Cosmic Awareness - 1997 17 - psychology mind god ego attachment grace afterlife love death angel

Magazine Overview

Title: Revelations of Awareness
Issue: 97-17 Issue No. 494
Volume: Grace # 32
Date: November 20, 1997
Publisher: Cosmic Awareness Communications
Country: USA
Price: $3.00

This issue of "Revelations of Awareness" focuses on the theme of attachment and its role in the search for enlightenment. It features articles exploring the nature of divine attachment, the concept of the ego, and the assistance provided by Archangels.

Attachment: In Relation to the Search for Enlightenment

The opening message from Cosmic Awareness Communications (CAC) on January 12, 1991, introduces the concept of attachment, urging entities to periodically reflect on it. It suggests that attachment can either hinder or progress one's pursuit of enlightenment. The ideal attachment is to the Divine, perceived as the Highest and most Divine Force. While attachments to loved ones are natural, they are temporal and will eventually end, unlike the enduring attachment to God.

The article distinguishes between bonds and bondage, noting that willing bonds are not bondage. It advises entities to choose attachments willingly rather than out of obligation. Other forms of bonds, such as contracts, are also discussed, highlighting the tendency for some to seek benefits without fulfilling obligations. The text contrasts these with the profound benefit of bonding through willingness and love, which creates a sacred connection.

An exploration of attachment to freedom is presented, suggesting that an excessive focus on freedom can lead to a state of constant movement and avoidance of commitment, akin to being bound to freedom itself. True freedom, it is argued, comes from an inner acceptance of what is, allowing one to feel free even in difficult circumstances. The article emphasizes that attachments that hinder growth should be avoided, while those that extend freedom of expression and facilitate growth should be embraced. It stresses the importance of discernment in identifying energies that propel one toward higher evolution versus those that entrap.

The Oneness of God as Being the Highest Priority

This section addresses a follow-up question about the concept of the Oneness with God as an entity's highest priority. Cosmic Awareness explains that mere intellectual grasp is insufficient; true experience of Oneness with the Divine, involving visualization and merging, is key. This experiential reality goes far beyond mental comprehension. The experience is not a thought pattern but an action of surrendering to Universal Consciousness. It is suggested that entities can achieve this through meditation, allowing them to experience the vastness of the universe and their connection to it.

Dr. Bucke's book "Cosmic Consciousness" is mentioned as an attempt to explain this experience, noting that such profound experiences are difficult to articulate in words.

The 'Death' of the Ego

This theme is explored through several sections. The concept of "Experience the Universe in a Grain of Sand" is presented as an exercise to expand consciousness and understand the interconnectedness of all things. By visualizing a grain of sand as a universe, entities can gain profound insight into Universal Consciousness.

The article discusses the essence of meaning behind the Gnostics, referring to them as "Gnowers" who experienced things directly rather than relying on testimony. It suggests practicing this type of knowingness by tuning into inanimate objects, animals, or other individuals to merge consciously with them.

"Floating in the Sea of Consciousness" describes the experience of expanding consciousness beyond the self, moving from a bird to a tree, then to the landscape, planets, galaxies, and finally the edges of the universe. This leads to the realization of the universe's permanence and the cyclical nature of existence, including death and rebirth.

The concept of time is examined, with the assertion that in consciousness alone, past, present, and future are not distinct but are attributed by the individual. Time is presented as an artificial construct, not inherent in Universal Consciousness. The article encourages entities to experience Universal Consciousness rather than merely thinking about it.

Why Can't Some Egos Surrender?

This section addresses the difficulty some entities have in surrendering their ego. It suggests that fear of not returning or unfinished business in the lifetime can be reasons for this resistance. The article clarifies that surrender is a temporary experience, and entities can choose to return to their physical bodies when ready. It emphasizes that surrender is about giving up the lesser self, the individual self, to merge with the Divine, not about losing one's will.

The distinction between Cosmic Consciousness and personal consciousness is made, stating they cannot merge. Similarly, social or national consciousness cannot be merged with personal consciousness. The text uses the example of Jesus as the Son of God (Christ Consciousness) and the Son of Man (human being) to illustrate this distinction.

Doing Psychedelics to Achieve the Ego Death

This section discusses the attempt to achieve ego death through psychedelics. It suggests that trying too hard, driven by the ego itself, can be counterproductive. The story of John Oliver is shared, illustrating an experience where the ego was so absent that the entity could not use the word "I" to speak.

Getting Lost in Classical Music

This section draws a parallel between getting lost in classical music and the experience of surrendering to Universal Consciousness. It suggests that true experience comes from merging with the music, rather than observing oneself listening to it.

The Death of the Ego at the Passing Over

It is stated that at the moment of physical death, total surrender is enforced. However, some entities may briefly experience this before seeking to regain control by attaching to 'lesser lights' or images, which can lead to a quicker return to earth without adequate preparation for reincarnation.

Apply the Message of This Reading, Don't Just Think About It

This closing message encourages readers to apply the spiritual information provided in the reading through practice and meditation, not just through thought. It suggests that this practice can lead to considerable enlightenment regarding the nature of Universal Consciousness, a greater sense of peace, and a deeper understanding of one's importance and place in the universe.

A MESSAGE TO GRACE

This section features a message to the Interpreter, congratulating her on her test regarding understanding and communicating the nature of Awareness. It acknowledges her diligent study of energy levels, sleep patterns, and health, and her attunement to the love experience, which broadens the channel of love energy to Awareness. The message also expresses pleasure with the progress of members studying the "Lessons of Enlightenment," noting that the energy is finding cracks in consciousness, allowing Light to pass.

It encourages entities to use resistance to the Lessons as feedback to identify obstacles within their own minds and beliefs. No self-recrimination is advised if progress is not immediately satisfactory; instead, trusting and becoming attuned to the feeling system is recommended.

The Archangels and What They Do

This section addresses a question from Carol Songtree about Archangels. It explains that throughout history, creative inspirations and spiritual insights have been expressed through human beings, and religions have often compiled these into doctrines and rituals. The article focuses on specific Archangels and their roles:

• Michael: Embodies the spiritual intention toward defining and defending spiritual boundaries. He is seen as a champion against adversity, promoting courage and positive outcomes. The article clarifies that while Michael symbolizes the defense of Spirit, the mind should be developed, not defended.
• Raphael: Associated with healing, his name meaning 'God has healed.' Raphael is charged with the healing of the earth and its inhabitants. He is also the guardian of creative talents, and healers and artists are considered to be under his influence. Beauty is presented as a form of healing, and creating a space of beauty is recommended for promoting healing energy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of consciousness, the path to spiritual enlightenment, and the importance of self-awareness and discernment. The editorial stance promotes a practical, experiential approach to spirituality, emphasizing direct experience and surrender over mere intellectual understanding. There is a consistent message that true freedom and fulfillment come from aligning with the Divine and understanding one's true nature as part of a larger Universal Consciousness. The role of ego is presented as a potential obstacle that must be understood and transcended. The issue also highlights the supportive roles of spiritual guides, such as Archangels, in this journey. The publication encourages active engagement with its teachings through practice and meditation, rather than passive consumption of information. The availability of "Lessons of Enlightenment" online is also promoted. The magazine advocates for a personal empowerment approach, encouraging individuals to tap into their own spiritual potential.

This issue of CAC General Reading, dated November 20, 1997, focuses on spiritual concepts and angelic guidance, exploring the roles of various Archangels and their significance in human life. The publication emphasizes the importance of understanding one's inner self, overcoming limiting beliefs, and fostering spiritual growth.

Archangel Raphael

The Archangel Raphael is presented as a symbol of the innate capacity within entities to manifest spiritual intention and express it in the physical world. This Awareness suggests that Raphael's energy can be used to create events, facilitate healing, and promote growth. Entities are encouraged to attune to spiritual energy through various mechanisms, including music, creative visualization, and love energy, which is seen as a direct attunement to the Spirit. Raphael represents the understanding that each human being has the capacity to receive and convert spiritual energy to manipulate matter and design a fulfilling landscape.

Archangel Gabriel

Gabriel, meaning 'man' and 'God,' is associated with the trumpet, symbolizing the voice of God and the announcement of good news. Gabriel is credited with announcing the birth of Christ, guarding the prophet Muhammad, inspiring Joan of Arc, and influencing Zoroaster. The angel announces major spiritual duties to qualified humans. The Cosmic Awareness suggests Gabriel is a metaphor for the human emotional system that sounds the trumpet of Spirit, creating change and movement in response to messages. Entities are encouraged to attune to Gabriel's essence to clarify their spiritual gifts and to listen for messages that inspire them. During holiday traditions, entities are urged to attune to Gabriel's trumpet by honoring emotional experiences and choosing responses that develop and express the Spirit.

Archangel Haniel

Haniel, meaning 'Glory or Grace of God,' is the governor of Venus, a planet of love, pleasure, affection, social grace, and harmony. Haniel inspires powers of love and can be invoked against evil, bestowing happiness and making life more beautiful. The Cosmic Awareness explains that Haniel is symbolic of the innate grace within each human being, representing the natural impetus to approach pleasure and avoid pain. Haniel reminds humans of their inherent goodness and perfection, encouraging attunement to pleasures and pains that direct them to the Creator's intention. Haniel also emphasizes the importance of interconnectivity, loving fulfillment, communion, and affiliation with other humans for ultimate bliss.

Archangel Uriel

Uriel, meaning 'Fire of God,' is an angel of prophecy who imparts transforming ideas for goal realization. Uriel's angels are described as alchemists who can transform the discouraged and weak. Uriel is associated with arts, music, and literature, inspiring life into ideas. Uriel is the angel to call upon in spiritual emergencies, restoring salvation and sanity. The Cosmic Awareness suggests Uriel is symbolic of the knowledge that each entity has a Destiny Path. Uriel guides those who have fallen to the wayside or become lost, assisting them in finding their path of love. Uriel's wisdom guides entities through unfolding events and opportunities, encouraging acceptance and development rather than resistance. Uriel represents trust, optimism, and hope that the Destiny Path will unfold as feeling signals motivate optimal responses.

Archangel Raziel

Raziel, meaning 'Secret of God,' is the archangel of mysteries, guardian of originality and knowledge, said to reside in Chokmah, the realm of pure ideas. Raziel's angels inspire original ideas and knowledge, which are part of the unfolding mystery of life. The Cosmic Awareness suggests Raziel is symbolic of the innate spiritual need for humans to create and find meaning in their existence, which propels them along their Destiny Path. Raziel spurs curiosity and openness of mind to attain self-knowledge and understanding of Spiritual Intention, leading to the manifestation of spiritual destiny. This motivation ultimately embodies humans with the understanding of their purpose of existence and spiritual expression within unlimited creative freedom.

Archangel Auriel

Auriel is the angel of night and winter, associated with the creative earth energy of Winter and the ebb period of ideas. Auriel is the angel of future selves, helping humans contemplate the future and bringing practicality and earth energy for creation. When in an ebb period, entities are encouraged to call upon Auriel for guidance. The Cosmic Awareness suggests Auriel is symbolic of the ever-expanding realm of consciousness facilitated by continuous self-development and revision of the mental climate. Auriel's association with dormancy and germination symbolizes the cycle of birth and rebirth. Entities begin a new existence each day, redefining perspectives and obtaining guidance from the future. Auriel also symbolizes developmental processes in the unconscious during sleep, leading to creative alterations.

How to Talk to Angels

This section addresses the question of how to communicate with angels. It suggests that angels speak through our thoughts and that to listen and talk to them, one must become familiar with their own thoughts and mind, connecting with the silent peace within. Direct physical encounters might interfere with free will. To connect with angels, a climate of trust must emanate from within. Clear communication is possible by training the mind and identifying with the Higher Self. This involves trusting oneself, taking things lightly, thinking positively, nurturing hope, practicing self-love, and being kind. Angels help those who ask and aspire toward their ideals, but they do not help humans destroy themselves or others. The Cosmic Awareness affirms the truth in this passage, stating that the inner place described is the removal of ideas, attitudes, and belief systems that limit communication. It is a misconception that humans can exist within all limitations; angels await communication, but human constructs and beliefs leave no room for it. Entities waiting for supernatural intervention may wait a long time, as clarity, openness, and trust are necessary for communication.

The Law of Gratitude

The Law of Gratitude is defined as the sense of satisfaction where energy given receives a reward, with energy returning to its sender bearing gifts. This Awareness suggests that this concept relates directly to the emotional system and the Universal Spirit's communication with the soul. The Law of Gratitude reminds entities of the connection of energy from the totality, guiding them to transmute Universal Energy by directing desire and intention into creative manifestations. Achieving success is evidenced by satisfaction and acceptance of reward, whether it be a desired event, attracting a desired entity, or simple pleasure. Gratitude acknowledges the completion of the cycle and the successful transmutation of energy through individual will, leading to joy and connectedness.

An Analysis of Redfield's "The 10th Insight"

This section discusses James Redfield's book, "The 10th Insight." The questioner finds the material somewhat "ho-hum" compared to the concepts presented by Cosmic Awareness, noting the absence of topics like Reptoids or Cosmic Intervention. However, the chapter on "Forgiving" and the idea of the 10th Insight are appreciated. Redfield's concept of a "birth vision" for each life, circumstances chosen to discover oneself, and interactions with others from past lives are discussed. The idea of "Soul Groups" working together to achieve a "world vision" is also mentioned. Cosmic Awareness acknowledges Redfield's success in reaching a broad audience and stimulating minds with Universal Principles. The work is seen as an example of movement stimulated by the accelerated pace of human development. Attention to the feeling system is highlighted as a key aspect, drawing entities to innate mechanisms for personal salvation and restoration of intention. The reference to "soul groups" is likened to "karmic families" working together on a mission, empowered by synergy and communal effort.

The Use of Magnets and Crystals in Healing

This section addresses questions about the effectiveness of magnets and quartz crystals in healing. Cosmic Awareness indicates that magnetic fields have both positive and negative effects. A mattress pad with magnets is suggested to be effective due to its relatively low-level field, though manipulation of magnetic fields is described as a stab in the dark regarding the physics and metaphysics of the human form. The belief invested in the system is crucial for mobilizing spiritual energy. Breakthrough information regarding magnetic fields is anticipated in the future. Regarding quartz crystals, entities derive benefit from their use, particularly for facilitating richly detailed dream experiences and achieving physiological and spiritual balance. The tradition of using crystals is rich and has received energy in mass consciousness, enhancing their benefits. The effectiveness is also attributed to the belief system of the questioner.

What Are Zombies and How Did They Begin?

This section explores the phenomenon of zombification, attributing it to specific cultural traditions and belief systems in certain geographic and ideological locations. The manipulation of belief systems and the influence of external manipulative forces are seen as key factors. The belief in curses, witchcraft, and black magic is effective to the degree that the entity invests belief in it. Human mental conditions, such as psychosis, schizophrenia, catatonia, and autism, are also identified as contributing factors, leading to dissociation from the Spirit and a state of compliance. The Cosmic Awareness suggests that entities in the zombie classification may have adopted belief systems so defiling to the Spirit that they become dissociated from their emotional system. This disconnection can be a dramatic version of self-misunderstanding and non-acceptance. Reversal is more likely in those with psychological issues than biological aberrations. The power of belief and the effect of limited belief systems are highlighted.

Why Are The Lessons of Enlightenment So Abstract? Why Are No Examples Given?

This section addresses the abstract nature of the "Lessons of Enlightenment" and the lack of illustrative examples. Cosmic Awareness suggests that entities are requested to submit individual situational questions and life experiences to facilitate the communication of parables and understandings. The information received via channeling is abstract and removed from the limitations of the human mind. The organization and its members are encouraged to facilitate communication and discussion to provide examples. Entities are asked to attune to their emotional system, evaluate everyday situations, and identify emotions that provide pleasure or pain. These scenarios can be submitted to illustrate concepts through explanations of cause-and-effect relationships between belief systems, emotions, actions, and outcomes. This approach is considered the most beneficial way to impart enlightenment efficiently.

Are There 16 Primary Colors, Not Just Three?

This section discusses the concept of primary colors. The questioner refers to an author who claims there are 16 basic colors, not just three. Cosmic Awareness suggests that the experience of color is perceived through the visual apparatus and corresponds to specific wavelengths and vibrations of light. Terms like 'primary' are relative and depend on human choice and perspective. While acknowledging the possibility of more flexibility with the concept of 16 colors due to overlaps in wavelengths, the reductionism of the three-primary-color concept is also seen as having positive expression in fulfilling the human need for meaning. The key point is that any perspective is possible, and entities define for themselves which concepts, perspectives, attitudes, and truths they utilize. The importance of discerning workable from unworkable, expressive from frustrating, and gems from slivers is emphasized, as entities will continue to harbor limited beliefs if they do not discern.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spiritual enlightenment, the nature of consciousness, and the guidance provided by angelic beings. The publication consistently emphasizes the importance of individual spiritual understanding, the power of belief systems, and the need to overcome limiting mental constructs. The editorial stance promotes self-discovery, personal empowerment, and the pursuit of a higher spiritual connection. There is a strong emphasis on the idea that humans have the innate capacity for growth and transformation, and that by attuning to their inner spirit and understanding universal principles, they can achieve a more fulfilling existence. The publication also highlights the role of emotions and feelings as guides in this process.

This issue of Cosmic Awareness Communications, dated December 8, 1997, is presented as a memo from the editor, Vikki. The publication is identified as volume 17, issue 115. The editor reflects on the past year, highlighting the challenges and accomplishments of the organization, including the production and mailing of newsletters and the impact of an ice storm. A significant development is the retirement of Paul Shockley as the interpreter after 20 years and the introduction of a new interpreter, Grace.

The New Interpreter and 'Lessons of Enlightenment'

The central theme of this issue revolves around Grace, the new interpreter, and the 'Lessons of Enlightenment' she is channeling. Awareness, through Grace, suggests that the grim scenarios predicted for the Millennium can be averted. Consciousness is described as shedding negative energizing, allowing humanity to regain its creative powers and usher in a 'New Being.' The 'Lessons of Enlightenment' are presented as an alchemical process that helps entities understand their true nature and regain control of their lives, re-establishing their connection with the Divine Creator.

The editor acknowledges that Grace's channeling can sometimes be difficult to follow, describing it as academic, but assures readers that she is working on clarity. The importance of studying the Lessons multiple times and discussing them is emphasized. The new material is noted as controversial, leading to a decline in membership and donations, causing concern about the continuation of the mailing schedule.

Probable Realities and Co-Creation

A significant portion of the editor's memo delves into the concept of 'probable realities,' a topic previously touched upon by Jane Roberts and Awareness. The editor explains that focusing on negative scenarios energizes them into reality. Awareness is now indicating that the energies supporting negative conspiracies are being withdrawn, and these 'probable realities' will not manifest. Instead, the 'Lessons of Enlightenment' will help entities create a positive reality by focusing on good and uplifting things. The concept of co-creation with the Divine is stressed, empowering individuals to create their desired life, health, and longevity.

Announcements and Product Plugs

The issue includes several announcements and plugs for various products and services:

• Willy Whitefeather: A storyteller and artist offering a cassette tape of flute music, songs, and stories for children.
• R.E. Edwards: A catalog of advanced devices and tools for researchers, including information on anti-gravity, space-power generators, and teleportation. A video titled "Mars Creatures" is also mentioned.
• Caroline Myss: Her PBS lectures and books on healing are recommended.
• Silver Wain Water: Promoted for its health benefits for humans and cats.
• Clever Crafts by Vina: Offering handmade household objects like sun bonnets, baby bibs, and pot holders.
• Waterwise distiller: A steam-distilled water system is recommended, with a holiday sale mentioned.
• Odessa Factsheet: A catalog from Redwood Institute that investigates direct mail offers.
• International UFO Congress Convention: An upcoming event in Laughlin, Nevada, is announced.
• Shoulder Patch: A symbol worn by 'Light Warriors' from the Vegan star command is shown, seeking identification from those who resonate with it.

Subscriber Letters

A substantial part of the magazine consists of letters from subscribers, offering a diverse range of feedback and experiences:

• Carol Kilgore expresses gratitude for the clarity and peace brought by CAC and Cosmic Awareness.
• Tiffany Westanmo, a truck driver, shares how the newsletters have made long trips more enjoyable and welcomes Grace.
• Catherine Miller praises Emu/Rhea oil for its healing properties, especially for arthritis.
• Mary J. Wirts reports positive effects of Silver Wain Water on her cats and herself.
• Ben Pate welcomes Grace and praises the 'Lessons of Enlightenment' as a spiritual boost.
• Lora G. shares a natural remedy for pneumonia using Apple Cider Vinegar and Cayenne.
• Joan Turner is delighted with the focus on Divine Love and Truth and finds the 'Lessons of Enlightenment' beautiful and competent.
• Jim Karvoski sends a donation for a Tarot card reader.
• Helen Gill expresses gratitude for the 'Lessons of Enlightenment' and the spiritual input.
• Stan Sobel suggests sharing parts of the Lessons on the Web to attract new subscribers.
• C.B. Arbogast, Jr. expresses dissatisfaction with Grace's 'political orientation,' particularly regarding the Oklahoma bombing and Rodney King, and threatens to cancel his subscription.
• Editor's Response to Arbogast: The editor clarifies that Paul Shockley, not Grace, interpreted the Rodney King issue and that Awareness's response on the bombing focused on the entity's guilt and the lives lost. The editor also questions if Cosmic Awareness could be considered 'Liberal.'
• Michael Hannah finds the 'Lessons of Enlightenment' clear and appreciates Grace's work.
• Yvonne Meyer renews her subscription, finding Grace a 'breath of fresh air.'
• Madonna Black states she will not be renewing due to extensive travel but may renew later to hear Grace's positive words.
• Arlene Root sends a donation and requests Silver Wain Water, appreciating the reasonable prices.
• Dorothy Smith expresses support and prayers for the CAC network.
• Bill Teague finds hope in Grace's teachings and sees validation for his work on 'Right Use of Will.'
• Vicky Giles feels renewed hope and excitement due to Grace's teachings, finding them sincere and touching.
• David McClellan expresses surprise at receiving a card and praises the website's arrangement and content, also mentioning his past subscription.
• Lenore praises the website and expresses interest in the Wain Water and parasite cleansing program.
• Marjorie Hathaway criticizes the movie "Fargo" for its violence and foul language, questioning its suitability as a role model, and references Awareness's newsletters on raising children.
• Editor's Response to Hathaway: The editor agrees with the criticism of "Fargo" and questions the values presented in Hollywood films.

'Weird Stuff in the News'

This section presents a collection of unusual news items:

• Paula Jones Lawsuit: Lawyers requested an examination of President Clinton's genitals for 'distinguishing characteristics.'
• US Patent: A patent for a 'force-sensitive sound-playing condom' is noted.
• Rabbi's Ruling: An Israeli rabbi ruled that women wearing wigs will be damned.
• Psychiatric Patients: Patients in the Netherlands receive discounts to visit brothels as a way to reduce sexual aggression.
• President Clinton: Fitted with a hearing aid.
• Bob Dylan: Sang for the Pope.
• Indonesian Sorcerer: Arrested for allegedly raping 200 women by promising good health and prosperity.
• UFO Conspiracy Resolved: An Air Force report claims Roswell 'alien bodies' were crash-test dummies.
• Russian Clock Factory: Workers received toilet paper as a bonus.
• Sex Educators: Washington State University shifts from an 'Abstinence Awareness Week' to 'Creative Dating Week.'
• Topless Dancers: Raised money for breast cancer research but were rejected by a cancer center.
• La Peregrina Pearl: The famous pearl was chewed up by Elizabeth Taylor's dog, rendering it worthless.
• Senegal Vigilantes: Mobs killed eight people suspected of shrinking genitals with a handshake.
• Alabama Drug Offender: Received a life sentence for insulting a judge.
• Abortion Scenarios: Four hypothetical situations regarding abortion are presented, with implied consequences for historical figures if abortions were performed.

Other Content

• Neiman-Marcus Cookie Recipe: A widely shared recipe obtained under unusual circumstances.
• Internet Joke Line: Two jokes are included: one about Nixon and mental disorders, and another about an elderly couple's medical exam related to sexual activity.
• Washington State Football: The Cougars making it to the Rose Bowl after 67 years is mentioned.
• Gun Control Initiative: An initiative in Washington State requiring trigger locks and permits was overwhelmingly defeated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are spiritual growth, the power of consciousness, and the creation of positive realities. The editorial stance, as conveyed through the editor's memo and the content of the 'Lessons of Enlightenment,' is one of empowerment, encouraging readers to take control of their lives and focus on positive creation rather than succumbing to fear-based negative scenarios. There is a clear emphasis on the spiritual and creative potential within each individual. The magazine also maintains a critical stance towards mainstream media and societal issues, as seen in the 'Weird Stuff in the News' section and the editor's responses to subscriber letters.