we have always been given choices. Our destiny has been in our own control. You can see that if Elo is to continue in expanding his kingdom, he must find others who think as he does. Yova is the best of his children because he thinks just like Father.”
“And that is why”, continued Shay “Yova is the one teaching what appears to be the most important class offered.”
“Right!” said Bim. “Whenever Yova is assigned to a task, you may be assured that it is an important one. We have been taking classes for many cycles now, but this new one, 'The Plan of Salvation', just started recently. I have talked to spirits that are taking it, and they say it is in preparation for some big event. We are just about done with 'Earth Design', so I agree with Shay. Let's take 'The Plan of Salvation' next. I am really eager to find out what it is about.”
Shay smiled at Bim's agreement. “He teaches in the Great Hall, so there should be plenty of room. Let's go now!”
* * *
As they entered the great hall, they were amazed at how many other spirits had the same idea they did. Kib turned to Ish.
“ I have never seen the great hall filled, but it almost is now. We will have to go to the top section. I see some seats there.”
Ish doubled her pace. “If we hurry, we can sit before class begins. I see Yova at the podium. He will start soon.”
As the six reached the empty seats, Bim managed to slip by Pim and sat next to Shay.
Yova started to speak. “Welcome my dear brothers and sisters. It does my heart good to see the Great Hall filled like this. I am pleased to be your instructor for such a precious and timely subject.”
“The Plan of Salvation is not just a subject of discussion, but a plan to bring Elo's children safely through life and to eternal happiness. Elo has one primary work and glory, to enable each of us the opportunity to enjoy all the blessings that he and Ela do. If you are to become one, then this must be your work and glory too. Self agency is required to have this plan become a reality. Each of us must choose for ourselves, to follow good or to succumb to evil. We will all have the chance to show Father where our hearts long to reside.
“As you know, we are spirits, with the same form as Father, but lacking a physical body. Father's body is in glorified physical form. But long before he obtained it, he had a telestial body. And long before that, he was a spirit like you and I.
“One problem with free agency is it can not fully exist in Elo's presents. For his greatness affects our actions. Also, no unclean thing can exist in his presents. So to be fully free to choose, there must a place provided out of the presence of our heavenly parents. Initially, we will create an earth of spirit, patterned after this one. We will reside there and continue our work.
“Our next task will be to create a telestial earth to coexist with the spirit earth. Then, one-by-one, each of you may be given a telestial body to dwell thereon. You will simply slip from the one earth to the next. While on this telestial earth, you will forget all of your former lives and friends. The spirits around you will be unseen observers.
“Because of your forgetfulness, you will have true free agency to do as you choose. Your heart will guide you to good or evil. You will be taught good, but you will dwell amidst evil influences. Throughout your earthly existence, your choices will be both observed and monitored. In the end, you will inherit that which you are worthy of.
“Because you will live amid evil, there will be times that you will choose to partake of that which is wrong. In so doing, you will be unclean, and thus not eligible to return to the Father's presence. This is the bad news.
“But the good news is that a savior will be provided. He will be required to live a perfect life, then allow himself to be sacrificed for your sins. Because it will be an infinite sacrifice, it will provide salvation for all who have faith in this savior, obey Elo's commandments and repent of their sins.
“On the other hand, any of us who fail to have faith, obey and repent, will be band from our heavenly home and be sent to reside in a lesser kingdom prepared for such.”
A voice in the audience spoke clearly. “So you are saying that we may choose to remain in our heavenly home eternally as spirits, or we can take this chance to gain a body like Father's and perhaps live a good enough life to return to what we already have?”
“Not quite.” explained Yova. “If you return in honor, your reward will be to receive a body like Elo's, and share in his power and glory. If you fail the earthly test, your reward will be a resurrected, immortal body, and a happy life with those who performed at about your level. In either case, you will be better off than you are now. And if you succeed, there will be no end to your rewards.”
The voice responded, “How can you be so sure that we will give in to evil? We are good now, there is no reason to believe that we will ever change. With a little persuasion, I am confident that all of us would remain perfect. Then there would be no need for this 'savior' of which you speak.”
Yova calmly answered, “But then we would not have freedom to choose. Only with full freedom can our hearts be tested. The purpose of earth would be frustrated. No, we must have freedom. In the end, we will be sorted out into groups of compatible beings. Father will have his candidates for leadership, and all others will be with those akin to them. All who follow this plan will receive a physical body. Elo's plan is good.”
The voice answered, “Who will be this savior of mankind?”
Yova replied, “He has not yet been named. But it must be one who is capable of being perfect, even in the most dire of circumstances. He must not fail, or every earth-born child of Elo and Ela will be lost. They long to show mercy, but without this infinite sacrifice, there can be no mercy shown. The law of justice will take over, and all the disobedient will be banished to outer darkness.”
Kib looked at Ish in terror. “That must not happen! I could not bare it again! And I would not have you put through such great a horror!”
Once again the voice spoke up. “Then we see that this plan is flawed. For it risks losing all our brothers and sisters to an eternal damnation, and for what? A chance to have a body and be like Elo, when we are already happy the way we are now. We have everything. Why do you insist on following this foolishness?”
Yova smiled and gently answered, “This plan shall not fail. If Elo permits, I shall take on the task myself. For Elo has said that it must be done for the good of his family. Those who follow his word will find the greatest of joy the powers of the Gods have to offer. As his children, we simply must be obedient. Our life here is good, but it has it's limits. When we reach the end, there is no more growth. Elo has brought us to this point to prepare us for the next step.
“This is our chance to become as our parents. It is a time to rejoice, not to falter. Have faith and know that you are all loved. You will not be let down. And for those who try, a better life awaits each and every one of you.”
He who spoke from the darkness stood up. It was Luf. “All those who have doubts about this plan are welcome come with me. I believe I have an alternate plan that is less risky and will save more of your brothers and sisters than this fool-hearty idea of theirs.”
He walked to the exit and a surprisingly large number of sympathizers followed. Many of them were sitting near him and had undoubtedly planned before hand to be a part of this staged scene. But members of the audience throughout the Great Hall stood and followed their new leader. Luf had won a large following indeed.
Yova continued. “For those of you who stay, I will outline the costs and benefits of Elo's plan. I ask you to hear me out, and choose for yourselves. But do not let another take from you your God-given gift of freedom. You will regret it eternally.”
Pim turned to the others. “I trust Yova. He is wise and loving. He would not lead us astray.”
Shay agreed. “Once again, I feel truth flowing from the mouth of Elo's servant. All I feel from Luf's prepared speeches is darkness. I would not follow him to a door of light if I felt evil in his words. I will stay with Yova.”
“If I know Luf”, said Bim, “he will try to turn this to his own advantage. There is only one spirit of and worth in his eyes, and that is himself.”
“Ah, yes.” smiled Ish. “This is his plan, isn't it? He couldn't teach the class, so disturb it and start a revolution. This is just like him. How can so many be so blind?”
“I fear some of our brothers and sisters are not confident in their ability to choose the right when absent from Elo's presence. Not having self confidence, they are looking for an easier way.” reasoned Kib.
Yova continued. “This is what we offer. You may continue to submit requests to be in families of your choice. A few will be designated as gospel bound, but the rest will not know of the truth while on earth. To receive the gospel on the earth is a blessing. But where much is given, much is expected. More will be required of you on earth and in the after-life.
“Those who do not receive the glad tidings in the flesh shall be taught in the post-earth spirit world. There you will be free to accept or reject it with far less earthly demands. But regardless, you will be judged based on what you know, and what you do with it. Remember, we are testing the heart, the will of man. If you are willing to obey, you will be just fine. If you are prone to rebel, you will not do as well.
“ We will send you prophets, men and women of God, who will guide and direct you to the light. They will write holy scripture that will remain on earth for you and your descendent's to read. It will guide and direct you to the light as well.
“But most importantly, in the meridian of time we will send to earth the promised savior. He will teach truths, show heavenly power, and guide many to the light. Then, at the end of his mission, he will take upon himself the sins of all who will take his name.
“After his death, he will give his followers the gift of the Holy Ghost. This gift is the comforter which will testify of the truth to all worthy listeners. When the truth is spoken, a worthy listener will experience a feeling of comfort, of warmth, of love. Thus, all of mankind can know truth if they will only listen and ask in faith.”
With that, Yova spread his arms, and invoked the spirit of the Holy Ghost on the entire congregation. The emotions were overwhelming. Many shed tears, some fell to their knees, but all were taken into a oneness with Yova, feeling his love for them, and a sincere gratitude for what was being proposed in this Plan of Salvation.
“Now begins the time of real decision. You must teach others what you have learned here. You must share what you feel. And you must bond together with the ones you trust. They will be your support group on the earth. If they are trustworthy here, then they will not fail you when in the flesh.
“I bless you all with the power of discernment, to know which path to choose, and to help others in their choosing. Call upon the Father, and you will always have the strength you need in this journey. You are never alone.”
Yova stepped from the pulpit indicating a break. Everyone in the audience began to share. This was the beginning of the greatest adventure in their very long lives.
!
!
!
Close Ties
After class, the friends went outside to discuss their next moves.
“Yova has sparked a great interest in those who attended his class.” said Min. “It looks like every spirit is talking about both Yova and Luf.”
“Either that or they are making family bonds.” replied Shay. “It stands to reason that committing to a parent-child relationship is less a risk than to a spousal bond. You are assured that if your committed mother has children, you may be one of them. But it will be hard to find the right spouse out of so many on earth! How can it be done?”
“I know you are right Shay, but Kib and I are committed to doing just that.” said Ish. “We want what Elo and Ela have, together.”
“Yes, I can see that. You two have been bonded for many cycles now. Your chances of recognizing each other are high. Even if only one of you feels the bond, they can work to refresh the other's memory. I have not yet found such a spirit.”
Ish smiled. “You may still.”
Bim whispered quietly, “Yes, you may.”
Pim then grinned at Shay and nodded. She smiled back in agreement.
“We have been talking about it for a while now. Shay and I would like to be your children.” Pim said to Ish. “Will you have us?”
“Will I have you? With all my heart I will. What an honor you offer me. Of course I will have you.”
Ish embraced them both for a long while. The whole group was visibly touched. Kib was without words for a bit. But when he managed to compose himself, He said, “I shall strive all the more to be worthy of your mother, for our union would be a glorious one!”
As they stood there considering the future together, another group approached them. It was the rest of their classmates, Nif, Tiffy, Tia and Matu.
“So, how about that Luf? He has found another scheme to ensnare the children of Elo.” said Nif. “His words are subtle and enticing. Yet you know they are designed to trap others into doing his will.”
“We were in Yova's class and saw and heard the whole thing.” agreed Tia. “I could not believe how many followed. Where is the common sense? What kind of future do his followers have? They will be used as servants then thrown away as a disobedient planet, put in an orbit beyond the warmth of its sun.”
“He caught me in the hall on break a while back.” said Matu. “He asked me to join him in a group discussion on alternatives to Elo's plans. I laughed and said to me there is but one plan. He replied with, 'We shall see.' whatever that means.”
“It means trouble for a lot of our brothers and sisters.” said Bim. “He is out to get as many as he can. I don't like this one bit. I think we need to tell Yova.”
“Oh, he already knows.” said Shay. “He calmly listens to Luf and then replies with words of truth. When he explains the plan and describes the potential blessings in store, it is hard not to burst with joy. He knows everything that Elo has in store, and his enthusiasm for it is evident. How can anyone doubt?”
“Of course you're right. I have never doubted.” replied Matu. “But his attitude and arrogance are hard to take sometimes.
“If you don't mind, I would prefer to change the subject to something more pleasant and worthwhile. We came out of Yova's class and were discussing who we trusted enough to be committed to on earth. Nif, Tiffy and Tia have connections already, but I have none. I was wondering if you had any room for me?”
“Oh Matu, of course we do!” said Shay. She reached out and hugged him.
“Pim and I just made a pact with Ish to be our mother. Could you take Matu also, Ish?”
Ish smiled. “Ah, Matu. You are a very special spirit, always full of mischief and fun. I will take you in the blink of an eye! Oh, by the way Kib will be trying to find us. He may become your father.”
“That's fine. You have to take the good with the bad.” smiled Matu.
“Hey! You be nice to your father! I just may save you from outer darkness someday.” laughed Kib.
“Before you two start a new war,” laughed Nif, “we have one more issue. Tiffy, Tia and I have long been committed to our mothers, but all three of them were given warnings in their father's blessings. They may not be able to have or keep us on earth. The words were not specific, but Father suggested that we have a back-up plan. Could you take on three more? This would be if we ran into problems getting into our planned family. And I am sure if it happens, it will not be to all three of us. It is just a safety plan.”
“That will be fine.” said Ish. “Six is a nice number anyway. Why not?”
“Wow!” said Bim. “That means all nine of you could potentially be in the same family. Luckily, I have a gospel family lined-up. But I will sure miss you guys on earth. I have to find a way to contact you.”
“It will be tricky.” said Shay. “You have to somehow get an individual so embedded into your soul that you recognize them, even though you have no recollection of them before birth. You really have to be close for to work.”
“Then I need to spend more time with you. It is the only choice.” answered Bim.
“Kib! Pim!” called out a voice from the crowded yard outside the Great Hall.
“Hey, it's Mik.” shouted Kib. “It's so good to see you. Did you attend Yova's class?”
“Oh yes. I enjoyed both the instruction and the interruption. I am glad to see that all ten of you managed to be here. So what do you think?”
“We are all with Yova's plan and are anxious to become a part of it.” said Nif.
“It sounds hard, but definitely worth it.” agreed Matu.
“Is there something we can do to help?” asked Pim.
“Funny you should ask.” replied Mik. “Elo sent me here with an assignment for two of you. Kib, Pim, can I talk with you for a bit?”
“Uh, sure.” Kib answered cautiously.
“Just come sit over here on this bench. It shouldn't take too long.”
Mik lead the two over to an empty bench, while the others began to speculate what the assignment might be.
Mik smiled reassuringly and began. “I come from the presence of Elo with both greetings and praise. He knows how hard you have worked in the classes you have attended. Your efforts and results are impressive indeed.
“As you both know, this group of spirits are preparing to help create and inhabit a new spirit earth. When they have completed this task, the whole group will be moved there to start the creation of a new physical earth body for that spirit earth to dwell in. Once the spirits are all moved, Elo's earth will be almost empty. This means more Intels are needed to live here and eventually become spirits.
“Kib, as you know, there are many capable photons in the dark place that need a second chance.”
Kib seemed stunned. “Yes, I can well imagine many deserving photons in the most dire of conditions. It is a horrible place.”
“Well, Elo needs to send some messengers out there to find and bring back any who would like a second chance. He has asked that you and Pim go together. Will you accept this calling?”
Pim and Kib looked at each other, both in stunned amazement. Their eyes were locked, and each searched the other's heart to see if they could comply with such a request.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Kib nodded, and Pim smiled.
“We can do this, can't we?” asked Pim.
“Yes, we can!” smiled Kib.
“Very good. Say your good-bye's to your friends and come with me.”