Woodrew Update - Vol 3 No 2

Magazine Overview

The WOODREW Update, Volume 3, Number 2, published in November/December 1983, is a publication from the S.T.A.R. Foundation. This issue explores a range of topics including the nature of coincidence, holistic health, intuition, and global economic and environmental issues.

Coincidence--or Kismet?

This lead article questions whether coincidences are merely random events or if there is an underlying order. It references psychiatrist Carl Jung's theory of synchronicity, which posits an undefined force synchronizing chance events. The article also mentions physicist David Bohm's experiments suggesting that physical objects can influence each other without apparent energy exchange, potentially explaining coincidences. Nobel Laureate Wolfgang Di Pauli is quoted stating that coincidences are 'visible traces of untraceable principles.'

The WHOLE Person

This section defines health according to the World Health Organization as 'a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.' It argues that the body is a network of checks and balances overseen by the mind, and that both the patient's state of mind and environment are crucial for health. The article criticizes the current medical model for becoming overly specialized and technical, moving away from the 'WHOLE PERSON' and sacrificing the doctor-patient relationship. It suggests that healing has moved from general practitioners to compartmentalized hospital environments where technology is prioritized over individuals.

Patient, Heal Thyself

This sub-section shares the experience of Updater Ackerman, who underwent gum surgery. She reports that by programming her brain to release natural endorphines, she experienced no pain during the procedure and did not require painkillers afterward. This is presented as an example of biofeedback and the body's capacity for self-healing when given the right 'message.'

Recognition of the "Other Way"

This piece notes a growing trend in Britain towards 'alternative medicine,' including acupuncture, osteopathy, herbal remedies, and diet regulation. It attributes this shift partly to endorsements from Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles. The article mentions that over 2500 British physicians practice some form of alternative therapy and that the British Medical Association is examining their integration into standard practices. A common belief in alternative methods is that stress and fear are major causes of problems and obstacles to cure.

The UNIQUENESS of YOU

This section highlights the unique physical characteristics of individuals, such as fingerprints, proteins in hair, and saliva droplets. It introduces new evidence of unique composition through the eye retina's pattern of blood vessels, which can be used for positive identification via a device called an EyeDentifyer.

Mental Radio

This section details three telepathic experiments conducted by the magazine. Participants were asked to receive a color, a number, and a shape. The results showed a high success rate, with 44% male and 56% female participation, and minimal difference in success between genders. The article encourages readers to continue practicing telepathy, noting that it involves mind-to-mind contact and is distinct from clairvoyance. It also suggests that telepathy may function best on nights with a full moon and can be affected by various environmental variables.

The CHICKEN or the EGG?

This article discusses the 'international debt crisis,' describing it as a 'bottomless pit' for Western capital. It warns that if Congress fails to authorize funds for the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the situation could collapse. The article questions the sustainability of debtor nations paying their debts through decreased imports and increased exports, especially when IMF loans are used to pay interest on existing debts. It suggests this cycle leads to social and political instability and global conflict. Financial analyst Donald Hoppe is quoted expressing skepticism about debtor nations accepting IMF austerity for the next 20 years.

"Man's Inhumanity to Man and Nature's Plan"

This article paints a grim picture of global environmental and social challenges. It describes erratic weather patterns, famine, and economic devastation, noting that weather extremes are the most far-reaching in memory. The piece links unchecked population growth in Third World countries to political instability, malnutrition, poverty, overgrazing, soil erosion, and deforestation. It predicts a significant population increase by the year 2000, though suggests that these problems might limit growth. The article highlights a statistic from the June Conference on Trade & Development, stating that 3.5 million people died of hunger in the month the conference took place, despite a global food surplus. It also mentions the 'Big Drought of '83' and its impact on food production.

WREAKING HAVOC IN THE WOODLANDS

This sub-section focuses on environmental destruction, particularly the 'greenhouse effect' caused by carbon dioxide build-up, which could trigger a glacial age. The destruction of forests, both through slash-and-burn economies in Third World countries and industrial practices, is identified as a primary cause. Acid rain is presented as an 'ecological disaster' in Central Europe, destroying forests, waterways, and soil. The article notes that Czechoslovakia has lost significant woodland, and parts of West Germany and Poland are severely affected. It quotes Henryk Zimny of Poland's Nature Conservation League emphasizing the need to invest in the natural environment despite economic constraints.

Mountain Musings

This personal reflection describes the author's experience of assessing world developments from a mountain setting, free from personal investments and daily static. It discusses the probability of a major earthquake in the Aleutian Island arc, as predicted by geologists, and the potential for a devastating tsunami. The author suggests that contingency plans should be developed to mitigate material loss and human disaster.

Intuition's Evangelists

This section features quotes from prominent figures on the nature and importance of intuition. Dr. Jonas Salk describes intuition as something not yet understood biologically but always exciting. Buckminster Fuller likens intuition to 'cosmic fishing.' Edgar Mitchell believes human potential knowledge exceeds the five senses. Herman Kahn states that physics is all hunches and intuition. David Mahoney emphasizes that instinct and intuition are crucial for decision-making in business, from picking a wife to acquiring a company. Roy Rowan is cited for pointing out the recurring figure of the 'intuitive boss' in American business, mentioning J.P. Morgan and Cornelius Vanderbilt. Engineer Robert P. Jensen notes that mathematical analysis only goes so far, and intuition is key to picking the right moment for a move. Ray Kroc of MacDonalds also stresses respecting 'gut feelings.' The section concludes by encouraging readers to tune into their 'gut reactions' and use precognitive powers as a managerial tool.

Subscriber Scribings

This section includes a contribution from musician/composer Dr. Steven Halpern, who describes an experience of receiving musical compositions effortlessly while playing the piano. He attributes this to an 'entity' named Bilakka and a connection to a 'special place' from which music sprang. Halpern's music is described as bringing listeners to a state of inner calm and balance, and is used in various medical and healing centers. The section also thanks Richard McGuire for his cartoons.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the exploration of phenomena beyond conventional scientific understanding, such as coincidence, synchronicity, and intuition. There is a strong emphasis on holistic approaches to health and well-being, contrasting with the perceived fragmentation of modern medicine. The magazine also addresses significant global issues, including economic instability and environmental degradation, suggesting a need for greater awareness and action. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging readers to question conventional paradigms, explore alternative perspectives, and develop their own intuitive abilities.