Meher Baba in Avatar's Abode 1958

Weekly Reflections No. 29

from Meher Baba Books

(Los Angeles, California)

Greetings from Los Angeles, California. Wishing you well in Beloved Baba.

Well, It is time for us to meet again in our appointment with Meher Baba. This mini-circular is now celebrating its 29-weeks birthday.

This week's theme is " Meher Baba's First Visit to Avatar's Abode!" Meher Baba arrived and stayed three and a half days at Avatar's Abode, just about 57 years ago: from June 3-6, 1958. This visit to Australia was during Meher Baba's final journey outside of India. The gathering at Avatars Abode was part of a world-wide Sahavas (period of companionship) that Meher Baba had slated for June and July of that year. This period of travel occurred during a phase of marked suffering for Meher Baba, who was still recuperating from his second automobile accident (which occurred in India in 1956). So we are reflecting on this important visit of Meher Baba's to His "Abode" in Australia. The 99-acre site is located about 70 miles north of Brisbane, on the Pacific coast.

Six years ago today (May 29, 2009), Katie Irani passed away in Meherazad, Ahmednagar, India, at the age of 89. Katie was just a toddler when she was first introduced to Meher Baba in 1923. In 1938, at Baba's invitation Katie joined the women's ashram as they traveled all over India with him on the Blue Bus tours. From the beginning of the New Life in 1949 until the late 1970s, Katie worked in Bombay at Baba's instruction, where she found a job with the Japanese consulate. Following his orders to stay with Mehera, Mani and the other women after her retirement, Katie rejoined the Meherazad ashram in 1978, and eventually assumed charge of the kitchen. Her book, Cooking with Katie, a cookbook of recipes accompanied by Baba-stories, was published in 2001. Our bookstore carries copies of this book. We remember Kaite and her sweet stories of ashram life, traveling with Baba, and her singing songs written by Baba. She was so lively and upbeat most of the time when we would visit Meherazad.

Katie Irani with Meher Baba -- courtesy of www.katieirani.com

As you may know, We lately started reflecting on the topic of "Women In the West and their Roles." Filis Frederick, who was one of the principal founders of our Los Angeles Meher Baba Center, wrote a great series of articles on this interesting topic, from which we are now drawing. This week we continue with Filis' account of the life of Jean Adriel (Part 2).

This Sunday, May 31st, we are celebrating Filis' 100th Birthday at the Avatar Meher Baba Center of Southern California (AMBCSC), now located in "mid-City" Los Angeles. Filis designed toys for the Mattel Toy Co. for more than 25 years. She helped found the AMBCSC in its original Westwood (in West LA) location. She was also a notable editor and publisher of The Awakener Magazine, a significant journal devoted to Meher Baba that Filis produced from its inception in 1957 until the periodical ceased with Filis' own earthly demise in 1987.

Filis Frederick gives a talk at the

Avatars Abode Anniversary (1981) -- courtesy of Rainy Day Designs

We hope you enjoy these small occasions for reflecting on the divinity of Beloved Baba's words and life. Be Happy first and make it last.

In His Love and Service,

Meher Baba Books

Meher Baba's First Visit to Avatar's Abode, Australia

Meher Baba's 1958 Sahavas Message

(Mahabaleshwar -- 12th April 1958)

I am coming to America and Australia solely to give my Sahavas to My lovers, and I want each of you to come with the longing to receive just that. I want this Sahavas to be, above all, a close companionship between your Beloved and His lovers; and if you wish to sustain this unique relationship, then do not come with questions or the desire to seek discourses and explanations. Come with the preparedness to receive fully whatever I may give you, with the thought of being completely resigned to My Will.

My suffering is becoming daily more intense, and my health is daily growing worse, but my physical body continues to bear the burden of it all. Despite it all I will hold the Sahavas. I expect from you a deep understanding of my self-imposed suffering, which is begotten of my compassion and love for mankind. Also understand that I will not undergo medical examinations or treatments for my injured hip either in America or Australia. No doctor or treatment will be of any help before the pain I am undergoing has served its purpose. Remember that my coming is entirely to give my Sahavas to you all.

This Sahavas will be unique in the sense that you will witness and share my present universal suffering by being near me as my fortunate companions -- being with the Ancient One, who will at the time be completely on the human level with you. It will be helpful to all those participating in the Sahavas, to know the oft repeated hint I have given to those living with me -- reminding them of my 'Declaration' wherein I stated that my glorification will follow my humiliation, and pointing out that this period of my Sahavas will fall within the orbit of my universal suffering and helplessness.

A similar circular was sent out prior to the Meherabad Sahavas in February. My Sahavasis who come with love and resignation to My Will, had the utmost happiness of receiving far and above what they expected. Likewise with you all, I may give you more, much more than you expect - or maybe nothing, and that nothing may prove everything. So I say, come with open hearts to receive much or nothing from your Divine Beloved.

Come prepared to receive not so much of my words, but of my Silence.

My love to each and all of you.

- Baba

from Avatar's Abode 1958 - 2008, Liz Gaskin, editor (1958), pp. 10-11

First Sessions with Meher Baba in Avatar Abode

Meher Baba arrived and stayed three and a half days at Avatar's Abode -- 3rd to 6th June 1958.

Meher Baba arrived early at the property and bestowed the name 'Avatar's Abode' whilst he was there.
Much of Meher Baba's visit was occupied with giving discourses on a variety of spiritual topics including love, longing and the spiritual planes. He met and had interviews with attendees, gave instructions, distributing special gifts and enjoyed some light entertainment.

Avatar's Abode ; Baba with Eruch Jessawala & Dr.Denis O'Brien ; Glow mag.August 2002 p.18

Meher Baba also visited the tents and buildings where people were staying and cooking. A particular highlight was Meher Baba bringing home the true meaning of obedience, and asking those gathered whether they could actually do what he asked. Many remembered these sessions - which occurred in the Meeting Hall - as the most dramatic and significant aspect of the entire Sahavas.

Memories of Meher Baba's Stay at Avatars Abode

Nariman Dadachanji, Meher Baba, Eruch Jessawala, Francis Brabazon and Stan Adams with cushion

While we were gathered with Baba, He asked Francis details of the preparation of the property, and Baba expressed both delight and surprise about just what, and how much, had been done for His visit. Back in India, Baba later recounted to His close ones, details of this property and its preparation for him, and He said of Francis, 'What daring!'

- Bernard Bruford

Meher Baba with Francis Brabazon (front far right) and Bill Le Page (behind)

Baba asked further questions about the property, its size and shape, and to whom did it belong, and Francis replied, 'It is now your property, Baba.' Baba gave the property back to Francis, saying He now held neither goods nor property. Baba then asked many questions about the finances and about who had contributed to the buildings, and each was asked to stand as the names were mentioned... Baba ordered that these people were to have their contributions returned to them.

- Bill Le Page

Visiting His Lovers

Meher Baba at Avatar's Abode - Photographed by Colin Adams

When Baba came into that room (in the farmhouse) He pointed to the bunk and was told it was May's (May Lundquist). Then He pointed at the picture (she had) of Himself, and said how dear May was to Him and how much she loved Him... I do remember 100 percent clearly... the wonderful smile on Baba's face and His pleasure in May's love.

- Joanna Bruford

Avatar's Abode , Woombye, Queensland

About Avatar's Abode in Australia

Avatar's Abode is a 99 acre property held in perpetuity for the benefit of all persons with an interest in Avatar Meher Baba. Avatar's Abode is one of the four or so most important spiritual centers in the world devoted to Meher Baba. Therefore, Baba-lovers visit Avatar's Abode throughout the year, from all parts of Australia and overseas.

Baba's House *

The property's heart consists of the "Baba square" -- a few historic buildings used by Meher Baba. Baba's House in particular contains furniture and other relics associated with Baba's life.

Baba's Room. *

The heart-of-hearts of Avatar's Abode is the beautiful timber room known as Baba's Room. It is furnished with items used by Meher Baba during His stay in June 1958A photograph of Baba is above the entry outside the room -- a bed with pillows and bedding, two chairs, a rustic table, and floor mat. oom and another is above the door inside the room.

The Francis Brabazon Library. *

When you follow the winding track into Avatar's Abode the first building you come to is the Reception Center and Francis Brabazon Library.

Nestled next to a large Bodhi Tree and looking out on a green slope of lawn, the Francis Brabazon Library provides a quiet retreat as well as a place where you can borrow books. Comfortable chairs and large writing tables invite reading and note taking and calm reflection.

   Meher Baba in Australia, 1958 *

* Photographs courtesy of Avatar's Abode Pty Ltd.

Avatar's Abode: Francis with Raine & her daughter Freinetta

Photo by Veronica Eastman ( Raine's Mother)

CLICK to hear:

Australian Arti, written & composed by Francis Brabazon, and

performed by Raine Eastman-Gannett

India: Francis, Baba & Eruch Jessawala - Courtesy of MN Collection

AUSTRALIAN ARTI

Francis Brabazon

Oh Glorious Eternal Ancient One,

Your face is a bright transcendental sun.

Lighten this dark world and the tears I weep.

My heart, Meher, I give to you to keep.

Creator yet creationless you are,

Truth and Truth's Body, Divine Avatar,

Who through compassion the three worlds maintains,

Destroy this ignorance that life sustains.

These five lights are the whirling spokes of breath

Of the world-wheel that bears me unto death

Unless You, who are infinitely kind,

Break the wheel's hub which is conditioned mind.

This incense is my love; these fruits, my art

Which to please You I have shaped from my heart.

Accept them as You would a simple flower

That has no use beyond its shining hour.

You are myself; I sing to You in praise

And beg Your Love to bear me through the days

'Til You, the Everliving Perfect One,

Illume my darkness with Your Shining Sun.

FROM THE SOURCE, Meher Baba Songbook, Vol. 1, p. 75

(L-R) Anne Giles, Judith Gabbett, Mehera Irani & Joan Bruford at Meherazad, India,

(Photo by Anne Giles)

AUSTRALIA VERSUS AMERICA

A couple of days later on the porch Mehera greeted everyone, then sat as usual in her big armchair.

She looked very bright and relaxed that morning. I was sitting close beside her on a low stool, and Wendy Connor was in one of the chairs opposite us.

Mehera suddenly said to Wendy, "Australia is better than America!" Then turning to me, her eyes dancing in fun, Mehera put her hand over her mouth and whispered "What is that animal that jumps?" So I whispered "Kangaroo" close to her ear.

She looked delighted, and told Wendy triumphantly "Because they have kangaroos and you don't!" Everyone laughed enjoying the joke, including Mehera who continued to be in a very happy mood.

Judith Garbett

LIVES OF LOVE, Mehera 2, p. 9

Heroines of the Path:

Jean Adriel

By Filis Frederick

Filis continues,

III Jean Adriel (part 2)

Image was taken from the "Meher Baba Awakener"

Filis continues,

Marguerite Poley, her friend of many years, reminisces:

"I met Jean Adriel in September, 1947. I had driven a mutual friend to Meher Mount in upper Ojai, California. This friend of mine purchased the recently published Avatar. Subsequently it was loaned to me and it revealed to me who Baba is. Through correspondence I became more and more acquainted with Jean, also seeing her quite often and driving her about when she resided at the Highland Hotel in Hollywood. I found Jean regal-looking, strong-willed, witty, endowed with a great sense of humor, and not in the best of health."

"I particularly enjoyed driving her to Meher Mount on several occasions as I would hear all those Baba stories, some quite awesome as to how a Master works. Naturally humorous ones too. Then Jean went to India in 1948 in seventh heaven to be reunited with the Beloved. Back she was at the Highland Hotel in December of that year. During all of July, 1949 a group of us stayed at Meher Mount to observe silence as Baba had prescribed, Jean and Agnes Baron, presiding. We all kept quite busy with various tasks. The daily highlight happened in the lovely evening when we gathered to meditate at the end of which Jean would play a beautiful rendition of the "Song of India". I assure you, this was very stirring.

AVATAR MEHER BABA with Agnes Baron at Meher Mount on August 2, 1956.

Photo: Mehermount.org

"It was when Jean decided to go back East that she asked me to purchase name lists in order to sell her book, which I did for some time and also was in charge of collecting monies for her support monthly. As no doubt you know, Jean drifted away from Baba and as you also know Baba had said all happens by His will. Not only that, He also declared that even those who were against Him were serving his cause. When Jean told me in the early 50's that she was leaving Baba it came as a great shock. First she said no true Master would declare 'I am the Highest of the High'. Where is the humility a Master should command?! She also confided she was hurt because Baba had not chosen her for the role Mehera holds. I know this has happened to others, but it grieved me. How could she refute Baba? Now that I am older and a little bit wiser, thank you, it would not hurt as it did then."

Jean Adriel in California (1970s) -- photo: John Page's collection

"Now Jean did a lot of travelling from the U.S. and Europe, back and forth, England, France. In the meanwhile we kept in touch. Jean and I had a visit at her apartment near Western and Hollywood Boulevard. She had composed some songs in regards to her inner "twin soul" and accompanied herself with the autoharp. She had a melodious voice. We had tea, and just as I was leaving I mentioned that perhaps I would go to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the upcoming Sahavas with Baba, upon which she said to me "What for?" This incident took place in the Spring of 1958. I left, once more heavy-hearted for Jean. My Baba got me over it. I had to learn to leave things be. Jean had moved when I returned from Myrtle Beach. To obtain the new address I contacted her friend Evelyn Blackshaw. In replying Evelyn said Jean no longer wished any contacts with Baba people, so I just hunched my shoulders and felt, So be it."

John Page, Jean Adriel and Jack Small in California (1970s) -- photo: John Page's collection

"There is now a lapse of 17 years 'til seeing Jean again. This was in 1975 after she suffered some strokes. To my knowledge, and since 1975, Jean has been moved 19 times, including the various hospital stays. In spite of brain damage, Jean can astonish one with glorious lucid moments in which she seems to dwell in another realm. The reverse can also happen. Her eyes sparkle at mention of Baba, for yes, Jean has re-accepted Baba. Surely visits from Baba lovers have made impact in heart-to-heart contacts. In passing I mention Liam Mullen, because Jean was very impressed with the way he speaks about the Beloved and she listened to him more than anyone else.

"Jean was 90 years old September 21, 1982.

"The foregoing is but a scratch on the surface. What an incarnation, Jean's, what a way to go! In conclusion, and as I reflect back, I am grateful for the contacts with Jean Adriel. I thank Baba and Jean too for these insights in Baba's cosmic circus."

Meher Baba, Meher Center. 1952 --

Courtesy of the photo archives of Sufism Reoriented

In 1952 Jean came to New York to see Baba. I was present in the room. I am not sure, but I think that was the last time she physically saw Baba. When I moved to California in 1960 I was invited by a small "New Age" group to give a talk on Baba. Imagine my surprise to find Jean Adriel on the program! She sang her "celestial" songs and played the autoharp. But she walked out when I showed a Baba film. I felt very sad. Outside the hall she had a book table for Soaring Sunward, a novel which is a thinly veiled autobiography. When I approached her she greeted me with her usual charm and said to give Meher Baba her love when I wrote Him. I did so at once. She also wrote Him a letter saying she loved Him but could not accept Him as Avatar. Baba sent me a copy of the letter and a cable for her:

'I love you and I am with you until the end.'

Jean Adariel in California -- photo: John Page's collection

I think that says it all. Of course, no one "leaves" Baba. Where can you go? The whole world is Baba only, clouds can temporarily cover the Sun, the clouds of our own sanskaras, and sometimes their thickness is uncontrollable. In telling Jean's story there is a happy ending. This most frail of the early women disciples is still alive at 90, and has turned again to Baba. her sunny inner awareness of His love and divinity breaks through in an amazing way and touches the hearts of those who visit her. Her book still draws new lovers to Baba.

For a postscript I quote her dedication of Avatar:

"To the living Christ whose beauty the very heavens can not contain but whose presence may be found in every humble loving heart."

- The Awakener Magazine online, Vol. 20, No. 1, p. 23, used by permission.

Editor's Note:

Born: September 21, 1892, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

Died: May 16, 1984 California, USA

Married: Malcolm Schloss (later divorced)

Jean's father: Gilbert Lawrie Robinson

Jean's mother: Elizabeth Wilson

Next week we will present Filis Frederick's narrative

about Elizabeth Chapin Patterson.

~~ Grace ~~

"...may we have His grace to love Him more. I remember Baba saying once that it is not so difficult to receive His grace, as to recognize it in the form in which it comes disguised. This little prayer we read in a book

"My soul is like a rusty lock,

Oil it with Thy grace.

And rub it, rub it, rub it, Lord

Until I see Thy Face."

May His love teach us to accept the "rub" with the oil -

by Mani S. Irani

82 FAMILY LETTERS, p. 47

1976 ? Avatar Meher Baba Perpetual Public Charitable Trust