- What’s your name, where are you from and how long have you been a member of the TS?
My name is Gabriel Burgos. I am from Colombia, was born in 1925, and am close to turning 95 years old! In 1958, at the age of 33, I became a member of the TS.
- Are you active in your Lodge/Section and if so, what do you do?
Since I entered the TS, I have committed myself to the organization and to the work that the Elder Brothers are doing for the spiritual awakening of humanity. Without interruption, I actively participated with enthusiasm and dedication in studies and debates at my lodge from the very beginning. The same in my Section, of which I was General Secretary during four terms, and a member of the Board of Directors for several decades.
- How did you first learn about Theosophy or come in contact with the Society?
A friend of my wife told us several times about Theosophy. We listened to her, but we were not interested until my wife was confronted with a strange phenomenon a few months after her father's death. We went to that friend, who put us in touch with a distinguished member of the TS, Mr. Walter Ballesteros, who gave us insights and clear explanations, and from that moment on he became our teacher, friend and guide.
- What does Theosophy mean to you?
For me Theosophy is the highest philosophy in the world, which opens horizons towards the Real, each day broader, illuminating and clear, as we study and live it permanently. That understanding and experience, allows us to be useful and instrumental for the work of the Masters.
- What is your favorite Theosophical book and why?
There are several “favorite” books. For a good understanding of different subjects, the works of Dr. I. K. Taimni have been and still are invaluable to me. Our classic books such as At the Feet of the Master, The Voice of Silence and Light on the Pat are for daily inspiration.
- What in your opinion is the biggest challenge the TS is facing at the moment?
Almost everywhere, committed members are aging — some are already very old, like me, while little interest for Theosophy is seen in young people. Membership has decreased considerably.
We must see where we are failing to attract especially a younger generation, many of whom are, now more than ever, faced with many challenges and uncertainties which cause distress, and this fully absorbs them. Being in this condition, they do not have time to think about philosophies, as they are presented through the Theosophical Society. However, if they would knew about its existence, the teachings could help solve many of their problems.
- Is there anything you would wish for the future of the Theosophical Movement?
Perhaps, to attract younger members, we should talk less and listen more. If we listen to them, they will show us where their doubts and concerns lay, which, with our knowledge and theosophical experience, we can help to unravel.
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.