There are 2 spaces on the board that state:

"Gain 1 Life. Then you can buy LIfe at the cost of 1 Influence each. Your Life cannot exceed the starting value."

The question: Do you get the 1st free Life even if you are at/over your starting Life value?

Possible ways to play the space:

1) Gain a Life no matter what your current value is. Then you can purchase Life if you are below your starting value, but cannot exceed this value through purchasing.

-or-

2) You cannot gain a Life or purchase Life if you are already at/over your starting Life value when encountering this space.

What do you think?

I'd say option 2 since the last sentence doesn't say "You cannot purchase life over your starting value".

Upon discussion with our group, I'd agree. We played it that you can't get anything out of that Text Box if you are at/over your starting Life Value.