- What’s your name, where are you from and how long have you been a member of the TS?
My name is Lonny Marie García Hernández. I’m from Puerto Rico, a tropical island in the Caribbean.
I visited the Theosophical Society in Puerto Rico for the first time in September 2015 and became a formal member on November 22, 2015.
- Are you active in your Lodge/Section and if so, what do you do?
The Theosophical Society in Puerto Rico has three lodges and I’m an active member of “The Voice of the Silence Lodge” (i.e. Logia La Voz del Silencio). There we study every Wednesday. Currently, with the Pandemic, our study group is meeting online through Zoom and all TS Members are welcome to join us. The classes are in Spanish and directed by our Brother Víctor Portes. We read theosophical books and discuss many topics, generating ideas that contribute positively to our surroundings and community as a whole.
- How did you first learn about Theosophy or come in contact with the Society?
When I was 18 years old, I found Theosophy on the internet while I was doing research on some spiritual topics, but at that moment I was too shy to try to locate the office-building and go there personally. A few years later, I was now in n my 30's, I came across Theosophy through the internet once more, and decided to locate the physical facilities for a visit. When I arrived at “The Voice of the Silence Lodge” meeting, members were studying The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett and although I didn’t know anything about the topics they were discussing, I felt like I had arrived in the correct place. It just clicked.
- What does Theosophy mean to you?
Theosophy for me is a way of living, in which by knowing myself and making changes within, I can help society as a whole. It is hope for a better future. It is a tool that helps us distinguish between reality and illusion, so that we can give importance to what is real. It’s a Path which helps us become useful for the work of the Masters.
- What is your favorite Theosophical book and why?
My favorite book is the Bhagavad Gita. Although it was written long before the Theosophical Society was founded, it contains that ageless wisdom and practical advice needed to deal with situations in our daily lives. It is a book that gives you the feeling that it changes you from within, every time you read it. It contains it all, including Theosophy.
- What in your opinion is the biggest challenge the TS is facing at the moment?
I believe that the biggest challenge in Puerto Rico is establishing continuity, making young persons interested in this line of study and work.
- Is there anything you would wish for the future of the Theosophical Movement?
I wish that the Theosophical Movement is able to expand all over the world. I wish to see Theosophical schools at elementary level so that young students are able to learn about the ageless wisdom, and will consider cooperating with the work of the Masters to advance the divine plan of evolution.
From the editor:
Opinions and ideas expressed in the mini-interviews are exclusively of those who are being interviewed. They don’t necessarily represent the ideas and opinions of the compilers of Theosophy Forward. The responses of the interviewees are not edited for content. Some contributors give short answers to the questions while others touch upon the subject more elaborately.