DISCIPLESHIP

Discipleship is an intensification of the tests of the probationary period. Every

quality in the disciple, whether favourable or adverse, is strengthened by the more
intimate relationship with the Master. Whilst this increases the disciple’s power for
good, it also increases his personal difficulties. One after another, his failings and
weaknesses become manifest, are apparently magnified. This process inevitably
increases the difficulties of the disciple’s personal life and sometimes leads him
almost to despair. Faults and errors, weaknesses, and even vices of which he deemed
himself incapable show forth in him, often causing him much self-disparagement and
pain. He should not, however, despair since his inner life becomes increasingly rich
and beautiful. His Egoic power steadily increases under the influence of his Master,
and by its aid he is enabled to overcome. His weaknesses, both active and latent, must
be made unmistakably clear to him so that he knows of them and may eliminate them
from his nature.
Ignorance of weaknesses and limitations is one of the greatest barriers to occult
and spiritual development. The disciple must know himself thoroughly, be modest
and humble concerning his capacities and clear-eyed concerning his limitations. The
disciple must be wise concerning himself. He must rely upon himself, seeking no
external aid, must in fact become his own guru.
The Master may be thought of as presiding with careful and affectionate interest
over the alchemical process of the transmutation of all that is base in the disciple,
into the pure gold of purity and spirituality. The Master guides the disciple as much
as possible through his intuition which is thereby developed, but life itself is his true
teacher.. The disciple must learn to interpret his life-experiences, to learn from them
and so become wise. If he could but realize it, every experience, great or small, may
assist in the development of wisdom. Important tasks, contact with important people,
may be made supremely illuminating. Everyday lesser tasks and meetings, ordinary
human interrelationships, can prove equally instructive. The disciple should therefore
study life, watch life intently, observe his own reactions and responses to every
incident great or small, for thus he may learn and grow.
Especially should the disciple pay attention to small things, his personal
appearance, conduct, his manner both with others and when alone, the opening of a
door, entry into a house or a room, manners, speech, contact with animals, servants,
shop assistants, children, friends: all of these should bear the mark of Discipleship;
that is, of impersonality, self-control, refinement, dignity, purity, and spirituality; for
these must be the keynotes of the disciple’s character.
7 November 1934

- From: Light of the Sanctuary (The Occult Diary of Geoffrey Hodson)