In my recent post on books that aren’t just effects or just theory and philosophy, I neglected to mention one of my favorites. It’s such a favorite that I happen to have two copies: one pristine for reading and one with printing errors but filled with signatures and inscriptions from the various contributors. While Eugene Burger and Jeff McBride are listed as the authors, they were the visionaries, creators and facilitators of the event that became known as the Mystery School.
I didn’t make it to the original Mystery School events during the 10 years they were held. I was employed in the consulting industry and spent my time flying from project to project, trying to help make companies better and more effective but feeling frustrated that things didn’t stick and wondering why. After years of reflection, I have a few answers to that question but that’s a discussion for another day.
I was able to attend the Mystery School Reunion held in conjunction with the release of the book by Todd Karr’s Miracle Factory in 2003. Instead of a yoga ashram or small college as the original Mystery Schools were, this was held in Las Vegas in the now closed Wonderdome. However like the others, this did have its secrets and mysteries that were not disclosed – at least by me.
This wasn’t my first experience with the Magic and Mystery School as I had attended a Masterclass, the unforgettable Legends of Magic Retreat, and the Weekend of Wonder. Each event was filled with learning and growing in magic; each in their unique way. The Legends of Magic Retreat deserves its own post so hopefully I’ll get to it in the near future.
I had pre-ordered the Mystery School book when it was first announced now based on Todd’s erratic delivery schedule seems chancy. However Todd had brought a box of books that had errors in them. In my case there was no editorial from Todd. Fortunately he was kind enough to remedy it.
Throughout the event I was able to have each contributor write an inscription or sign their essay. Each essay is different as some are effects, others are presentational frames, and other are more philosophical and theoretical.
Regretfully there are contributors that I have never been able to have them sign this copy. However the book remains a favorite and one that I return to regularly.
