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How to Know Higher Worlds – Rudolf Steiner

As pupils, we should embark upon the path of knowledge quietly, unnoticed by the outer world.  No one should perceive any change in us.  We continue to carry out our duties and attend to our business just as before.  Changes occur only in the inner part of the soul, which is withdrawn from, and invisible to, the outer eye..........................

We develop this state as a kind of second being within us, while our other healthy self continues on its normal course.  We learn to keep the two beings apart and to regulate their interaction properly.  All this we do in full consciousness.  Thus we do not become useless and incompetent in practical life; we do not lose our interest and skilfulness for life because we are ‘practising spiritual research’.  Nevertheless, the experiences we have in the supersensible world will radiate throughout our whole being; rather than alienating us from life, they will make us more productive and effective.

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As this higher life makes its influence more and more felt in our ordinary, established lives, the calm of our contemplative moments begins to affect our everyday existence.  Our whole being becomes more peaceful.  We act with greater confidence and certainty in all our undertakings. We do not lose composure in the face of all kinds of events.  Slowly, as we continue on the path, we increasingly come to guide ourselves, as it were, rather than allowing ourselves to be led by circumstances and outer influences.  Before long, we realise that the moments set aside each day are a great source of strength for us.