1. What’s your name, where are you from and how long have you been a member of the TS?
Erica, I am Paulistana, Brazilian, almost Greek, citizen of the world. Have been a member for quite some time.
2. Are you active in your Lodge/Section and if so, what do you do?
Yes, I am an active member of the TS in Greece; co-founder of the Hypatia Lodge; have been an intermittent board member of the Greek Section, having had many positions, currently I am the Vice-President. I am also the director of the European School of Theosophy; also, the Director of the School of Wisdom; secretary of the International Theosophical history Conferences; chief Editor of The Lucifer Collection and The Hartmann Collection; Editor of Fota Newsletter (currently inactive).
3. How did you first learn about Theosophy or come in contact with the Society?
After reading a booklet entitled The Theosophical Society Today (in Portuguese) by Radha Burnier, the former international President of the Theosophical Society, I affiliated myself to the organization.
4. What does Theosophy mean to you?
For me, Theosophy is a way of life based on the idea that all beings are interconnected and interdependent, emphasizing the importance of cultivating humility, adopting a non-judgmental attitude and practicing compassion. It holds that understanding and communication are key components in resolving conflicts while recognizing the value of diversity and promoting respect for all cultures and faiths. It acknowledges the fragility and impermanence of life and encourages individuals to cherish every moment while pointing out that change and transformation are to be accepted as natural processes of life. Also, encourages individuals to recognize and let go of limiting beliefs, dogmas and thought patterns, to adopt an attitude of freedom of thought, and in doing so, to cultivate an open mind, a mind without bias and prejudice. It promotes the idea that life has a higher purpose than material gain or worldly success.
As a philosophy, it is also empowering because it promotes the idea that each individual has the power to shape and transform their life through thought and action. It motivates individuals to use their unique skills and talents to express their creativity and goals. It emphasises the importance of personal responsibility for shaping one's own life experiences, while also highlighting compassion. Ultimately, it supports the idea that each of us has, regardless of the challenges we face, can become a force for peace and harmony in the world.
5. What is your favorite Theosophical book and why?
I have no particular favorite book. According to what I've read so far, each book that makes up the Theosophical literature has something unique and special to offer.
6. What in your opinion is the biggest challenge the TS is facing at the moment?
In today's fast-paced, technologically-driven society, where material success is prioritized over spiritual growth, I believe the greatest challenge is maintaining relevance. To overcome this challenge, the Theosophical Society must implement strategies that appeal to all generations and demonstrate the continued relevance of its objectives. It needs to become an adaptive and progressive organization in its approach, while keeping its core principles.
Also, to foster greater participatory decision-making processes internally, while also engaging with more communities to promote compassion, and foster dialogue. The Theosophical Society itself has experiences in internal divisions and schisms, therefore, encouraging open dialogue and fostering unity within the Society and with other organizations is also important. This will showcase its role as a unifying force that fosters understanding and dialogue. Additionally, finding ways to grow readership and broaden its appeal by adapting its ideas for modern audiences. Giving a stronger emphasis to Theosophy as a way of life i.e., applied Theosophy. I could go on.
7. Is there anything you would wish for the future of the Theosophical Movement?
Per Aspera ad Astra
Through adversity to the Stars
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.