The Pattern on the Trestleboard is a series of statements brought forth as a meditation by Paul Foster Case, founder of the Builders of the Adytum. It has become, for me, a powerful anchor for meditation … one that I continue to utilize throughout this journey. In those moments when my mind drifts (and the body follows!), it provides a point of focus that faithfully guides me back to center. This surely is not the only “tool” that can be utilized, but because of its impact upon me, I am drawn to share it here.
In this first post, I will offer an introduction … and consider the first statement before releasing it until next week. This will allow you, if you so desire, to sit with it during the course of the weekend. Then, we will focus upon two statements per day until complete.
This series of eleven statements is centered on “The Tree of Life,” a glyph that serves as a centerpiece for Qabalistic studies (and no, you don’t have to be a Qabalist to consider it).
As you can see, there are ten “circles” or sephiroth (singularly termed “sephirah”).
(A note seems appropriate here: there are varied perspectives on spelling and mechanics of this topic, as is the case in most everything in life. My intent is to convey the essence of what is brought here … the part that, in my estimation, matters for the journey. I’m not particularly convinced at this juncture that division based upon (largely) semantics is fruitful. I do, however, try to remain open.)
Flowing from this is a recognition of some alternative descriptions for these sephiroth: Centers of Expression – Divine Emanations – Spheres of Influence – Spheres of Life Experience. Each has validity. Each offers a bit more perspective. The “truth” held within, however, is up to the individual to discover.
The Pattern on the Trestleboard
This Is Truth About The Self
- All the Power that ever was or will be is here now.
- I am a center of expression for the Primal Will-to-Good which eternally creates and sustains the Universe.
- Through me its unfailing Wisdom takes form in thought and word.
- Filled with Understanding of its perfect law, I am guided, moment by moment, along the path of liberation.
- From the exhaustless riches of its Limitless Substance, I draw all things needful, both spiritual and material.
- I recognize the manifestation of the Undeviating Justice in all the circumstances of my life.
- In all things, great and small, I see the Beauty of the Divine Expression.
- Living from that Will, supported by its unfailing Wisdom and Understanding, mine is the Victorious Life.
- I look forward with confidence to the perfect realization of the Eternal Splendor of the Limitless Light.
- In thought and word and deed, I rest my life, from day to day, upon the sure Foundation of Eternal Being.
- The Kingdom of Spirit is embodied in my flesh.
As I considered sharing this, I was well aware that the words used may seem a bit foreign to some. When I was first introduced, they were for me as well, but in no time at all, the spirit of the message rested gently, but firmly, in heart and mind.
The Pattern begins with the over-arching statement: “This is the Truth about the Self.” “The Self” (2) is speaking of the “True Self” … that part of each of us that remains untainted by this world. It is the Divine Seed that remains (for the most part) hidden from our consciousness. It is that part of us that faithfully bids us come and take the path of return.
Even as I write these words, I’m reminded once again of the story in the first post … and as well, how this connection is an example of the “Golden Thread.” This “Self” knows nothing but Truth, never seeking to coddle the human mind or ego. It is simply “Truth”, stripped bare … and to the extent we have ears to hear, the message is here to be heard.
Now, you may notice that the Tree has but ten sephiroth, while the Pattern contains eleven statements. Without going into great detail about the Tree (which will be for another time), the “first” statement, numbered “0”, is in reference to the area above the Tree, beyond us (in all ways).
All the Power that ever was or will be is here now.
Consider the implications of just the first three words. All – the – power. Reaching back but a few sentences, to the beginning statement, we are led to believe that the statements following were is beyond our wildest imaginings. But as well, it can “arise” in simplest fashion … through merely a focused thought of the Creator … and a Word.
It is indeed the Alpha and Omega … “ever was or will be” … and it is “here now.”
How can we relinquish our Self to this world through worry and anxiety? Indeed, this is a harsh question in many respects as it strikes to our very core … or at least it does for me. It is humbling … but if there’s one thing I “know” (4), it is that this moment is not an ending, but a beginning. Each one, if but we choose it to be.
In closing, I often “think” through the Pattern prior to rest or as it comes to mind as “a pretty good idea” for a place to set my mind during the course of the day. As well, there are countless times where one particular statement will arise when I’m “engulfed” in life, offering understanding at a perfectly imperfect moment. Once again, this is a tool (a gift!) that I utilize. If you have another, I simply say, practice with it. Know it intimately, and you will find that it’s a gift that keeps on giving!
