Bulletin 11/24/2008

Sema Institute Temple of Shetaut Neter Bulletin 11/24/2008

Udja,

A question was asked about reinstituting a collection for the Atlanta initiative that had been suspended a few months ago. This also tied in with another separate discussion during an Atlanta group meeting where the subject of the book Death of Am Empire came up and the collapse of the Atlanta housing market was discussed as it might present opportunities for acquiring a property at lower cost for the institution of a Shetaut Neter facility.

In view of the current economic situation and looking ahead I suggest the following.

The cautions about the politics and economics we have presented over the last 2 ½ years have been fairly accurate. It is likely that the economy will deteriorate more in the future and we will also possibly see a collapse in the US dollar within the next 12 months.

That being the likely case we may expect real estate to collapse further (during the Depression of the 1930's house values generally dropped more than 50%) and there is a possibility for social unrest. So it would be more prudent to wait for the economy to bottom further and for the dollar to collapse if that will occur; that way the better opportunities will be found -considering that the social conditions will allow such a facility to operate and be sustained. In the mean time moneys should be put away in safe investments that will be protected from the deterioration of the economy and the dollar fall as much as possible and also possibly in investments that will appreciate if the dollar falls. Then at some point there may be a window of opportunity wherein the savings and investments will have additional purchasing power and may be used more effectively. I have discussed such investments in the books and with Asr. Setna and you may discuss with him further if you would like to proceed with such a plan. Note that at such time the funds could be used anywhere or to sustain ongoing operations. In view of current conditions I recommend the following actions be taken ASAP.

Ø If you followed the advice at the beginning of the year and from the last 2½ years you should have curtailed unnecessary expenses and have funds left over each month to put aside (as stated elsewhere, it is not good enough to set aside funds, it is necessary to get them out of the US Dollar before any possible collapse).
Ø You may also want to consider stocking up on basic items (such as dried foods that can last for months or up to a year or more-resources listed in the books-one source may be http://www.efoodsdirect.com); additionally you should be starting sprouting and or gardens you may use for supplementary food-as prices may rise substantially within the next 12 months. The current drop in prices for some items and gasoline is only temporary - anyway the core inflation numbers have not gone down - so higher prices are expected especially with all the bailouts and especially if the dollar fully collapses-food prices may rise substantially -beyond most budgets (this is one of the aspects of the socio-economic crisis that may

lead to higher crime and social unrest).
Ø You should also consider establishing a communal plan of action to assist each other and possibly contribute or share resources and expertise if you live close by in the event of a breakdown of social services or in the event of extreme economic distress.
Ø I further suggest that in addition to or aside from a general fund each of you should have already started your own personal/family secured funds in accordance with the ideas presented in the books-no matter how small or large;
Ø If possible you should have some cash on hand in the event that banks close down temporarily or for extended periods.
Ø If you can you should have a plan of action for emergency evacuation if your geographical area sustains severe social unrest. As a temporary measure group members in different geographical areas may provide temporary sanctuary for any group members in need.
Ø Instead of spending unnecessary moneys for presents during the holidays spend the moneys on preparing yourself for the rough year ahead and do not be caught surprised as others will be. Instead give the gift of wisdom or a homemade inexpensive gift.

Realize that this is not financial advice but a general economic discussion about trends and possible future events. I expect you all to research and review what you have learned and to make informed adult decisions about your finances.

Remember that wisdom is a gift of the goddess (Aset) and prudent action (Maat) is dictated by wisdom and wisdom makes a way for the practice of the teachings. So our purpose is not to get rich but to preserve wealth so that we may be able to continue living as decent a lifestyle as possible that is suitable for success in the practice in the teachings. The knowledge of and capacity to practice the teachings are a blessing that also provides will and the fortitude and maturity to face the world and meet its challenges. Do not be discouraged, rather take proper actions. Do not neglect the practice of some daily discipline to remind you and keep you aware of the teaching in your day to day life. I am confident that with the teachings, which have allowed awareness of the problems of life and the poise to confront and meet the problems and with proper Maatian action enjoined by the wisdom, the teaching will help us all through the challenges ahead.