Latest blog posts
17 DAYS OF SPIRITUAL WISDOM
The King and I: A centenary tribute to my Master
“Did you want something?” The words were said with a gentle kindness, but what took me by surprise was the person who had spoken them.
“Oh, I’m sorry to disturb you, sir. I was just wondering whether there was anything I could do to help?”
“Come over here.” Dr King motioned to me to look into the shop window at Aetherius House in London where the covers of his books were fading in the sunlight.
“Can you make model books for me so that the real ones won’t be damaged?”
“Yes, I can.” At that point I had no idea how to make a model book, but I was surely going to find out.
“Good – then do that for me would you?”
“Yes, sir.”
Dr King walked upstairs to his office with two assistants, leaving me standing in the shop transfixed – this was my first direct assignment from the Master I had chosen to follow a year before. At the age of 19, I was on a summer break from my university and had decided to spend as much of it as possible working at the European Headquarters of The Aetherius Society. What I didn’t know when I walked through the shop door, was that Dr King had just arrived in London from Los Angeles where he lived, for a speaking tour.
After university I moved to London and became a schoolteacher until, at the age of 24, he employed me to work full-time. From then on I worked with him at an executive level, helping to run the organization he had founded internationally; co-authored his last two books; travelled with him in Europe and the USA on trips for both work and relaxation; and looked after some of his personal affairs. I am honoured to say that we became great friends, but I was always his disciple – as I still am today.
I discovered that he was everything he claimed to be and more. He was, I believe, of the same company as Sri Krishna, Moses, the Lord Buddha, the Master Jesus and the holy Master of Earth known as the Lord Babaji. I regard him as one of the greatest avatars ever to have walked our Earth.
This year we celebrate the centenary of his birth – on January 23rd, 1919, in the small village of Donnington Wood, near Wellington, Shropshire in England. His family later moved to Yorkshire where he spent most of his childhood. His spirituality was clear from the start, showing pronounced abilities in healing, prayer and the perception of truth.
He became a conscientious objector in the Second World War, despite being highly skilled in martial sports such as boxing, fencing and shooting. Instead he was a section leader in the fire services during the devastating and extremely dangerous London Blitz. His psychic faculties were put to good use identifying where bodies would be found beneath the rubble of fallen buildings after bombing raids.
It was after the war that he made a seminal and, for those days, very unusual decision. He turned to the study, and especially the practice, of yoga including its most advanced forms such as Kundalini, Raja and Gnani. When he practised yoga, he did so with total commitment – for eight hours per day for ten years. To enable this, he worked for a living in a variety of jobs including driving.
Anyone who applied themselves with such intensity to correct yoga practice would reap rich results. Because of who he was, these were all the more forthcoming. He started to realize some of his boundless inner potential, demonstrating such phenomena as clairvoyance, telepathy, astral projection, mediumship, invisibility, miraculous healing and even levitation. However, his goal was not the pursuit of these powers, but to gain enlightenment through the rarely attained meditative condition known in the east as samadhi.
By the age of 35, he had achieved this elevated state in which he knew and understood the nature of his and all existence. It was then that he was contacted by the Gods from space.
“Prepare yourself, you are to become the Voice of Interplanetary Parliament!” was the audible command he received from the cosmic intelligence known as the Master Aetherius. He was now ready to commence the mission for which he had come to Earth.
It will come as no surprise to learn that Dr King was ridiculed for his claims. This would still happen today, but nothing compared to the climate of social conformity which characterized 1950s Britain. His personality contained the rare combination of being both shy and fearless. It did not suit him to be in the controversial position he had been called to, but he accepted it unhesitatingly, appearing in the press, radio, television and at numerous public events. His hallmark was to unequivocally declare the truth he had experienced as far and wide as possible.
He acted as Primary Terrestrial Mental Channel, the main medium and point of contact for extraterrestrial intelligences upon Earth, from May 8th, 1954, to July 12th, 1997, the day of his passing. In that period, he received literally thousands of communications (transmissions) from the Cosmic Masters, mainly from this Solar System, but also from beyond it. These included some of the greatest teachings that have ever been delivered to Earth; and world-saving missions to be performed during and after his lifetime.
One thing he did not disclose fully and openly was his true identity. Just as some of the great avatars before him, he came from another world. He knew this, as did those close to him, and it was referred to in a number of transmissions, but he preferred to keep as low a profile as he could and was reluctant to promote himself unless he had to.
In February 1997, I was at the American Headquarters in Los Angeles when I received a call from Dr King who, now in poor health, resided at his small bungalow in Santa Barbara 100 miles away.
“Can you come and see me for about ten minutes?”
It was early one Saturday morning and I was due to run a ceremony in the Society’s Temple in LA that afternoon. Soon after that I was scheduled to catch a plane back to London.
“Of course, I can, Master,” I replied willingly.
After a drive in my hire-car of about two hours, I walked into his sitting-room to find him waiting in his armchair.
“Kneel before me.”
This was an extremely unusual thing for him to say. Normally, he did not like overt deference from those around him unless it was at a formal ceremony of one kind or another. He had even reprimanded me on one occasion when I knelt at his bedside to give him healing, and insisted that I adopt another less reverential posture.
“I am going to initiate you into a secret yoga practice.”
I eagerly knelt before him as he did so, and then sat beside him for a few minutes afterwards as he explained its purpose to me. I thanked him profusely, we hugged, and he sent me on my way so that I would arrive in time for the ceremony. That was the last time I would be in his physical presence, and I am sure he must have known it. His first words to me, when I was 19, had been to give me a task to perform. On this last occasion, he gave me a wonderful initiation.
In the vast expanse of the teachings and missions he left our world, there are numerous tasks to perform. Some of these are unique in their elevation; others are more lowly but still essential. There are also practices to learn and initiations to receive, some of which have never been given before, to empower our journey towards enlightenment.
Today we call this path, which anyone can take, King Yoga. Its rewards are immeasurable as you will undoubtedly discover if you do so. And one thing I would add: you do not have to have met Dr King physically to learn from him, follow him and one day, should you choose, to become his disciple too.
About the author
Richard Lawrence is a Senior Bishop and Executive Secretary for Europe and Africa of The Aetherius Society. He is an international bestselling author of 11 books and has co-authored a biography of Dr George King to be published later this year.
All the blogposts written for aetherius.org are written by experienced Aetherius Society personnel and approach themes relating to the teachings, practices and ideals of the Society. However, they also contain personal opinions, insights and interpretations that are not necessarily representative of the Society as a whole, or all of its Members as individuals.
If you enjoyed this please share it on social media
How wonderful! Thankyou for sharing these things Richard.
He was an extraordinary and illuminated man, wasn`t he, very kind and compassionate, yet tough enough
to rise above the `slings and arrows` of ignorant, unilluminated people.
You are so right Mollie. Given the weight of responsibility upon his shoulders, his humility and personal compassion were a wonder to behold!
I can remember meetings Dr George King about 28yrs ago unfortunately like so many of the powerful wealthy people I’ve met on my journey in this life I didn’t make a good impression at all. Quite awful on my part really as I hadn’t a clue as to who they were. I personally wrote them all off as eccentrics as you probably guess I haven’t made much of things in this life.
What a very honest comment Edward, though I must say that Dr King lived very modestly and when he first went to America to spread his mission there was virtually penniless. You are not the only one to write him off as an eccentric, but unlike some others you have the guts to admit it. I know it’s a cliche to say it’s never too late, but some cliches really are true. Feel free to contact me at my email adddress if I can help in any way.
Thanks Richard, I can verify everything you have said. Some people use the word “awesome” very freely – but it is absolutely the right word for him. Every second I spent in his prescence was a lifetimes experience and I am still learning from his legacy!
Tony
Thanks Tony. You are certainly in a position to verify this having worked so closely under his direction. ‘Awesome’ is indeed the word!
Thank you, it was so beautiful to read I felt a tingling all over me.
It is an honour for me to write about Dr. King and to share these experiences. Thank you Joanna.
Thank you very much for sharing this story Mr. Lawrence. I find it wonderful and so inspiring! I have been a Full Member of the Aetherius Society for a short time and it gives me even more desire to be the disciple of Dr. King. Thank you again. Many blessings.
That is a wonderful spiritual ambition to have Eric, and I wish you every blessing in achieving it.
Thankyou for sharing these wonderful memories and insights.
It is an absolute pleasure to do so Emma.
OH, THIS IS SO WONDERFUL TO READ, AS IT REMINDS ME OF THE VERY SPECIAL FIRST MEETING THAT I HAD WITH OUR PRECIOUS MASTER !!! I ALWAYS CRY WHEN I TELL THE STORY. THANK YOU DEAR RICHARD FOR THIS WONDERFUL BLOG AND YOUR GREAT MEMORIES…..LUV IT !!!
I am sure Jane that your first meeting with our beloved Master was an experience you will never forget – and not only in this life!
“Greetings Richard,
What a Phenomenal Blessing you have just bestowed upon us by your enlightening us to moments you have shared with The Master George King! Your Heart & Mind precede you as you breathe every moment in Loving Service to God & Humanity & All Life Streams! Thank you so very much! …✨💖”
What a beautiful comment Pat. Dr. King was indeed a purveyor of endless possibilities – the very personification of Service to God and humanity!
Thank You
Bernie
My honour Bernie.
What a wonderfull man, I remember setting with him at many of our messings , with edna spencer and Treva Calder, How blessed I was , tears flow in my eyes as i remember those days , in detrit michigan we were few in number but full of love and learning from this master , there are no words I can speak of my gratitude in haveing to be able to set with him in medation and twelve blessings , like I say I am blessed to have been able to meet him in the 1960s ,I am now almost 86 years old , but I remember and am so humbled by it , God bless us all as we wait to meet him again .marlene thompson
Those were pioneering days indeed Marlene. Our task now is to make sure his legacy continues into the future as his students, followers and disciples.
I thankyou for sharing such information, accounts and stories associated with Dr King and your Society. I am intrigued by the accounts I read and hear about upon my occasional visits to the Birkenhead Centre. Upon my visits, I am welcomed and questions are answered. Thankyou for you who work in this Vineyard be Blest and taken care of in this life and beyond. Kakite Gloria
Thank you for your comments Gloria – your support of our activities locally is much appreciated.
Thank you for sharing this story Richard, I’m sure it is very close to your heart. A really wonderful and inspiriting post.
Thank you Lisa – it is so good to know that you and others are taking Dr King’s path forward into the future.
What a wonderful tribute to a fabulous Master, I could feel the love in every word and it gave me goosebumps. Thank you so very much for sharing such personal information, which in doing so allows us to feel that little bit closer to him. I myself feel very privileged in being able to share time with you all at The Aetherius Society, meeting such wonderful individuals and learning from your experiences. Please keep up all of your fabulous work, you truly are our modern day saviours
Deb X
Thank you so much Deb. Your support and recognition of our Master is welcomed by those of us who have followed his path for so many years and we love it when you are able to join us.
Thank you so much for sharing Mr. Lawrence. Sometimes it seems we are more removed today from the rich legacy of spiritual avatars who came to open our eyes in a most profound way! Your words provided a connection, in a very personal way, to this remarkable soul who came to earth almost 100 years ago!
I do agree Mark. We know something of what the avatars of the past did and taught, but little of what they were really like to know and spend time with. Each one was completely unique in their persona, for want of a better word, and much of that has been lost to posterity. Hopefully that won’t apply to Dr King.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful memories of Master King, Mr Lawrence. I smile whenever I look at a picture of the Master, and I have often thought that I would have loved to have met him in the physical. What a beautiful Master, and what an honour it is for me to be able to study his work through the Teachings he has left us. Thanks again.
Your comment is interesting, Sue, because a number of people have told me they feel a connection with the Master through his picture. Although you did not meet him physically, rest assured that through studying and especially practising King Yoga, his presence will be there with you in one way or another.
What a wonderful piece on the master, Rev. Lawrence. it’s so touching, inspiring and initiating.
It was my privilege to write it Edwin.
Dear Richard, first off I would like to address you by your well earned full title, however a more humble group, as was the Master, I have never encountered. As a spiritual explorer for what seems my whole life, I felt ” somewhat” complete becoming an active participant in the Ascended Masters Teaching Foundation devoted to the Great White Brotherhood, over 16 years ago. Last April I heard you on a radio show and immediately knew Dr. King was the missing link for me. I joined that night as a Friend and within a week became a full member. The glory of knowing how they work together fills me to overflowing. I gifted 6 searchers with the 12 Blessing so far…..one has joined and another in the process. There are no words to express my gratitude for the Master, Operation Sunbeam, Satelite #3 and to you Richard.
Your heartwarming memories were a wonderful appetizer……..LOOKING FORWARD TO THE MAIN COURSE.
with a grateful heart
peg groom
What a lovely comment, Peg. Dr. King taught me early on that appreciation is an essential attribute on the spiritual path and you clearly have it in abundance. Blessings to you, Richard.
Many thanks dear Richard for this wonderful and very thoughtful post. Very, very, very truthful and beautiful.
I too, in humble form, recall my only meeting with him in a projected state 8 years ago. I was in the audience listening to one of his lectures, presumably in the mental planes where I believe he is currently teaching. Afterwards I went to the front to approach him, and was overshadowed by someone who gave him a message through me, using my vocal cords. I don’t know who spoke (presumably a Master), but I recall that the words were very kind and very beautiful towards his work. After that I partially fainted and went to the floor. I clearly remember that his eyes were slightly wet, and he actually got emotional. He was truly taken by surprise! But the feature that really stayed with me was his eyes looking straight into me. I could see compassion overflowing through him in a way I have certainly never seen before. That look, that gift, is something I treasure immensely. His compassion reminds me that no matter how hard and dark the path ahead might be, it is the degree of humility which determines our degree of mastership.
Funnily enough, I only now realise, upon writing to you, that this meeting occurred on my actual birthday (19 April 2011 in the part of the world I was born, early hours of 20 April 2011 in Australia where I was at the time)
On a different matter, many congratulations on the new book – I hear it’s almost finished. I have offered Brian to help proof read it in case you’re interested. He knows who I am and how to reach me.
Blessings,
Alex Light
FOUNDER, WHERE THE LIGHT COMES
A brief cosmic Guide to Extraterrestrial Life Disclosure in the Emerging Fifth Dimension
Stillness – Leaning – Action
http://www.wherethelightcomes.com
Hi Alex, yes the Master’s compassion was boundless, as was his humility. Glad to hear you are in touch with Brian about things – blessings to you, Richard
Dear Richard,
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. As the years go by I learn so much more about this kind, clever and most wonderful individual that it is difficult to express my true feelings about him and his work as there are no real physical words to do justice to him. He came into my life and I had the privilege of seeing him, hearing him lecture, being in his presence at Aetherius House. Oh, so very, very special.
Mary Gourlay.
Yes Mary, we were indeed fortunate to be in his presence when he was physically on Earth – and indeed since, because his presence is still very much among us as many have experienced. Blessings, Richard
Thankyou Richard.
I like to be reminded of the connection in my isolation in Australia, and the recollection of the few hours spent in the company of the master after his public address on “Mars and Venus Speak to Earth” in 1958, leading up to attendance of The Twelve Blessings.
You certainly were one of the trailblazers Peter, meeting the Master in those early days and attending The Twelve Blessings as they were delivered. Though you may feel isolated, as do some of our other Members and sympathisers do who live remotely from others, you are very much part of the Aetherius Society ‘family’ which is not limited by geography or even realm! Blessings to you, Richard