What is the purpose of the "New Age Echo"?
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You should first know that everyone agrees to disagree on the              
term New Age.

The consensus has been that it defines this conference better than
Esoteric  or  Metaphysical, even though we discuss these topics.
We chose to avoid Occult since it tends to create negative images,
even though Webster defines occult as --
           "beyond the range of ordinary knowledge; mysterious".

The New Age actually refers to a transition to a new era for mankind.

Some people call this the Age of Aquarius, a Magical Blending of 
ancient values and new ideas, the Dawn of a New Era for Mankind.

On this conference and  on  "Starseed" the BBS, you will find discussions
of ancient beliefs and a variety of world religions; holistic health and
lifestyles;  Ideas that fall into the category of "consciousness raising".
But you will also find issues of science and  philosophy, because we feel
the New Age will blend the arts, sciences, religions and politics rather
than seperate them.

So don't be surprised to find quantum physics mixed with religion,
world politics and a tarot card or I Ching reading!
Or Celestials, Interdimensional beings, and  Crystal Healing.

I can best explain our purpose as a Transformative Journey.  If I can
lift from Magical Blend Magazine, whose editors state it so well --
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"A new world view is being born.  Our aim is to chart the course for this
transformation and assist the individual in channeling their thoughts  
into positive, uplifting areas.  To act as a catalyst to encourage the
individual to acheive his or her highest level of spiritual awareness.
We endorse no one pathway, but attempt to explore  many alternative
possibilities to help transform the planet."        

That transformation, to me, is the transition to the New Age.
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           Enjoy the journey!!                         

PS --

I'm often asked for "rules" to this conference.  There are few
rules but these are essential --

NO private  messages.  This is an Echo Conference and its nature
requires Public messages for all to read.

Try to send messages of moderate length.  One liners cost money
for the sysops who transmit this conference around the country and
perhaps around the world.   So do extremely lengthy messages.
Keep that in mind.

Personal messages and interchanges should be shared elsewhere...
either on a local area that is not transmitted or in private net
mail.   Think in terms of the group reading what you have to say.

The conference is for DISCUSSION!  No preaching or proselytizing,
no "vulgar or profane" lashing out,   and no condemnations.

We have freedom of speech here and as moderator I do not censor
material.  However,  if I or any member finds flagrant abuse of the
above "rules"  you may find yourself out of the conference.

While "New Age" is certainly a broad range for discussion,  try to
keep to topic.  This is hard to define and the group generally
sets the tone for what is "topical".

If you take exception  to this policy,  feel free to discuss the
matter.   Likewise if  you have suggestions for improvement,
please share.   This IS a democracy!

                     *** Jami Morgan,  New Age Moderator