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148 Woodcnft Manual for Oiila The Life Force By Dr. Valeria Parker The greatest force in the Universe is known as the Life Force. Although common to every living thing, it has never been understood by philosophers nor has it been created by scientists. We know, however, that in whatever form it manifests itself, the Life Force has three powers— growth, assirnilation, and con- tinuation of its own life through new lives. This last is the great jx)wer by which our world, with its many forms of plant and animal life, is renewed, throughout the ages. We call this power reproduction. In plants and animals, reproduction takes place through definite laws and at definite seasons, controlled by the force we call Nature. In human l)einps, reprwluction, or paienthood, is governed by mind and spirit, but if uncontrolled, instead of being a force of life and happiness, it becomes a means of degirad&tioD ol body, mind, and spirit, leading to destruction. Because of the great importance of the Life Force in Human Beings, reproductive power is not fully received until about the twelfth or fourteenth year. During and after this lime, sjiecial facts diould be known and understood in order that the body may receive projjcr care and that character and self-control may be developed. Therefore, now that you have fiassed the years of childhood and since you are responsible for the care of your own body and the development of your ov.n character you should know the special laws governing human life. You should also be prepared at those times when rest and freedom from boctily exercise arc necessarv, to forfeit, cheerfully, pleasure and in- clination, in order to preserve your future health. When it is understood, reverenced, and guided in the right direction, the Life Force, when not concerned in parenthood, is used in strengthening the body and the mind. As this great f<MX» becomes a part <rf your life and is given into your keeping, it becomes your privilege to know the facts concerning it for the development of Ixxlily strength and moral character. Some of this information you may get from lKK)ks concerning which your Guide will advise you. From older persons whom you resiiect you mav learn important truths. Never should you sedi facts from those who by word or action shew t!iat they would treat lightly or even degrade the Power of Life. After you lM;gin to understand the true meaning of womanhood, you are asked to memorize the following, resolving that you will hold your share in the "Life of the Ages" as a sacred trust to be used