1977 Holiday Greetings 1978

My Dear Friends:

September 15th marked the 10th anniversary of our Beloved Teacher's passing, and October 3rd, his birthday. I know many of you thought of him on these special days. Those of you who meditate daily and do your best to live Doctor's teachings bless the day you crossed his path, for most certainly a great part of your lives has been affected in some way by his work and nobility of character. I congratulate those of you who have become teachers, fulfilling your role as his disciple in a most rewarding way.

As this decade ends, we should find it a good time to reminisce, to reevaluate our lives and to realize, hopefully, the advancements made. Many trials have been gone through by each one of us, but by using positive attitudes and rightfully accepting them, growth of character has surely been the outcome. This is, after all, the purpose of life-- to overcome and to benefit by all experiences. Changes have taken place in all our lives, but the Changeless ever remains the same, making all passing events blessed and rewarding.

The fourth edition of "Radiant Road to Reality" finally materialized a year ago last September. Two-thousand copies were printed in March 1976, however the day the shipment was to be sent to the bindery, the printing plant and all its contents were destroyed by fire. We waited another six months for our order. Nevertheless, I must say I am very proud of the latest edition. It includes a splendid photograph of Doctor.

I had planned to order only 1,000 copies because costs had doubled, but David suggested that 2,000 be printed at a lower price per copy and as a hedge against inflation. He paid for the second thousand copies and I am grateful to him for honoring his father in this way. Also I send my thank-you's to the disciples who, without being asked helped make the first payment. God bless you dear ones.

Everywhere there are those who seem to be searching for a deeper meaning to life and a personal relationship to God. "Radiant Road to Reality" gives insight to this valuable knowledge. "House of Happiness" also has given many students incentive to change the course of their lives. Often I have been asked what can be done to help deliver our Teacher's message and help make secure his place in this century as one of the truly great Master Teachers. A wider reading of his books and other writings would spread his philosophy to those unaware but hungry for it.

Our distributor, De Vorss and Co., printed the enclosed brochure. It has helped in the sale of Doctor's hard-bound books. You will notice the prices have been raised to meet the rising costs of publishing and mailing. All 35 of Doctor's "Discourses" were completed and mailed out two years ago. Please let me know if you missed any. As most of you know, these were his last writings.

Because I was unable to write to the majority of you this intimately last year, I will try to highlight two years' news:

Mother passed her 90th birthday on July 1, 1977. She has been unable to move by herself for the past three and a half years. Since the end of April she has been in a nursing home where she receives excellent care around the clock. I spend some time with her every day doing many of the things I did for her at home. She is content now, and I am, after many years, getting adequate rest again. Her family and dearest friends visit as often as possible. You should see her sweet face light up when her great-grandson, Justin, comes to see her. Justin was two on November 14th. I wish you could see how adorable and intelligent he is! David and Beth are in the process of having plans drawn for a new home near the ocean, to be built next Spring. I, too, am considering a change of location next year, as this home where the Thinds lived 37 years has become much too large and expensive for one person. Of course I will let you know of any change I will be making.

We are looking forward to Rosalind's homecoming this Christmas. Roz moved from New York city in October of last year to Alexandria, Virginia, along with Time-Life Books. She is happy in a condominium she purchased there. My niece, Suzanne (Davies) was married in May of 1976 in San Francisco. Beth, Justin, David and I were fortunate to attend the beautiful occasion. Last December my grand-daughter Laurie was married in Honolulu. She and her husband Bob will be moving to Dallas soon where he will be managing a new office for his firm.  My eldest grandson, John, lives on the Island of Kauai, where he is assistant manager in a lovely restaurant. In his spare time he still enjoys surfing.

My brother and Elly have been living in Oregon for almost two years, since Frank's retirement. They seem to be enjoying country living, raising much of their own food. They plan to visit us next Spring, especially Mother.  David and Beth took me on a weeks vacation to several lovely northern California locations in July. They are so kind and gracious to me. It was such a restful time for all of us; my first vacation of that length since 1971, except for short trips to San Jose and the Bay area. How wonderful it is to spend time with kindred souls, whenever possible. I am so grateful to my beloved family and to my devoted friends for their many kindnesses shown me.

My family joins me in sending our love and good will and the blessings of the Holiday Season. Let us remind ourselves that we must maintain constant awareness of the Real that gives meaning and purpose to our personal as well as our mutual lives.

To our country and to the President and his administration, we hope and pray for the vision and commitment to help bring about changes needed for the betterment of all people, and for the environment in which we must live. May the honor and prestige of this great land be felt once again, not only at home, but around the world.

Let us hope that 1978 will be a good year for all-- with Peace in the offing for those countries where conflicts still exist.

God bless you, Dear Ones.

As ever, lovingly,
Vivian