Dolphin Enterprises, Inc
318 SW 102nd Street
Seattle, WA 98146
February 21, 1968
Dear Blessed Friend:
Thank you so much for the beautiful letter that you have sent to me. It was so comforting and healing in its very context. We went over to see Shamcher and his fine family last Sunday. He certainly thinks a lot of you and he also tells me wonderful things you have been doing. He also tells me you work a lot with the young people, and that is really a great task and you are doing a good work, as they are our future generation and the results of the world will be in their hands. Shamcher has helped me a lot with the different spiritual ideas that he has that are in the mastership class.
He shall look forward to your coming here in March. Also, if there is anything we can be helpful about, please let us know. It is marvelous your work, too, with the intellectuals, for that is a great way to help. When you come here, too, I shall be glad to offer you the hospitality of my home, as we have a guest room that would be yours at this time. However, if you wish to stay at a place in the city, (I am outside of the city,) we can find you the right accommodations.
Your work with the Buddhists is remarkable.
We all are looking forward to seeing you, and kindly let me hear from you again, as the solace you gave me is “out of this world.” We all need solace when hurt, and also kindness to keep the heart going and to know it is the Shrine of God.
Wishing you the very best in all things and also happiness, we remain
Sincerely and cordially yours,
Sitara Dolphin
Sufi Movement
Seattle, Washington
March 29, 1968
Mr. Samuel Lewis
410 Precita Ave.
San Francisco, Calif. 94110
Dear Mr. Lewis;
The copy of the letter which you wrote to “Bhakti-Sheikha” and sent to us was received yesterday, and was completely mystifying.
We have never met any of the people whom you name in this above-mentioned letter, nor, in fact, have ever heard of them prior to this.
We have heard of Vilayat, but have never met him, nor have we ever attended any meetings wherein his cause was furthered, nor have we encouraged his claim in any way whatsoever.
There is a Seattle Sufi Center in existence, and we are all loyal to Fazal Inayat Khan, each and every one of us. None of this Seattle group of members in good standing have attended a meeting such as you seem to refer to. We have heard of a Vilayat sponsored group that used to meet here in Seattle a few years ago, so, possibly this may have been revived. However, please do not connect us, nor any of the Seattle Sufis with these other people whom you mention.
We are sorry that you have apparently been misled, and, since we know nothing of these people, nor of this matter, find nothing else to say. Please be assured that we are not angry with you, personally, as it is obvious that there is a mistake here somewhere, that you connected our name with these people, whoever they are, and that you included us with possibly other recipients of the copy of your letter.
We agree, however, with many of the things that you stated, as we have no patience with false pretenders, ourselves. We would suggest that if you know of would-be Sufis in Seattle who are disenchanted with Vilayat, that you inform them of the true Sufi Center which is very much in existence here.
Sincerely yours,
Martin E. Dickenson
Dolphin Enterprises, Inc
318 SW 102nd Street
Seattle, WA 98146
June 1, 1968
Dear Sam:
Is it all right to call you your name as this, as I do not remember your Sufi name exactly, as you would wish to have it called.
Your letter is very fine and I also am happy to know you will be up this way again. Your trip here before was very helpful to me, especially, as it helped me in many ways, chiefly, to forget the “lemons handed me in the Sufi and try to make lemonade with the lemons at night” An old saying, but a good one, in my estimation.
Also, I am doing the exercises you gave me and they help me a lot. It is certainly good to know that you had a wonderful attendance with the group; hope that keeps up, and there will be more and more who come to you seeking and Getting Help Needed.
I saw Mary Lou Matchett, and told her to write you. She is having a time so any help you can give her will be appreciated. May I ask a favor of you? I have a very dear brother, Reid H.Cofer, Tuck, Ga., and he is seriously ill, so will you have prayers for him? I believe in the power of your prayers so much. I saw Shamcher. He is planning on having Vilayat here July the fifth. I told him I did not wish him to have Vilayat to say he was head of the Sufi Order, as it caused all the trouble in the first place, and it is not true. I wish you would especially tell Shamcher how you feel about that too, as it is not right to claim a name you do not have legally. I may not like someone who is president of our country, but I do not say the man whom he beat at the polls is president, as it is equally not true. Well, let me hear from you, you know you are always welcome here, and Shamcher probably wrote you of some, plans, (not yet made) but in the mind, and maybe I shall be down in ‘Frisco for a little while.
With best wishes, always,
Sitara [Dolphin]
So glad you like the eye drops!
1500 Arlington Blvd. #210
Arlington, Virginia
July 22, 1968
Dear Mr. Lewis;
My dear teacher, Pir Vilayat, suggested that I write to you to obtain a copy of the “spiritual exercises.” He said you were going to put them in order, so that others could benefit from them.
I do think this is such a wonderful idea, for at retreat so many people do not take notes at all, and it would be wonderful to be able to have them intact so they could be distributed. They could then be easily referred to without wading through all lecture material.
Pir Vilayat has said that he found his time in San Francisco so rewarding. He is looking forward to his return.
Do know that you have many friends here. We are all one in the work. We should be so grateful to you if you would send along a copy of the practices … when you are able.
Very best regards to you.
Sincerely yours,
Alice P. Margraf
If there is anything I can do to help you—please let me know.
Dolphin Enterprises, Inc
318 SW 102nd Street
Seattle, WA 98146
August 10, 1968
Dear Sam:
I thank you with all my heart for the wonderful books that you had sent to me. I took one with me South, and it was a reservoir of comfort. It is a marvelous set of books. May God bless you for your generosity.
Thanks, also for your wonderful letters. They have proven to be a source of comfort and solace. My brother passed on and as I loved him dearly it is hard to take. However hard I try, I still have tears in my heart.
You are proving a great and wonderful teacher to many, and also the work you are doing is such a benefit to those who need it and will accept it. As the saying says: You are really due for many stars in your crown.” I am also so glad that you and Vilayat are doing so much to carry on our beloved Inayat’s plans. Vilayat has had so many blows in the Sufi path and also he should reach the blessings, too. I do not hear anything about the Sufi people here, they had a summer school.
The trip South was very precious as so many of the relatives were there, and so many new ties again formed. I have a brother who is a surgeon, too, and he is so busy that he really does not have time to do the spiritual things he wishes to do. I visited all of them and had a great revelation of kinship established. It might be a door to the Sufi philosophy if again we’re there.
I do not know when I can come to San Francisco. The doctor who is interested in the eye drops is so busy this time of year. There was an article in the Ozark Gardens about the eye drops. I shall send one to you, and see what you think of it. I am so glad you and Mr. Hunt like the eye drops.
You are always welcome to come here to stay when in Seattle. I hope you can come and establish a center. I saw some of the hippies on the street when in Atlanta. They seem to be well behaving youngsters.
Keep up your good work and let me hear from you again.
Thanks again for all your good work and kindnesses. I am using the practices.
Blessings.
Sitara
1500 Arlington Blvd. #210
Arlington, Virginia
August 15, 1968
Dear Mr. Lewis:
Please forgive me for not answering sooner but we have been on a little holiday and have just returned.
It was so good of you to forward the practices. I shall have copies made and get them out to the students. Do please send the rest when you are able for so many can benefit. Obviously you were far better organized than we. Which brings me to an interesting point in your letter. It is true that due to the fact that Pir Vilayat must travel so much he simply cannot attend to all the internal coordinating in this country. This will be quite a large job.
He did not mention the fact when here that you would get us organized … however, he did say to write to you, so undoubtedly he knew that you would mention the fact. Will you now have some instructions for us? Will you be sending us a bulletin of any kind? Also will we be able to keep in touch with Pir Vilayat’s itinerary through you? Sometimes it is so hard to get in touch with him when necessary. Also do you have a special format that you wish us to follow for our meetings?
We feel so out of touch here. Perhaps you will be able to make us feel more integrated.
Thank you again. It is a very good thing to know that so many eager Seekers are benefitting from this work.
Cordially,
Alice P. Margraf
P.S. One of the mureeds is trying to get the information requested.
Dolphin Enterprises, Inc
318 SW 102nd Street
Seattle, WA 98146
September 12, 1968
Dear Sam:
It is so good to hear from you. Your letters always have a wonderful atmosphere, I would call it heavenly. I am so glad that you are busy in such wonderful work, also your health is so wonderful. Keep up the good work I am also very busy. I am sending to you one bottle of the Dolphin Eye Drops as appreciation of your wonderful and great book of Ramdas that you had sent to me. I love them. The book, the “World is God” is really so outstanding and yet so simple that I feel in love with it, and cannot read it enough. I shall write to him and thank him, also. These gifts are eternal and not a flight of a day.
I know Shamcher would have enjoyed hearing of the debate between Gavin Arthur and Dane Rudhyar. I had them over a Sunday before last and we had a nice time. We have not done anything about starting a center, as Shamcher is over there in Bremerton and I am outside of the city, so we are at a standstill. Shamcher wrote that we could probably start when Vilayat comes soon in January.
By the way, there is a distributor in San Francisco, (If you would call them up, they would let you know the stores who have the eye drops on hand) Their name is Landstrom Co., 420 Talbert St. Daly [City] and P.O. Box 34045. They would have their salesmen be more on the alert. Telephone Ju-4-1859 I wish I could come down and see all the wonderful work you are doing. Also, give Bhakti my love, she is something Special with me.
Love and blessings to you all.
Sitara
410 Precita
San Francisco, Calif. 94110
October 29, 1968
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Badford Avenue
No. Hollywood. Calif. 91605
Beloved One of God:
It is not only necessary for me to write to you, it is very important that some kind of acknowledgement or answer be given.
I understand that Pir Vilayat appointed you as General Secretary for the United states. He wished to give you certain authorities and responsibilities. Outside the sphere of love, harmony and beauty, I am also compelled to concur, because my own work and affairs have gotten out of bounds.
When Vilayat was here, God showed that the number of disciples would double—and this has happened. While I do have a complete set of Gathas, I do not have all the other papers. I do not know what Vilayat’s plans for the distribution of these papers are, but whatever he decides, one concurs.
In the first place, it takes considerable time and attention to be a murshid to over 50 mureeds. It takes more time and energy to lecture to the general public and to help prepare others for bayat. On Sunday October 20 we opened our Khankah in the city of Novato in Marin County, some 30 miles to the north. This is only 2 miles from where the Pir dedicated his International Meditation Center. We had about a 100 people attend: also participating in the program which consisted mostly of dervish and yoga dancing.
In 1911 Hazrat Inayat Khan and the late Miss Ruth St. Denis traveled through this land. The program centering on yoga and spiritual dances. This and many other things are being put into effect here. Last night we gave a ritualistic form of the healing service and also a first outline for a pageant formation based on the Sufi Symbol.
I should be sending you all letters of inquiry. Also copies of all materials Pir Vilayat gave when he was at Novato.
Two of my disciples are now probably with Vilayat at Calcutta, attending a conference of the world’s religions—the real religions of the real world. This may bring to manifestation several of the dreams and ideals of Hazrat Inayat Khan.
With all love and blessing and assurance of cooperation in every respect, sincerely.
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Order
No. Hollywood, Ca. 91605
October 31, 1968
Mr. Samuel L. Lewis
410 Precita Avenue
San Francisco, California 94110
Dear Mr. Lewis:
Thank you for your very kind letter. It was heartening to hear confirmation of the expansion that your Center is enjoying. Our mutual friend Bhakti told me about your increasing membership and many activities and how much she had enjoyed her visit. I can understand how busy you must be.
Pir Vilayat recently mailed from India a projected schedule for his next tour of the U.S., listing San Francisco lecture dates as follows: January 2: Samuel Lewis Center. Jan. 3: Asian Institute. Jan. 4-5 Hippie Camp.
With planning and cooperation we hope to work out a well-organized itinerary, relieving him from unnecessary travel details. Enclosed is a copy of a letter which he requested me to mail to each Leader in various Centers.
Pir Vilayat is also hoping to conduct a Youth Camp the latter part of December. When arrangements have been completed information will be mailed to the Centers with applications for young people between 18 and 28 years of age who may wish to attend.
I am at your service regarding any information you may request. Flyers for publicity are in the course of re-print and I shall send you some when available.
With all good wishes and kindest regards,
Very cordially,
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
Sectretary
410 Precita Ave.,
San Francisco, Calif.
November 3, 1968
Suzanne D’Mitrieff, Secretary Sufi Order
6904 Radford Ave.,
No. Hollywood, Calif. 91605
Beloved One of God:
Your very welcome letter of the 31st has arrived. The letter from Pir Vilayat will be shown to the secretaries. We do have two lists, i.e. of those having had Bayat and those interested, including several applicants. As to those interested in public lectures let me explain:
There is now an independent movement lead by two disciples, one of whom is already a Teacher but given no title. They are working at San Francisco State College with the theme: “The Spiritual Teachings of the Orient as communicated by local leaders.” The audiences are fine, both quantitatively and qualitatively. They are also working with a new publication, “The Oracle,” a large section of which is devoted to Pir-o-Murshid Inayat Khan’s writings.
There is another independent movement more or less connected with Mr. Paul Reps which meets next Sunday and we may go in force. Mr. Reps was Hazrat Inayat Khan’s “chauffeur” but also confidant. While he is out on his own and reaches an independent audience it is more or less of the same type being attracted to these meetings, but the median age is slightly older.
One had about 30 disciples when Pir Vilayat came here and God, so to speak, said the number would be doubled. I have now reached an absolute of being unable to direct any more persons and am holding back for two reasons:
a. I should prefer Vilayat name those capable of being Representatives, Naquibs, Sheikhs, etc. to assist in the work.
b. An engineer-scientist is overdue who said he wished to organize my efforts which are in four fields:
I. “Ordinary” Sufi work.
II. Commentaries leading to proper coordination of The Complete Ryazat of Hazrat Inayat Khan, a very delicate work with plenty of material left by the Pir-o-Murshid but not incorporated into the “official” studies.
III. Piles of materials, published and unpublished from other schools of spiritual development; as well as Sufi miscellany from other schools.
IV. Scientific research in the fields of water and food production problems, covering mostly desert reclamation and the food problems of real Asia.
There are some amusing situations in that about five persons taking Bayat started out enthusiasm and then withdrew; then the real problem of the real life intervened. Added to that is the geographical movement of several mureeds. This point should be then up with you or assigned. Vilayat does not wish me to be active elsewhere and I am physically and mentally unable anyhow, so there is nothing but harmony at the administrative level. The problem is what to do about these persons?
All of this is mentioned also because medium age here is not more than 26, perhaps even two years less. There would be no problem about getting enough persons to attend a youth camp if we had place and time.
Another thing is more important. The Pir dedicated the International Meditation center at Olompali Ranch, two miles north of the city of Novato, which is about 30 miles north of here. The then director was not very affable, but the generality were. This director is now in India and he is going to be compelled either to accept Pir Vilayat or lose both the Ranch and his following; he is not a man to face realities.
The compounded visions of at least six persons plus the direct Guidance from the Living God corroborate the Pir’s blessings. And all the above is written because of the strong probability of having unusual audiences both in size and character.
Not only first the Dervish dances have been presented here; then Yoga dances and new dances and pageant forms based on the symbols of Gathas, series I, Naqshibandi, terminating in the pageant of the Sufi Symbol-star, crescent, heart and wings, the first lesson given yesterday. The termination to this writing is the manifestation of a degree of love and spiritual awakening which our Founder never experienced, and it is with a degree of shone (kham in the Sufi language) that one finds oneself surrounded by a group of loving and beautiful young people, nearly all taller and some considerably taller than this body but united with such love, brotherhood and fervor that one never expected it and now one finds.
There will be two sessions today, one on Dervish Dancing in a public place; and the other the Dharma instructions based on the religious of India and the Far East in which this person is also an accredited teacher (guru or roshi).
Inasmuch as there is now a staff, though unorganized, I shall accept anything at this address and also give the special names of those who are undertaking various projects.
We shall have a work party at the Khankah,
The Garden of Inayat
910 Railroad Ave.,
Novato, Calif. 94947
On Sunday, November 17. It is also the occasion of two birthdays. We shall repeat “The Birthday Dance” and “Dance of Love and Brotherhood” and also present “The Khankah Dance.” This is an elaboration of “Opening of the House Dance” having four couples and Murshid. These dances are all based on the use of Sacred Phrases and also Gatha teachings. They are bringing out the original mission of Hazrat Inayat Khan and Miss Ruth St. Denis in their tour of 1911.
We have a guest room at the Khankah but there are also other provisions for the Pir when he arrives.
Love and blessings,
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
Samuel L. Lewis
Daniel c/o
Samuel Lewis
410 Precita Avenue
San Francisco, Calif. 94110
November 24, 1968
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave.
No. Hollywood, Ca. 91605
Dear Mrs. D’Mitrieff
I have read your letter and am looking forward to the arrival of the Pir. He is often in my thoughts and meditations, as it was he who initiated me into the Sufi Order.
As requested in the Pir’s letter, I am enclosing a list of mureeds initiated by Murshid Samuel Lewis.
A list of sincerely interested persons will follow. With all good wishes,
Faithfully,
Daniel (Dennis Lomax)
Sufi Order Initiates, including some mureeds accepted without formal initiation.
James Pickard/ 263 Morningside Dr., Corte Madera
Stanley Quantz (Amin) / 263 Morningside Dr., Corte Madera
Katherine Erickson/ 263 Morningside Dr., Corte Madera
Marion Doyle (Sharin)/ Rancho Olompali, Novato 94947
Kris Stenz/ Rancho Olompali, Novato 94947
Robert Rowell (Dara)/ Rancho Olompali, Novato 94947
Virginia Herz (Jayanara)/ 910 Railroad Ave. Novato 94947
Carl Jablonski (Moineddin)/ 910 Railroad Ave. Novato 94947
Pat Jablonski (Fatimah)/ 910 Railroad Ave. Novato 94947
Otis Johnson (Mansur)/ 910 Railroad Ave. Novato 94947
Jemila Johnson/ 910 Railroad Ave. Novato 94947
Sigmund Herz (Hasan)/ 910 Railroad Ave. Novato 94947
Dennis Mcginley (Hussein) / 910 Railroad Ave. Novato 94947
David Hoffmaster/ 1226 De Haro St. S.F.
Marcia Pavelic/ 1226 De Haro St. S.F.
Susan Gancher/ 240 Redwood Hwy., Mill Valley
Doyle Wagner/ 249 Mather, Oakland
Diane Ferry/ 249 Mather, Oakland
Brian Carr/ 1420 Fifth Ave, S.F.
Sheyla McKendrick/ care of Samuel Lewis, 410 Precita, S.F. 94110
Duncan Pierce (Krishnadas)/ care of Samuel Lewis, 410 Precita, S.F. 94110
Clark Brown/ care of Samuel Lewis, 410 Precita, S.F. 94110
James Simmons (Akbar)/ 320a Bocana St., S.F
Frank Tedesco/ 455 Hudson, Oakland
Luigi Xifano/ 120 Bulkley Ave., Sausalito
Tom Mason/ 159 Alder, San Anselmo
Virginia Good/ 159 Alder, San Anselmo
Ginger Hubbard (Padmani)/ 217N Williard, S.F.
Susan Morgan (Vashti)/ 1546 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo
Philip Davenport/ Regal Ark L Boardwalk, Larkspur
Clara Davenport/ Regal Ark L Boardwalk, Larkspur
Sibley Cogswell/ 445 Center Blvd., San Anslemo
Dan Taylor/ 445 Center Blvd., San Anslemo
Bob Cogswell/ Ramona Ark Boardwalk, Larkspur
Renee Sager/ 4330 17th St., S.F.
David Whitaker/ 4330 17th St., S.F.
Jessamine Cogswell/ 291 S. Strawberry Dr., Mill Valley
Deborah Churney/ 266 Noe St., S. F.
Linda Watts/ 266 Noe St., S. F.
Bill Offerman/ 266 Noe St., S. F.
George Matthews/ 266 Noe St., S. F.
Arnold Passman/ care of Greenberg, 1330 N. Harper, L.A.
Colin Rognlie/ 437 Cole St., S. F. 94117
Melvin Meyer/ 437 Cole St., S. F. 94117
Dennis Lomax (Daniel) / 437 Cole St., S. F. 94117
Faune Lomax/ 437 Cole St., S. F. 94117
Jane Gaboury/ 1314 Arch St., Berkeley
Ruth Wintheil/ care of Auger, 71 Washington Place, N.Y., N.Y.
Tom Sager/ Box 27301, S. F. 94127
Barbara Moffet/ Box 151, Bolinas
Sheika Vera J. Van Voris/ P.O. Box 974, Soldedad, Calif.
Marc Gold/ 402 Broadway, S.F.
Laura Mathieson/ 55 Foothill, San Anselmo
Nancy Silver/ 826 Spring St., Sausalito, 94965
Howard Mussel)/ care of Samuel Lewis, 410 Precita, S.F. 94110
1500 Arlington Blvd. 210
Arlington, Virginia 22209
December 4, 1968
Dear Mr. Lewis:
I shall not attempt to excuse myself for the long delay in answering your kind letter with the enclosed material. I realize that this seems terribly ungrateful, however please know that your act was not unappreciated either by myself or others. Thank you so much.
Your letter was terribly interesting. It seems that The Sufi Order is simply growing by leaps and bounds all over the country. It is quite amazing and Pir Vilayat is so fortunate to have so many people who are truly dedicated to this work.
Some time back I had said someone here was trying to get a line on as many of the group leaders addresses as possible for you … but then came a letter from … I guess it was just then really beginning to function … the Secretariat in California … so naturally I figured from that point on all “alerts” as to orders from Pir Vilayat would emanate from there.
He is due here this week end. For only two days. Consequently we are going to be able only to book him for consultation periods mainly with his students. It will be so nice to see him again. Let us hope that he is well.
I’m in hearty accord with you in your interest in The Temple of Understanding. So many of us feel a deep significance relating to its completion. I attended the first meeting here in Washington of the representatives of the different faiths. I visited privately with the Reverend Piyananda and we had a lovely talk. I told him I’d send a list of names of those who would most likely be interested in joining his people and several other groups for Wesak next spring.
Thank you again for your kindness. I do hope that all goes well for you and all the students.
Sincerely yours,
Alice P. Margraf
Garden of Inayat
910 Railroad Avenue
Novato, Calif. 94947
January 9, 1969
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Avenue
North Hollywood, Calif. 91605
Beloved One of God,
There is an aspect of life at once dramatic, terrifying, grandiose and beautiful; and it is certain that the dramatic dominates the moment.
Two of the very top sciences of the Sufis are Mushahida and Mujahida. Mushahida has been translated as “Aweful Contemplation,” and Mujahida as the Greater Jihad. In Mushahida one holds the whole universe so to speak in the palms of vision and can see and know whatever God wishes him to see and know. In Mujahida one wars against the ills of the world by taking everything as if within himself and brings about what he wishes by self-correction. It is this which Pir Vilayat calls “the Path of the Master.”
I am not going to measure the Pir’s prowess in spiritual attainment, nor is there any need to do so. When he was here before he dedicated International Meditation Center on The Ranch which is about two miles north of this place. It is very likely that this was because of his Mushahida development. He was invited to the Ranch. The leaders there have identified cosmic consciousness and drug experience. They have tried to involve the Pir in this, a very foolish thing because of what transpired there almost immediately after. The hardest people to convince of the real value of karma and the moral law are those who boast their attainment publicly. At the same time these people are invariably unable to judge the spiritual stations of others.
Hardly had he gone when Dara, one of the disciples who was with him in Calcutta, left this vicinity. I do not know the circumstances or details but have been promised a letter written to me as soon as possible.
Yesterday (Wednesday) the day after Dara had departed and two days after the visit of the Pir, the authorities descended upon the Ranch, took into custody Mr. Don McCoy, the original leader and financial supporter, and his closest associates. I do not know the details yet—at this moment more news arrived, but until tonight after this is mailed the reports cannot be confirmed.
There is no denying that in many senses a New Age is here. Also that Pir Vilayat is one of the leaders in this New Age. There are very few people—most claiming “honesty” who have been willing to accept the bare facts of my contacting many of the representatives of the real spiritual hierarchy living in earth bodies. I believe without exception they were favorable to Pir Vilayat and inimitable to the wealthy endowed corporations opposing him. I can support this with facts, events and names, but there is no need to waste time on closed ears and closed hearts.
The New Age has been foreseen by those with divine vision, not drug addicts. In one of the early issues of the defunct “The Sufi,” Hazrat Inayat Khan made a number of predictions. These were later withdrawn but portions of them appear in one of the written volumes as if parts of a later teaching not on this subject. It will take a little time to find out exactly where but these have been preserved and published.
During the middle of the depression I received “Book of Social Directions.” The accuracy cannot be measured because all copies have been lost or stolen. After that the inspiration was called “The Garden of Inayat.” This covered some of the same themes but with a full synthesis of all subjects connected with the universal worship. On the one hand all this material has been lost or stolen. On the other hand I have personally fulfilled its requirements by having met in earlier years the spiritual representatives of all faiths, including even leaders in Chinese mysticism—Chinese leaders in Chinese mysticism, not Western writers on the subject. Here I can say that this part of the life was accepted by Mrs. Judith Hollister and Mr. Finlay Dunne, Jr. of the Temple of Understanding.
After that there came “Introduction to Spiritual Brotherhood” which was a higher phase of the same theme. Although it too was lost, stolen or appropriated, the spiritual sight at the time of writing was much keener. We have found one dim carbon of it and are copying it chiefly for Mr. Shamcher Beorse of Keyport, Washington.
It becomes very evident to anyone reading it that it foretold many of the social developments and considerably more. However I am hoping that the manuscript will stand of itself.
Pseudo-mysticism and metaphysics have substituted egocentricity for Theo-centricity. Certain persons or a person are usually lauded and God is by-passed or introduced as a Being under their compulsions.
In view of the hard facts that “Introduction to Spiritual Brotherhood” has been portraying each of the present developments one may be called upon to do more. Anyhow I leave it to Pir Vilayat to make his own judgments. If he is possessed of the faculty of Mushahida as well might be he may stand out as a very glorious personality in spiritual history if not more, inshallah.
Love and blessings,
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
S.A.M.
Garden of Inayat
910 Railroad Avenue
Novato, California 94947
[to Mrs. D’Mitrieff]
January 10, 1969
Beloved One of God,
We do not know if the drama that is occurring at Rancho Olompali is being reported in the newspapers in your part of the state. A program is scheduled for one of the national channels this evening. It will, of course, give only one side, but that is the side that is not usually presented. We always hear the side of the police and the authorities.
Our interest is that Pir Vilayat has seen great possibilities for a truly international center for meditation in these parts, and there is some information that he has proposed a home for himself there.
Mr. Don McCoy, founder of The Ranch, is at the moment in custody. The real and the nominal factors in his arrest and also in the arrests of some of his associates are totally different, so different that it needs insight even more than logic to ascertain the truth.
The awkward factor is that Sheyla McKendrick and Dara Rowell, who were with Vilayat in India are playing strange and totally different roles. For the moment we are assuming that the Pir will be interested in a report, and would rather give him a report than keeping him in darkness. But we do not wish to influence other than in reporting.
Dara has left this State, apparently totally disgusted with the affairs of The Ranch. This has not interfered in the least with his attitude and devotion toward either the Pir Vilayat or Murshid Sufi Ahmed Murad. He is going to the State of Ohio. If he is not too far from Cleveland we would like to direct him there. If there are new centers in other parts of that state it may also be convenient for him to contact those people. This is an open matter.
With regard to Mrs. Sheyla McKendrick. Last night we did some studying in the book “Health.” All signs point to mental derangement due to drugs. This soul needs love, tenderness and consideration, and at the moment is totally impervious to love, tenderness, consideration and response to anybody whatsoever. She is at the same time in an extreme case of egocentricity, and falsely imagines herself to be God-conscious. We are even afraid that she may have played the role of a betrayer. This is of course unconfirmed, but all signs point to it.
There are two better reports, a) several of the local disciples may be appearing at your meetings; b) there is already much enthusiasm about the proposed summer camp in Colorado.
All love and blessings,
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
S.A.M.
Daniel
410 Precita Avenue
San Francisco, Calif. 94110
January 20, 1969
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Avenue
No. Hollywood. Calif. 91605
Dear Mrs. D’Mitrieff:
We certainly enjoyed the visit of Pir Vilayat. Among others, he was kind enough to initiate my wife, Faune.
He instructed me to send you addresses of those interested in receiving regular mediation instruction.
Dennis Lomax (Daniel) Benefsha Berliner
Faune Lomax 176 Sixth Ave., San Francisco 94118
Paul Pognlie
Collin Rognlie James Simmons (Akbar)
Box 123, Lagunitas, Calif. 320a Bocana, San Francisco.
Krishna Das
Melvin Meyer
410 Precita Ave., San Francisco, Calif. 94110
I am sure there are others who would like to receive the instructions, yet who have not communicated their addresses to me. If you would like to send me extra copies for them … or I could copy the instructions for others … or as you instruct.
Also you may either mail the instructions to the individual addresses above or mail them all to 410 Precita and we will distribute them … all of the above regularly attend meetings.
I personally would like any photograph of the Pir and of his father and I am sure of other who would appreciate them. The Sufi order flyers with those photographs and information are in short supply here, that is, the few which the Pir himself gave out.
If I may be of any service to you, I am
Yours
Daniel
January 22, 1969
Miss Margaret Leach,
330 East Liberty Drive,
Wheaten, Ill. 60187
Beloved One of God:
I have before me a paper on “Youth Seminar organized by the International School of Meditation.” For your information I am one of the last direct disciples of the late Hazrat Inayat Khan but since have been initiated into about eight schools of Sufism as well as into other schools of spiritual development.
We have new a thriving and growing School, mostly young people and several also involved in spiritual striving through mountain climbing. When Pir Vilayat was here I designated one of the disciples, James Pickard of Corte Madera, Calif. as my representative.
But the Esoteric Secretary, Mansur Johnson not only wishes to go but has a station wagon which can accommodate several persons.
We should like both application forms and details, because we wish to cooperate in every way.
Esoteric Secretary Mansur has been tape-recording the Pir’s lectures.
James lives with Amin Quance who is a Sheikh designate and who has lived also in Nepal and travelled far and wide. Most of the disciples here are under 30 and would therefore be eligible, but the enthusiasm is very great. Pir Vilayat appeared very suddenly in this house and without any advertising over eighty people showed up—just Allah and the grape-vine being at work.
Thank you for any information and assuring you of full cooperation,
Loves and blessings,
Sufi Ahmed Murad-Chisti
(Samuel L. Lewis)
330 E. Liberty Dr., #2
Wheaton, Illinois 60187
January 27, 1969
Mr. Samuel L. Lewis
410 Precita Ave.
San Francisco, California 94110
Dear Sufi Ahmed Murad-Chisti:
Thank you so very much for your letter of January 22 and your expressions of interest and enthusiasm in the Youth Seminar this coming June 21-29. I am glad to hear that Pir Vilayat’s visit there was so successful, although I expected it—knowing him!
I have noted your request for application forms and I will mail them to you as soon as they are ready to mail out, which I expect to be in about two weeks. I will send further details at that time also.
Thank you again for your letter and you will be hearing from me again soon.
Love and Peace,
Margaret Leach
(Miss) Margaret Leach
Dolphin Enterprises, Inc
318 SW 102nd Street
Seattle, WA 98146
February 17, 1969
Dear Sam:
I wish to thank you and your group for your wonderful prayers. Shamcher told me how wonderful they and you were. I am getting along better but am having to recuperate, and it is a little slow, you now I am an impatient person.
Shamcher told me, too, of your wonderful work, and how gloriously you are handling it. We are so proud of you. I might say also that this world and Heaven also must be proud of you and glory in your wonderful work.
Too, I wish to thank you for the glorious books you sent me, and the practices you gave me, and one, especially that you gave Shamcher and he passed it on to me. I love them all.
I wish that I could come down and see your wonderful group and also join in the services as a listener, but it is impossible at present. Keep up the good work, I consider you our outstanding Sufi of the world today.
May God richly bless you and give you the desires of your heart. Yours most sincerely and cordially,
Sitara
Dolphin Enterprises, Inc
318 SW 102nd Street
Seattle, WA 98146
April 25, 1969
Dear Sam:
We are really getting some things done: a person who belongs to the Dickinson Center called me up and wished me to help her. So, she came over and Shamcher and I are helping her; She had started a center, and they have given her the same treatment that they gave me, so she felt let down.
They are also going down to San Francisco, (the Dickinson bunch and Rosenburg group) and try to win all the Sufis to the Fazal group, or their own. It is to be the 20th of June, so be on the alert.
I wish your prayers for Shamcher as he seems to be ill and so tired, and he talks to me as if he would just as soon “go over “ as to stay here. He as been such a help to me, (I do not know if I could have born the”: gaff” without him.) He really needs special prayers, and I know you think of him as I do, an indispensable person, we do not want to be without while he be on earth.
I have told Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht, of 24015 19th Ave., Bothell, Washington of you and your work, so she wishes to have you come to their center when it to going good. Also, Vilayat. Shamcher and I are very happy that she is so happy over being, able to contact us.
Wishing you the very best, I remain
Your true friend,
Sitara
April 26, 1969
My dear Sitara:
I am dictating this to Mansur my esoteric secretary. He has just copied the Sufi Thoughts. It is sadly remarkable that many persons after taking bayat forget these as being elementary. They are to some of us quite fundamental, and it, a wonderful to find the young people practicing, “Draw us closer to Thee, every moment of our lives,” as in Saum.
One had just received a favorable letter from Shamcher. Now you have asked us to pray for him, just as he has asked us to pray for you. In a little while the dancing class will start. We have ceremonials based on spiritual practices, and this includes a use of Ya Shaffee Ya Khaffee. What we are doing is putting into practice the psychic teachings drawn from the Gathas. They are most effective. In fact, we have through our ritual done a considerable amount of instant healing, though that is not the prime reason for our immediate work.
Mansur, my secretary, may be leading a cortege or caravan to Colorado this year to join Vilayat. Praise be to Allah money has been provided and more than provided for this affair.
Please do this practice: with tasbih (beads) 101 times Ya Haya wa Khayyoum. This was given me by my living spiritual teacher. It has enabled me to work all the time and retain strength, vitality and inspiration.
The other day something funny happened. Mansur and I were having a Chinese lunch. The fortune cookie said that Samuel would go on a long distance business trip. We came to this house immediately after and there was a letter requesting I go to New Mexico. It required an immediate answer. The next reply from them will determine when I may go to New Mexico. Once this is out of the way, we can determine when I should visit Seattle. As the weather in Seattle is “easy” for me, the time for my visit does not matter in this regard.
Mansur is going to New Mexico himself shortly, and on his return will arrange the cortege or caravan for Vilayat in Colorado.
Praise to Allah, everything is going better today in all directions than at any time in life. I shall always be glad to hear from you and cooperate in every way possible.
Faithfully,
Sam
410 Precita Ave.,
San Francisco, Calif.
May 11, 1969
Margaret Leach,
330 E. Liberty Drive
Wheaton, Ill. 60187
Beloved One of God:
In the enthusiasm for the Summer Camp the key-stone of the Arch has been forgotten and I beg you with all my heart to put in that keystone which is God (Allah.) Please do not confuse the God (Allah) with traditions of solemnity, over-sobriety, parenthood and sin—that is a fabricate concept whose day of usefulness is over.
It might be better to accept the Indian Sat-Chit-Ananda, Being-Consciousness-Bliss but not these words as words; only these words as indicator of the awakening of heart. We are the most un-solemn group of Sufi-Sufis in the world. I say Sufi-Sufis because those who are Sufis by tradition and dictionary definition recognize us. But today, and especially in America, any group can take any title, get it recognized legally and do anything without regard to the traditions of other peoples.
We may have a station wagon, we may have a caravan and we are going to unload on you problems for which you are not the least prepared:
a. Non-mureeds or new mureeds who have never had devotional training.
b. People who are sickly and can hardly walk, much the less climb.
c. Those not used to high altitudes.
d. Those not used to meditation and silences.
e. People over 28.
f. Those with infants.
g. Etc.
Now this person is a veteran not only in the spiritual life but in the outdoors, in forestry living, and has been at least twice in the Himalayas which is much more important in the consciousness of Americans than a hundred experiences in God-realization; or is it?
Please do not confuse us with the sober traditions of this or any other people. We have started on careers of Spiritual walk, Spiritual Dance, Spiritual ceremonies and the re-awakening of mystical and esoteric sciences. But our keynote is God (Allah), and I beg of you to emphasize this and not forgot it.
We want to cooperate, but we want to cooperate for a divine purpose.
Faithfully,
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
P.S. While you are preparing and having your summer camp the enemies of Vilayat are preparing to convene here in San Francisco.
Sufi Order
6904 Radford Avenue
No. Hollywood, Ca. 91605
May 14, 1969
Mr. Samuel L. Lewis
410 Precita Avenue
San Francisco, California 94110
Dear Mr. Lewis
The enclosed “Notice of Meetings” is being sent to all Leaders and voting members of Sufi Order.
Although the business proposed for these meetings is largely routine and organizational in nature, Pir Vilayat will be present for the Meetings and for informal discussions with members after the official business is concluded. If possible you may want to attend the meetings in person and you will be most welcome. Otherwise we will appreciate your giving your proxy to one of the members who will be present. I will send you later a Proxy Form, and list of those expected to be present.
With kind regards and sincere wishes for your increasing success
Cordially yours,
Suzanne D’Mitrieff, Secretary.
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
May 17, 1969
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
Secretary Sufi Order
6904 No. Hollywood, Calif. 91605
Beloved One of God:
Your letter of the 14th announcing a meeting for June has been received and will be shown shortly first to Mansur Johnson, the esoteric secretary, and then to others. Mansur is about to leave here shortly, and will return later to participate in the session of the International School for Meditation directed by Pir Vilayat in Colorado.
At the moment there is some enthusiasm for this session and it becomes a question of who is available to come to North Hollywood.
We are now in a position to give full cooperation, both because of our constantly growing movement and my own (at least) better financial position. But also my aides, Mansur and Daniel Lomax are both in much better positions today, praise to Allah.
At the moment I have nine sessions a week in this general area. With all love and blessings,
Faithfully,
Samuel L. Lewis
PO Box 867
Bothell, WA 98011
May 20, 1969
Dear “Sam Lewis,”
Hardly know how to address you or what to say but compelled to come here and write to you even before I finish “The Inner Life.” Shamcher gave me many things that come from you and it hurts to think that from July last until February I was in Menlo with my Mother (who was dying of cancer) (At that time was still trying to wait out in hopefulness help from the group in Seattle.) You made many things clear to me and remembering that all of this is new to me (2 years in July) feel that I learned more from your material that I have in this time. May I see you when I go down again?
Vilayat will be staying here at the house for a few days after his Colorado camp session. Do hope that he will find things as he would like them. At this time would like to tell you that at Any Time if you are in the area I would be most honored and flattered if you would stay here. We are quite a ways out but really only 16 miles from the center of the city. There is little that I can do to repay you for all this material, was a year with nothing new at all and lost members, etc, etc. Long story but all of it past and perhaps necessary to spark me to give others the chance it seemed I could not even get for myself.
Sitara and Shamcher have been so good to Jerry and me, poor Sitara needs our prayers, the hurt from last year nearly broke her health. We were out there Sunday for healing Service.
Think that, we have the beginnings of three centers started in the Seattle area(counting this one) Doing things a little differently and feeling most inadequate, but doing the best I can.
Most Sincerely,
Hamidan/Charlotte Brautlacht
Shamcher says “Sam Lewis” all in one breath, so tell me what I should call you.
May 23, 1969
410 Precita, SF 94110
Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothwell, Wash. 98011
Dear Hamidan:
This is written on official stationery just to show the spiritual names. One is usually called “Murshid” or SAM here but in the Orient mostly “Sufi Sahib.” One is also being called more and more, “Dr. Lewis.” One is not particularly attached or detached from names.
Now we are very busy here, all the time, seven days and six nights a week and it is only human egotism that requests one to change for there is constant good health and a strong feeling of Divine Guidance. Shortly one must write a letter in regard to a meeting in North Hollywood called by Vilayat whether this person goes, or a legate or a committee. Ordinarily this would be easy but we also have to arrange for a car or entourage to join him in Hollywood.
Both the esoteric secretary and financial secretary now have outside jobs and the involvements are of such a nature that each is fulfilling his purpose of life in this which leaves one terribly short-handed, although there are signs this will change. We are getting the Gathas, Series II ready for you and have asked if you could list what papers you have there. We are missing some Githas here.
Vilayat expects to be in San Francisco on June 12 but we may not cooperate in this meeting as it would interfere with our programs. But his “official” visit on July 2nd is especially welcome. There were almost a hundred people at the last Wednesday night meeting, the largest yet. And the total number of persons has now approached some 200, which is more than one man can handle efficiently.
Yes both Sitara and Shamcher show all the positive spiritual signs.
I am expected in New Mexico in August and my plan for the Fall is not yet made. It also may depend on Vilayat’s visit. All kinds of things are happening and we are now witnessing the day when “The Message spreads far and wide.” God bless you
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
410 Precita, SF 94110
May 24, 1969
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Bedford Ave.
No. Hollywood, Calif. 91605
Beloved One of God:
Today I received some materiel in regard to the “Sufi Order Constitution” and the general plans of Pir Vilayat. Last week a personal let or came urging that I come in person to the meeting in June, or else send a delegate with power of attorney. I as unable at this time to determine exactly what I may do, excepting to give full and absolute cooperation to Pir Vilayat.
I am again working full time seven days in the week with hardly a night free, but am in the best of health and do not face any financial difficulty. We have been giving some attention to the Colorado camp. Mansur may be calling on you either en route to New Mexico or on return.
One has to ask some advise, or rather share with you. If one came by plane or train there would be the question of where to stay, etc. If we came by car this would not be a problem because I know several very reasonable hotels in Hollywood where we could stay and which would also have access to restaurants I know quite well. I do not know whether this would be a good idea or not. But in any case it is necessary to know exactly what hours will be needed for meetings—morning, afternoon or night and on which days.
I was in the confidence of Hazrat Inayat khan in regard to constitutions but all that materiel was either fraudulently seized or destroyed in a fire some years ago. I am hesitating to make any proposals or suggestions either on memory or precept. Vilayat has made some rather “revolutionary” departures, and this is entirely in accord with the teachings. I shall not act as a brake.
In addition to that I was officially initiated at Ajmir in India in 1956, and have had other official initiations and ordinations in the Chisti Order, but these would have nothing to do, presumably, with any legal steps that might be taken.
What has happened is exactly as seen in the visions when Pir Vilayat was here, the growth from 30 to 60 mureeds and now from 60 to 100. This has been accompanied by the reappearance of several recalcitrants, but now the total audience per week is about 200 persons. One does not know how long this will continue but it is making imperative the official ordination of at least two Khalifs and perhaps other spiritual assistants and associates.
In addition we have control of a paper called The Oracle and I have been personally approached by several young editors and am behind in every department of my work on account of the absence of secretarial assistance. But for this an organization is really imperative.
Following the copy of extracts there will be a quest on as to how many “local centers” we should have, and at what membership. One may act in several different ways. I personally was given the work of esoteric secretary by Hazrat Inayat Khan (but not permitted to function) and also to spread the Message to the intellectuals. This last is now proceeding very nicely indeed. The main obstacle is the existence of pseudo-mystics and the awkward problem of some associations with pseudo-mystics. This item can either by be-passed or faced to the full but I can assure you that a number of professors of Oriental and Western philosophies both have become most suspicious of pseudo-mystics and are on record today.
Love and blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
410 Precita, SF 94110
May 30, 1969
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave.,
North Hollywood, 91605
Beloved One of God:
Recently a letter was written asking exactly what times meetings will be held in your house when Pir Vilayat is here. At the moment this person works seven days a week and is fortunate to have a free evening, though that is very seldom.
A personal letter was received from Pir Vilayat asking me to come to North Hollywood in June and also to bring such associates as might be important. I had in mind the Khalif Designate Moineddin Jablonski. But there may also be Philip Davenport, author of The Oracle, a new publication which is making rapid strides in this region.
No doubt Vilayat has in mind that I was the confidante of his father in matters pertaining to organization. Hazrat Inayat Khan spent long hours both in 1923 and in 1926 on these matters. What he said was rejected—it is only egotism that rejects. It is hoped that we can work in spirit in the real Sufi manner.
This person happens to be one of the few Americans who was designated as a sufi by Sufis. It comes out of spiritual realization. And today that is being reflected in the rather rapid and successful growth of the Movement in these parts with overtones elsewhere.
I was officially appointed in 1923 but the papers have long since been lost and legal groups, using the term “Sufi” have not accepted this. Our work is with God and toward God in God-realization. When anything else is put above it or even alongside of it, there is a question of blessing and success. The words “Love” and “Harmony” and “Beauty” are raucous noises unless they are applied with full meaning.
God bless you,
Samuel L. Lewis
June 6, 1969
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
Mr. Samuel Lewis
410 Precita Avenue
San Francisco, California
Dear Friend:
The enclosed Proxy is what Pir Vilayat had in mind as “power of attorney” and delegating someone in your place in his letter to you dated May 16 of which I received a copy. You return the proxy form to me before June 15 only in case you would be unable to attend the meetings in person. No one else can come in your place.
At the Trustees’ meeting last January plans were discussed and approved for organizing the Branches in various cities and it was expected that this could be accomplished by April 1, but the time was too short. The by-laws require that notice be mailed 30 days prior to the date of the meeting. When Mr. Ingebretsen, our legal counsel and Trustee met Pir Vilayat in London last April they agreed that, for the time being and to meet the requirement, Pir Vilayat would simply send a letter of recognition to each Leader thereby establishing that person as a voting member. This he did.
Until Charters are issued you are the only voting member from your Center entitled to attend the meeting. I do not have the application forms mentioned in his letter to you (last 2 paragraphs) so nothing can be done until Pir Vilayat gets here, concerning the formalities involved. This applied to the other Branches as well whose Leaders have been recognized and who already have indicated they will not be able to attend the meetings. It appears that the Members’ and Interstate council meetings will not be important and likely of short duration, in view of the absence of every one excepting you, if you decide to come. The meetings were called in strict observance of the By-laws of the Sufi Order Corporation. I asked Pir Vilayat in a telephone conversation last Wednesday if Bhakti or Jalelah would be allowed, as prospective leader, but he said that I would have to refer the matter to our legal Counsel. He is out of town and will not be back until June 14. We have a retreat scheduled at San Jacinto June 14-15 and will be very late returning home on Sunday night. Or early Monday Morning.
The meeting is called for 2 p.m. on June 16, as you will see by the proxy I am sending herewith. Immediately following the Members’ meeting, the Board of Trustees will proceed with their annual business meeting which we expect will take the rest of the day and possibly evening. This meeting is limited to the three trustees mentioned in the proxy and includes of course, Pir Vilayat, the president. I know of no hotel in this residential area and my home is not easily reached by public conveyance.
With very kindest regards
Bibijan
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
Proxy
Know All Men By These Presents:
That I, a Voting Member of Sufi Order, a California corporation, and a member of the Interstate Council thereof, appoint Suzanne D’Mitrieff, Pierre Crosby, or James C. Ingebretsen or any one of them, as my lawful proxies with full powers of substitution, to act and vote for me on all matters as fully as I would be entitled to if personally present, at the following Meetings and at any adjournments of said Meetings, namely: 1969 Annual Meeting of the Voting Members of Sufi Order, to be held at 6904 Radford Ave., North Hollywood, California, at 2 P.M. Monday, June 16, 1969; and 1969 Annual Meeting of the Interstate Council to be held at 4 P.M. on the same day and at the same place.
I hereby ratify and confirm all that my said proxies or any one of them, may lawfully do in the premises.
Witness My Hand this____day of__________1969
(signed)____________________________________
Note: Pir Vilayat has suggested that if you are not going to be present at the Meetings, he would prefer that you give your Proxy to any one, or all of the above California Voting Members (each of whom is an Officer of the Order itself, and of a local Branch), rather than to him. You may, of course, name any other Voting Member you’re sure will be present (in which case, scratch through the names above, interline your choice and initial it. Please return at once so we may be sure of a quorum. Thank you.
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
Secretary of the Order
410 Precita, SF 94110
June 6, 1969
The Secretary,
“Fazal Manzil”
23, Rue De La Tuilerie
Suresnes, Seine
Beloved One of God:
Thank you for your note. One realizes that Pir Vilayat has a crowded schedule, but also this person has a crowded schedule. There is a whole New age here and for some of us this is not a more emotional upsurge, but a total change which is found in the Sphere itself. It is almost forty-six years to a day since the first long interview with Hazrat Inayat Khan and yesterday saw a marvelous manifestation of what he wanted—the mystical teachings presented to important intellectuals.
This move has been going on more and more rapidly recently at a very time when the leaderless young of this area are turning to this person. Returning from the Orient in 1962 one found the same stone walls, and then after a strange illness things change and still change.
We are putting into practice; “Say: Allah and Allah thou will become.” One has a large and growing following and there is a necessity to organize. And particularly so because one has been called to visit other states, and write more articles. The Brotherhood of Man to which one was especially dedicated does not form from special leadership, narrow nationalisms and even less from seclusions by human ego. God (Allah) is in All and All in Him. And God is Love, Mercy, Compassion and Wisdom and not any concept of human beings, though the concepts are not necessarily wrong.
When Vilayat comes here on 2nd July we should have a large meeting of disciples as well as of non-disciples. We have completed what was requested when he was here before.
Love and blessings,
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
(Samuel L. Lewis)
June 30, 1969
My dear Hamidan:
This is a tragic, comic letter written in haste. Yesterday my Khalifa and God-daughter, Miss Saadia Khawar Khan reached this city for a short visit, and we took her to the Meeting presided over by Fazal. It was tragic. At the end we did a little chanting and a stranger said, “Why didn’t you do that earlier, to put some life into this meeting?”
About half the audience was composed of my young followers and many of the older people were also friends and associates. The general feeling was that it was a funeral service! There was no life of any kind.
We meet here tonight but tomorrow night we shall try to attend Fazal’s lecture. It is a rush-rush all the time. Saadia put on a fashion show of Pakistani clothes and then attended the first part of the Dervish dances at Novato (the Khankah.)
The news from Colorado is uniformly favorable in every respect and we are awaiting Pir Vilayat. There is also now a leading scholastic authority on Sufism (Dr. Syed Hussain of Tehran) who may be here soon.
There are several with deep vision among the disciples and what they “saw” can hardly be reported. It is tragic indeed how this young man who has never either studied or faced life should dare to present himself, or have himself presented to the public as a “leader” among Sufis. Why, the recent President of India, the late Dr. Hussein was a Sufi and he never dared to say or do what this unfortunate young man has tried.
Love and blessings
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
Thanks for the Material. There is growing love and enthusiasm for the Pir among my disciples.
Charlotte Brautlacht
P.O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash 98011
July 13, 1969
Dear Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti,
That is a lot of name—and speaking of names Pir Vilayat gave me further imitation and changed my Sufi name to Atiya. I am not too sure what it means yet but he said he would write and tell me later. Everyone here loved him and many were reduced to tears of pure joy. It was a most beautiful meditation here at the house and we had 46 here which was about all we could hold in the living room and hall. I recorded this not as well as could be done another time as we have a better “mike” now but the tape from the unity church is wonderful. Oh yes, tapes—could you and would you record some of the chants and music of your wonderful group for us if we furnish the tapes? I do not have any of the things that we would like to have to give our people here. The group at Dickensons was very “long-faced” and my un-long one didn’t somehow fit into things especially—well it just isn’t a pretty story or really worth telling so will not bother, your “chants” and Dances sound most wonderful. Shamcher tells me you have wonderful old musical instruments too—would you tape some of these wonderful things for us who have not had the chance to hear things like this?
When I get down there to settle my mother’s estate may I visit your group? Could we see some of these dances and perhaps learn some. There is a real feeling of dance in the Sufi prayers (at least it feel’s this way to me.)
About Fazal: he is very young and in spite of everything I am sorry for him. It has gone to his head and he has had very very bad advice, he has used people badly but feel he is being urged to do this. Had this happened to him in 20 years after study and perhaps the teaching of one like Pir Vilayat—such a waste.
The Unity Church is going to allow us to use their chapel for our universal worship and brotherhood meetings, this gives you an idea of how impressed they were with Pir Vilayat. Isn’t it wonderful?
Many many thanks for your letter
Atiya (formerly Hamidan)
P.S. Your letter dated 6-30 and went astray, came today.
410 Precita Ave.,
San Francisco, Calif.
July 15, 1969
Charlotte Brautlacht,
P. O. Box 867,
Bothell, Was. 98011
Beloved One of God:
Thank you for your letter of the 13th. Yes, the former letter was addressed wrongly and so was slow reaching you.
Yesterday I gave the list of Sufi names, some with meanings to one of the disciples and has been misplaced. But Atiya was the name of my host in U.S.E. who used to translate for me while I was living in Cairo.
When Hazrat Inayat Khan came to this country in 1911 he travelled with Ruth St. Denis who danced and several of his first talks were on “Yoga Dances.” Receiving the spirit from each of these personalities, so to speak we are now putting them into operation. And especially since Miss Ruth died that spirit has descended in full force. In fact Vilayat has sent far one of the disciples to carry these dances elsewhere.
The way Fazal acted here and permitted his group to act would give one the right to at least citizen’s arrest. I kept quite at the time. There were too few people present. The young people were mostly mureeds and at least half the elders old friends. It was not worth a disturbance, but the way the tern “Sufi” is used, or rather abused and misused could bring open trouble some day.
It is most difficult for one to carry on. There is no regular secretary. The whole burden is on these hands and unwittingly those closest to one took on other burdens, too. And we have been compelled to meet one emergency after another. For example Vilayat, my God-daughter, Fazal, Guru Nataraj and Swami Chidanananda Maharaj all descended upon us within a week, and this person cannot see his way even to a half-day a week off.
The first steps have been taken for a new dance-secretary-and now another disciple is coming here especially to learn and this will take more time from a person who has none.
Pir Vilayat did not do any outside speaking here. We have a good group and Peter Vanderlinden brought some friends and this quite filled our hall without any advertising—there were over a hundred dancing!
I shall take this letter up with those concerned with the dance techniques but there is a danger of overlooking Hazrat Inayat Khan’s teaching and also the basic Sufic teaching from which they came. One has to be careful, but there is no doubt that the original message to Hazrat Inayat Khan was: “By the power of thy music, unite east and west.”
Please let us know beforehand when you maybe coming. We do not have much spare room here in San Francisco, but we do have plenty at the Khankah most of the time. And you will certainly will be welcome.
Blessings,
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
July 26, 1969
Mr. Samuel Lewis
410 Precita Avenue
San Francisco, California
My dear friend
As always, your nice letter is appreciated. And I am happy to answer.
At present, as you know, Pir Vilayat is in Colorado and he will go from there to Seattle for one day, planning to be with you in San Francisco July 2. From where he will leave to return here July 3. He is due to fly in on P.S.A. On a flight leaving San Francisco 1:40 p.m. and arriving here, if on time, 2:25 p.m. He has a lecture at East-West Center that night at 8 P.M. I can easily understand how much you would like to have him for a longer visit.
It seems that Fazal, by accident or design, is preceding him in about every city that Pir Vilayat is scheduled to be. They were in N.Y. on the same day and will be in Dallas also on the same date. He seems eager to get support and establish himself. Still, he is a usurper of a title to which he has no right.
In reference to the books, I cannot give you definite information as to the procedure until after we terminate the Trustees’ meeting, which was adjourned to July 6 at San Jacinto. Since the Branches in various cities will soon be organized, to be autonomous, a regular pattern will be set up for the handling of books, printed lectures etc … It will be simplified as much as possib1e, for bookkeeping purposes and swift delivery of the stock. I shall relay all pertinent information on this issue as soon as possible and cooperate with you in every way.
It was a pleasure meeting you and your very nice disciples. Those young people are eloquent testimony to the wonderful work you are doing.
With sincerest good wishes
Bibijan
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
August 3, 1969
Dear Murshid Samuel,
This is the machine that is being used to type up the Memo on succession for Vilayat. Because this must be done at this time, your so wonderful invitation must be passed up at least until this is finished. As I told you before there is limited us use of a Xerox machine and at this time will be using all of my allotted pages for this material.
When this is complete I will list the Gatha Series II I have and you will then know which we do not have. At that time you will be sent all of the copies of the very old “Instructions for Cherags” that came from Shamcher. There are many things incomplete but so much more than was within reach before.
Yesterday, in the beautiful chapel at Unity Church in Seattle we had our first really public Universal Worship. There was no camera but a picture should have been taken, even the carpet is of golden color, the flowers were already there and golden hued. We lacked only our hanging lamp and will have it next time I’m sure. Permission have been given for our Service the first Sunday each month—such a beautiful answer to prayer.
It is so good to know that after all of our problems we have found so many “beautiful people” and doors have swung wide at each step. Shafayat grows stronger each day and my son George (no Sufi name yet) is working with him on healing each day. So many need his prayers and healing that flows through his hands.
Shamcher looks so well we are so grateful,
Most Sincerely,
Atiya
Charlotte Brautlacht
Bothell, Wash. 98011
August 9, 1969
Dear Wali Ali,
Think it would be wonderful to have a visit from Murshid S.A.M. which is a rather different way of writing out his long Sufi name—Good idea. Does he realize that this is really out in the country, close to the city (17 miles from Seattle) and about 1 1/2 miles to the village? Vilayat really liked it out here, and I was very bossy and saw that he did get time to be by himself and recoup a little after Colorado—He was still going strong but his body was much too tired—-He really needed that little bit of rest he got here.
I have finished the first draft of those papers for Vilayat and finding so many “goofs” that must be fixed, thank heaven this is a paste-up type of thing. Think that Shafayat and I will see Shamcher this afternoon unless his sister arrives. We must take a ferry from here as we do not have bridges as you do down there. Otherwise we could see him more often.
Oh yes the name is Atiya and there is still the mystery of what it means. No one seems to be quite sure and Pir Vilayat didn’t say, just that the name Hamidan was terrible and not for me. If you find out what it means how about a clue.
Do let me know when we can expect him and what plans if any he would like me to make for him. Here again he does realize we are a very small group and not yet very knowing about many things?
September is one of the nicest times in the Pacific Northwest. August just isn’t the time to come here too humid and hot. Today is a “cooker” and everyone else is asleep.
The New Mexico trip sounds like, quite an adventure. They are so lucky to have him for so long a time. Do let us know now as quickly as you can.
As ever,
Atiya
410 Precita Ave.,
San Francisco, Calif.
August 25, 1969
Charlotte Brautlacht. P.O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
Dear Atiya:
One has before one your letter of the 9th addressed to Wali Ali. Thank you for the information. The plan is to leave here on September 13—and one just remembers that is Hejirat Day, the anniversary of the departure of Hazrat Inayat Khan from Indian in 1910!
The situation is this: One needs a vacation and would like to travel with Mansur Johnson, the esoteric secretary who has his station wagon. This assumes two things: that Mansur will not be working then (he is now;) and that would be a satisfactory way of both travel and welcome. But if this is not satisfaction one will come by plane.
Actually there has been continued action. Two weeks in New Mexico brought the most wonderful response from a whole group down there and a promise of a Summer School next year—limited because of accommodations. Then one had to speak in a neighboring city of Sunnyvale to an audience somewhat more mature in age but astoundingly with the same cordial response. This has never happened before with mature people but is happening now.
One not only had a most wonderful welcome from mureeds but yesterday one was astounded by the number of new faces joining in the chanting and dancing at the Khankah.
There is one policy which I pursue: the smaller the group the more intense the communications. One is therefore not at all concerned with the size of a welcome or of an audience. One even gave the Mountain Climbing practices to the people in New Mexico. Sufism has the answer to a tremendous number of problems. And some day the world will have to accept: “In God we live and move and have our being.”
A copy of this is being sent to Shamcher. With all love and blessing and awaiting your reply.
Faithfully,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
410 Precita
San Francisco, CA 94110
September 3, 1969
My dear Atiya:
This is written in the middle of “excitement.” One’s return from New Mexico was greeted by older people for the first time and then things began to happen.
First, my God-daughter, Miss Saadia Khawar Khan of Lahore, Pakistan is there. Besides being my disciple and Khalifa she is also a Chisti Sufi in her own right. Our single and joint efforts have been received gloriously. And this Saturday and Sunday we shall be putting on publicly here the Dervish Dances. The first impetus came from out astrologer friend, Gavin Arthur. But then it took hold.
While this was going on a delegation of young people asked us to take over a Tuesday night program which I shall have to do next week, along with a Pakistani costume display by Saadia. After that she will leave for Cornell, Ithaca and I for the northwest, riding with my esoteric secretary, Mansur Johnson.
The reason for this is that Mansur has been going through a dramatic tragedy and we both need to get away.
In any event we should be in your vicinity well before September 13, Hejirat Day, which is the anniversary of Hazrat Inayat Khan’s departure from India in 1910.
If you can send us a road map, please do so. And at this writing I may even have another disciple but we use the stations wagon for sleeping quarters also and there is no special financial problem at the moment from this end. Our work is expanding complicated by life’s problems. Some of these are very nasty, and some as the above, are very pleasant. Also we are preparing a young disciple to go to India to study the dancing there.
It is also a time of learned inspiration even though a vacation is solely needed. I am only hoping nothing more intrudes. I should prefer to tell than to write.
Love and blessings.
S.A.M.
September 8, 1969
Dear Atiya,
I wish to thank you for your letter of the 5th and the map. There has been a slight delay on our departure here. We shall make every effort to be in your vicinity on the 13th, but I am pretty sure, inshallah, we shall have arrived by the 14th. Things are just happening. We put on our first public performance of the Dervish Dances yesterdays and it proved to be very successful, praise to God. We are repeating the performance along with a Pakistani clothes display before a larger audience tomorrow night. As soon as that is over„ we should be on our way. We have to stop at Mount Shasta both going north and south, otherwise there is nothing on my program.
This vacation is badly needed. One has been overworked. The interest in Sufism is growing in many directions. The number of applicants is increasing; also the call for more lectures. It seems to be part of the New Age. I shall have with me Mansur and Saul. We have VW stationwagon and both of them will drive. The date of my departure south is at the moment quite indeterminate depending to some extent on plans you may have initiated. Anticipating a wonderful visit.
With all love and blessing,
S.A.M
910 Railroad Ave.
Novato, Calif. 94947
October 5, 1969
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave.
North Hollywood, California 91605
My dear Bibijan:
This perhaps is an apology. The chief reason, perhaps the only reason, for not sending you properly signed papers is that it has been impossible for us to get together here. The differences are geographical, social and occupational, and not personal.
I was called upon to visit the state of New Mexico, and so successful was that enterprise that a summer school has been established for me next year. This will not be in competition with anything Pir Vilayat does. It is already a closed group with full registration and mostly people over thirty.
On return here, it became incumbent for my health to take an enforced vacation. It may be difficult for anybody to work continuously 7 days a week, and perhaps especially so for a mature person. I have had exactly half a day off since my return, and that due to the sudden appearance of an old mureed. Even at this writing there is an absolutely filled program covering every day and night at least for the next two weeks.
I am not going to quibble over the constitutions esoteric or exoteric. There is certainly cosmic laughter over the refusal to accept this person as exoteric leader, which has basically nothing to do with the esoteric elements of Sufism, either in tradition or in written documents. It is certain that I am now consultant at local universities on oriental philosophies and mysticism. This is going to come out more and more within institutions in coming days and perhaps thenceforth in life. Perhaps without question I am the first person in the history of the world to have had the divine realization in all three directions indicated in the literature of Hazrat Inayat Khan.
It is very interesting to find that Hazrat Inayat Khan is now known as “the author of the 12 volumes.” It is also interesting to find that non-Sufis accept the very simple fact that I was a disciple of his. Now it is coming out for the next 5 days there is expected to be a conference of all the real or reputed spiritual teachers and movements in this general vicinity. Certainly the audiences are ready even if the speakers and representatives are not. This State was fore-destined to be the locus of the new spiritual age.
All this also may be in preparation for the forthcoming Parliament of Religions to be held in Istanbul next spring. This time, inshallah, I expect to attend in person, and in capacities which a slight honest objectivity would accept. I do know that we are on the verge of a general expansion here, and for this the necessity of signing legal documents. I will therefore try to get some people together, and if one cannot show up another’s name will be appended.
On the surface, the chief obstacle in our way has been the necessity for a number of disciples to move, change their addresses etc. This of itself bodes no danger. On the contrary, I think it means the establishment of more spiritual centers etc.
Our methods in general follow those of the Sufis of the Chisti schools. I am sorry, and perhaps in connection with this, that a visit to Southern California has become difficult. I shall keep you informed both of the results of these two endeavors mentioned herein and others. In addition to this, my poetry, almost universally rejected in the past, is being given serious consideration within “the halls of ivy.”
Love and blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
Dolphin Enterprises, Inc
318 SW 102nd Street
Seattle, WA 98146
October 12,1969
Dear Sam:
I wish to thank you for your visit and the comfort and pleasure it gave me. You are one of the luckiest men in the world to have two such wonderful young men helping you. Mansur, one of the best secretaries I ever met. He can write your letters perfectly as you give the words you wish, and without dictation. Paul, one of the best in helping you with your health. He is superb. I enjoyed every minute of your stay.
I wish you also would write to Charlotte Brautlacht, as she thinks a lot of you, too. We all enjoyed your visit. Too, I enjoyed the beautiful dog. I think he is “tops,” too.
I also am still enjoying the vegetables. They are also “tops.”
I surely hope you will honor us again with your visits. You are always welcome at my home.
Too, your talks or your sermons were wonderful. Shamcher thinks you are A-1 too.
By all means keep up your good work. I think, as many others, that you are doing a truly amazing work. And with your young people who are the ones who will carry on when we are in the Beyond.
Gratefully and sincerely,
Sitara
P.S. Give my very best wishes to Mansur and Saul.
October 15, 1969
My dear Atiya:
You must excuse this person. He has not had a single day off since returning and in going over the schedule, he has a single night, Fridays! It is too much and something has to give. Now Sunday night we have Dharma teaching, Monday night Sufism in San Francisco, Tuesday night poetry class, Wednesday night public meeting in Marin County, Thursday night intermediate and advanced esoteric class; Friday night free and Saturday night dancing class.
The last is now being well attended and although there is a small charge, the income has been more than expected. But the purpose of this income, to pay secretaries, has not fared so well. Mansur has his problems and his opportunities. My San Francisco secretary is occupied variously, so we are gradually putting out calls. And on the whole the combined income of disciples has gone up!
Then we have the call to attend the next Parliament of Religions which is scheduled to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, next spring. Mansur in Novato and Wali Ali in San Francisco are occupied with that. But there is now also a growing number of applicants and the possibility of having a study class also in the City of Oakland. This person, as murshid, simply cannot find time for writing, correspondence, lectures and most of all very necessary interviews.
Note must be taken here to have Irfan sent you. If this has been done, the next step. A catalogue of all available papers in being made now. We are putting the applicants to work.
There has been a complete turn in the response to my poetry. Also this person is now the consultant in and for classes on Asian philosophies and modern mysticism. This is a complete reversal from a generation back when we only had Englishman, Europeans and Asians with European educations as “experts” and they certainly made messes of things. All intellect and not too much of that, either, and the young are disgusted with their egocentricities.
Last Wednesday one was given an hour on a big program for all the real or reputed spiritual leaders of the area and came out quite well. This week one is scheduled to face a representative of Meher Baba. One does not know what to say but there are several alleged Avatars and Messiahs now working, and confusing. But they do get publicity and some following.
This weekend there will be a two-day celebration of the birthdays of a disciple and myself, the dancing class here with a special session; and an official gathering of disciples on Sunday about which Murshid is to say nothing, just way. But there is now more to do in both homes, a marvelous spirit. I am sorry however that there is delay in the printing of photographs partly complicated by a series of motor car accidents.
My biggest jobs have been the care of the Garden of Inayat and the commentaries on the writings, and these are so time-consuming, but perhaps rewarding projects. But they do take up time although each, in its own way, has led to an increase of bliss and exaltation.
Fortunately God is, and He does respond as Khatum says and I am to take Saturday as a free day after this week and Sunday as a pliable day. We all feel there will be an increase in our work quantitatively and qualitatively.
We have the tentative schedule of Vilayat. As matters stand it will be very easy to get him larger audiences than before, without any effort.
We greatly appreciate your courtesies and hospitalities, Mansur was able to see much of the grandeur in parts of this great country which he had never even envisioned before.
Love and blessings from all of us.
Sam
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Order
Seattle, WA. 98133
October 17, 1969
Dear Murshid S.A.M.
Wanted you to be one of the first to see this new paper that Shafayat is making for us here. He is rerunning this new and taking out the typing and using regular type instead. I for one am very pleased with it. The P.O. Box is of course the one we keep to hold down the just plain nosy ones who are not really interested just snoopy. I wrote of it to Vilayat too and hoping he will approve.
Think that your idea of cataloging material you have is wonderful if I can get a little help on the same thing up here we will do the same. Really do try to get as much as I can done but as you know have a family too that takes a good deal of my time. George is in the “U” this year too and not here to kelp as much as he was before.
Hope to hear from Paris soon and have the cut so we can run off some of the material and have it marked with the seal of the Order.
There were over thirty at the service Sunday at the church most were people we had never seen before as most of our people were unable to attend. Am hoping that this is a sign that there is more interest and that things will start moving up here too. The other group (with Fizzle]) have given Sufism a rather twisted reputation up here aid it will take some undoing. They cannot hold the people they attract with the message. It is really a shame as they work very hard,
Hoping that your meeting with the other leaders will be all you hope for. For me it is better not to plan ahead on what needs to be said as it never comes out that way anyway so just speak as the spirit moves me.
Was so pleased to hear from you and that you are giving yourself at least some time to rest. No one should try to go constantly. The tapes we made up here turned out well and very glad to have them. Hoping that my next letter will be on the new paper as well. Will you tell me truthfully what you think of it?
Sincerely,
Atiya
October 24, 1969
My dear Atiya:
Thank you for your letter of the 17th. Your letter-head arrived in good time. Our main problem has been lack of hands and the main reason for this is that so many disciples and applicants have been obtaining paying jobs. In fact Hasan, who lives at the Khankah, took up the matter of establishing our own printing plant even if this involves a whole building. This building can be used for various non-dwelling purposes.
The absence of secretarial help may not be the worst problem but then promises are not readily kept. I have asked about “Irfan” and we have only a single copy here. The one secretary is overworked but very good- natured about it.
The birthday celebration covered two days last week. It was actually a joint affair, for a disciple who has the same day and also on this occasion for a young applicant who is a stranger here. We put on the birthday dance among others. It is an application of the principles of “Dance of Love and Brotherhood” on a much larger scale.
I have never experienced such love and devotion. Excepting my friend, Bill Hathaway, whom Shamcher knows, his lady friend and one single invited friend, all young, about a hundred! A pile of gifts and there must have been excellent food. I stuck just to two or three dishes, my vary favorites. And it was sunny and warm after a storm!
I am glad you have gone ahead. The other people are going nowhere, for they have not the Divine Grace,
Have had two “fights” on my hands. One with a group which is very modest, calling themselves “World Union.” They have never permitted me to spark on any of the subjects on which I have been trained and when Vilayat appeared cut off the question period. Against them I am supporting The Temple of Understanding started near Washington, D.C. They had a large world conference last year in Calcutta. Vilayat was there. Their next conference will be next Spring and I am hoping to take at least Mansur with we. One feels very good about it.
The other is with the Meher Baba people. They had a speaker at the San Francisco State University last week and I kept very, very quiet. I have been told I may make comments today and am especially using the poetry of Farid-ed-din Attar, real cosmic poetry…. Incidentally the poetry class under the auspices of the University California has accepted what I have offered and there is more to come. So I read last Wednesday and with telling effect.
Yes, will report on your paper. The colors on this one would stand out better on different backgrounds. We have made many Sufi symbols with color harmonies. And incidentally are working on the Pageant of the Symbol in the dancing class. I am sure you will continue to draw from the public, inshallah. Remember me to George and everybody.
Faithfully,
Murshid Sam
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
S.A.M.
November 5, 1969
Dear Murshid S.A.M.
Sorry to be so long in sending these things that you wanted right away but since I had your letter I had a note informing me that Vilayat was coming this was news to me so now know what you were talking about if your last letter.
This is some of the paper that Shafayat is printing and does have to make the machines pay for themselves and give him some kind of a living. We want to be able to have all of the materials that Vilayat will need for new Centres as they are started. The prayers are being rerun and improved (the printing of course) we think that legal sized paper will make the thing more useful as well as attractive. All of these thinks cost money and you must realize that George has only a very moderate job, not position. All of the things here have come, because there is a need here for us to do this work, of this I am sure.
These people from the Movement group here in Seattle have started out on me now and guess they will stop at nothing. They have stooped to attack character, mine-Vilayat’s-Shamcher’s, even Sitara, then called her to tell that they would save her from My Evil Ways. We are doing Black Magic, and assorted goodies as well as giving out to the public the Gathas. Well, somehow am not getting very “up-tight” about any of it. So far all these wonderful things that have happened have come almost of themselves—the church, people, the press, etc. and cannot start worry worry thing at this date. When Right is on this side we cannot do anything but go ahead.
Poor Sitara was all upset and it riles me, those cowards, venting their spleen on an old woman who loved them in spite of herself. They called all of the “weaker links” but none of the strong ones. You can bet that Shafayat won’t get called. They called George while I was at the Church Sunday and he was waiting for a Telegram from Vilayat about the arrival time so I could announce the lecture. George is a gentle soul and no match for them. To him all are sweet, good, kind, and loving. This is great, except it just isn’t that way.
Would greatly appreciate your sending the Sangathas and Sangithas that Shamcher sent you all will be returned promptly.
Love,
Atiya
P.S. Material separate cover 2nd class mail. Sent only a few more prayers as they need reprinting.
410 Precita Ave.
San Francisco, Calif.
November 8, 1969
Mrs. George Brautlacht
24015 19th Ave.,
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My dear Atiya:
One does not except rapid answer to letters. We all have problems. Here a child was born to the housekeeper, Fatima and Moineddin Jablonski, who are my most advanced mureeds and this has necessitated both hospital absenteeism and visits. The child is most beautiful—actually we have a whole procession of such infants and more coming. The oldest, the child of my goddaughter, Nancy, will be one year old this week. The next, Shireen, has shown remarkable spiritual ability. Her first words were “Allah! Allah!” I have no doubt that saints are coming into manifestation today.
There have also been numerous problems arising out of the Summer Camps, but I think many of them were tests for me, personally, and on the whole they have resulted (with a little drams) in the spiritual elevation of several of the persons concerned. If we had taken these matters literally and analytically the situations would have been awkward. Any fool can be literal and analytical, but there are always unseen and perhaps super-scene factors.
I am enclosing a copy of a letter which shows some of the external situations to be met here. The prediction made in Portland, Oregon, years ago, that the rival churches would disappear and in their place would be a multitude of rival “universal” religions is now coming true. But in this perhaps God also has something to say. My own work is expanding to the limits of capacity, and again I have no free time—an increasing number of interviews and counseling sessions and a slow but steady increase in the totality of persons in the combined audiences.
Tomorrow I am starting my second dancing class, and soon will know how to handle [it] but we are behind in our Gatha instructions. The most advanced have their economic problems, all of which bode favorable futures at present-day sacrifices.
Now Pir Vilayat was agreeable that I use “citizen’s arrest,” etc. in case there are further troubles. As in the case of Meher Baba (among others) the success of the other side always depended on non-publicity, keeping everything in the dark and assuming that there was not enough money and time available for legal action. But this is no longer true and I am personally angry enough at the Fazalites to even jump to Seattle if necessary. This is not only from the person side, but it is time to get Sufism out into the open. It is kept hidden by numbers of selfish people.
The Dervish Dancing is growing in effectiveness and it is real. At the moment anybody can called himself a “Sufi” and get away with it. This destroys definition and we go back to “Alice in Wonderland:” “Why a word means exactly what I mean it to mean, just that and nothing more.” It is ridiculous to have Sufism without God. Even Sufis have said “Sufism” is a lie because the attention is then to “Sufism” and not to God (Allah).
The dancing class proved to be a success somewhat beyond expectations and there will be another class today. The difference is that the Sunday class, being in the daytime, will permit walking. Our basic impetus came from Pir Vilayat and his mention of “The dance of the spheres.” We have started out very well.
I must encourage both your plans and accomplishments regarding papers. There has been some neglect of Gathas and Githas and I do not even have a full set of the latter and other papers. No doubt in turn we should see that legal papers are properly signed but I have not been able to get together at one time the three men who are supposed to sign any legal document. If the dance and other classes continue there will be sufficient funds to help on any office whether in North Hollywood or Suresnes.
“Trust in God” is a wonderful phrase. But we can make it more real and applicable if we seriously take the prayers into account, in particular Khatum. We are also beginning to stress the Gayatri in Vadan and “The Bowl of Saki.”
It is a beautiful today and the mal-predictions about weather have failed. We are also concerned with plans for Christmas, etc. I must write an article, “Jesus Christ versus Santa Claus.”
Love and blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
S. A. M.
Sufi Order
November 12, 1969
Dear Murshid S.A.M.,
Have just finished sending out the invitations to the meditation that Vilayat will do here at home the day after his lecture at the church. We plan to get some pictures this time and hope some will turn out. Yesterday we got a key to that beautiful church—an act of faith if I ever saw one. Hope to pack it this time and it is a very large church. Please do not worry about the “Fizzleites” Haven’t managed to get too “up-tight” about any of it. Sitara was quite upset and that is that. One thing they will not tackle me, behind my back perhaps they will say and do many things but not to my face or in my presence. Martin Dickenson and I have had it out a few times in the past and he came in second, he wouldn’t dare risk an audience would hurt his “public image” which is really the only thing he cares about. I’ve known this guy twenty years and the esteem of the public is The Thing–He really isn’t a bad one just an ambitious wife who is a shrew and suffers from many frustrations and delusions of grandeur, who has always made him feel like she was doing him a big favor allowing him to call himself her husband, long story. Not important.
Still haven’t been able to get the complete list on the “papers” that we have here. Takes time and will get finished one day. Our papers were picked up by the Atty. when he was here in Seattle a couple months ago. It was very important in this case that everything be in order so nothing can be said about our legality. We have a very good thing going at the church and cannot afford to have anything out of order. After Pir Vilayat has returned to N.Y I can get back at the task.
The LA office tells me that the symbol on this paper is no longer to be used by the Order only the Movement but surly hope that a new one isn’t needed for the altar, seems like weeks were spent (by me) making this one. It stands as is at any rate until Pir Vilayat says it has to go. (Woe is me!)
An enclosing a clipping from the Times last night, also a picture of our Altar in the chapel. There is a lovely one of Shamcher and me. We are getting a reprint for you, a close up More later—
Love,
Atiya
November 16, 1969
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
Dear Atiya:
Beloved one of God. Thank you for materials sent here. I had better begin by confessing some “sins.” It has taken me a long time to get together the three men to sign the articles of incorporation, and after getting them together and having them signed, it has been misplaced. If we do not find it we may have to ask Bibijan for some other papers.
Actually the overall picture at the moment, reinforced by the news etc. presents a very optimistic picture. My main problem, if you want to call it that, has been to get the esoteric papers as Hazrat Inayat Khan wanted. Between the breaks in the order and the very strange behavior of Mrs. (Murshida) Ivy Duce I have worked short-handed, but still so many requests were wade of me by Hazrat Inayat Khan that one keeps on working incessantly to complete the various missions as he wanted them—corporations or no corporations. But outside the dearth of esoteric papers the negative items are very small.
For example, a group of disciples are working to build a kiln at The Garden of Inayat. As Hazrat Inayat Khan said “The Message is in the sphere.” Without particular conferences so many disciples seem to be seeing so to speak with their third eyes, seeing the same thing, that a great deal of progress has been made without any need for conferences and discussions.
I mention this because on the world scale the same thing is happening with Vilayat’s programs as with my own, that there is almost nothing to be said except cosmic harmony. Out of this much can come, inshallah.
If I have been troubled on one side by the lack of papers, perhaps not too important, I have also been concerned on the other side with the support Bibijan should have clerically and financially, and especially financially. Money is not at the moment, praise to Allah, our serious problem. Clerical help is, etc. We have now a pretty firm nucleus of devoted disciples. I think all those people who went to Colorado last year all are well integrated to and with present programs.
My main adjunct here has been the spiritual dances. Although there are two classes, both are now so full that I shall either have to raise the admission fee for newcomers or start another class. At the moment this is impossible on my program until the end of the year. I attend three classes at the local universities: Poetry, Arabic Culture, and Contemporary Religious Movements. All have taken a most surprisingly and agreeable trend toward universality and spiritual awakening. I do have the same situation with Mrs. Duce as you have with Mr. Dickenson. There have been surprisingly a large number of woman in so-called spiritual movements far more concerned with power and leadership than with inner awakening. No one knows this better than other ladies who themselves have had the wonderful experience. But all of them together are a mere handful contrasted with the growing army of at least partially enlightened young people.
One of the beautiful stories here is my relation with the Christian Father Blighton. I met him years ago when practically all his disciples had left him and he was under attack by a number of prominent society “ladies.” These woman have made it their habit to invade, and annex or try to destroy every new quasi-spiritual movement. I said I would pray for him. At that time he had 6 disciples, 3 of them false; at that time I also had 6 disciples only 3 of whom have withdrawn but thank God not false. He now has a following of about 150. His financial assets have multiplied manifold. But the great thing is that he has had at least 20 cases of enlightenment in the past two months.
More dramatic perhaps was SAM’s reunion with Rabbi Shlomo from Jerusalem. Everybody knows that a Jewish Hassid and Islamic Sufi must be on very bad terms- “it is the order of the day. Fortunately this time there were a number of Sufi students along with Shlomo’s disciples who could witness our mutual love and veneration. Indeed we intend to join him on his return. (The same is true of course of my own relations with spiritual leaders, real spiritual leaders, of several great religions.)
This is all part of a cosmic program which may, inshallah come to fruition next Spring when the leaders of the living religions should be meeting at Istanbul, Turkey. I think in this Hazrat Inayat Khan’s dreams (and also Akbar’s) way be coming closer to external fulfillment.
The symbol of heart and wings is mentioned in the literature. Originally the Order—as distinct from the movement—had other symbols. My main interest at the moment here is that last night we completed our pageant on the symbol. One man takes the part of the star, one woman of the moon or crescent, five or six girls as the heart, and eight men as the wings. The first impression is that these movements do inculcate love, inspiration and power. By this also we seem to be building up a marvelous oneness in the direction of constructing “one single brotherhood in the fatherhood of God.”
Love and blessings,
Sam
Samuel L. Lewis
November 18, 1969
Sufism Reoriented
1290 Sutter St.
San Francisco
Beloved Ones of Allah: As-salaam-aleikhum!
Just to tell you that these two enclosures: The Prayer of Repentance, and My Work, Both By Meher Baba will soon be published in The Oracle. They are being reprinted from “Divya Vani”, January 1968.
Faithfully,
Wali Ali
Melvin Meyer (Wali Ali)
[handwritten reply on same letter]
Reprinting of these items is not permissible without written consent from Adi K. Irani who is the sole licensee of Baba’s works.
Address: Adi K. Irani
King’s Road
Ahmednagar, M.S., India
November 21, 1969
Mrs. Susanne D’ Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave.
North Hollywood, Calif. 91605
Dear Bibijan:
I am at long last sending you a copy of application, properly signed I hope, by five of us. Naturally, we are very anxious to get going and also anxious to follow through as Pir Vilayat said, leaving legalities to him.
The two problems—if they can be called that—that I have been concerned with are:
The receipt of the proper study papers.
The financial indebtedness either to your office or any other headquarters.
We have already established a bank account separate from others to cover exigencies and emergencies.
At the present time I am definitely overworked but the main reason has been the growth of our efforts, public and private. I think we have now a substantial body of loyal mureeds (disciples).
Can you please send us two copies, or more, of Pir Vilayat’s winter schedule.
Love and blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
Ignacio Vaccaro
Counselor At Law
11 Park Place
New York 7. N. Y.
November 22, 1969
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht 24015 19th Avenue
Bothell, Wash.
Dear Madam:
Please be advised that I represent the American Society of the Sufi Movement as General Counsel for all its affairs.
Mr. Dickinson, of the Seattle Center, informs me of your contemplated release to the general public-at-large of confidential material belonging to the Sufi Movement. I must inform you that all such material is copyrighted and remains its exclusive property. Accordingly, you may never publish any Sufi material, whatsoever, to the general public, or otherwise, without the express consent and approval of the Sufi Movement.
Furthermore, your proposed release of Sufi material is a serious breach of trust and a violation of all of the rules and regulations of the Sufi Movement. Since you are a member of said organization and have bound yourself to all of its rules and regulations, you would have no defense in a Court of Law or Equity for violation of a sacred trust, disclosure of confidential information, breach of contract and breach of covenant.
It is to remind you of all of this and to urge that you consider very seriously the consequences of your act, that this letter is written.
I am certain that upon sober reflection, you will have reconsidered, and therefore am suggesting that you do the following:
1). Immediately upon the receipt of this letter surrender and return all Sufi material in your possession or control, as well as any copies thereof, to Mr. Dickinson.
2). That you reaffirm in writing not to reveal, publish, disclose directly or indirectly, the confidential matters entrusted to you by the Sufi Movement.
The aforesaid declaration should be forwarded to my attention and a copy thereof delivered to Mr. Dickinson within five days after receipt of this letter.
However, you are also further advised that in the event of your failure to do so, I shall proceed with all steps necessary to protect the rights of my client in this matter.
Kindly judge yourself accordingly.
Very truly yours,
Ignacio Vaccaro
Sufi Order
November 24, 1969
Mr. Samuel L. Lewis
410 Precita Avenue
San Francisco, California
Dear Samuel:
This will acknowledge receipt of the application for recognition of your Branch in San Francisco. I do not yet have instructions for forwarding the Certificate of Recognition but I assume that this formality will come in due time after the next meeting of the Board of Trustees which be held next January while Vilayat is in California.
I have enjoyed and appreciate all your recent letters which keep this Office informed about your activities, plans and other very interesting news. I have had much correspondence lately relative to Pir Vilayat’s November tour and I hope you will forgive my long delays in writing to you.
We are preparing our local program and as soon as it comes off the press I shall send you some copies. The long-promised instructions and monthly bulletins will soon be available. I have just received a sample of the format. The material will be issued from Europe, the binders were purchased in Germany and probably have been shipped by surface mail to this office. I do not have the rest of the details.
As for the other question in your letter regarding the financial obligation of the Branch to the Order, I am sure that this information will soon be forthcoming. It won’t be long now until Pir Vilayat will be with us all in person.
With best wishes for a very Happy and inspiring Thanksgiving
Lovingly
Bibijan
Sufi Order
November 26, 1969
Dear Murshid S.A.M.
The copy of the letter enclosed will explain itself. I have a receipt for the material that the Movement sent me. Somehow I’m just not “Uptight” about it but turning the matter over to the Order’s attorney—as well as my own. I’m getting a little tired of all this.
Am sending a copy to Suzanne and wish that wasn’t necessary. These things bother her a great deal. Have you had this sort of thing, what did you do? Somehow I know these people will be the ones who will destroy themselves.
Pir Vilayat will be here Monday and hoping that by that time I will have heard from my atty. But really doubt it because of the holiday. Nice timing on the part of some people, but it is not going to change a thing. He has had so much of this kind of thing.
Really not in a mood to chatter as this annoyed me at a time when there are so many things that must be done. Oh yes, Pir Vilayat will lecture at the “U of W” and this is something that “Fizzle” would never be asked to do.
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers although I know right is on our side.
Love,
Atiya
P.S. Sending Mansur’s manuscript back to him separately—Shamcher let me read it. Oh yes, it is the Sangithas that we want back once you have copied.
November 29, 1969
Dear Murshid S.A.M.
Just a note on a scrap of Jerry’s paper; Just talked to Shamcher and he was not too happy about my telling you of the letter because he was afraid you would try to take some of it into your own hands and this is not what he wants done. I was pretty irritated for a while but it doesn’t really matter. Pir Vilayat will be here tomorrow or at latest the next day and he can make the final word. I have meanwhile turned the whole thing over to the attorneys and I do not intend to back off until I have scared the squeaks out of their pockets. It gets old always being on the receiving end of a lot of nasty talk. It will be taken care of and Mr. Dickenson too will be put into the proper place, depend on it. I’ll keep you posted as things transpire—and do not feel worried God is on our side so we cannot fail.
Love,
Atiya
P.S. Sent a copy of that letter to the women in Holland!! without comment.
November 30, 1969
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My dear Atiya:
This is really a diary entry. A copy is being sent to Bibijan in North Hollywood. She has been kind enough to send me copies of Pir Vilayat’s schedule. As matters stand we shall have to get a hall. we have not enough room in any of our ordinary meeting places. We may however be able to obtain room at the Seminary in San Anselmo where we meet every week; and unless there is a change in schedule there, will be an ersatz audience at San Francisco State College, without doing anything at all, However, it will be a very very easy matter to do something, inshallah.
I do not have any days off any more and seldom even an hour, but this is a comedy rather than a tragedy, so do not weep.
We are rapidly completing our kiln at the Khankah. The cost of the electric and gas lines to the kiln will also be shared by Hasan Herz, a professional printer who has his equipment there. But Hasan is now working at the New Age Food Company, sellers of organics, etc., which is prospering so rapidly the owner is hardy able to control his own schedules. Incidentally, they are now selling Dolphin’s Eye Drops.
I have talked to Hasan about the proper coordination of our mutual efforts, especially as he is also interested in getting modern machine duplicating devices. He has agreed to coordinate with any program you institute.
On account of the Thanksgiving Holiday I had one day’s respite this week, but on this Sunday expect a very full dancing class. The latest inspiration has been to institute Dervish square dancing based on a combination of the elements of American squares while reciting suitable sacred phrases. It was started on Thursday with 8 people from the Khankah, and our treasurer Daniel Lomax who is a musician. It has already engendered much enthusiasm but this letter will be mailed before I can make out another report. However, I shall keep you informed so that Vilayat will know what we are doing.
I have also received a long paper from Ajmir in India on Dervish dancing which went from Turkey to Durban, South Africa, to Ajmir, to this place! It is possible that this may be published in The Oracle. I am also very busy getting out articles for The Oracle. And a lot more which will be reported later.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis ( S.A.M.)
December 1, 1969
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
24015 19th Avenue
Bothell, Wash.
My dear Atiya:
“Comfort ye, comfort ye, my people.” I am sending a copy of this to Bibijan in North Hollywood. I think Vilayat will understand what I am trying to do. We have a verbal agreement, made in Bibijan’s house, and I think there were witnesses, that Samuel should have a degree of spiritual freedom and that legal matters should be in Vilayat’s hands. Even if my ego wished otherwise, I am so absolutely snowed under with work, that it would be impossible to change it, nor do I intend to change it, unless he asks me to.
This all comes out of the refusal of sundries to accept my reports of the meetings between Hazrat Inayat Khan and myself at the Beverly Hills Hotel in 1926. Our first Pir-o-Murshid wished me to study all his documentaries and to act as a sort of “defender of the message.” This was neither acceptable nor accepted. It is almost tragically amusing, or if you will ironic, that this should happen among people who verbalize “To thee we give willing surrender.”
In the meetings held in 1925 and 26 amongst much discussion and hostilities, every effort was made to clarify the differences between the Sufi Movement and the Sufi Order. The Sufi Order is for disciples, disciples who have gone through a Bayat—sometimes called initiation sometimes not. The Sufi movement has three branches. One become a member of the Sufi Movement either by payment of a fee or by some voluntary act. A person become a member of the Sufi Order by a solemn vow based on the phrase “God alone was the founder of Sufism.”
I have protested, and will continue to protest against any assumption on any grounds whatsoever that a legal organism has spiritual validity. There is a lot of material in both “The Sufi Message of Spiritual Liberty” some changed in later issues some not. This is public property. Mr. Vaccaro has no more right for his contentions than to demand a legal authority over the use of either the word “God” or the word “Allah.” The term “Sufi” appears in the Encyclopedia of Islam. It has been used for centuries. There is no way I know by which anybody calling himself a Sufi on any grounds whatsoever can validate this by any kind of agreement with a legal organization. The very basis from which this attorney proposes he has authority is more ridiculous than false. He is almost contending that no one has a right to prayer without seeking some sort of legal sanction. The main thing I am concerned with here is that Vilayat has been put to trial in a career full of trials. If this shyster attempts to use the words “love, harmony, and beauty” he will be laughed out of court. Perhaps this is also illegal. Of course I am ready, but I am ready both to arm or disarm, whichever brings about the greatest harmony and effectiveness.
At this moment I am absolutely and unconditionally for you and with you.
With all love, prayers, and blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
December 16, 1969
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave
North Hollywood, Ca.
Bibijan Beloved One of God:
There are several matters to be taken up here. I expect to give Bayat to at least five persons before the end of the year. These people have been working for us instead of paying the expected Bayat fee, but it also happens that both attendance and collections have gone up. We have a fairly operative Sufi Order bank account and are able to pay Daniel a modest sum from it. But I am always concerned with operations of the Movement and Order and two things which I am almost harping about:
a. our receipt of Githas and Sangathas
b. our payments to you and/or the headquarters in Suresnes for services rendered
There is also another matter which I think should be clarified, and that is the inclusion of Vilayat’s method in or out of the esoteric instructions, but to be clarified in any case. Personally, I do not accept the crystallization and congealation of Sufi esotericism around the personality of Hazrat Inayat Khan alone. One reason for this to begin with is that I have in my hands a number of his practices which are not included in the Sufi Order material. Many of these came from other schools of Sufism. This openness from the past I would extend to Vilayat, but it is also true I shall accept any decision or policy as to this. That is personally I refuse to call him Pir and not extend to him the prerogatives of the Pir.
No doubt this will “shock” some of Vilayat’s critics and egocentric opponents who have substituted their own selves for God.
Outside of this, outside of life’s usual and unusual problems, the whole situation here is beautiful, really beautiful. Some time ago we made a list of dormant and recalcitrant disciples. Even at this date a majority of these have already either sent Christmas greetings from far and wide or sent representatives to attend our meetings. The Sufi meeting last night was packed. I do not know when we may have to get outside halls and meeting places. It will be very easy to get meetings at either the University of California or San Francisco State, but I have no wish to do this if Vilayat wishes to meet persons rather than crowds—I leave this up to him.
Mansur and I have made the first inquiries concerning air flight to Burbank and Hertz rent-a-car service for those days in January it would be most important for us to attend public or private sessions.
With all love and blessing and Christmas greetings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Order
December 1969
Dear Sam,
Please don’t worry about this situation up here. Everything is under control! These people are not going to give me or any of our people any trouble so please don’t let this stay on your mind.
Pir Vilayat had a very productive short visit here and made a wonderful impression on Campus “U of W.” We got good tapes of both the lecture and the meditation (here at the house). There were 65 people here and not a sound on the tape showing the attention of the audience.
What do you think about “Fizzle’s” father leaving the movement? Rather casts a nasty reflection I’d say. I sent a copy of the letter from that attorney to friends in Holland, and things like this black a lot of eyes. Somehow feel that everything will be taken care of and I need not worry at all.
Love,
Attiya
Sufi Order
January 3, 1970
My dear Samuel:
Please accept my apologies for the long delay in answering your last letter. There has been so much to do and I have little help. I am sending you the program which is for only 3 public lectures. The event at the I.C.C. Festival on Friday Jan. 9 concerns Vilayat only in giving a 20 minutes’ address, followed by a short period of questions and answers, as he is to be followed by another speaker and the Annual membership meeting of I.C.C. for election of officers is scheduled at 9.p.m. We shall not be attending the all day session of I.C.C. on Saturday because we are going to San Jacinto for a Retreat, till Sunday afternoon. As soon as the guests depart at 2 p.m. we have a special meeting, only for the Board of Trustees Vilayat, Mr. Ingebretsen, Mr. Crosby and myself. We shall stay on at San Jacinto overnight, and the next morning Mr. Ingebretsen and Vilayat will take off for the rest of the day to attend to some legal matters. On Monday night we have a meeting with the Faculty of Blaisdell Institute in Claremont, with lecture for the students and question and answer period. This is not open to the public, not even our Mureeds.
January 16 is reserved for you in San Francisco. I do not expect Vilayat to arrive in Los Angeles until perhaps Jan. 8; he will be possibly stopping in New York en route and if he gets here on the 7th it may be quite late. When I heard from him two days ago he still did not know his exact time of departure from Europe, Jan 5 or 6th.
I have been arranging for the Retreat at San Jacinto, for which most reservations were made as early as Nov. and first week in December. The fee this year is $ 35.00, which includes 4 meals tuition and one night stay. There is no more accommodation left at the Academy, most late reservations will be for overnight stay at the hotel in San Jacinto, for which Mr. Ingebretsen makes a slight allowance for the extra cost. There will be 4 people from your area attending the retreat. I received their reservations early in December. The attendance is limited to 37 persons which includes those at the hotel.
Wishing you the very best for 1970
Lovingly
Bibijan
January 4, 1970
Bibijan, Beloved One of God:
Happy New Year. The old year ended on a rather high note. We had 80 people in this house on Christmas eve. We had about 100 at our New year’s eve gathering in Marin county. There are many signs of growth for this coming year inshallah, but I am waiting more exact schedules and policies, in particular policies from Pir Vilayat. I understand that those who try to start some disturbances in the Northwest have been properly taken to task.
Something of the same kind has been occurring with regard to so-called “Sufism Re-oriented.” Anything called Sufism not based on love, harmony, and beauty, or even more so on the existence of God is by its very nature, a fraud. And the New Age is not accepting frauds. This indeed is coming to a climax at the local colleges and universities.
I have made preliminary arrangements to fly south with Mansur and to cover all the functions necessary or advisable in your region. The length of stay will therefore largely depend on the business at hand. Some of my young disciples have asked about attending a retreat. I have no details about this, but certainly no objection to any and all coming south at this season. If so, regardless of other plans, they may be carrying messages for me.
Our dancing program has been particularly successful. I am more than willing to cooperate here in and for any matters that Vilayat thinks are needed for the cause of God.
With all love and blessings.
Faithfully,
Samuel L. Lewis
January 5, 1970
Susanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave.
North Hollywood 91605
Dear Bibijan:
I have received rather belatedly a letter from Suresnes advising of a small change in plans of Pir Vilayat. This tells me nothing of the hours of arrival or departure here and presumes one public lecture. This may be in my home or in San Francisco State College or in the San Francisco Theological Seminary in Marin County. In any event I shall be on the phone shortly and will then call you sometime after six p.m.
I am enclosing copies of two letters which I have written, and also a copy, it may be an extra one, of “The Inner Secret of Sufism.” I do not know whether this was sent to you before or not.
I am unable to tell at this time whether I am expected to be in Los Angeles in the next few days or not—whether there will be a meeting or not, etc. One reason for writing this is a surprisingly long letter from a director of “Great Books of the Western World” which has offices in West Hollywood. This could be a very important contact and one which I believe should be followed up whether in person or otherwise.
I feel I should, indeed I vast, make a visit to the Los Angeles-Hollywood region in the not distant future.
Outside the public lectures, the organizational matters, etc., there is the forthcoming convocation of The Temple of Understanding. I personally have a great program which has remained inside of me for over 40 years, and it is time to bring that out today, inshallah.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
P.S. To be followed by telephone call.
February 9, 1970
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford
No. Hollywood, Ca.
Beloved One of God:
When I was in the hospital a few years back there began a series of visions and they are continuing even now. In the first series of visions there were three grades, from 6 disciples to 30, from 30 to 60, and from 60 to 100. We are in that last sector now. One does not know what is the most remarkable: the return of the “unfaithful,” or the ever-increasing number of applicants.
For practical purposes we are establishing three centers: San Francisco, central Marin and north Marin (the last around the Khankah at Novato.) These will all be considered part of one center legally unless it becomes advisable to do otherwise.
But I am also invited to establish a center, at least one, in the state of New Mexico, and potentially also in the state of Massachusetts, and around West Hollywood, though at this writing it may be tentative, I am concerned however with the proper arrangements of dues and obligations. We ought to arrange to settle some financial contribution to your headquarters. In turn, we await, and I do not want to write about it anymore, certain esoteric papers. we have the esoteric constitution on file and it is essentially the same as earlier documents of Hazrat Inayat Khan, and also the explanations to me personally by the founding Pir-o-Murshid.
All the three centers are cooperating toward a Spring festival. The second series of visions were concerning the dances. These are still coming in ever-increasing quantity, and the attendance at the dance classes is very satisfactory. It does bring up a question as to how far the teacher can preside over esoteric classes and still be dance teacher and choreographer. As to the Gatha classes, considerable progress has been made, but soon there will have to be Gatheka classes for candidates and new disciples. As the Bible says, the harvest is ready but the workers are few. Still the dance classes are attracting attention and the events are fulfilling the predictions of Hazrat Inayat Khan. He wanted me to go to the intellectuals. What he wanted was rejected by organizations, and it does not matter, for now the intellectuals are coming toward this person, and more and more and more. What is the Will of God is the Will of God, and man cannot change it, though often he tries and often in the name of God Himself.
But I am not going to pressure for anything. As soon as the Spring Festival is over it is hoped that Mansur and myself can go to Geneva to attend the conference of The Temple of Understanding, but it is equally certain that I shall be invited to visit many universities in the Eastern states before returning here. As the Gita teaches, man’s duty is to action; and to leave the fruits of action to God.
Anyhow, inshallah, I shall try to visit the general Los Angeles area before leaving this country.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
February 14, 1970
Dear Murshid S.A.M.
Have been going to write you for days now, Shamcher just isn’t nearly as well as I’d like to see him, neither is Sitara, both could use your best thoughts.
As you may know I’d not feel really cut off from you as your wonderful letters that go to Shamcher make a circle (most of them) and he sends them to me for safekeeping. They go in the file. About the Sangathas, I have an idea let me see what I can do, if it works out you surely know that you will get a copy. I am going to list my Gatha II one day next week as I know we do not have all of them. Think that most of III is there could you fill us in on it if they are incomplete?
You will delight to know that we have a teacher at the Everett J.C. who teaches Mass Media most interested and buying material and quite sure he will soon be initiated. These are the people who can spread the Message. Dr. Snow still holds out but think that he too is “hooked.” We grow rather slowly but we lose none.
I had quite a bout with kidney stones and the Dr. very upset to find that when I went is the second time for E-ray(due to some peoples help) both were gone. Poor Dr. nearly blew his mind— I told him this time it was he who didn’t understand.
The estate will hasn’t settled but the attorney writes it would be very soon now. This will untie my hands a great deal as sometimes things get pretty squeezed around here.
I haven’t made the new cloth for the altar and wish there was someone else who could or would make this one. Bibijan says we should not use the old emblem (one the Movement uses.) Seems rather silly to me but I’ll go along when I some find the time.
Time now to start thinking about getting a garden in and Shafayat says he will bring in a few loads of old rotted manure and fix the soil up behind the garage. That which you pointed out and really is best is still under about a foot of water. We will use it for short time things that like the water. I’m starting seedlings this week in the greenhouse (along with my begonias.)
Betty Brewster is nearly walking now—and that to the Drs. who said she had M.S. and there was no cure. Shafayat has worked with her so much and has her where she can help herself. Now it is a matter of her learning to walk again (after 5 or 6 years.) So score again for the fools of God.
Our best for your continued wonderful success.
Remember out most beloved Shamcher, he needs all of our help at this time. There are those who want him gone and we must win.
Love,
Atiya
February 16, 1970
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My dear Atiya:
One is well but very tired. At the moment one’s chief Khalif is ill and one’s brother remains in the hospital after undergoing a series of operations. The otherwise full schedule has become over-complicated by a number of events including the giving of Bayat to a second group of young people which is going to make our roles rather large and cumbersome.
Much of your letter is regarding others well and unwell. I myself have an eye trouble. The doctor (optometrist) said I should have another examination after the return from abroad. All efforts are directed toward the conference of all religions to be held now in Geneva at the end of March.
You will find enclosed a check for $10 covering the mimeographing of the healing practices from Pakistan. I hope you are able to benefit from knowledge of dietetics. Here we are going in more and more for organic gardening and the fruits thereof. This is a complex subject about which there is little time to write now, but all good news, very good news.
We shall include Shamcher in our meditation tonight. Today we sent him a clipping from a local newspaper regarding salt water conversion and its use in desert reclamation. I am trying to find some time to make a hurried trip to Los Angeles. There has not been a day off this year or anything like one; not even a half day. But I guess that can’t be helped.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel
Murshid
410 Precita Ave.
February 17, 1970
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Redford Ave.
North Hollywood, Calif. 91605
My dear Bibijan:
I am hoping, inshallah, to come to southern California shortly for a few days visit along with Mansur. If he cannot take me I may fly and will let you know later.
There are several things to clear up in preparation for the trip abroad to attend the conference called by The Temple of Understanding. As written before, Vilayat and I have complete agreement on policy and approaches. During the stay there I would call on Mrs. Nusi McClellan, if that can be conveniently arranged. She plans to come here at what to us is a most propitious time, a combination of a Spring Festival, the celebration of a number of birthdays, and a farewell for Mansur and myself before we go abroad.
Last night seven more persons received Bayat here. Our waiting list in San Francisco is now down to one or two persons. This does not apply to the situation in Marin county of which I am not too sure. But it is certain that our membership is now around 100 and the total attendance at meetings is definitely over that number.
A visit would necessarily be short but I do not wish to do anything in the Los Angeles area without your being informed.
At this writing there are probabilities inshallah for Sufi centers in the states of Massachusetts, New York, and New Mexico.
I shall have my own summer school in New Mexico. I am discouraging local disciples on this point unless they are over 28 or have children in which case they will be welcomed at Lama Foundation in New Mexico. In San Francisco alone 18 persons have signified their desire to be with Vilayat at his summer school. I expect even more than that number in Marin county.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
P.S. I am very tired at the moment and have to face that Shamcher near Seattle and Khalif Moineddin have been unwell; and my own brother in the hospital between life and death for some time. But I guess one has to face such things. Still one can praise God for one’s own health and strength.
Sufi Order
February 23, 1970
My dear Samuel:
It will very nice to have the opportunity of seeing you and Mansur shortly. Will Jemila be accompanying you? I have been corresponding with her regarding the handling of the “Meditation Instructions” ring books, and she mentioned her hope of being able to come to Los Angeles at the end of this month. I look forward to meeting her.
The copies of some of your correspondence which you have the kindness to send me provide much interesting and helpful information. I take this opportunity to thank you for your thoughtfulness and consideration.
Mrs. Brautlacht mentioned making copies of some healing data for you. And you refer to some healing notes in a letter to Sheika Vera Van Voris. Healing is one branch of spiritual work which always has greatly interested me. I would value any information you might consider I could be entrusted to use rightly and being ready to receive.
Pir Vilayat will return to Suresnes March 1. I hope to receive soon confirmation of the dates and length of his stay in California in June. The annual meeting is due on June 15, I have heard in an indirect way that the Youth camp is scheduled for June 14 to 21. I wonder whether the Annual meeting date be changed. I need to know soon as I have to send notices 60 days ahead of the Meeting to the Leaders and representatives of the interstate Centers, or rather Branches.
Looking forward to seeing you soon
Lovingly
Bibijan
Suzanne D’Mitrieff
March 2, 1970
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My dear Atiya:
We have your letter of February 27 and shall also arrange for some kind of healing service for Shamcher. This is very hard for me personally and impersonally. It comes at a time when many doors are opening and I am not talking figuratively. The correspondence is increasing, The invitations are increasing. The opportunities are increasing. Mansur and I expect to leave here toward the end of the month to be in Geneva, Switzerland, by March 30. We are attending a conference of all the world’s faiths. I may or may not present the universal worship, but I shall certainly imply it. I do not know at this writing how much time will be alloted. I am certainly opposed to anymore conferences of oratory, emotion, and resolutions. It is action that is needed, not egotistic appeals.
I have had no days off this year but Mansur and I made a hurried trip to southern California. We arrived just at the right time as our brethren were arranging a rehearsal for the universal worship. But I did have time to discuss matters seriously with Secretary Bibijan. We both feel and do not like to be critical that Pir Vilayat has given too much time to travel and not enough to organizational settlement. On the one hand Bibijan requires financial help. Our collections are ample but there is no provision for distribution thereof. And on the other hand there is an absence of spiritual papers needed in class studies, and again no provision made for this. It is very awkward. We should like to share our material blessings with Bibijan in an orderly and legal fashion.
Then our work in dancing is progressing so rapidly and remarkably that it keeps us more than occupied all the time—as above, no days off. In addition, Pir Vilayat proposed filming of the dances, perhaps an excellent proposal. But now somebody has gone ahead already and pilot films will be made this week. I have just learned that certain disciples have made arrangements and have failed, but I can report that other disciples have made arrangements and are succeeding, praise to Allah. It is hoped that the primary work can be completed before Mansur and I leave the country.
In addition to that, all signs point to a successful Spring Festival. The inspirations, inner and outer, are augmenting. The class attendances are excellent. The inner responses are beautiful and noble, and what was foreseen in vision is taking place actually about the rate consummate with my own abilities. No doubt the message of God is to reach far and wide, and is reaching far and wide.
I am to be in charge of a summer school in New Mexico in June. Mansur and I have been invited to Boston and to London. We have other invitations which we may not be able to fulfill. Too many. And all the time the work must be carried on here and elsewhere. All pictures and forebodings are of the same general type. It is only a question of our ability to fulfill them.
Love and blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
April 4, 1970
My dear Bibijohn;
We wish to send you the best of greetings from a distant land. All kinds of wonderful things have happened. For instance, while we were in Switzerland conversing with some Asians, we saw Vilayat leaving the hotel and quickly grabbed him to his surprise. He remained there only one day more. While all the notables were introduced once and this included some of the greatest people in the world, Pir Vilayat was introduced twice, a signal honor. Indeed, this person was introduced once next to the last. The conference at Geneva was a success, because leaders of all the world’s religions met in amity. Each tried to increase his own understanding. Many were very sincere in wishing to promote peace—not the cause of peace, but peace itself, and I think some headway was made.
As matters stand we hope to attend the further convocations of the Temple of Understanding, no matter where they are held henceforth. One had a decided advantage, that although one was almost unknown the beginning of the conference one knew something about everyone of the 14 religions which participated in a united prayer. Mansur and I were therefore able to meet and greet everybody and on cordial terms and this itself is accomplishment. And if we can get them to invite more of the youth, it is possible that he whole world will be taking a step toward peace and understanding.
I myself will be directing another summer school while Pir Vilayat is having his. We are in substantial agreement: I will take only a few mureeds, over 28 in age and having children. Otherwise, full support will be given to his rather short summer school, whenever and wherever it is to be held.
We were also fortunate in coming to London in finding our first host on most friendly terms with Vilayat and in full support of his forthcoming efforts here. We have also met other personalities who are advanced in Sufism. They are all in agreement against Idries Shah who is so against Hazrat Inayat Khan. The conclusion is that he is a phony and a faker. He can only attraction the ignorant.
It is curious that while have spoken to Vilayat about the need for having some sort of financial understructure, when we arrived at London there was a cable informing me that my brother had died. Unless something unforeseen intervenes, I shall after return send you a small monthly stipend, unless, as an organization, the Sufi Order asks for some other arrangement. This may not be immediately, but, I believe after July it can easily done. Pir Vilayat has also been concerned about your burdens.
We are next going to Boston with an uncertain stay and then return to California. Generally speaking, we are attracting the young everywhere.
Love and blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
April 27, 1970
My dear Sheikha:
This is a week of joyous turmoil. One does not know how things will come out. We went to Geneva and met the real top leaders of the real religions of the real world. We were the only ones that could commune and communicate with all camps and that gave us a tremendous advantage. Samuel became known as the man who wrote the longest letters but made the shortest speeches. That was fine because some of the minority members made up for it by long harangues on the need for more love and compassion but their love and compassion did not extend to their immediate audiences.
Great steps were taken toward real understanding and there must have been some wise leaders. For they selected the very finest heart-minds to constitute the Board of Directors.
A lot of legends disappear. It is not religion vs. science; it is religion and science against dialectics and literary-humanism; of fact versus opinion. The press did not cover the convention very much. Yes, some of the European press and this person had his picture taken over and over. And it was a surprise on reaching Boston to see one’s picture in tile very first store one visited.
We have taken great strides toward a real Peace in the Near East and may follow that up. As soon as one reached London there was a cable that Brother Elliott had died. We had become reconciled and he is satisfied that my increased allotment will be used for travelling. We were so successful with the young, and with our colleague, Clive-Ross, a crypto-Sufi and historian. We hope to have a team tour England in 1972, inshallah.
We met some top Orientalists too, very different from our local “experts.” Of course no “expert” showed up at Geneva. They would not have had a chance. “Realists” have no place in realities. And the views of the top Orientalists against our local “experts” would make some of us flop and flip. And I believe some of the real Orientalists (e.g. Marco Pallis) are saints. Anyhow we also met Dr. Syed Hussein Nasr of Tehran, our colleague. And we had a very happy encounter with Pir Vilayat, quite unexpected.
Our Boston venture was a surprise—larger audiences than we had planned for and unexpected income outweighing expense. This was so good we hope to go again in the fall.
The death of my brother will, no doubt, vastly increase my allotment. But I find there are three young orphan cousins about whom I did not know. Five females and no males around. We meet tonight. I am forgoing any legal entanglements because I understand I shall recover properties taken from me. There is already pressure for an autobiography. What is one going to say, when everything the brother did was right—including gambling, stealing, forgery, etc. etc. and everything Samuel did was wrong, including a desire for the “wrong” type of education! But it is all over.
We may do something for Rudolph Schaeffer but the rest will be toward working for world peace and the solutions of some food problems.
We got such a grand welcome, it was amazing, but could not greet everybody. The whole trip was foreseen and one can laugh at the ESP convention which we missed. Everything was seen and foreseen and came out exactly so.
We have been asked to write about Hazrat Inayat Khan. Three times this was done and landed—in the waste-basket, so I am demanding an insurance: either money or an absolute oath to be taken seriously and I mean particularly the latter.
And on top of the usual plus the family plus legal and financial matters we have a big May Day Celebration (welcome and home-coming) and a wedding this week. These will be deliberately at Fairfax in the Deer Park Picnic Grounds and after it is over will notify the Meher-Barbarians.
They were not welcomed. There is a moral law. Coming out for “Sufism Re-Oriented,” it was not surprising that the actual Sufis vetoed their coming to Geneva for a summit spiritual conference. But there was another reason: The Baha’is, Aurobindo people, followers of Anandamayee and Ramana Maharshi and others could all come out for a new super religion and then squabble over personalities. Not of these are historical movements and few are devout and they are mutually opposed.
We had fourteen prayers together given in the grand Cathedral of Geneva, fountainhead of Calvinism!
We made so many new friends and acquaintances all like stories, too long to relate. I give a short talk this week at the San Francisco Theological Seminary in San Anselmo and a public address on the 8th at the Metaphysical Library at 420 Sutter St., H.G. White &Co. We are plus friends and also both in opposite to Lady U No Who!
It is too early to present a program. We should be in New Mexico in June. Recognition plus a potentially vastly increased income must bring a new type of life.
Love and blessings,
Samuel
May 5, 1970
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Avenue
North Hollywood, Calif. 91605
My Dear Bibijan:
This is a partial reply to your letter of May 3. It will be impossible for me personally to attend any convocation during the month of June. A small caravan is going to leave here late this month to attend a Summer School at Lama Foundation in the northern part of New Mexico. This will be for practical purposes a Sufi Summer School. I have shown preference to disciples with children and am encouraging all others to cooperate fully with Pir Vilayat. There is much optimism.
I expect Daniel Lomax to attend the conference, and possibly Khalif Jablonski, but I am not sure of the latter. We cannot entirely denude our Khankah of personnel. But we wish to cooperate in every feasible way otherwise, so your letter will be shown to others, even if they have received independent copies.
Three disciples here, Fred Cohn, Phillip Davenport, and Wali Ali Meyer, are doing everything possible to help Pir Vilayat. Wali Ali is my esoteric secretary. He will be leaving here at Pir Vilayat’s disposal and disposition. Another Mureed is moving into the house to look after our office when we are away.
I will see that Daniel is properly provided for, and is also empowered to write out checks from our local Sufi Order to the headquarters. We shall try to keep in close touch with you as possible in the remaining short time before our various departures.
Love and blessing,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
May 5, 1970
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P.O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My dear Atiya:
I hope this finds yon well. It is very difficult to keep contact with everybody, nor is it my function as Pir Vilayat has already selected certain persons to carry on certain functions, and I see no reason to change that. Neither can I keep everybody informed of the dramas of life, some of which have turned out quite pleasantly from certain points of view. Our reception at Geneva by people of the highest levels demonstrates that the people of the highest levels are of the highest levels. We participated in many undertakings, but if we keep sticking to what has been done, we may not be able to perform all that is before us. But one of the surprises of the convocation was to see Vilayat trying to go out a door just a few feet away from us. He was most agreeably surprised but did not stay as he has a very full program.
When I reached London there was a cable stating my brother has left this world and this should and may amply increase my present income. The question arises what is most beneficial use of such an increase, and this involves the possibility of publication of my poetry and other items. And this involves the potential expansion of our outlay in printing and duplicating facilities.
It happens during this period that a number of disciples including Hasan Herz of the Prophecy Press Works in Novato, has also been blessed with a considerable increase in income, and he also has been concerned for parallel reasons with the expansion of capital equipment.
However, we both feel that we should not buy anything or do anything that would duplicate your efforts. We are not seeking any material aid but we do not wish to shun advice, so if you have any suggestions please send them on.
We are also involved in summer school programs. I am going to have a small summer school, lasting at least one month, in the state of New Mexico. About 10 disciples may join, but our major efforts have been to promote Vilayat’s summer school and that we are doing at this time, and the outlook is very fine, praise to God.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
May 9, 1970
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave.
North Hollywood, Calif.
Dear Bibijan:
Murshid asked me to write to you. Last night he spoke at the Metaphysical Book Store at 420 Sutter Street in this city reporting on the recent convocation of The Temple of Understanding in Geneva. We learned from the operators of this meeting place that Pir Vilayat is scheduled to speak there in the first week of June. Naturally this pleased us very much, and Murshid has said that he wants every effort made for there to be an overwhelming turnout for this meeting. I am confident this will happen.
Murshid will be at Lama Foundation in the state of New Mexico for the full month of June teaching a summer school there. This school is already full, almost entirely with people who are not from San Francisco as this was both their wish and Murshid’s. No more applicants are being accepted. At the same time he is wholeheartedly encouraging attendance at Pir Vilayat’s camp in Arizona. I am personally coordinating much of the arrangements for this camp with the help of a number of disciples in this area. Everything is proceeding very well, and I expect to be able to send your group the necessary information in about a week.
Daniel Lomax will be attending the business meeting in Los Angeles. He will have Murshid’s proxy.
During Murshid’s absence from San Francisco I will be in charge of our work in the city. If there is any way which we can cooperate with you please feel free to communicate your needs.
much love,
Wali Ali
Melvin Meyer (Wali Ali)
secretary to Murshid Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Order
May 10, 1970
Dear Daniel:
I shall be issuing certificates of initiation and therefore require the names, and address if possible, of the members of your Branch of Sufi Order who have received initiation from Pir Vilayat, whether in San Francisco or at the Youth Camp last summer in Colorado, or last January. Mr. Ingebretsen also has reminded me recently that the names of Initiates be entered in the Membership records of Sufi Corporation Minute Book. Date of Initiation, when available, would be welcome.
I hope this will not cause you too much trouble and I would not ask except that it is requested of me and in accordance with the rules.
I am still hoping you may be able to come down for the Annual Meeting, but as Mr. Lewis mentioned, if because of his absence you are not able to be present, will you kindly return the proxy just so we receive it a day or two before the date of the meeting. Again this is part of the regulations.
Thanking you for your always willing and appreciated cooperation and with warmest wishes
Lovingly
Bibijan
Mrs. Suzanne D’Mitrieff
6904 Radford Ave.
May 11, 1970
Dear Wali-Ali:
Thank you for your letter just received. You mention that Pir Vilayat is expected to speak at the Metaphysical Bookstore the first week in June. This seems to conflict somewhat with the present schedule I have: (Please check.)
According to a letter received last Saturday from his French secretary in Suresnes, he is expected to return to Fazal-Manzil from Germany on June 1st. Leaves June 2 for the U.S. Is due to arrive in Los Angeles June 3.
Pir Vilayat will fly to Sausalito on June 7 for the day outing arranged by Fred Cohn, and return here June 8 in the morning for the Annual Meeting to be held in the afternoon. He will be lecturing on June 9, 10, 11 at East-West Cultural Center and attending an all-day workshop on Friday for professional people only. There will be a retreat at the Presbyterian Conference Grounds on Saturday A.M. June 13 through to June 14 noon, when he will leave for the Youth Camp.
I met Fred and Julie last Thursday at the Studio where I enjoyed seeing the first fragment of their film and we discussed the arrangement for Vilayat’s flight to Sausalito on June 7. I am preparing an announcement of the program which should go to press middle of this week and will mail you some copies as soon as they are ready.
With warmest best wishes
Lovingly
Bibijan
[marked May, 1970, likely from Attiya]
1. Mr. Beorse said you could tell about Hazrat Inayat’s meeting with a great Japanese Saint (Who?) in San Francisco. Please do.
2. I asked Mr. Beorse whether any non-Sufis mentioned a meeting with Hazrat Inayat in their published memories and suggested the widow of Mr. Henry J. Harris, the theatre director drowned with the Titanic. He did not know about her, but wrote: “ Ruth St. Denis, the genius dancer of the US has probably written about her important meetings with Hazrat Inayat. Sam Lewis would know that.” Do you? (Anything printed I can get at our University libraries or, if it is too rare to be posthandled, I can go to London and see things at the British Museum)
Do you know any details about the plans for a performance with Mr. Harris?
Have you got a copy of Mr Bjerregaard’s “the Sufi’s, Omar Khayyam and E. Fitzgerald?” Is it a play or an essay?
3. How did you meet Hazrat Inayat for the first time? When and where? (of course nobody remembers dates of his own life very exactly, but as I have a chronology of places visited, I can connect things). Any impression, also other people remarks are of value.
3a.The first lecture was held at Columbia University, probably at the end of 1910. Further a tour to Los Angles University and Berkeley University are mentioned and one to Seattle. Persons met are: Swami Trigunatitta, Sw. Paramanananda , Baba Bharati, Rama Swami (who for some years stayed with him as a tabla-player and is said to have written a musical play with Murshid;) and C.H.A. Bjerregaard, whose book is mentioned sub 2b. – Do you know any details about these and (or) other people of the period?
Do you know (about) any people still living who can give information about the Russian period (or about 1912 in England, 1912 and ‘13 in France?) In Russia, 1914, A Message of Spiritual Liberty was published, as Murshid’s first book in the West; the name of the coeditor is H. Balakin and the biographical introduction is signed Tserclaes. In 1915 the coeditor of the “Confessions” was M. Bloch and the introduction by M. Bailly. Do you know anything about these people? (I have heard about Serge Tolstoi and the play “Shiva,” of this play there is a copy in Holland)
5. I am enclosing a copy of a letter written by Murshid to the mother–in–law of his brother Maheboob Khan, later Shaikh-ul-Mashaikh.) Has the first remark (“at first they did not let me come in”) something to do with color bar? Is this Cleveland Hotel still existing?
5a. Have you got any letters by Murshid?
5b. Could you tell about reactions of other people? (As I am writing a historical biography also negative utterances are to be analyzed; Murshid himself knew that many people did not understand.)
5c. He spoke mostly at Universities, but often mentions that many intellectuals don’t grasp his meaning. From interviews I’ve learned that he often had a good contact with workmen (who don’t write memories.) What kind of people were attracted to him in the U.S.? What kind reacted in a negative way?
6. He always talked with an accent, but in the first days also had difficulties expressing himself in English (is that the reason of a coeditor for the first books?) The first performances were mostly musical; can you tell anything about the change from musical performance to teaching and talking?
7. Did you hear the 1926 radio-talks? How did they work? What did people say?
7a. Have you any press clippings?
(I’ve got a copy of these questions, you can keep or destroy this list as you wish and anything more or else than happen to ask is most welcome.)
May 23, 1970
Charlotte Brautlacht
P.O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My dear Atiya:
Thank you very much for your letter with the enclosure. This matter is really not in my hands. I have today so much to do that one constantly gets tired.
My financial affairs are in a strange situation, and this being strange, is hard to write about them. Not troubles so much as uncertainties and new factors coming into one’s life. And I certainly cannot burden others when things are not clear to myself. Besides that, while things did not necessarily come as I had been told, neither is the contrary true.
There is no question but that sooner or later the Message of God will be spreading far and wide. The whole picture today is very different and almost universally optimistic. Both Pir Vilayat and I have some rather large projects. Sometimes they are separate and parallel; sometimes they are joint, sometimes they may be different but I don’t think this matters at all. Mansur, Saul, and I will all be leaving shortly for Lama in New Mexico where I am scheduled to conduct a Sufi Summer School. This will be different from Vilayat’s project, which is a camp. Many of the local disciples will be going to the camp.
Another, and not unwelcome intrusion, has been the return of what I call early mureeds. It is like a beautiful story. I do not even know the meaning of it, but there is certainly something deep in the human heart that once he sets his feet on the path of God something impels him to continue on in the face of many obstacles and vicissitudes of life.
I am not going to see Vilayat in Hollywood but am sending Naqib Daniel. I will not even be seeing him here, but expect a large turnout. At least it looks that way.
Your letter will be turned over to Hasan Herz, the printer, and Phillip Davenport, the editor. They can give better evaluation. But my needs depend to some extent on the policy that will be set down forthwith when the business meeting is held in North Hollywood. I am far more anxious to get things done, than to establish policies.
The total attendance per week keeps on rising. I have had to transfer my Thursday class from the Khankah because there is not enough room. I may even have to transfer my Wednesday Seminary class because there is not enough room. It would seem that Allah has something in store for us, the nature of which may not be clear, but it certainly seems quite evident that the Message of God is to spread far and wide illuminating and making the whole humanity as one single brotherhood in the fatherhood of God.
I will be gone for the whole month of June at Lama Foundation in New Mexico where I shall be having a Sufi Summer School.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
Box 444,
San Cristobal, N.M 87564
June 13, 1970
Bibijan
North Hollywood
Beloved One of God:
Today a note was received from Daniel Lomax but no reports. I am anxious to cooperate in every way possible. The first is monetary cooperation. I have been holding off, awaiting any decision that would be in accordance with the constitution of the Sufi Movement or any appendage. Our present plans are to leave here on June 30th, taking two extra days to return to the San Francisco Bay area, calling on you on the way if this can be conveniently done?
The departure period showed a continuing increase both of membership and interest. The Holy Man’s Jamboree, which took place in my absence, attracted a number of people and I must prepare for them when I return.
Pir Vilayat has granted so far as he could my only personal requests.
It is almost obvious that there will be some disciples in this general area; in fact, I shall be giving my first bayat here shortly. I do not know how this is supposed to be handled and do not want to set up independent efforts?
One can easily arrange now for Pir Vilayat to have a summer school in several parts of this state without any difficulty whatever. Besides that, at least two of the persons who appeared at the Holy Man’s Jamboree in San Francisco will be in the Santa Fe area shortly.
The dances continue to draw attention, but I do not wish anything to detract from the cause of God or set me up as an independent hero personality. The behavior of Pir Vilayat at the San Francisco meeting has my absolute, hearty approval. It is only a question of how many hearts he reached. I feel he has the spirit of God in him and have no suggestions as to what he might or should do from this point on, provided his health is maintained.
I shall soon have to make reports to India and Pakistan at several levels.
The whole life seems to be an objectification of “May the Message of God reach far and wide.”
June 24, 1970
Dear Samuel:
This will be a brief reply to your letter as I notice by the calendar that you will be leaving Camp in NM next week, so I must rush to mail.
My time since Pir Vilayat’s departure has been occupied in sending many requests for books, Meditation Manual, mimeographed lectures, which poured in at the Seminar for professionals at Pacific Palisades; it was a great success, some stayed for the retreat following. Some people ordered entire sets of Sufi Message books. Also the two ministers from Unity in Kansas City are arranging a 3 day program for Pir Vilayat next November.
Daniel would hardly have had time to send you a full report of the Annual meeting as he came through here a few days later on his way to the Arizona Camp. He contributed much to our meetings, having a thorough understanding of organization problems, and Shamcher’s help was also valuable. Many questions were discussed and answered. All was recorded on tape so that in the event of doubt the decisions can be checked.
I am sure you have accomplished a great deal during your month’s course of instruction. There is more time for orderly unfoldment and assimilation, than in a few days’ concentrated teaching. I shall be interested to hear about your activities in detail when you stop over on your way home. I have so much to do yet winding up the work as usual after Pir Vilayat leaves that I should certainly be at home unless some unforeseen circumstance would take me out of town.
With hearty good wishes
Lovingly
Bibijan
Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
July 10, 1970
Dear Murshid S.A.M.,
We are going to put out a newsletter each month under the title “Sufis Speak” and we would appreciate something from you about your summer school. Perhaps someone could do this there and we could have from you something which you would like to say to go out to all the Sufis even some in other parts of the world. We would like you to send us names and addresses of those who would be interested in getting this as well. Perhaps we could use some of your poetry from time to time with your permission of course.
Do you have someone there who could do something on Pir Vilayat’s Youth camp? Suzanne is going to keep us informed as to the activities of the Pir and these will be reported each month. It will take a little doing in the beginning, but know that something like this will be well received and I know that I would be very happy to donate my time and effort. Shafayat will of course print it and I’ll depend on others to help some towards the cost of mailing etc. when the thing gets going. What do you think?
The Message has the little paper that the Dickensons put out, but it is mostly quotes from the past and we want to make this a living growing thing full of what is going on among us in our own areas as well as other parts of the World. Hayat Bowan at the place of the tomb in New Delhi will send us things from there and I have lot of letters to send out and many have yet to be answered.
Feel so sure that I will get a good response from Holland too. There are many Sufis there who are not part of the Movement. We will even print some of their things if they are sent as long as they do not throw rocks. We sent this to reach all who are on our path regardless of what they call themselves.
All material should be set up with one-inch borders and we will not edit but simply cannot print something that will bring problems. Everything must have a signed permission to print slip by the author. We will use this size paper to start anyway. There is little time, so see what you can do for this time. After the thing catches hold then I want to print copies of the official papers that made Vilayat a Pir and head of the Order. First we get people reading us and then we give them something to read. What do you think?
Perhaps we could get things from others in other Orders too in time … who knows…. I’d like everything signed with Sufi names if you think that is the right way (it would seem that way) Shamcher thinks it is a very good Idea. (He seems to get much better as the days go by.) I need a new typewriter too but one day that stupid Estate will start to pay off. My Mother passed away Dec. 8, 1968 and the things aren’t yet trans. The stocks, well they cost me a fortune in taxes and by the time I get them … well who knows? So far each problem has gotten taken care of for me. I do think things could move faster. I do hope that things will go better for you.
Please let me hear from you as quickly as possible.
Love,
Atiya
410 Precita Ave.
San Francisco, 94110
July 11, 1970
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 96011
My dear Atiya:
I am answering your letter of July 10 immediately. I have no time to interpose either criticisms or analysis. I have bought recently three books put out by those who stand in opposition to Vilayat, and they are puerile to say the least. Therefore, I stand almost unequivocally, even blindly, for any positive steps by anybody for the cause of God. The only question is how to help.
Many items in your letter may be answered by esoteric secretary Wali Ali Meyer. Between the camp and what took place at Lama in New Mexico we have moved into a new dimension. Part of this has been manifested in the Rose Dance, based on the esoteric teachings of Abdul Kadiri al Jilani, who in some senses was the greatest of the Sufis. I presented this first at Lama, and then in San Francisco, but Wednesday night we had in the audience a young girl whose grandfather was a Pir in the Kadiri School, and she was so won over that she is now staying with some of the mureeds.
To put it briefly and bluntly, everything is proceeding beautifully, rapidly, and amply, praise to God!
We therefore stand ready to cooperate in every way possible. Steps are also being taken to have a larger and more proficient secretariat. Daniel Lomax, who has been a Naqib, and financial secretary, may soon be moving to Tucson, Arizona, which may also become the nexus for all future summer schools operated by Pir Vilayat. I am neither emotional nor mentally involved, but am using the heart in all its glorious aspects to further the cause of God. And I find the more we can work for and with others, the more satisfaction comes into our own lives.
Mansur is concerned with the television recordings of the work of Pir
Vilayat, myself and
others. He is exceedingly busy. Saul is even more busy in operating as an
herbalist and Hakim. I am getting am average of 50 people at my San Francisco
meetings, and 100 at my Marin meetings, and we have not even started. There are
also possibilities for the East Bay.
I expect shortly to send Shamcher a Xeroxed copy of surprise communication from Paul Reps. He was outside the door during most of the interviews with Hazrat Inayat Khan in 1926, and he was inside the door in those other cases.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
July 21, 1970
Dear Murshid S.A.M.
Hope that you don’t find this little effort too little but we wanted to get this first bunch out this month. I’m sending these three copies and hoping you will let me know how many you would like there. The piece by Wali Ali arrived beautifully done in plenty of time but still haven’t heard from Mansur do hope he will have the copy to us soon so we can get going on the letter for next month. Couldn’t someone find time to do a nice piece on your garden at the Garden of Inayat? The kiln and its purpose? From time to time I’d like to include as many of your activities as I can. Yes we hope that “the Message of God reach far and wide” but let it be that and not a lot of other things that fool a lot of people. The Movement is far too interested in funds instead of people. Fact is and I know they would rather exclude any who are not of their “class” whatever that may mean. Martin Dickenson told Vilayat some very unlovely things about me. They told Sitara I was a peasant and she should , being also of the “upper Class” not lower herself by such an association.
I do hope that now and then you could find time to write something for us. We want to print things from “real and living Sufis” not quote some long dead though not forgotten Sufi of the past. These things are mostly around for those who are interested enough to hunt them out. People want to know what is going on now.
Shamcher wants us to go with him on his trip East so must plan ahead so others can hold down the fort while we are away. The Newsletter must be ready to go even [if] it takes a short time to print, it has to be put together and addressed as well as mailed.
Our garden on the other side of the creek is really growing and even though it was quite late (because of standing water) is starting to produce already. The other one needs constant watering and much cow manure, but putting almost everything we eat on the table. You were very right about the soil over on the far side, things just grow, no water or anything.
I would appreciate your sending any names of others who would like to receive the newsletter, (Perhaps Wali Ali might do this for you too. ) Any special thing you would like the Sufi world to know about might swell attendance for special visitors etc.
Shamcher sent me some of your latest letters to read (and return of course) and cannot begin to say how happy I am that all is going so wonderfully well there too. Wish we were able to do more but everything takes time I guess. For now my biggest job is getting this Newsletter off the ground and getting real important News in it. I especially want to have a backlog of things I can “fill” with when I need them. Small quotes I can print, —Poetry ??? new things not old stuff everyone has seen. Hint Hint….
I am writing Hugh Lynn at Virginia Beach. He is under the impression that he met Pir Vilayat At Martin’s house. So I included a picture as well as a notation that the one he met was Fazal who is neither Murshid or Pir and these are coveted titles one doesn’t give to oneself. Martin is one of the wheels in that organization as well as one of Fazal’s chief advisors. I advised Hugh Lynn to see Vilayat or even hear one of his tapes before rejecting the idea of his addressing his group.
Did you know that Vilayat is going to some teaching for Unity ministers? I’ll have something in the newsletter about this next time.
Must fly—dear Murshid and I hope you are pleased. As ever
Atiya
August 1, 1970
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 7168
Seattle, Washington 98133
My dear Atiya:
Before returning to San Francisco from the Garden of Inayat I received a directive and then recognized at once on the receipt of Sufis Speak, that I was to go ahead. So you will find enclosed a carbon of the letter being sent to Geneva. I do not know whether these people will do anything, and am quite indifferent. But I do now have a young friend in Geneva and also a few very powerful friends there.
I have been so over-worked, and it is only the Grace of God that is upholding me. But this Grace is quite evident, for the health is unusually good, and at this moment the vitality is very high. There has been some suspension of activities at the Garden of Inayat. Two of the girls are away doing special studies in ceramics and pottery. Mansur has been working chiefly with Fred Cohn, who has been at various places with Vilayat, and has also been covering several of the spiritual gatherings in this land.
The reports of Fred’s doings are too long to write about, and Samuel is getting more and more long distance telephone calls from all kinds of people asking him to attend jamborees and gatherings in many parts of the country. In addition to that, he has had to have more interviews with more people either as outcomes of the summer school in Arizona or other activities of Pir Vilayat. As written to Shamcher, Pir Vilayat, Paul Reps, and Baba Ram Dass, all seem to be relying on Samuel to carry on heavy spiritual duties in this country. Taking into consideration the items in the letter to Geneva, and what you are doing, I shall have to find a secretary who will copy all the non-esoteric items I have from the late Hazrat Inayat Khan, including his explanation of the Islamic prayers. I think these will be valuable adjuncts to your publication.
There is no question if that you travel with Shamcher you will be meeting more and more young people and perhaps intellectuals. I do not have spiritual gatherings at the Garden of Inayat any longer. My last talk was to remind them that our constant repetition of “May the Message of God Reach Far and Wide” is now in operation. We meet instead in the town of Corte Madera, which is between Novato and San Francisco. However, the disciples who live in Novato will use the Garden of Inayat, and the meditation room will be re-adopted not for classes, but for exercises in concentration (Murakkabah).
I hope to get Khalif Moineddin, who has been ill, to work with me in laying out whole streams of practices in Concentration. The principles are in part in the Githas on Murakkabah, and in part in the Miscellany in my possession, which have never been used. Now we must use them, and you will be informed when these things are ready, even if only ready for the first grades.
I believe Wali Ali here, and Bibijan in Los Angeles, are in better position to handle matters concerning Sufis Speak, but I am also showing this now to our printer Hasan Herz who lives at the Khankah.
The number of long distance calls increases. I have refused to go to Colorado. I do not wish to go to Portland, Oregon, but I may not be able to turn down an invitation to Los Angeles. I am waiting for details. This week I took off my second day of the whole year.
In addition to all the other activities, we have two tremendous projects:.
To endeavor to bring peace in Palestine through human beings. So far we have been very very successful, but naturally it is a time consumer and energy consumer.
The work of explaining mystically the First Epistle to the Corinthians with special emphasis on the psychic body, its functions, and its growing importance in the lives especially of the young. When this work is completed I may have to go to Washington, D.C., either by invitation or design.
I now have three dancing classes, and we may start one or two more. In addition, the women’s dancing class has made so much progress they wish me to attend their coming sessions. The emphasis will be on the conscious functioning of the psychic and spiritual body in and through the dance. The basic principles are in the poem “The Rejected Avatar.”
Hugh Lynn is a very nice man with a quite superficial knowledge of the psychic body and none at all of the depths of personality. The whole group is responsive to psychism but does not understand mysticism at all.
We know Vilayat is very busy, and we are very satisfied. But we are also very busy, and we hope we are all doing what Allah wishes.
Love and blessings,
Samuel
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
August 4, 1970
Dear Murshid Sam,
Thank you for your letter and copy of that “Hot” one you sent Geneva—I doubt if it will do any good just hope they don’t decide to sue you for papers they claim belong to them. I’ve never seen or heard of such “spiritual people.” Are they suggesting that we join the Movement? I guess I’m far from truth but when I left them I did just that. Martin and his gold plated letters on his black robe. I just couldn’t believe it. Fazal gave them to him, which shows you even he knows what martin really wants.
Hope you can read this scratching, am always in a hurry.
What I wanted to know is knowing how many Sufis Speak you would like. We want them “far and wide.” Have Wali Ali send names and addresses and check against those already sent. I’ve sent some to Holland, England, India, Switzerland, as well as hundreds in USA; we have the stencils and postage is a big item but so it goes. Feel strongly this is what we are to do. Thanks Wali Ali please I’ll try to write him myself. Got Mansur’s paper yesterday. It will be in the next one.
We set up a names sheet for names and addresses so each time will be much easier to send out—no more hand addressing except for one single typewritten list and so it would help me if you’d send at that way but if you can’t, anyway will be fine.
We may be down there in a week or so as I feel I have something I’d like to show you too about the spiritual dance.
My own health much better than it was I had a long problem). Anyway, I’ll let you know about the trip if we can make it. We’d like to bury Shamcher but must get him to agree first.
Love,
Atiya
August 9, 1970
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My Dear Atiya:
Your very welcome letter of August 4th is here. I am only answering under a presumption that you may not be coming here, or that if you do come Shamcher may be coming with you.
It is beyond my capacity to answer most of the things you have asked for. I have only had two days off all year. My chief Khalif has been sick for two months. Secretary Mansur is working for Fred Cohn, who is filming all our undertakings. I expect to see Fred tomorrow to discuss the possibility of his visiting Ajmer and other sacred places with Pir Vilayat.
Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Lomax is now in Tucson, Arizona. Disciple Phillip Davenport in seeking a campground for Pir Vilayat encountered one Walter Bowart, who became a mureed. He is a wealthy publisher. He has been away on a most important trip to England and maybe Europe. He wants everything. It would have been hard enough to have given him everything with the secretaries I had.
While the search for secretaries is going on, there are at least three promotional endeavors. The one to finance Fred and Vilayat has been at least partially successful. The other two are new. They put me under no obligations excepting that if successful I shall have to travel.
Pir Vilayat rightly expected me to look after those people to whom he gave Bayat, from this region. But his disciples in other regions have been coming to meetings or for esoteric counseling. They in turn are bringing strangers at a time when the natural attendance at the meetings is increasing. Last week a professor from the University of Southern California opened the door for Sufism at his institution. Today I learnt that the philosophy department at Berkeley is also interested. It is utterly impossible to fulfill all those possibilities unless help is forthcoming. This is not a request for financial assistance—there is every sign of that.
We have taken on two huge new projects. The mystical interpretation of The Epistle to the Corinthians in order to explain the three-body constitution of man, and the solution—which is very easy—of the complexes of psychedelics. The response has been beautiful; the inspirations most lofty.
We have also endeavored to bring Peace in the Near East by having Arabs, Palestinians, and Israelis meet each other. All the first endeavors have been most surprising. This is too long for me to write about now.
We have had two dancing classes. On return from Lama I started a third which has been successful. This coming week I shall have to attend a fourth, and also at that meeting considering establishing a fifth. The dancing classes are being very well attended and help solve our financial needs.
This week also two hours was spent with my attorney to consider the incorporation of the movement here. This is not only Pir Vilayat’s wish it is the wish of my associates in Pakistan. Once this is done we shall have a board of directors, and then a business office which would consider all you have written about. But if you come here you will be introduced directly to those whose functions it would be.
The paper on “Ecstasy” is one that I found in Murshida Martin’s miscellany. I have several such papers and my intention has been either to send them to Pir Vilayat’s colleagues in Europe or to you; or, if it is beyond your capacity then to Walter Bowart.
I am not the least concerned with those people in Europe. We have already discussed with the lawyer the possibilities of Sufi being a factual or a fictitious title. It is factual in our case because it fulfilled the terms of the Encyclopedia of Islam. It is also legal because Pir Vilayat attained legally the blessings and good will of the top Sufi Pirs of the Chistia School. This Idries Shah has challenged all of us, but has avoided any reference to any connection with the historical Sufi Schools. He is trying to offer Sufism without Allah.
As so-called Sufism Re-Oriented has not stopped Vilayat within this state, I see no reason why we cannot go ahead. If Fazal, or his lackeys, were to go into court they would be soundly thrashed. Bear in mind that Pir Vilayat was the only person twice called upon to take a bow when the real leaders of the real religions of the real world met in Geneva. The Lord is My Shepherd … Whom Shall I Fear.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
August 17, 1970
Mrs. Charlotte Brautlacht
P. O. Box 867
Bothell, Wash. 98011
My dear Atiya:
In the last correspondence from Shamcher or you I don’t remember the matter come up of sending Jerry ten dollars, which is now enclosed.
It is humorous and serious that now I am filled with “uncompliants.” Two secretaries have good outside jobs. At least six disciples have been absorbed by the New Age Food Stores which sell natural products. Those are expanding at a rapid rate. The number of attendants at meetings increases. The number of applicants for Bayat increases. The interest in all our activities increases. God is giving Samuel new dances. But one Khalif has been ill and the other often absent. This compels the Murshid to over-extend himself. The day you came last week was followed by interviews up to 6 o’clock with no break.
The first time the Sufi Order treasury has a surplus. But there has been a delay in our organizing and so in a delay with regard to the material you sent. This is a time when our efforts to promote peace and good will are just running ahead of us at a rapid rate.
Some weeks back Murshid gave a short talk to the disciples on “May the Message of God Reach Far and Wide.” This was followed by an explosion. And even new dances are coming at such a rapid rate I had to appeal almost dramatically for help in this direction. I understand two disciples will be helping.
Tomorrow night I sup with my goddaughter and her husband Ralph Silver. He has been very successful in raising funds for Pir Vilayat. And praise to Allah, we have had nothing but success in all our efforts toward world peace and toward uniting East and West through music and dancing. And a lot more is going on, a lot more, so that an appeal must be made for help. It seems almost ironic a that when we had little money so many people wanted to volunteer, and now that money is coming in and we have endless amount of tasks we do not have so much office help but I am sure this will pass and then we can continue in what you wanted.
Love and Blessings,
Samuel L. Lewis
September 13, 1970
My dear Atiya:
One greatly appreciates your letter of the 5th and also “Sufis Speak.” It is absolutely impossible and I have made a great failure here—the inability to get people to come and help. One had two days off after the return from Lama and took off Friday afternoon to pick apples. The chief Khalif has been ill for months and the housekeeper for weeks. There are more and more applicants, more audiences and more money. But not helpers. It seems funny when I started out everybody wanted to help and nobody to give money; now getting help is most difficult complicated by other illnesses, quite a few, And more classes and more invitations.
On the international scene, praise to God, there has been nothing but success-Geneva, Jerusalem, Teheran, Ajmir, New Delhi and Bombay. But the amount of work to be done, already overwhelming, now drowns me. And if there is not sufficient help soon I may have to disappear. This is morning, after I have made appeal after appeal for help, nearly all the disciples are going to the choral singing, and I may let them. I have not even been able to get disciples to make announcements asking for help.
The two former secretaries are having good jobs and are helping out financially. Wali Ali is both successful and overburdened. The new assistant secretary, Sitara (nobody has a monopoly on names) may be going with me to New York.
The joint Israeli-Christian-Jewish dinners totally successful both in Jerusalem and here. The efforts for filming going grand. All excellent news but no help.
My friend, Admiral Evenson who is one of the few persons who even gave consideration to the peace plan for Palestine is delighted with Sufis Speak (he is an acquaintance with Mrs. Duce and was a close friend of the late Terry Duce).
I may have to meet some close to Fazal in New York. I shall do what Pir Vilayat suggested.
Jemila who is a sort of secretary to Pir Vilayat told me that he wanted to consider his things exoterically, not esoterically, and that the public should have access to them. So this gives you leeway. And with the Fazal situation I am all for that.
Piles of requests, all kinds, so please excuse me for not writing further.
Love and blessings,
Sam
P.S. Lama foundation, of which I am Guru, has a two-page picture in National Geographical Magazine, and was given at least ten shots last Tuesday on the Columbia Broadcasting System.
410 Precita Ave.,
San Francisco, Calif.
September 16, 1970
S. Bibijan D’Mitrieff,
Chief Secretary, Sufi Movement
Beloved One of God:
I am writing early in the morning and will turn this over to Wali All new the chief secretary here for mailing and send copy to the Fraleys and also to my spiritual sister, Mrs. Harris, in Pennsylvania. You will have to excuse mistakes for there is no spare time whatsoever, and there is very little detrimental. True chief Khalif Moineddin has been in the hospital for weeks but there are signs he may be released soon. And the housekeeper here has been ill and also several mureeds. Outside of that the news is terrific.
The part Vilayat may have to be play in the world may become tremendous. We have had nothing but the best news from abroad. Previously Vilayat was the only person who received two compendiums when I was at Geneva. The outcome of that conference is utterly bewildering, made ironical by being excluded from the news. We have had Sufi-Israeli dinners in Jerusalem and the welcomes in Iran are more beautiful. The Indian government seems to have given even a sort of willingness for Vilayat’s efforts and my godson reports nothing but wonders also from Geneva. We are getting more and more support from real religious and spiritual leaders.
Our two projects seem to be the filming and recording of dances and spiritual ceremonies; and bringing Israelis, Arabs and Christians together. This has been extremely successful here. Senator Tydings with whose family I may be staying in Washington, has won the primary election. The one man outside of California who approved the program I had for Palestine is Dr. Gunnar Jarring whose name appears in the papers much today. There is a growing movement among the young and the Arabs to foment a peace.
Last week the National Geographical Magazine had a two-page picture of Lama Foundation in New Mexico of which I am “Guru,” and last week they were snapped at least ten times on TV. Mansur is now fully employed at a good salary in connection with the above and is helping Murshid. Daniel is doing fine in Arizona and his employer who has met Pir Vilayat just returned with a long, edifying report.
Two weeks ago Samuel revolted. He was getting larger and larger meetings and smaller and smaller collections. Immediately people came to his aid and our first meeting in Sausalito, instead of San Anselmo, had an unusually large collection. Indeed there is enough money to help out on the next trip and we are expecting to leave for Ithaca, New York shortly.
The news from both the New York and Boston areas is most favorable. People are coming to the dances and they want to learn about Sufism. All meetings are growing in attendance.
Sunday we celebrated Hejirat Day with a larger audience than usual and Monday sixteen new mureeds given Bayat! We have a very large following and growing all the time. You must understand that not only are days off almost out of the question but even hours off. One must thank God for good physical and mental health.
There will be a meeting this week to consider our financial situation. It is situation rather than problems. We have not completed our legal work and our chief concern about you is to see how we can help financially. We have been greatly helped by Seattle turning out the pictures of the prayers with movements. But we also have to make tasbihs for new disciples (and old.)
We are getting help from a Sufi family from Afghanistan which operates a restaurant in Oakland. If you ever come this away; if any disciples come this way we should be glad to take them there. The meals are large but the prices rather moderate, and the atmosphere the most comforting we have ever found in an “inn.”
We are also trying to establish a “Peace Scholarship” at the University. My own income has been rising, but there are the needs to operate households and do something for secretaries—two get free room and board, at least. But perhaps things are as God wishes. On Thursday night in Corte Madera, Marin County, we have four classes but during my absence we will consolidate them a little. There are also several classes here besides public gatherings.
One feels God is with us and we are in constant praise. May run into some of the Fazalites in New York. The last time I was accused of lack of compassion was when severe measures were taken to two men. These men are now among the very best friends. Compassion does not consider of being naive and weak and since Vilayat gave some suggestions and instructions one feels one must go all the way. Samuel has no time to subjectivize him, only to go into operation.
We may be using his papers soon. His speech at Calcutta two years back will set him among the immortals. And in my absence permission has been given to start the drama class he wished.
But Monday night was the saddest and most joyous speech. No more family. It was beautiful to have 30 disciples. Most of them have grown and grown in all senses. One had to cry. Hazrat Inayat Khan never had such disciples, wonderful, vigorous and beautiful and more and more of them.
The present situation is this:
Moineddin Jablonski, the Khalif, ill but recovering.
Akbar Simmons, the Khalif, at the University of California but cooperating.
Sheikh Amin Quantz of Corte Madera busy all the time with a good livelihood now and an excellent “Garden of Allah.”
Sheikh Wali Ali Meyer (just appointed) chief secretary both for the Sufi Movement here and also for the Summer Camps of Pir Vilayat.
Naqib Daniel Lomax, doing fine in Arizona.
Naqib Mansur Johnson, very busy on the “international” projects.
Love and blessings,
Samuel
Murshid Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
Sufi Order
6904 Radford Ave.
No. Hollywood, Ca. 91605
September 20, 1970
Dear Samuel:
Just a short letter specially to wish you a very happy and successful trip to the Eastern states, and to thank you for your thoughtfulness in sending me many glowing reports and much information which keeps me in touch with your work and life at your so active Center. It is a joy to hear about the progress being made and the spreading of the Message to yet more areas. God grant you continued good health and strength.
I am quite busy preparing for Pir Vilayat’s visit next month and November through the Eastern and Southern cities, that is sending dates, program, publicity material etc. ahead of his arrival. Also notifying people in smaller towns within short traveling distance of the cities where he will speak.
Hoping those faithful workers who have been ailing will soon be completely recovered, and with all good wishes
Lovingly
Bibijan
October 8, 1970
To Fazal
Beloved One of God:
One hopes you will turn to God. Sri Krishna taught to be equiminded in pleasure and pain; Mohammed said so often, “be not angry.” So by control over emotion one has a certain type of mastery. “Ruler is he who is ruler of himself.”
Yes, the correspondence will be published unless, of course, you turn to God-Allah and become a true devotee.
One cannot make you listen but in time, inshallah, you will. I am hoping there will be the change in heart which will make you become a disciple of the spiritual succession and a true salik.
God bless you.
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti
October 21, 1970
Dear Wali Ali,
Thank you for the poetry. Will use one each month, naturally I’ll use Murshid’s name. Sham (the man) sent me those fantastic letters. Hope Murshid is bearing in mind that Fazal has referred to the Order meaning himself. He isn’t the Order nor does he speak in any way for it. I have the papers proving this. I’ll send you one. Tell S.A.M. That I think that he should give Fazal a bit more rope and get a few more delightful letters to use for a charming picture of Love, Harmony, and Beauty.
The latest is Fazal is trying to bar Pir Vilayat from his father’s tomb. In court. That injunction we print, should it come. Right now we are courting the Movement and are printing a “lovely” letter sent in by M.E. Dickenson. Can’t say he didn’t ask for and even demand it. He demanded of Shamcher we print the inset. We print it all, and say nothing. Have a couple beautiful letters for others we run with his. Without comment.
I also have from Pir Vilayat the famous “white paper” put out by the Movement. I’d like Murshid to have a copy but we must be careful, everything is so costly and we have so little to do with. Oh yes, sent Murshid 200 initiation booklets. I had quoted Jerry (Shafayat) at 5 cents each. Well, that was what he said but just between us it cost him far more than that to make and we just can’t have him doing it. We could lose a willing worker that we really need. Anyway, the $10.00 didn’t come perhaps it was forgotten. Up here there is little work and like one big depression, over 14% out of work. So-o-o anyway, tell him please pay him but don’t quote me.
I was in Cleveland with Pir Vilayat and saw Jamila there. Had a letter from Mansur with a not for S. S. can’t read it why can’t he type it. Can’t spell names wrong People resent it!
About S.S. tell any who want it they must write as all who haven’t will be chopped as of last issue. Very few of your people have written in only two or three. Best give them the word. Any help toward costs is appreciated also as so many can’t do anything in this area. Do you have any Brightly colored pictures of S.A.M. or any of the places he has been teaching. The soft tones just won’t come out in good color. They may seem bright but the machine will not pick up pastels. We use them for black and whites. Have a rather nice one of Pir Vilayat taken at Cleveland small but sitting teaching, quite effective.
Hear you have been ill sorry we didn’t know. Have quite a fantastic healer in Shafayat. Pir Vilayat gave him that name with good reason.
Plan to pick some news of Sam from his letters (from Shamcher) for S.S. send me whatever you can about this time of the month as I’m putting the thing together now. Have a couple great letters really and a few little goodies.
Thanks again for the poetry. I’ll pick one for this time will try to tie it in with something else. My love to all,
Atiya
October 27, 1970
Charlotte Brautlacht
P.O. Box 867
Bothell, Washington 98011
Dear Atiya and Beloved Ones of God:
Praise be to Allah, the guide, protector, and inspirer of humanity. This has been a very busy season, and it is very difficult to write on what has been going on, is going on. The report will begin on the interview and lecture of Pir Vilayat Khan. The interview was perfect from a mystical point of view. It was not like meeting anybody, but looking into a mirror and getting answers as if there is a two-headed superman conversing with himself. Praise to God, we are so close. The chief difference is that his actions are international and mine, for the while, are in this country.
I am glad to say he confirmed absolutely exactly what the holy men in the East have said. He has also been visiting holy men, and now he definitely knows what might be called "the pressure differential" which gives one strong impressions of spiritual status. In fact, we were so close here that it was not necessary to say much. It does mean, however, that I can go ahead and travel anytime working for the cause of God. We left his room very comfortable indeed.
But it is the night lecture that I am immediately concerned with. It was tape-recorded, and I have asked Hugh D'Andrade if he could send it to you or type a copy for your publication. Personally I believe this is a matter of first importance. For me it establishes that Vilayat is a man, not a flesh and blood pretender of inheritance to the kingdom of God. There has been so much harm in the world from those who have evaluated flesh and blood. But I don't think anything I say can possibly convey as much as his own words. His own words show a remarkably developed man who can speak to western audiences, can appeal to western audiences, and can almost, in a sense, enlighten western audiences. Shamcher knows I am a tough person, not easily given over to open praise.
We are in entire agreement concerning various Hindu teachers and gurus. They are quite capable of elevating Americans, certainly far above Timothy Leary with whom we have little affinity, or Steve Gaskin, who has much love and emotion but is not yet aware of the higher planes. Pir Vilayat took us through each plane, and I think positively, clearly, sensibly. There was a criticism that he did not present enough love. You might just as well say that of a physician who administers a strong medicine badly needed to help his patients. I think he gave most of the audience exactly what they needed. In so doing, he naturally went too far upstairs for some. Sufism has been defined as di¬vine wisdom—in other words, here the note of wisdom, if one can call it that, is above and beyond the note of love. Wisdom has lower aspects; the word "love" has so many aspects the word itself may be confusing.
This criticism is invalidated so far as this person is concerned. The latest news from India has been soundly corroborated by persons in the audience who, like this one, have been disciples both of Hazrat Inayat Khan and the late Swami Ramdas of Kanhangad—not to be confused with Richard Alpert (Baba Ram Dass) or others who bear the same name.
Samuel did not feel it proper to operate as an inferior to or even as an equal to certain personalities now going around as "spiritual teachers." We are definitely involved in efforts to bring peace in the holy land; to present dancing and related arts as means to increase the conscious awareness in ananda-love-joy; there is a great need to present and explain the teachings of Hazrat Inayat Khan; there is a greater need to give to the world the deeper esoteric sciences, such as contemplation, or in Sufi terms, Mushahida; on top of that, praise to God, Walter Bowart of Tucson, Arizona, wants everything.
Everything means everything. But very few have any grasp of the quantity of work on the material plane and how much more difficult it is to present the super material. We stopped off at Westport Point in southeast Massachusetts, and there laid down part of our program for the coming year. This covers cooperation with Richard Alpert—Ram Dass, and this can have one of many results. This man has been boosting Murshid Sam and one feels very good. In general, Vilayat and Samuel have had the most cordial relations with identically the same Americans.
The other big project is organic gardening. There is no difficulty here but one—the danger of disciples not properly organized or organized into departments.
One sees great possibilities in organic gardening, public dancing, esoteric dancing, Zikr, ceramics, folk fine arts, and work with fabrics. At least these. It is not easy to give instructions in concentration. The word is received. The practices are received. The disciplines are received. And then the mind, distracted so often by "goodness," seldom by evil temptation, unconsciously produces roadblocks. This person has had it very clearly in the inner life to become an organizer. He does not believe he is fit, but God-Allah says that is why. That is the way he can grow. We are to become perfect in the way God Allah wants, not in the way man requests.
Pir Vilayat will conduct a meditation this afternoon after which he must go to France. But he will be on the West Coast in November, and we have already booked passage to leave here on the 9th to attend at least two sessions. One of these will be in connection with dancing, and we expect a very large audience in Sausalito, California on the second Wednesday night in November.
Samuel is feeling particularly good, especially after a visit to the most wonderful Negro he has ever encountered. His name is Karmu. He has abilities and knowledges of herbs, cooking, and diet, magnetic healing, mental and psycho¬logical treatment, moral regeneration—in a sense about everything. He has certainly won the hearts of the few mureeds we have in these parts. Secretary Sitara, who is writing this letter, will remain on the East Coast for a while and also attend at least one of Pir Vilayat's seminars or retreats in November. I shall ask her to keep you informed.
In general, although we have a quantity of news, it has been most successful and satisfactory in all directions, and that means many directions. Pir Vilayat has also given us some introductions here which we have to follow and which could be very very helpful—and I mean just that—in promoting the Dervish dances and Sufi Movement. There is much more.
The only real problem is how to get everything done on a 24-hour day. At the moment, and it is very strange, we have a plus in money and a minus in a lot of other things, the opposite of the rest of the world. Personally, I am holding back, hoping to have secretaries and assistants who can be granted financial security. The news from San Francisco in particular has been excel-lent. It is only time and the pressing of other matters which keep me from writing further.
Love and Blessings.
Samuel L. Lewis
December 4, 1970
Sufis Speak
P.O. Box 7168
Seattle, Wash. 98133
Beloved Ones of God:
It is very difficult to comment on the latest issue of Sufis Speak. The whole life is taking me into the hal or ecstasy; even physical work, personality problems and oppositions do not bring me down to so-called normalcy, and your publication tends to take me further in the direction in which I am compelled to assume Allah wishes us to go, and I mean us and not the person alone.
There has been a criticism from Mr. Begg at Ajmer that the disciples of Inayat Khan do not know enough about the great Sufis. The purpose of life is to find about our own selves. Sometimes we may grow because of our devotion to or study of Saints and Masters who have preceded. But it also may be by the Grace of Allah that they manifest to us, and this is a Grace, and not a individual undertaking. In this I think our good friend Begg is entirely wrong, and whether it is analysis on my part or spiritual zeal, I am finding nothing but ecstatic trends as I read your latest issue. It is by the Grace of God, and not by our own efforts, that we come to liberation.
Some months ago I told a few mureeds at Novato that we should soon be seeing “May the Message of God Reach Far and Wide.” Beginning the next day things began to happen … and how. Secretary Mansur left the Khankah, and not only that, I was deprived of help (this is not a sad story; he is a faithful mureed though this has not helped me personally.) Khalif Moineddin landed in the hospital and was there for a long time. He returned on Thanks giving.
The number of disciples is increasing. The number of applicants is increasing. The growth of many disciples is marvelous. We just had a successful conspiracy to put on a surprise welcome for the return of Moineddin, the Khalif. It was successful qualitatively and quantitatively, to add no more. It would seem that Allah, so to speak, is manifesting constantly, not only to the Murshid, but to several disciples, and most significantly. Before this happened, I told David Jamil, Pir Vilayat’s representative, that I was conspiring to give the Pir a gigantic welcome, and that this would be a rehearsal therefor. And the rehearsal was most successful in every direction.
Then we got news that Pir Vilayat intends to be in this region a few days more than we were originally told. At least one of these days will be spent in Oakland. But this week I spoke at the University campus in Berkeley for the first time. It was a very stormy night. Students were supposed to be cramming for their finals, and when I went to the rostrum there were about 12 people in the hall, but in five minutes to place was packed. I spoke on Sufism and we had questions. To me it was a marvelous affair. We ended with singing, not dancing, but I am to speak again next Tuesday. All of this will help Pir Vilayat very much.
Our next effort will be partly toward our Christmas period, and partly to a planned Bazaar for December 20. This Bazaar reputedly to raise funds for our peace efforts (Hallelujah: the three rings,) for my person, and for the suffering people of East Pakistan. In the meanwhile, arrangements have been made to give me a dinner at the new ashram of yogi Bhajan in San Rafael, California. This is only a few minutes drive from the Khankah. The Yogi is a little disappointed that I have refused to take over a peace movement in which he is interested. But the first meeting of this peace movement was chaired by a man who has constantly refused to grant me interviews or answer my letters. It is hardly a way to get another person to afford either time or money. I hardly know a peace movement which accepts history.
Inwardly I feel very strong, and the health is not bad taking all factors into consideration. There is a tremendous amount of mail to be answered, largely due to the growth in quality and quantity of our contacts in this country. As soon as this is out of the way, we will again work on the “Six Interviews with Hazrat Inayat Khan.” I am feeling very strong about them, with full realization that as soon as they are published I can become a controversial personality. The Sufis of the Orient have absolutely accepted what most students of Sufism, intellectual or esoteric, have refused even to consider. It has taken me a long time to fully understand why Hazrat Inayat Khan, without a word, lifted me up and said, “I initiate you now for the sixth time in the Sufi Order.” It took me a long time to understand this, though in the meanwhile, one has reached much higher grades and initiations, both through actual ceremonies, some in the presence of hundreds of people, and through mystical awakening entirely in accord with what is written in the book in this subject published in Volume X of the Sufi Message.
If Hazrat Inayat Khan wrote only theory, all statements about him would be ruled ineffective unless there were objective examples. I have hardly met a disciple who has accepted what he said: “It is the mureeds who make the Murshid.” My defense of Jesus Christ against Christianity, and of Mohammed against Islam is being accepted more and more and more; or as Pir-o-Murshid himself said, “These men came to be examples, not to be worshipped.” The same is true of Hazrat Inayat Khan. And one reason I uphold Vilayat is because he has held his father up as an example but not as a God. There must be room for all of us to grow. There are no ceilings in the cosmic universe, though many people, metaphysicians and claimants, have tried to construct them.
I do not know what to add here except to express extreme appreciation for the last issue of Sufis Speak, and to assure you we will send you a carbon of our first revision of “Six Interviews of with Hazrat Inayat Khan.” There will still have to be a further corrected version before it can be published.
Faithfully,
Samuel L. Lewis
Sufi Ahmed Murad Chisti