From Theosophy’s Sacred Teachings: Gems from the East: A Birthday Book of Precepts and Axioms (June - September), Part 1 of 2

“Gems from the East: A Birthday Book of Precepts and Axioms” was written by Madame Blavatsky and published in late 1889. With selections from famous scriptures and books to introduce the months, and Oriental precept or axiom is given for each day of the year. Spirituality is not what we understand by the words “virtue” and “goodness.” It is the power of perceiving formless, spiritual essences. The discovery and right use of the true essence of Being – this is the whole secret of life. “The mind, enlightened, casts its grief away!” – It is not to be known by knowledge! man knows it not by wisdom! learning vast Halts short of it! Only by soul itself is soul perceived – when the soul wills it so! There shines no light save its own light to show Itself unto itself!”