Holidays

Wisdom Gained in Chile, and Celebrating Spring Holidays

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Welcome to April! We are now officially in Aries, the first sign in the Zodiac, corresponding with the March 20 Vernal Equinox.

This would be a good time to check things out with your local, trusted astrologer. Let them get you up to speed on all that’s happening from their astrological perspective, and see what resonates and works out.

This April has many religious holy days — Passover and Easter being the most well known here in the U.S. Many of these days reflect Spring celebrations and beginnings. Eggs are set at the table for Easter and Seder, and lamb and greens are served at both celebrations. Yes, whatever your religious persuasion, a table with lots of food to eat makes for a grand time.

I know that for many families during this holiday season, what is very important is enjoying the children who are smiling and having fun. Coloring Easter eggs, going on Easter hunts, etc. At Seders, the little ones get to sit next to grandma and ask four questions.

One theory holds that the symbol of the bunny rabbit on Easter stems from a pagan tradition, specifically the festival of “Eostre” — named after a goddess of fertility whose animal symbol was a bunny. Rabbits, known for their energetic breeding, have traditionally symbolized fertility.

I recently traveled to Chile. OK, you’ve heard me rave about Africa, still my favorite trip. But I now have to say that Chile comes close to tying Africa as my favorite destination. If Chile is not on your travel list, I would highly recommend that you add it, and don’t hesitate to go!

I know many of you have heard about Patagonia, a famous place in Chile (seen in the picture above). However, there are many other beautiful places there, including deserts, lakes, and mountains where the third largest glacier is.

Mother Earth (Mama Pacha, as the Chileans refer to her) is revered by the indigenous people who live in harmony with the Earth, and do all they can to preserve their traditions, land, and country. Chileans are very proud of their country, and are very willing to express their love of Mother Earth with others.

A shout-out to Almendia, who enlightened me regarding the Chilean land, history and culture. Lots I didn’t know. For instance, there is a huge German population that emigrated to Chile.

People travel from all over the world to get to Chile, and it’s very cool to interact with those fellow travelers. Mostly I met Brazilians and Argentinians, but there were also lots of Brits, Germans, Canadians and Asians, as well as many Americans.

Interestingly enough, although Chile is a Catholic country, while there I heard that many parents have left the Church, because they are disappointed with much of what’s going on within the Church itself. The holidays remain important in relationship to the family, but not the Church. I’m sure many of you can relate.

I’ve always been a big believer that sometimes we need to stretch out of our comfort zone, to better ourselves. Traveling to Chile, or to another country, or even another area in your own state, is one way of stretching out.

There are many ways to travel, and many wonderful companies that can arrange your adventure at a very reasonable rate. One thing I’ve noticed is that many retired teachers love to travel! They deserve it for all the services performed to help educate children.

Speaking of children, I’m doing a fundraiser on April 4th, for TEEG (Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group) — a small grassroots non-profit social service agency in North Grosvenordale, CT. They began in 1985 as a group of volunteers that joined together to meet the needs of “Three Rows”, the largest mill village in the North Grosvenordale section of Thompson. The community volunteers determined their focus was to create a safe place for children to play and to foster “self-help.” In 1988, TEEG was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. At TEEG, they have always believed that the quality of their service rests on two things: Compassion for those who seek their service, and accountability to those who fund their programs.

Ah yes, Spring is here! Enjoy this wonderful time of the year. And kids, it’s time for those seeds to be planted! Quite literally, and of course symbolically on other levels as well.

I look forward to seeing many of you at my upcoming events. Yes, it’s all about those we love.

The Holidays Are Here!

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Holidays, Holidays, Holidays! Yes, I am repeating myself, but the reality is this: it is now THE Holiday Season.

And while this special Season of Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Years is usually designated as a time for enjoyment and fun, the holidays (and other special days) can also be difficult, as we who have lost loved ones — especially recently — recognize.

For many folks right now, especially in some of our most beautiful States hit by tragedy — for example, the California fires — events are taking their toll on many lives and families. Thankfully, there is an outpouring of Love from people who want to help.

I have always admired those volunteers who step up to help others in need. Performing “in the clutch,” as they say.

I am also very amazed at those who have so little in the material (Earthly) realm, yet who can nonetheless selflessly share what they do have. And in the process help themselves and others understand the human condition.

Which reminds me of our loved ones in Spirit, who are still our guiding lights.

Recently, there were so many heroic acts that I heard and read about, involving the recent tragedies. Some stories really touched my heart, two especially.

One: There was a woman who had given birth during the fires. She wasn’t able to leave the hospital immediately because she had a C-section. The woman entrusted her son, Lincoln, to a man to care for her son during the fires. (Her husband and two girls were away somewhere else, and safe.)

Once the woman got released from the hospital, she drove toward her house that had been burned to the ground. Along the way, she met the man who was caring for Lincoln. How’s that for a synchronicity?

Later, she drove by her property and thought to herself that she was a “blessed woman,” given all that she had experienced. How’s that for a positive attitude?

Another story I heard involved an elderly 90-year old lady who was trapped in her house. A nearby sanitation worker saw her, rescued her, and drove four hours to safety. He got to hear wonderful stories from her 90-years of life. I’m sure many of them involved Christmas.

And yes, Christmas is once again on the way. Most often, we will not remember the presents we received under the Christmas tree — twenty, thirty, fifty or however many years ago. But, I think most of us will remember those very special gifts — a new bicycle, a doll, or an air gun perhaps. Or for those really lucky folks, a special trip that the family saved for, took, and enjoyed.

Very special memories like those exist in your heart, and are there to stay. Reflect, and enjoy!

Here’s hoping you’ll be experiencing some very special moments this holiday season, more happy moments to remember.

And let me say here, in my last newsletter of 2018, that I am very Thankful for connecting with so many of you and your loved ones in Spirit. Something I plan to continue to do, and be so honored to do, in the future.

And, if I may also suggest, keep your hearts open to receive all the Love you attract and deserve. That philosophy extends not only to you, but to all of your loved ones here, there, and everywhere — including, of
course, to those on the Other Side.

And, as always, let us be thankful for what we do have.

My last event of the year with be with Thomas John. The event is called “ Home for the Holidays,” to be held in Sturbridge MA.

Have a warm, loving, and heartfelt holiday. Share that Love because there is so much GOOD to go around.

Coming Together in Gratitude at the Afterlife Conference

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Here we are in November — the month of connecting with family and friends while enjoying food, drink, laughter, and most importantly, Love — especially on Thanksgiving.

“Sharing our bounty” where it’s needed is key. And sharing Love that’s needed around the world is part of the program. When giving to charities, be selective.

Just did another Afterlife Conference. This year the event was held in Orlando, Florida. As always, a very special conference — lots of sharing with so many wonderful people who worked tirelessly in giving, in any way they could, to help others.

Reminded me of hospice workers, nurse practitioners, shamans who assist their clients’ transition to the Other Side, and all those who are there to listen to folks who have had a loved one pass away, sometimes right before the holiday season.

And then, of course, there are mediums.

Whoever the speaker, the message always is this: We are all here to help heal and give in any way we can — to and for those who need our services. Yes, we are all at times called upon to perform a service, though some of us may not hear, or heed, the call.

For those of us who do hear and heed that call, there are so many ways we can assist. Whatever is performed, it doesn’t have to be of earth-shaking magnitude. It can be a simple task like helping an elderly person across the street.

The other day when I was home in NYC, a woman who was trying to get on the bus was having difficulties — her eyesight was so bad she couldn’t select from her purse, the right change to put into the machine to get on the bus. So, another woman and I helped her out and got her on board.

Then while I was in Orlando, there were several women in my workshop who talked about how there was a rainbow all around the Pulse area where the tragic and infamous Orlando shootings took place. The women were all in awe of the rainbow, and spoke of how beautiful and powerful the rainbow was.

Another gentleman in the workshop remarked about how he happened to be in Northern California when the recent fires broke out — right near where his dear friend Jill had a rescue mission for horses. What he couldn’t believe was, all the barns in that area had caught fire, except one, which belonged to Jill. She had been sitting on the road for over three hours in prayer, and her barn was the only one that didn’t catch on fire! He said that if he hadn’t seen it with his own eyes, he wouldn’t have believed it. Yes, prayers can work!

These are just some of the wonderful stories that I have had the honor of hearing, as I performed my service as a medium.

Part of the joy of being at the Afterlife Conference was observing how so many attended not just because of a wish to connect with their loved ones on the Other Side, but to connect to Life here on Planet Earth.

I care about our existence here. My work is not about the DPs (dead persons) per se, but actually about the living folks who remain connected to their loved ones on the Other Side. However, all may and do benefit from the connection.

For all my living folks out there in Internet land, as we approach the holidays — Thanksgiving happens this month, of course — remember: don’t ever feel that the little acts and deeds that you do don’t matter, because they absolutely do.

Even a “Thank you” can mean so much. For example, a very humble young woman walked up to me after my workshop at the Afterlife Conference and thanked me for reminding her that there is no one way
for all of us who are on a spiritual journey, to proceed. I was so happy to receive that feedback.

Indeed, we are not all meant to be one thing. We are individuals meant to be who we are individually, and destined to engage the challenges that emerge along the way.

Next year the Afterlife Conference will be held in Salt Lake City. Hope to see you there.

Enjoy this wonderful time of giving and thanks. I look forward to connecting with many of you in my Florida events, Tampa, Boca and Fort Lauderdale and of course another special “Hope for the Holidays” in Roanoke!

Welcome Spring!

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Welcome Spring! Birds singing, rivers running from snow melts, greens surfacing, animals and humans shedding their heavy coats. Yes, it’s Spring – home to the Easter and Passover holidays!

I know that for many Christian families, Easter is a very important holiday, if for no other reason than enjoying the sight of children smiling. Children always have fun at Easter time, with all the Easter eggs, and Easter hunts, fancy dinners, and competition over who gets to sit next to grandma. And of course, there’s all that candy ostensibly brought by the Easter Bunny.

According to Time, the origins of the Easter bunny are clouded in mystery. One theory is that the symbol of the rabbit stems from pagan tradition, specifically the festival of Eostre – a goddess of fertility whose animal symbol was a bunny. Rabbits, known for their energetic breeding, have traditionally symbolized fertility.

However, according to another version broadcast by the History Channel, the Easter bunny first arrived in America in the 1700s with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania and transported their tradition of an egg-laying hare called “Osterhase” or “Oschter Haws.” The children made nests in which this creature could lay its colored eggs. Eventually, the custom spread across the U.S. and the fabled rabbit’s Easter morning deliveries expanded to include chocolate and other types of candy and gifts, while decorated baskets replaced nests. Additionally, children often left out carrots for the bunny in case he got hungry from all his hopping.

Most importantly, Easter and Passover are times to connect or reconnect, enjoy, be still, and bask in the experience of being with loved ones. On these (and other) holidays, folks that don’t have any family or places to go are often invited to a friend’s or neighbor’s Seder (the Jewish ritual service and ceremonial dinner for the first night or first two nights of Passover) or Easter Dinner.

Like so many of us do during the emerging Spring, I stare in awe of Nature’s changes and all the emerging beauty that occurs during this time. It’s not always perfect, given some of those noisy birds, especially the woodpeckers. But it’s still fun to see squirrels and chipmunks scurrying around, the trees waiting to bud, and the grass starting to grow.

Recently, while doing a bit of Spring cleaning, I came across Rachel Carson’s Book, Silent Spring. Rachel Louise Carson was an American marine biologist, author, and conservationist whose writings are credited with advancing the global environmental movement. Clearly she was a woman who was way ahead of her time.

One matter of concern is that we need to do whatever is necessary to make sure our children and grandchildren and great grandchildren, etc. get to share in the beauties of Nature. It’s an understatement, but one that needs to be observed: it’s crucial to protect the environment. There is a Native American philosophy that we need to save the Earth for seven generations. (Now an environmental company has adopted this philosophy, see https://www.7genergy.com/stakeholders/environment.) This is not something any of us can leave for others, including the government, to do. It is something we need to do in any way we can-become an activist, donate to true and effective environmental causes, recycle, etc. – because we want the next generations to inherit clean air and water, and all of the beauty that Mother Earth provides which sustains us. Just as we protect those we love, we need to protect Mother Earth.

In my travels, I often have conversations with people who are not only concerned about the environment, but who just love to talk about the Spring which of course includes discussing Nature, gardening, taking hikes and enjoying the sun. Honestly, those conversations warm my heart.

On another note, let me offer a great BIG thanks to all of those great people who attended my recent events in Louisiana and Canada. Met some wonderful mediums as well.

Of course, I look forward to seeing so many of you during my upcoming Spring events. Some new and of course repeats: Connecticut, St. Louis, Michigan, Minneapolis, and Chicago to name a few.

So, yes, it is now Spring. Open your hearts and savor the moments.

And as always wishing you the best of holidays!

It’s a Wonderful Life!

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It’s a wonderful life!

I am sure most of you have either grown up with, or at least seen, the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life,” starring Jimmy Stewart. Directed by Frank Capra, the film was released in 1946 but is still a Christmas-time favorite on TV. I know all of you reading this who relate to angels, DP (dead person) experiences, dream visits, synchronicities, etc. can also relate to that movie.

The story is about George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart) who is in a dark mood and wishes that he was never born. An angel (Henry Travers) appears and arranges an alternate reality so that George can witness what life would have been like in his town if he were in fact never born. George observes the alternate reality and realizes all the good he has done, and how many lives he has helped, and how everything would have been very different in a negative way if he had never been born. He wants to go back to his real world, and manages to get there, feeling all the better.

What a wonderful reminder that we must take time to focus on the positive.

I’m also reminded of a quote from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Meeting so many of you throughout my travels has made my life more wonderful, and hearing George Bailey-type stories from many of you always warms my heart. Never lose sight of the fact that you make a difference in other people’s lives.

In last month’s newsletter, I talked about this with regard to the fires in Northern California and the hurricanes elsewhere. So many George Bailey-type folks stepped up to help others, and make a difference.

Recently, I was in the doctor’s office doing a routine check-up when one of the technicians came by. I did what I often do, and started a conversation. I learned in a very few minutes that the technician was from Haiti, and that after all these years in New York, she still didn’t like the cold but loved her job. The conversation went from that to how her grandmother would not go to sleep at night until they had a conversation.

The technician went on to say how she grew up in a mud house that her grandfather had built, and how all the family still goes there to carry on traditions, pass down stories, look at the sky, and take in the nature of the island. She stressed that every year she takes her children to her home village where they all engage in family traditions, and show their respect for elders and Nature.

I listened attentively, knowing that I had just shared a bonding moment with a kindred spirit. And like George Bailey, she recognized so many wonderful things about her family. Most impressively, she has been engaging in these family gatherings since she was three years old. That, my friends, is a gift.

As Christmas approaches, the little ones will be looking forward to their holiday gifts. But let us not forget that when the children grow up, and the toys are all but forgotten, what the kids-turned-adults will appreciate most are the happy moments shared with family and close friends, and the differences made in the lives of others – just like George Bailey during his wonderful life.

Looking forward to my last “Home for the Holiday” event in Sturbridge, MA with Thomas John on December 19th. Of course, I’ll also be gearing up for 2018 as well. There will be some new places to attend, and old places to revisit. Looking forward to meeting old and new friends along the way.

Wishing you the best Holiday Season ever. As my special gift to you this season, I’m offering a full hour of readings live on my December radio show! My special guest will be Austyn Wells, spiritual medium and soul gardener. The show will air on Monday, December 11 at 6 pm EST / 3 pm PST on Blog Talk Radio. I hope you will join us!

Spring Holidays and Traditions

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Welcome to April! Having just passed the Vernal Equinox, which arrived officially on March 22nd, we are now in Aries. The rites of Spring and new beginnings are upon us! Let’s enjoy!

Aries is the beginning of the Zodiac. Indeed, most of you Aries folks are aware of this, but for those not in the know, it’s a good time to check with your favorite astrologer and ask them to bring you up to speed on what the stars say is about to happen in your life.

This year, April features the holy days of Passover and Easter, which are so very popular here in the US. These religious holidays are reflections of Spring – and symbolize joy, re-birth and new beginnings.

Interestingly, Passover is celebrated at home whereas Easter is primarily honored at church (although, of course, Easter dinners are quite popular). While Easter begins at sunrise and Passover starts at sundown, both events feature family gatherings and traditions. For children, there can be the fun of an Easter egg hunt, or getting to see and maybe sit next to Grandma and Grandpa at the Passover Seder.

Interesting too that Jesus’ Last Supper is often thought of as a Passover Seder meal (although there is some disagreement about this among religious scholars). In any event, Leonardo Di Vinci’s great artwork, “The Last Supper,” continues to remind us that Jesus was a Jew who observed Passover.

Speaking of great art, if you have never experienced listening to the magnificent “Saint John Passion” or the “Saint Matthew Passion,” both composed by Bach, give it a try. Both are moving, inspiring, and beautiful works of music that can elevate your spirit.

Speaking of which, the story of Jesus’ resurrection on the first Easter Sunday not only elevates the spirits of Christians, but symbolizes for all of us that there is life after death. This interpretation reflects the reality of my work, which is to help you maintain your continued connections to your loved ones who have crossed over to the Other Side.

Easter is also a reminder that by listening, praying, meditating, and keeping our minds and hearts open, we can communicate with our loved ones who have crossed over. For we are all spirits having a human experience on Planet Earth. While our bodies may eventually turn to dust, the true essence of what we are, like Love, does not die.

But getting back to Earth for a moment, I would suggest that you take advantage of this wonderful time in April. If you have any little ones, you know that they love painting eggs, and participating in egg hunts. Even at the White House, people are participating in “Easter Egg Rolls.” For my Jewish friends, make sure you attend that traditional Seder. If Grandma or Grandpa or any other loved one has crossed over, think of them while your are at the table, and perhaps say their names out loud if you feel that would be appropriate. At the very least, honor their memory in your heart. They will hear you. Chances are, they will be very close by. Our DPs love to come around on holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

Given the state of world affairs, there are many countries where the population is unable to celebrate their religious holidays the way most of us are able to do here. I would suggest that you send those folks some Love, for we are all connected no matter what our religious beliefs may be.

And finally, let us all be grateful for what we do have – which is something we should do everyday, but especially at this time of the year, as we begin a new cycle.

Looking forward to all my visit to your town, some new but many once again. To name a few: Chicago, Minneapolis, Baltimore, Rochester and New Jersey.

Happy Spring!

Tolerance, Gratitude, and What’s Really Important

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Welcome to December 2016, the last month of the year!

Last month, we celebrated Thanksgiving, hopefully along with those in our lives whom we love and care for. Soon it will be time for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Mawlid, and other special December events. Of course, this doesn’t mean we have to share the same beliefs with those who are present at the dinner table, but we should at least respect, and especially not ridicule, those relatives and friends who follow a different religion or spiritual path.

I have many friends in education, especially in NYC, “where the world lives,” (or so they say), who often share that a key issue encountered with their students is that the kids often disagree with one another, and get passionate about their beliefs. Good educators teach that there is no good reason to mock another’s belief system. Instead, effective educators teach kids to be kind to one another.

Naturally, learning begins at home. I truly admire parents who teach their children how to behave properly. I recently read an article by a mother who has two daughters – one is Chinese, and the other is a lesbian. The mother came from parents who taught her the importance of tolerance and respect for others. She was recently concerned that the differences between her children could cause problems. She nonetheless felt gratitude for being afforded the opportunity to live her life in this country. She is first generation and her parents instilled in her this gratitude.

For example, speaking up for someone who is weak and has been dissed by another is a kind and courageous thing to do. And I’m sure that I don’t have to remind you how bullying is a major problem. Standing up to bullies is not easy, but it can and should be done. Less difficult would be the simple act of thanking someone for holding open a door, which will elevate your and his or her spirits. Or helping an elderly person with those packages that she can hardly handle, given her struggles with the walker. This is what our end-of-the-year holidays are a reminder of – being kind.

I’m sure also that most of you realize how important it is to give at this time of the year, especially to those who are likely to receive little or nothing, unless you contribute. We all know how hard it is for children who are of lesser means to see other relatively “rich” children get so many more toys than they seem to need. See what you can do about that by helping a poor child in your neighborhood, and/or by contributing to a worthwhile charity that cares for children.

Also, think back. Do you really remember all the toys you got as a kid? Were those toys more important to you in the long run than the thoughts behind them? Do you agree that, as Maya Angelou once said, “I may not remember exactly what someone said, but I remember how they made me feel”?

We are all here together. We are not isolated. Every smile, action, and even thoughts can create a positive change in those with whom we interact.

Would each of us not give away all those lovely presents we have received over the years, to spend just one more holiday moment interacting here in the physical with a loved one who has already transitioned? To experience one more opportunity to feel their presence, hear them laugh, or even argue – just to be close again? Well, cheer up! Your departed loved ones ARE around you, especially at this time of the year. Open your hearts, relax, believe, and feel their presence. A toast of wine to them would also help.

This is what December is all about – a reminder of the things that are truly important – those moments of loving, connecting, and sharing happy memories that are ours forever. Treasure these moments – no one can take them away from you.

Everywhere I go in my line of work, so many faces I encounter, no matter where, over and over again, reveal a sense of loss of missing that special person who has crossed over. But please do remember this: those who have made their transition are in a better place.

Earth is a learning school. We are spirits having a human experience. When the experience is over here, we shed our costumes (bodies) and ascend to our natural spiritual state. What matters most is that we know in our hearts that regardless of how difficult it is to endure physical endings, Love goes on in the Spiritual, and that we will all be reunited with our loved ones eventually.

Our loved ones want us to know that, and to not lose sight of this perspective. They are doing fine. So enjoy life while you can, and as much as you can!

Remember, there is always something to be grateful for, even after Thanksgiving has passed. And although the loss of a loved one can be most difficult, we need to face the difficult fact that we can’t change what has occurred.

However, even if you are a skeptic, you can change your beliefs and thoughts to realize that Love goes on even after physical death. Once you recognize this reality, and feel it in your heart, you will join those of us who know beyond a shadow of a doubt that while the passing of a loved one is often very difficult to endure, and that the grief must be processed, we can deal with such a loss knowing that we will be reunited with our beloved DPs (dead persons) in the future. And meanwhile, they are here watching over us. Rest assured.

On another note . . . I’m often asked about the little things we can do, to help us and others enjoy the holiday season. Here are my suggestions:

  1. Hug those you love and those who need love. Thank them for being in your life.
  2. Make a list of those for whom you want to shop, and/or those you want to touch, during this season of kindness and Love. Remember that shopping for others need not involve elaborate gifts. Effective shopping can be for food that folks need, or for plants to cheer them up.
  3. Send out cards, with candle lighting announcements, to those you know will be touched by your efforts.
  4. Purchase and give candles to your family and friends to burn throughout the months, to remind them, if they are among those who need to be reminded, that Love is immortal. Let them celebrate the lives of those who we know are with us in the spiritual, even if we can’t see them.
  5. Prepare and mail out cards (or texts, or emails) to those who lost someone recently, and are in a state of grieving, while acknowledging their profound grief. Include a personal message, if you have something gentle and positive to say.
  6. Decorate your living space in a way that makes people smile when they enter. And if it suits you, make your home smell of nature, preferably with a plant still growing in the earth, instead of one that has been chopped down and separated from the earth.
  7. Redecorate your living space in honor of those DPs you love, if they loved decorating while here in the physical.
  8. Plan and carry out random acts of kindness – most importantly, in ways that your dear departed loved ones would most appreciate and admire.
  9. Call, or visit, those that you feel a connection to, and/or who may be lonely.
  10. Know always in your heart that your departed loved ones hear you and laugh with you in joy as you think positively of them during the holiday season.

Enjoy December! It’s one of the most special months of the year. Reflect on all the events, connections, and gifts of gratitude you have received in 2016. And be thankful.

And with regard to those experiences that were difficult, remember . . . we are like old-fashioned photographs, in that we develop from the negative.

True love is forever. From my heart to yours.

Connections, Loss, and Love in the Holiday Season

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Hope you had a very Happy Thanksgiving, and embraced those precious moments of “Giving Thanks.” Words that say how blessed we are to have family and friends in our lives. Personally, I find these words and the intent behind them to be very uplifting, especially during times of uncertainty.

Very heart-warming and validating to learn that in a study recently published by “Mother Jones,” the number one reason for feeling grateful is friends and family. Indeed, it is the people in our lives who are so important.

And then there are times when we are grateful for not having suffered the way others have, as with the recent inhuman atrocities inflicted on the people of Paris. So sad.

But despite all the war, terror, and violence in the world, Love, of course, remains the most significant force in the Universe. Some would argue that fear is the most powerful, and there is no denying that here on Planet Earth, fear is often in control. However, fear has no power in the Spirit World. On the Other Side, Love is controlling, and connects us to our loved ones who have crossed over. Fear is powerless in that regard.

And even here on Earth in ordinary reality, Love is very powerful, being the force that motivates people to help those in need – be it assisting the homeless in New York City, the refugees in a foreign land, the sick or the dying in our neighborhood, etc. Love is the force that drives the husband who has lost his partner and chooses to travel around the world when there is a season to plant, and instruct those who want to learn organic gardening. Or the sister who continues operating the shelter her brother ran after he contracted MS, and now has trouble just getting out of bed.

You never have to look far to find people who give of themselves, in service of humankind and the Earth that cares for us. For these folks, we should all be thankful. And in your own moments of feeling thanks and gratitude, consider asking yourself, “How can I can embrace Spirit and learn to feel the love of [your beloved DP]?” And further, remember to be thankful for whatever it is your beloved DPs have instilled in you. NO MATTER if the DP most special in your heart at this moment was blood-related or just someone who touched your life for a split second. Whatever it takes to pull the energy in from Spirit, and help us connect with those we love who are still in our hearts – let that be our guidance and inspiration.

It is so wonderful that given all the hardship in the world, there still are so many people who do seek to make a difference. It is this kind of activism – and not all the distorted media focus on all things negative – that I choose to honor and acknowledge.

Let’s take the opportunity to open up our hearts to those we love, give a hug when needed, and make a call to someone who needs to talk. Help someone cross the street or carry their groceries. Light candles for those in need, including ourselves. Make dinner for someone who could use a meal. Give of yourself, of your company. All, of course, if the situation warrants. These are just some of the many small things that mean so much and, as I say, are really the BIG things in life, which I have learned over and over again in doing the work I have been doing for over thirty-five years.

You know, whenever I am working an event and walk into a room, whether it is 50 or 250 people, I know one thing: Everyone is there because they want to connect with their loved ones who they have “lost.” But they are not really lost, are they? They have simply transitioned to where we will all transition one day, and reunite. As I always say, Love never dies, not even with death, and so it is my great honor and privilege to be able to reconnect people with the loved ones they have “lost,” especially during the holiday season.

Around this time of year, I often think about a Christmas when I was in my twenties, on my own, and by myself. I was living in Los Angeles at the time and I was invited into a group. I went, so as to not be alone. I can’t tell you how much love I felt, just being asked to be with others who wanted to include me within their circle of friends. I have never forgotten that special moment which turned out to be within a non-denominational spiritualist community. Another example of how we all remember an act of love and kindness. It is moments like this that we never forget. Looking back, I couldn’t tell you any of the names of the people there, but I most certainly can tell you how they made me feel. Wonderful!

In re-examining the past year, and the years leading up to this time, I see that so many people have gone through a variety of changes, some wonderful, others often challenging. There is a great challenge of course for those of us who have lost someone this year, or for anyone during the holiday season when we are again reminded of our loved ones on the Other Side..

Interesting how many people I’ve met in my travels express that during times of hardship, DP contact is more prevalent and intense. Indeed, if we listen, our DPs (along with our spirit guides and spirit helpers) can help us find what is really important – like performing a service for others – and inspire us to put “doing good” at the top of our list of priorities. Performing a service is good for the soul.

By the way, for the science-minded folks, studies now show that people are happier, healthier, and live longer when they do service for others, and daily express their gratitude for all the gifts they have in their own lives. On this point, there is a very interesting documentary called I am. Check it out!

Also check out my calendar of events. Next up on my calendar is seeing my hometown folks on Friday, December 4th in Nanuet, NY. Also, on my next Blog Talk Radio show – Monday, December 7 – I will be having a full hour of readings live on air! This is my special holiday gift to all of you.

Have a blessed holiday season!

A Time for Giving Thanks

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Welcome to the month of Thanksgiving, a time for giving thanks, and perhaps feeling the need to give back for the blessings we have.

As we approach the holidays, so many emotions come to the surface, along with memories past, and memories in the making.

Memories are personal to each of us, of course, and we all feel varied emotions when reflecting on days gone by, whether moments of sadness as when a loved one who has crossed over is missed, or at times touched in some other way we know is truly important. Wanting so badly to go back to that time when everything seemed right, is commonplace.

It’s been my experience that when our DPs come into our thoughts, a flood of emotions usually rises to the surface. If grief is in play, try to move to a place where your grief will lessen, focusing on the positive memories you had with a loved one who is now on the Other Side. Remember, our DPs want us to be happy.

Those special memories are always with you, and can be be filled with laughter. Maybe you remember having that Thanksgiving dinner when your brother wore that stupid tie to try to impress his new girlfriend. Or maybe that time your sister and her girlfriend tried to create a meal and there was so much smoke in the kitchen that the Fire Department showed up commenting that they were sure you were cooking up something other than dinner!

When we go to those wonderful memories, they can touch and heal our hearts, and once again make us smile. No one can ever take those from you. They are yours to cherish and hold dear.

Some of you may feel very strongly that you don’t want to celebrate the holidays. The thought process being that the times gone by were priceless, and that the present situation is just an empty echo of the past. But, let me preach here for a minute. Don’t you dare give in to that attitude! If you really want to honor those who have passed, then celebrate as they would have wanted you to. Realize that although your DPs may not be here in the physical, they are with you in Spirit. And again, they want you to be happy.

The DPs we honor include, of course, our beloved pets who gave us unconditional love before crossing over. Here’s a story about one. I recently was on a radio show and a techie there was listening to me on the air. The deejay asked me who I thought was going to win the World Series. I try never to make predictions publicly so I said, “I’ll tell you what I think, privately,” and he wrote what I said on a piece of paper for no one else to see. But, as luck or faith would have it, the paper fell onto the floor and the tech guy picked it up and saw that I had said that the Kansas City Royals would win, as would turned out to be accurate later – KC beat the NY Mets. So, the deejay said, “Oh, she meant the first two games,” which was not true – I meant the whole series. Well, the tech guy was already devastated with the Mets having lost Game 1 when they were two outs away from winning on the road. Then everyone shared why he was so devastated. He is a HUGE Met fan and had just lost his beloved dog Shea who had been named after Shea Stadium where the Mets used to play before Citi Field was built. Of course, had I known of the techie’s situation, I would have said nothing. It was still a very raw time for him. To the techie I could only say, “Your dog Shea will be with you always in your heart and if you can listen inward, she’ll be by your side jumping on your bed, during happy times, and there beside you when you are feeling blue.”

As we approach the beginning of the holiday season, know and feel all the love that we want to give and receive. The ability to share and experience love is with us all the time. We need not go further than walking out our front door realizing that every person could use a smile, a kind word, or just a nod hello, all serving as an acknowledgement that you are connecting on a friendly basis. Remember that it doesn’t cost you anything to be courteous and friendly, or to feel positive in your heart toward another. That, my friends, is a part of what Thanksgiving is all about.

Of course, the most poignant message that we all need to be reminded of is, “Do unto others only that which you would have be done unto you.” This is not without limitations of course – it may be that something you would not mind having done unto you is not right for someone else. So overlay this approach with consideration as to whether the person you are addressing is on the same page as you with regard to that which you are considering doing for them.

I personally want to give a HUGE thanks to those who received me at my recent events in California, including Good Day Sacramento. Also thanks to: Pat Walsh on KFBK; WQRC 99.0 “The Q” on the Cape, Karen and Ralphie; K92 Danny and Zack; and as it has been for years, WTIC with Gary Craig and Gang. There are so many more to list, I could go on and on.

To be able to do what I love, and be able to share that love with so many others, here and those beloved ones in Spirit and in our hearts – I am most thankful.

A Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!

A Season of Giving & Gratitude

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OMG! It’s not even time for the December Solstice and Old Man Winter is already pounding down on the rooftops in the north. I don’t think we’ll be shuffling off to Buffalo anytime soon! Wondering if the children there are worried that Santa will have a problem landing his sleigh! Now, if we could only figure out how to ship all that snow to the places suffering from water shortage.

I’m sure there are many of you who, like me, are tuned into the Earth and are not at all surprised by Old Man Winter’s bringing snow so early. It could be worse. Remember Super-Storm Sandy? Especially since that devastating event in 2012, more and more homeowners are wisely investing in their own generators.

As we approach the end of another year, I ask you: is it me or are things moving so much faster nowadays? Ever hear of Gregg Braden? He’s a very cool inspirational guy who combines wisdom from the past with science and spirituality for healing the planet. Gregg has spent the last twenty years living in ancient temples and remote monasteries. He believes that the center of the earth is moving faster than in any other time in history. Consider looking into the adventures of this spiritual pioneer as we speed toward 2015.

While we usually cherish and celebrate the December Holidays, I can’t help but focus on those who will find this year to be different from all others, when they see that empty chair where a dear loved one used to sit, but who is now on the Other Side. Maybe some of you felt that way this past Thanksgiving. Try not to let your loss impact your joy too much (easier said than done, I know), but instead realize that life is better on the Other Side. Our DPs are fine, and will let you know that all is well, if and when they can. The less sadness you harbor, the easier it will be for your loved ones to connect to you via a dream, message, or a split-second feeling. Remember, Love continues when we die. In fact, my friends, Love in all its many types and intensities remains the most significant force in the Universe. Love is THE force that drives us.

I was just reading about a 90-year old man in Ft. Lauderdale who feeds the homeless. He took to doing so after losing his wife who for all her life helped those who needed that little extra Love. This is his way of honoring the woman with whom he shared 70 years of his life, and to whom he refers as “Angel.” What a wonderful way to give, in this giving time of year.

I received many responses last month about my comments on Journey of Souls by Michael Newton. Thanks for your feedback. I very much appreciate your take on what I write. And even when there is disagreement, it’s still good to share. After all, the Afterlife affects all of us in so many different ways. By sharing our thoughts, we can spread the Word where needed.

Recently, I have been receiving a number of requests to remind people of some of the little things (which are so important) that we can do throughout the holiday season, just to let people know that we care. So, kids, here goes, just to list a few.

  1. Hug those you love and those who need Love. Thank them for being in your life.
  2. Make a list of people (and pets!) to shop for, and/or those you want to touch during the season. Remember that shopping can be for food, plants, clothes, candy, or whatever.
  3. Send out cards, with candle lighting announcements.
  4. Purchase candles to burn throughout the month to remember that Love is immortal. Use the candles to celebrate the lives of those you know, or once knew, even if you can’t be with them.
  5. Connect with those who may be grieving, in any way you can.
  6. Decorate your home in the style of someone you love who has crossed over, and who loved decorating while here in the physical.
  7. Plan and carry out at least one random act of kindness – an act (as performed by the gentlemen in Ft. Lauderdale, mentioned above) that a departed loved one would be thrilled to witness.
  8. Carry and conduct yourself in a way that makes people smile.
  9. Call or visit those to whom you feel a special connection. Consider a FaceTime phone call if you have that smartphone capability.
  10. Know always in your heart that your loved ones who have crossed over hear you, and celebrate with you in joy as you think of them during the holiday season.

One of the messages from our DPs that I often receive and pass along is that they want us to ENJOY this wonderful time of the year. They do NOT want us to be brooding over the fact that they are not here in the physical. I can tell you for sure that if your DPs loved this holiday season, then they will be around you during this holiday season. Take a moment each day to reflect, open up, and listen – and know that your DPs are near.

BIG thanks for all those who have been attending my many events this year, or who have connected in other ways. A special thanks to all those who attended my event in New York City last week with my good friend and colleague, John Holland. Check out my website for details on upcoming events for 2015!

From my heart, I wish all of you a merry and wonderful holiday to remember!