The WOODREW Update

Magazine Overview

Title: The WOODREW Update
Issue: Vol. 3, No. 4
Date: March/April 1984
Publisher: A S.T.A.R. FOUNDATION publication
Country: U.S.A.
Theme: Exploration of reality, consciousness, and holistic approaches to life.

Doors of Perception

The lead article, "Doors of Perception," explores the subjective nature of reality, drawing parallels between cultural definitions of reality and historical shifts in understanding. It references Joseph Conrad's "Lord Jim" and Arnold Toynbee's observations on societal downfall due to outdated myths. The article posits that current reality is shaped by Newtonian physics and the Industrial Revolution, which may hinder progress. It introduces the idea of alternative realities, influenced by atomic physics where absolutes are absent and probabilities reign. The author suggests that our daily lives are not equipped to grasp the inseparable nature of time and space in the macro world. The possibility of new alternative realities is encouraged, as our definition of reality determines what we deem possible. Examples include the historical practice of moving and seeding clouds by Native Americans and the modern skepticism towards 'devas' (wee people), despite claims of successful interaction with them at the Findhorn community. The article emphasizes that personal reality is shaped by thoughts and emotions, and that consciousness is the creator of our 'real world', programming our beliefs about achievability. It calls for opening up to the evolution of the inner person to expand our minds and create new worlds.

An Alternative Reality

This section features a personal reflection on the writings of Loren Eiseley, praising his timeless prose and anthropological themes. The author recounts an essay where Eiseley describes a crow's perspective of a human walking on air, illustrating how worlds can interpenetrate. The piece encourages readers to move beyond self-censoring thoughts and "open our doors of perception." It describes the experience of entering alternative realities as akin to Alice falling through the looking glass, a challenging but ultimately rewarding journey.

A New Experiment

This article details an experiment involving communication with plants. Inspired by Cleve Backster's work and Chris Bird's book "The Secret Life of Plants," the author, along with research chemist Marcel Vogel, suggests an experiment: talk to one cut flower or leaf for a minute each morning and evening for three days, while ignoring a similar plant. The hypothesis is that the plant receiving attention will thrive, while the other will not. Alternatively, playing Mozart to one plant and hard rock to another is proposed, with the expectation that the Mozart-fed plant will thrive. Readers are encouraged to share their results.

Subscriber Scribings

Leigh Donahue shares an experiment conducted by Centric Fdn. Inc. in 1956 to determine how quickly a concept could metastasize through a group. Using the word "ecology" in a local newspaper, they found that after three months, with the concept introduced in various contexts, 10% of the population had received it, leading to widespread discussion of ecological terms.

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

This section reports on two assignments by Update editor Jill Smolowe for Newsweek (International). The first assignment details the dire situation in Brazil, characterized by high inflation, unemployment, and violent crime, with homes fortified and citizens living in fear. The second assignment focuses on Zimbabwe, highlighting the issue of baby killings and dumpings driven by archaic tribal attitudes towards young girls and their bride-price. The article notes that unwed women also resort to disposing of their babies due to lack of support. These situations are presented as examples of global inhumanity.

Brief excerpts from other publications are included: European commentators see faint hopes for curbing Moslem and IRA terrorists; fewer Indochinese refugees are being rescued at sea; a survey by the International Press Institute (IPI) indicates a global decline in respect for free speech; and Bangladesh is described as the world's poorest and most overpopulated nation.

Seeking an Rx for RF

This segment discusses the growing concern over radio-frequency radiation (RF). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reviewed over 5,000 health-effects studies and concluded that federally enforced protection from RF hazards is justified. The article explains that each frequency represents energy capable of interacting with and affecting bodily energies.

A Holistic Approach to Pain

Dr. C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D., discusses his work in exploring holistic methods for chronic pain control. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the mind's capabilities and the interplay between the patient's and practitioner's minds. He mentions using behavioral modification, extrasensory perception, and hypnosis, and even consulting clairvoyants. Dr. Shealy advocates for a comprehensive approach that includes acupuncture, nerve blocks, electrical stimulation, osteopathic manipulation, massage, and counseling. He shares his personal commitment to a holistic lifestyle, including living on a farm and raising his own food.

Holism Is Not New!

This section traces the history of holism, noting its resurgence. It references the Prince of Wales' dedication of the Brinston Cancer Help Centre and quotes Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, who emphasized the causative relation of life stress, food, climate, and social occupation to disease. The article highlights Hippocrates' view of disease from a naturalist's perspective, focusing on the entire patient within their environment and assisting natural healing forces.

Mountain Musings

This piece reflects on the constant renewal of cells within the human body, questioning why humans are oblivious to these life cycles. It references Dr. Lewis Thomas's idea that we are "shared...rented...occupied" by living entities (cells) that are constantly replaced, suggesting that death is not the opposite of life but an essential ingredient for renewal.

Predictions! Predictions!

This section addresses the common requests for specific future predictions made to psychics and the S.T.A.R. headquarters. It argues that providing such specifics is burdensome, often inaccurate, and infringes on free will. The article cites Bettyann Kevles's concerns about earthquake prediction and the potential for false alarms to lead to public disregard. It suggests that while nudging audiences towards awareness of dynamic changes is possible, pinpointing exact dates and locations of calamities is impossible and may not lead to action. The advice given is to devise alternate plans and prepare for potential threats, noting that major changes will occur on the planet between 1984 and the turn of the century.

Speaking Out...To my Update Family

The author expresses anger at the media's handling of psychic phenomena, criticizing spokesmen for being inept and skeptical. The piece questions the scientific demand for replicable results in parapsychology, noting that phenomena like metal bending or healing are often dismissed if not immediately reproducible. It suggests that the government is cautiously acknowledging its involvement in psi matters, with figures like Russell Targ discussing remote viewing. However, the author feels that the focus is often on "psychic warfare" and that the government's public posture remains skeptical, despite evidence of involvement.

S.T.A.R. Activities

This section provides updates on S.T.A.R. activities, including Greta's lectures in Switzerland and Holland, and the progress on the projected S.T.A.R. House. It thanks benefactors and contributors for their unsolicited donations and shared materials. It also mentions Andrija Puharich's work on a new cancer treatment involving injecting ozone gas into malignant tumors, with promising results from animal tests and initial human testing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of reality, consciousness, and perception. The magazine promotes a holistic approach to life, health, and healing, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and environment. There is a critical stance towards conventional scientific paradigms that may limit understanding and a call for embracing alternative perspectives and inner exploration. Societal issues, including crime and the suppression of freedoms, are also addressed, reflecting a concern for global well-being. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging open-mindedness, critical thinking, and the pursuit of deeper understanding beyond superficial appearances, while also advocating for practical applications of these concepts in personal and societal life.