Woodrew Update - Vol 5 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of The Woodrew Update, dated November/December 1985, Volume 5, Number 2, is published by The Woodrew Update and distributed by S.T.A.R. Foundation. The cover prominently features the headline "SCIENCE CATCHES UP WITH PARAPSYCHOLOGY," indicating a focus on the intersection of scientific inquiry and phenomena traditionally associated with the paranormal.

Science Catches Up With Parapsychology

The lead article discusses the emerging field of biomagnetism, referencing an article in MIT's Technology Review. It explains that researchers are exploring the detection of minute magnetic fields within human organs to diagnose a range of ailments, from dementias to genetic diseases. The article notes that for years, sensitives have claimed that human organs emit specific radiation frequencies, sometimes associated with color emanations, that signal health or sickness. These energy radiations are in the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. The article also touches upon the work of the Kirlians, who used high-voltage photography to capture 'aura' photography, showing the spark of life. This technique was reportedly being studied by over 1000 scientists in various countries, with a hospital in Rostov-on-Don even recruiting mothers to photograph their children's auras. However, the use of high-voltage charges was found to be hazardous.

The article highlights that technology has now caught up with these observations, with MIT acknowledging that living things create their own magnetic fields through electrical interactions. Sophisticated magnetic-field detectors have been developed, making biomagnetism a promising tool for medical diagnosis, capable of identifying issues from brain disorders to lung disease without harm. The article concludes that while biomagnetism is still experimental, the rapid activity and results suggest it could soon be recognized as a significant diagnostic tool.

Mountain Musings

This section, written by Greta Woodrew, explores the concept of electromagnetic waves. It begins with a riddle to illustrate the vastness of the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to gamma rays. The author explains that all energy travels on these waves and that the amount of energy is measured by the number of pulses. The spectrum's various components, like gamma rays from nuclear weaponry and X-rays from atomic nuclei, are described. The article notes that Earth's atmosphere is open to visible and near-infrared waves, while higher energy waves are absorbed. The author suggests that the electromagnetic spectrum is crucial for life and will propel humanity into the 'New Age.'

In a more personal reflection, Woodrew discusses a sense of déjà vu and a feeling of remembering past experiences. She reflects on changes in the world, comparing the present to a time when things seemed simpler and more genuine. She connects this to her grandmother's unfinished book titled "Getting Used To It," suggesting that life's journey involves adapting to change. The author expresses a desire to understand her place in the present moment and the flow of time, embracing the changes as part of a larger transformation.

Synesthesia: A Mingling of the Senses

This article defines synesthesia as the joining of senses, where individuals experience intermingled sensations, such as seeing music or tasting shapes. It notes that less than 1% of the population possesses this ability, and many are secretive about it due to fear of ridicule. Examples are given, such as tasting colors or feeling points when eating certain foods. Dr. Richard Cytowic, a neurologist, has established a private foundation to research synesthesia, viewing it as a 'brain-based hypothesis' originating deep within the brain's limbic system.

Cosmically Speaking

Greta gives a presentation on 'cosmic relativity,' illustrating Earth's minuscule position within the universe to prompt reflection on extraterrestrial life. An attendee shared a letter from the Congressional Record by Senator Domenici, discussing astronomical discoveries about superclusters of galaxies and the Milky Way's place within the 'Local group.' The letter emphasizes the vastness of the universe, with our galaxy being just one of billions.

On a Slide of Full Spectrum Light

This section discusses the 'strength' felt at the S.T.A.R. House, attributed to the use of Cherokee stone, which is described as a solar collector with a high energy quotient. It delves into the science of photobiology, exploring how light interacts with life. Fred Walters is cited for an article in ACRES, USA, noting that girls are reaching sexual maturity earlier, possibly linked to artificial light. Studies show that nerves and muscles respond to light changes, and artificial light, including TV frequencies from fluorescent lights, can affect the central nervous system. The article also mentions John Ott's research on hyperactivity in children, suggesting that fluorescent lighting in schools might contribute to it. Full-spectrum lighting, which aims to replicate the natural spectrum, is described as beneficial for both children and adults. It is noted that artificial light may desynchronize the body's biological clock.

Subscriber Scribings

This section features responses to a statement about 'amino acids' memory storage capacities.' George Meek suggests that the mind and memory banks are non-physical and survive physical death. Leigh Richmond Donahue shares research indicating that memory storage is biochemical and resides in body cells, not the brain, which has a limited capacity. The brain's primary function is seen as an electronic computer with a data filing and retrieval system extending into cellular structures. The sleep cycle is explained as a mechanism for the slower biochemical filing process to catch up.

Another piece, "In the Right Direction," from ACRES USA, describes a project to plant a billion trees across North Africa to combat desertification. Experts have measured the Sahara Desert's spread at 11 miles per year. Algeria hopes this greening will boost agricultural production and potentially change the Mediterranean climate.

On Plant Response

This article details how Greta can extend the life of plants and cut flowers, citing an experiment with an orchid that lasted seventeen days. Dr. Pat Flanagan explains that plants have a crude electronic system similar to the human nervous system, responding to changes in their environment, including human thought forms and bioenergy fields. Experiments by Clive Backster are mentioned, showing that plants respond to energies, appearing to know if they are hostile or friendly.

A Metaphysical Scientist

This section pays tribute to Thomas Alva Edison, describing him as a champion of controversial causes, particularly the occult and psychic phenomena. His work is characterized as originating from a 'higher source,' akin to 'automatic writing.' He is identified as a Theosophist and a reincarnationist, considered one of the scientific greats.

Nature's Plan: Tolls a Quake

This brief report discusses the Mexico City earthquakes, noting the difficulty in determining the true loss of life. It compares the event to the Tangshan, China quake, where unofficial counts far exceeded the official toll. The Mexico City quake's official count was around 4,000, but the Ogatta group suggested the actual number was much higher. The article also marvels at the relatively low percentage of the city's population lost in such a major event.

Reincarnation: A Fact Sheet

This section explores the concept of reincarnation, noting that it was part of Christian teaching until 533 A.D. before being banished. It highlights that Hindus, Egyptians, Greeks, and Jews also held this belief. The article suggests that the dismissal of reincarnation by a council of men led to its removal from Christian doctrines.

Yester-Lives

This section presents two approaches to reincarnation: the 'fact' theory, which posits eternal existence in different bodies, and the 'myth' theory, which denies life after death. The 'fact' theory suggests developing 'latent powers' through life experiences and relationships. The author shares experiences from a reincarnation workshop, where participants claimed past lives as historical figures like Cleopatra or Henry VIII. The author questions why peasants or less prominent figures are not commonly recalled. A conjecture is offered that people in altered states might be accessing 'thought-forms' or 'Akashic Records,' mistaking recognition for personal experience. Ruth Montgomery's Guides reportedly stated that she and Dick had past lives together in ancient Egypt and India, which the authors find surprising as they have avoided those regions.

A 'Guide' to the New Age

This section describes a visit from Ruth Montgomery and her husband Bob. It mentions Ruth's work in chronicling changes leading to a 'Golden Age,' paralleling scenarios from the Ogatta group's books. The discussion touched upon near-death experiences (NDEs) and the concept of 'Walk-Ins'—individuals from a highly energized spirit plane who enter physical bodies to aid in the transition to the New Age. It is suggested that NDE survivors are often more highly evolved and energized.

A Think-and-Relate UFOria

This part reports on the Zimbabwe Air Force taking up UFO hunting. It recounts a story from Botswana about a UFO landing, where entities were met with respect and curiosity. In contrast, a later sighting in Botswana was met with military gunfire and panic. The author questions why the reaction differed so drastically and suggests that something from another dimension has returned to Zimbabwe. The section concludes by stating that more people will be seeing these crafts, a sentiment shared by the Ogatta group.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the expanding boundaries of human understanding, particularly the convergence of scientific investigation with phenomena previously considered paranormal or spiritual. Biomagnetism, synesthesia, and reincarnation are explored through scientific and anecdotal lenses, suggesting a growing acceptance of non-traditional concepts within a more empirical framework. The role of energy, whether electromagnetic, bioelectric, or spiritual, is a constant thread. The magazine also touches upon the idea of a coming 'New Age' and humanity's evolution towards higher awareness, often referencing 'Guides' or 'higher sources' as conduits of this information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting research and personal experiences without outright dismissal, and encouraging readers to consider these phenomena as potentially significant aspects of reality. There is a consistent emphasis on the interconnectedness of life, energy, and consciousness, and a belief in the potential for human advancement and transformation.