Discrimination on the Path

It is up to my discriminatory faculty to determine what is true and what is false as it relates to my path and not to rely on the word of any leader or follower.

If my conclusion differs from another's, it does not behoove me to apologize for my opinions, no matter how erroneous another feels they may be.  I do agree, though, that such opinions should be expressed in a civil and respectful manner.

What is telling, and what potential Initiates can observe in order to exercise their faculty of discrimination, is how members of various groups and Orders they are interested in respond to conflicting ideas.

If I had an ongoing relationship with the Secret Chiefs, I probably wouldn't tell anyone, as ridicule would surely follow, given all that has been written about them.  Furthermore, it is a claim that requires more than my say so, as it can be considered a claim to spiritual authority.  Let's suppose, though, that I decided to go ahead and say that I was in contact with the Secret Chiefs, because I want to be sincere and relay my direct experience.

If I then started writing wonderful magical treatises and my Lodge became a beacon of light that attracted seekers far and wide, then my peers would recognize that what I put forth were worthy additions to the Tradition.  Even then, they may not believe my story of Secret Chiefs, but they would at least respect my contributions to the Work.

What is more important, to have people believe my claims, or to contribute to the Tradition?  Of course, people want validation, but seeking it from the wrong source will always bring suffering.  If I wanted everyone in the community to believe I had a relationship with the Secret Chiefs, and I were upset because not all of them did believe it, it would not be the disbelievers fault that I suffer, it would be my own, for I would be seeking emotional security or validation in something that is out of my hands.