life

Navigating Changes

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September — the month when so many parents are beyond thrilled that their kids are going back to school. Meanwhile, most kids aren’t too happy about the end of Summer.

Several times this August, I heard people say that Summer is the shortest season, which of course it isn’t, it just seems that way.

In any event, Summer is ending, and Winter is on the way, with Autumn in between.

Not all Northeasterners are freaking out because Summer is ending, and Winter is around the corner. Some folks do actually love the cold. Meanwhile, those in the South have had a very hot summer and so they too are happily anticipating a change in the weather.

“So why all the talk about the weather, Suzane?” people sometimes ask. Well, the answer is that the weather is a lot like life. Although you know what the season is changing from, you may not know what it’s changing to. Changes in life can follow a similar pattern.

Life doesn’t come with a manual. Similarly, while you know that Fall is coming, you just don’t know what events may occur, or how those events may affect you.

We all know of the hurricane devastation last year, and we hope it doesn’t repeat itself this year. As I key this newsletter, Hurricane Dorian is a hot topic. Many people are praying that Hurricane Dorian, and the hurricanes in their own lives, work out.

So, yes, there are season cycles, and life cycles. But there is one constant in life, and that my friends is Love. Now, that could mean different things to different people but one thing is for sure, there is not a person on this planet who does not want to be loved.

Of course, all seasons have their particular beauty, which is also true in life (cute babies, adorable children, lovely teens, etc). In Autumn, the leaves changing colors can be amazing.

In life, changes occur, just like with the seasons (and within the seasons). Wherever we are physically, emotionally, and mentally, well, that’s where we are. Of course, the seasons play into this. To be happy, how many “snowbirds” flock to Florida for the winter, to essentially avoid the changing seasons?

I believe that when we DO wish to make a change, there are certain times that naturally align us in a way that makes it possible to bring about that change. As they say in France, “Voila!” September is one of those times.

September often is a time when one gets the feeling that a new beginning absolutely needs to be started.

Perhaps it’s something you’ve always wanted to do, but never had the time. A cooking, dancing, or self-defense class, perhaps. Or whatever. With the kids at school, parents can use their free time to make the lifestyle change that they’ve been wanting to make/

Yes, September is a time of potential impact. Whatever changes you make or come your way, please do all you can to enjoy those changes. However, if the changes are negative, do the best you can.

For me, Fall is always a very busy time of the year, starting with my Blog Talk Radio show at 6:00 pm EST / 3:00 pm PST this coming Monday, September 9. Listen in as I interview Rev. Dr. Terri Daniel about her book, Grief and God: When Religion Does More Harm Than Healing. Immediately following at 7:00 EST / 4:00 PST, join me for a Facebook LIVE video! You can view the live video right on my Facebook page.

This year, I’ll be traveling to some new places: Vancouver, Seattle, L.A., Palm Desert for West Coast. Returning to Florida (Tampa, Fort Myers, and Fort Lauderdale) and Roanoke on East Coast, and Michigan and Chicago in the middle.

I love connecting with so many of you, in so many places, along the way. Also love seeing old friends and meeting new ones. This is something I cherish.

As the song goes, “See You In September.”

2018 – An 11/2 Year in Numerology

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Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2018, an “11” New Year, because 2+0+1+8 = 11.

In numerology, we usually break down the year to one single digit which 2018 would be “2” since 11 (1+1) = 2. However, since in numerology, the master numbers are 11, 22, and 33, the 11 is not broken down into 2. Thus, we are now in an 11 year, not a 2 year!

Interesting to note that the last time we experienced a Universal 11 Year was not that long ago, in 2009 (when Barack Obama became President of the U.S.). However, the previous 11 year was 99 years before that, in 1910 (when Franklin Delano Roosevelt was elected to New York State Senate.) I think it’s safe to predict that 2018 will prove to be significant year for the entire planet.

Master numbers are very important for our learning and growth, and can bring major transformation and learning into our lives. This year, the world will be experiencing all that a Universal 11 has to offer.

Of course, in all of life’s journeys, there is always more than one element that affects us. Yes, we are in a new vibration, but we are equally experiencing new planetary configurations. Specifically, Saturn will be entering Capricorn whose ruler Pluto is currently also in Capricorn. Pluto in Capricorn is about death, ending, and beginnings. It’s about breaking down old outdated structures, which include governments, corporations, and religion. Capricorn is governed by Saturn which rules foundations, structures, and for many of us, our deepest fears. Although structures don’t change overnight, with Saturn in Capricorn there will be shifts in the world and our personal lives, caused by Saturn, the planet of all major changes. I don’t say that any of this will happen overnight, but changes will be will happening.

Those of you who know your astrological charts and/or numerical charts, realize that if you have planets in Capricorn, or planets that are affected by, or interplay with, Capricorn, then you will for sure feel/see/experience these shifts.

Sometimes the changes are sort of like a volcano – we know something is brewing, but we just don’t know when it’s going to erupt.

Change is often hard for most of us. However, for us to grow emotionally, spiritually, in directions that will benefit where or what we want or desire, change is often needed. The beautiful profound changes that could occur in 2018 may not happen without the Universe waving her magical wand, so to speak.

Think of all the aspects and changes in your life that have occurred in the past that would not have happened without that certain something coming out of the blue.

Remember that even dramatic “negative” changes like a loved one’s death, divorce, or the loss of a job or a home – all painful and dramatic – sometimes do trigger positive developments, like the end of suffering, meeting a new love, finding a more rewarding job or more time for ourselves, or even winding up in a better place to live.

Sometimes out-of-the blue events come on like a dam than can no longer hold back the water, and aspects of ourselves that were perhaps being held back end up bursting out. Trusting and having faith, and knowing that there is a reason why even “negative” events occur, will help you deal with the changes.

In any event, be prepared to welcome whatever 2018 brings your way, because the 11-year vibrations and planetary happenings may affect your life even in ways that you could not predict.

Returning to late 2017 for a moment, I have a Christmas story of my own to share – drum roll please! My last event of the year was in Sturbridge, Massachusetts with Thomas John. This was our second event in 2017 and we received a warm and wonderful Massachusetts’ welcoming. The event was in the evening and when I left it was warm but rainy. Since it was an evening, driving back to NY meant I wouldn’t get home until midnight when it was pitch black.

The next morning when I went to go shopping, I was shocked to discover a huge dent in the rear fender of my brand new car. Out of the blue, right? I had to breathe deep as I was a little freaked out. I decided to call the Publick House where Thomas John and I had done our event, to see if there were any security cameras that might have recorded whatever had happened in their parking lot the night before, or to see if anyone had reported hitting my car, or seeing my car get smashed in the parking lot (there was no note on the windshield). There were around 200 people at our event and many others having dinner there as well – it’s a pretty big place. I asked for the manager and he did call me back several hours later but there was nothing to report.

Soon, I started to look on the less ominous side of things – most notably, apparently no one was hurt. I called my insurance company and put in a collision claim for a hit and run. My body shop guy said it would cost at least $3,000 or $4,000 to repair. “Accept it, and try to let it go,” I told myself.

Then on Christmas Eve day, I was driving to see my mother who was in hospital, soon after her having to put her husband in a home on Thanksgiving. My phone rang and the caller I.D. indicated a Connecticut phone number that I didn’t recognize. I answered anyway. A woman on the other end greeted me and then asked, “What’s your license plate number?” I told her and she said, “I believe I hit your car.” She then added that she had put a note on my windshield explaining what had happened and saying to contact here, but she never heard back. (Apparently in the rain, the note had been washed away.) So she called the Public House and got my phone number. She then gave me all her info, adding that she wouldn’t want someone to do that to her car, and not make things right.

It was then that I realized that this was my best Christmas present for 2017 – and it came in out of the blue.

I say over and over that wherever I go, there are many wonderful people everywhere. Thank God for all the good folks in this world who do wonderful things. In my heart, I feel that this is what most of us are about.

After the phone call, I went on my way with a smile. The experience reminded me of what I had written in my Christmas newsletter about the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life,” which presents how each of us can make a big difference in other people’s lives. The phone call changed my mood and made the trip to seeing my mother in the hospital a whole lot easier (she’s okay, by the way, and her husband is doing well in the home). Just another example of things coming out of the blue, changing the road ahead, and happening for a reason.

Once again, extending my thoughts of love and blessings to everyone for a new 2018 vibration!

I look forward to seeing many of you in my upcoming travels again, or for the very first time. I’ll be in Florida, Toronto, Louisana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Missouri to name a few . . . and of course NY, MA and CT. Check out my website to see if I’ll be showing up near you.

Also, Bill Attride, a wonderful Astrologer, will be on my monthly Blog Talk Radio show on Monday, January 8 at 6 pm EST.

Happy New Year everyone!

Honoring Mother’s Day, Spring, and the Grieving Process

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Oh my my! My favorite month has just arrived, the merry month of May! Where we find that April showers do indeed bring May flowers.

In case you missed it, I did my spring video showing off my beautiful fuschias! Here it is.

There is always so much to see in the beginning of May. Not only the fuschias but of course my other favorite, the daffodils, both yellow by the way, such a joyful color.

Yes, the season begins! To me, the beginning of May marks the real beginning of Spring, a time when many of us want to break out in song, because we feel a little lighter as the cold weather becomes a thing of the past.

However, for those who have recently experienced the loss of a loved one, even the Spring flowers blooming, and green leaves returning, may go relatively unnoticed, or have little impact. When we lose someone, everything else can become secondary, as we grieve.

Although there is no formal manual for processing grief, I can offer a few tips. First of all, the process is totally individual, and thus varies from person to person.

If you’ve lost your mom recently, Mother’s Day – this year arriving late on Sunday, May 14th – may be particularly difficult. Even if your mom passed years ago, Mother’s Day may still be a sad day for you.

But keep in mind that grief will lessen over time, especially if you’ve had a visit from, or connection with, your deceased mom (or another deceased loved one who comes to mind on Mother’s Day). After making that connection, you might even be able to smile on Mother’s Day, especially if your loved one is near.

Pay attention! A visit from your mom on the Other Side may be more likely to occur on Mother’s Day than on a routine day of the year. If the connection occurs, it will make the loss so much easier to handle because you will very well realize that death is not the end. The spiritual self, our true essence, continues after physical death, as does our eternal Love for one another which keeps the connection intact.

Again, remember that everyone is different. If you feel you want to be alone on Mother’s Day to take a walk or a hike, read a book, or go to the movies – do so! In contrast, some folks like to play bingo! Whatever works! It’s all just fine. There are no hard and fast rules.

However, being flexible might help, just in case your sad mood suddenly changes for the better – perhaps because your mom was close to you even if the visit didn’t register consciously – so you can decide at the last minute that instead of being alone, you’d rather go out to dinner or do whatever with a friend, partner, or family member who just happens to be around.

Another suggestion I’d like to offer is this: On Mother’s Day, if the opportunity presents itself, give a toast (outwardly or inwardly) to your mom or other loved one who has passed, or light a candle (not necessarily in church). The same applies if it’s their birthday, or day of passing, or some other day or holiday that was/is still special to them.

You know more than anyone else about the Love you had, and still have, for the person who has passed. Sometimes that Love is manifested through focusing on special memories of the person, like when you laughed so hard together till you cried, or still cry when you look at their picture, taken perhaps during one of those trips you went on together and will never forget.

In short, trust yourself and honor your feelings with regard to the passing of your mother, mother figure, or anyone else. Allow yourself to be any way you want to be on Mother’s Day, and/or any other day. Be sad, be happy, be thoughtful or even angry. Walk your life without judgment if you can, and know that your departed loved ones are just a thought away, smiling at you and thanking you for all the good you did for them.

Looking forward to seeing all you New Jersey, Baltimore, Rochester, and Afterlife Conference folks in Portland soon!

Cherishing the Little Things

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I know it’s officially summer when I can sit on my porch and watch the lightning bugs (a.k.a. fireflies) do their magic trick. Each and every year I am still drawn to observing these magical beings as they light up the night, and bless us with their presence. It’s a little thing, I know, but in life, I am forever reminded that it’s the little things that are the most significant.

Additionally, we should cherish the positive aspects of our lives, for at any moment life can change. Appreciating a sunrise, a sunset, a walk on the beach, or a mountain hike, or simply sharing a moment of enriched conversation with someone we care about, and who cares about us, perhaps over good food and wine, is what it’s all about. These moments should (dare I say “must?”) be treasured. This is what each day should hold for every one of us.

Each season has its own beauty and meaning to experience. As we enter the month of July, we so-called adults can’t help but want to play hooky, skip a day of work, and maybe hang out with the kids and/or be kids once again ourselves.

July is the month to simply sit outside and listen to crickets, and be amazed by the stars. Even in NYC, it’s much calmer than usual, and there are so many things to do – from visiting the Botanical Gardens, attending concerts in Central Park, dancing tango in Central Park and on the piers, or simply conversing with friends on the rooftops where there may also be city gardens!

And I think I speak for most of us when I say that after wearing coats, hats, scarves, gloves, and boots all winter, it’s so very delightful to trade in all that winter gear for flip-flops and sandals. And then to do all those things one can’t do in the winter: play softball, garden, fly a kite, take a walk along the shore or around a lake, etc. Just about anything outdoors will do. No need to be bundled up. Let your hair be free and fly with the wind. For sure, it’s time to get over the winter time blues! So kids, get out there and smell the roses!

At the Afterlife Conference this year, I met two independent film-makers who happened to live in NY. They are doing a series of documentaries on {{{drum-roll}}} the important things in our lives. The pilot film is entitled “Mortal” and they are releasing a second film called “Hope” on July 6th. If you are interested in films that are truly, truly beautiful, and that very much touch the heart, I highly recommend that you take a look at this series. I promise that you won’t be disappointed. There is a wonderful and important message for all of us to witness and absorb in each film. Those who know me are aware that I DO NOT recommend something unless I feel very strongly about it. And here I am, recommending! Why? Well, I believe that we need to support films and other forms of art that do something wonderful and positive, especially if the art can filter down and keep us in touch with the Universe, via connections to our DPs, or otherwise. It’s akin to being touched by the sun, the stars, and yes . . . back down to the lightning bugs. When we support such important work, I believe that we can truly connect with others, and thereby understand ourselves.

When you do get a chance to watch these films, I believe that you will see what I mean about “the living,” because this is what we, at this point in time, all share together. I’d love to hear how you feel about this film series. Let me know!

Enjoy your July, and cherish and love that which is important to you.

The Wisdom of Dads

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Happy June! The month when so much is happening – the start of summer, the end of the school year, weddings, vacations, graduations, and {{{{{drum roll}}}}} Father’s Day!

Recently, I went to my godson’s graduation at the Forman School in Litchfield, CT. This school has been around for 100 years and is focused on helping kids with learning disabilities such as dyslexia and ADHD. At the graduation, Alan Alda, whose grandson was also graduating, spoke. Alan’s speech was eloquent and wise. Every person, young or old, male or female, could truly benefit from his wisdom. Indeed, judging by the vibes and reactions, I believe that many in the audience recognized that they were receiving a gift of life guidance. One thing he said that especially resonated with me was (and I’m paraphrasing), “I can’t give you my seventy years of life. I’m only sharing what I feel have been the important moments or messages of life, as I’ve seen it.”

Alan also noted how that in 2015, the whole world can learn what happened halfway across the globe almost immediately – something no generation except this one has experienced. He also told a very funny story about Kurt Vonnegut, the talented author, who delivered a commencement address in 1997 that became world famous. The only thing was, Kurt didn’t write it! Still, it’s a gem worth repeating, as Alan did at the graduation ceremony I attended.

Ladies and gentlemen of the class of ’97:

Wear sunscreen.

If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists, whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience. I will dispense this advice now. Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth. Oh, never mind. You will not understand the power and beauty of your youth until they’ve faded. But trust me, in 20 years, you’ll look back at photos of yourself and recall in a way you can’t grasp now how much possibility lay before you and how fabulous you really looked. You are not as fat as you imagine.

Don’t worry about the future. Or worry, but know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum. The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that never crossed your worried mind, the kind that blindside you at 4 pm on some idle Tuesday.

Do one thing every day that scares you.

Sing.

Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts. Don’t put up with people who are reckless with yours.

Floss.

Don’t waste your time on jealousy. Sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind. The race is long and, in the end, it’s only with yourself.

Remember compliments you receive. Forget the insults. If you succeed in doing this, tell me how.

Keep your old love letters. Throw away your old bank statements.

Stretch.

Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people I know didn’t know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives. Some of the most interesting 40-year-olds I know still don’t.

Get plenty of calcium. Be kind to your knees. You’ll miss them when they’re gone.

Maybe you’ll marry, maybe you won’t. Maybe you’ll have children, maybe you won’t. Maybe you’ll divorce at 40, maybe you’ll dance the funky chicken on your 75th wedding anniversary. Whatever you do, don’t congratulate yourself too much, or berate yourself either. Your choices are half chance. So are everybody else’s.

Enjoy your body. Use it every way you can. Don’t be afraid of it or of what other people think of it. It’s the greatest instrument you’ll ever own.

Dance, even if you have nowhere to do it but your living room.

Read the directions, even if you don’t follow them.

Do not read beauty magazines. They will only make you feel ugly.

Get to know your parents. You never know when they’ll be gone for good. Be nice to your siblings. They’re your best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in the future.

Understand that friends come and go, but with a precious few you should hold on. Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and lifestyle, because the older you get, the more you need the people who knew you when you were young.

Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard. Live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft. Travel.

Accept certain inalienable truths: Prices will rise. Politicians will philander. You, too, will get old. And when you do, you’ll fantasize that when you were young, prices were reasonable, politicians were noble, and children respected their elders.

Respect your elders.

Don’t expect anyone else to support you. Maybe you have a trust fund. Maybe you’ll have a wealthy spouse. But you never know when either one might run out.

Don’t mess too much with your hair or by the time you’re 40 it will look 85.

Be careful whose advice you buy, but be patient with those who supply it. Advice is a form of nostalgia. Dispensing it is a way of fishing the past from the disposal, wiping it off, painting over the ugly parts and recycling it for more than it’s worth.

But trust me on the sunscreen.

I was so thrilled to hear Alan Alda (a father of three and grandfather of eight, according to Wikipedia) read “Kurt’s speech.”

As Alan, and all dads know, June is the month in which we celebrate Father’s Day! In my previous newsletter, I paid special attention to mothers for their day, so I feel it’s only right this month to give kudos to the dads. You know who you are and how important you have been to those whom you love and who love you. I know many of you have felt the weight of the world on your shoulders while caring for and protecting your kids. A very tough job, but hey . . . Congratulations! You did it! And for many, you are still doing it!

For those dads who have lost a child, I present the following which I came across on Facebook, and want to share.

A Dad Hurts Too

People don’t always see the tears a DAD cries,
His heart is broken too when his beloved child dies.
He tries to hold it together and tries to be strong,
Even though his whole world’s gone wrong.
He holds on to her as her tears fall,
Comforts her throughout it all.
He goes through his day doing what he’s supposed to do,
But a piece of his heart has been ripped away too.
So when he’s alone he lets out his pain,
And his tears come down like pouring rain.
His world has crashed in all around him,
All that was bright has gone completely dim.
He searches for answers but none are to be found,
Who offers help a DAD up when he’s hit the ground?
He smiles through his fears,
Struggles trying to hold in his tears.
But what you see on the outside is not always real,
Men don’t always show how they really feel.
He feels he has to be strong for the others,
But DADS hurt too, not just the mothers.

(Original work found here)

Let me close by saying . . . Friends, enjoy all the upcoming wonderful moments of this June, and reflect on the good times of days gone by . . . they are all important. And do wear sunscreen!

Looking forward this June to returning to the Afterlife Conference in Norfolk, Virginia, and returning to New Hampshire. Check out my website for details.

As I write, spring is still here, and it’s Rachel Carson’s birthday. What an amazing gift she left the world, way before her time.

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!

Siblings and Friends

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Welcome to August! As astrology buffs know, the majority of August is ruled by Leo, and currently Jupiter is in Leo, giving us a double jolt of energy. This should be most welcomed by many because as I have been hearing from friends and acquaintances, it’s been a difficult period especially for Leo’s. So now is the time to enjoy! What is summer for but to have a little fun! All work and no play, and all that.

In my work, I have noticed that sibling relationships are so very important. They can go a long way toward creating a positive effect in times of trouble and stress, or go to the other extreme if there are conflicts, especially with regard to parents who are in need, or pass away.

As I was pondering the siblings dynamic and starting to write about it, I learned that August 1 was National Girlfriends Day. This really rang a bell because when I am doing readings, I feel that a sister has passed when it is in fact a best girlfriend who has crossed over.

As we all know, for many women, girlfriends can be like sisters. A group of girlfriends I read about come from miles around to meet once a month and share about their marriages, children, parenting, job changes, death of loved ones, illnesses, etc. Through the article, you could feel the love between these girlfriends, and see how their meetings and pot-luck dinners gave each of them a heartfelt experience so needed when going through life. There is no question that this kind of connection is so very important for many women.

So within days of reading the article and wanting to write about siblings, voila, I had a session with three sisters whose mother had passed away. As the mother came through loud and clear, it was obvious that these sisters had remained very connected even though they lived so far apart. And their love of each other continued after their mother’s passing. There was no bickering or fighting over money, property, or other things. Keeping the love bond and remaining respectful of each other like this, is a wonderful way to honor the memory of a parent who has passed, while remaining true to the parent’s wishes.

This month, while visiting my own mother, I learned that our 86 year old neighbor whom we have known for over 30 years had lost his wife of 35 years. All six of her children by a previous marriage were already fighting over every conceivable thing, and totally disregarding their step-dad. The siblings were deciding on their own how their mother should be buried where, who should pay, who would get all the stuffed animals amassed in the house, etc., etc. My heart truly went out to my neighbor. No surviving spouse should have to contend with this type of conflict, or left out of the decision making process.

I had another session with a couple that came to me. The wife had just loss her mom and her brother was deeply upset for not being there, even though he had the most legitimate of reasons: he had been caring for his dying wife 4,000 miles away. The sister wanted him to know that their mother wanted nothing more than for him to be where he needed to be. Thankfully another brother stepped up to help his sister with their mom. Kudos to these three siblings for being so supportive of each other while honoring their widowed mother who had been able to live in her own home and lead a quality life until it was time for her to make the transition. Too often, as I and am sure you have seen, the chore of caring for an aging parent often falls on one sibling, while the others abdicate their responsibility.

These sibling scenarios serve as testament to how things play out in the grand scheme of life. All part of the challenges that — if we handle them correctly — make us stronger. Of course, we often have to dig deep to succeed, but we grow spiritually in the process, and that is its own reward.

I hope to come back to this theme of siblings since I have just tapped the surface here. Interestingly enough, I very often have siblings who come together for a session. I am always fascinated by how siblings can be so different, even though they were brought up in the same household. It for me is always a touching experience when siblings want to share in the experience of connecting with a parent who has crossed over.

In closing, I want to send out loving thoughts to my dear friend Richie who made his transition this month. Truly a beautiful soul who touched many a life.

Enjoy the rest of summer, and if you have a brother or sister, take a moment to reminisce about childhood and go find a sandbox to play in!

Welcome to 2014!

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Welcome to 2014! A “Universal 7 Year” because in Numerology, 2+0+1+4 = 7. A Universal 7 Year is regarded as a time to reflect on the past, learn, and grow as we progress into the new year.

I hope everyone enjoyed the end of the year holiday. I am aware for many that this may be a difficult time, and that the “Happy New Year!” greetings can ring hollow. However, for those in that state of mind, be advised that this is a positive time because it forces us in some ways, to be still. What do I mean by that? Well, with all we do – be it work, school, and/or family and personal obligations – things are often a matter of robotic routine. So it’s good to break out of that.

People here in America actually work more hours per year than people in many other countries around the world. And since it is difficult for many of us to slow down, the end of the year holiday kind of forces us take time off that we would not otherwise take, and thereby regenerate, as we break away from our usual routines. I personally feel that in some ways, unless we’re forced to rest a bit, we will never stop!

Now I’m not saying we’re being busy for no good reason, but we do need to tend to what is involved in making time for ourselves. The end of the year brings us into a different mindset, one that if used properly, will help us benefit by allowing us to reflect on the year just passed, and on what we did or did not do, and what did or did not happen. These thoughts can often propel us to make changes and explore new ways in which to create new paths that will be more beneficial.

Please note that I am not talking about New Year’s resolutions, which we know usually never pan out. If “resolution” is your game, I would suggest that you give yourself short term goals, but again, this is not my focus here.

What I am talking about is stepping off the treadmill of daily life, breathing in what did or did not happen this past year, evaluating, and coming up with a plan to make things work out better in the New Year.

Generally speaking here’s what to expect from the Universal 7 Cycle that will be in effect for 2014, as explained in part by numerologist Alison Baughman:

The Universal Year number influences us at a collective level, globally and locally. Following the Universal 6 Year (2013) – which was about service to others – this is really a very special time. We are being asked to join together in connecting with the Divine Spirit, however you want to define that concept.

The ancients revered the mystical number 7 and associated it with higher knowledge and cosmic wisdom. Indeed, 7 was referred to as the divine number of God. 7 helps us connect to the divine that links us all, regardless of race, color, religion, political or other alliances. 7 is one of the most spiritual numbers among organized religions as well.

In sum, 2014 is a tremendously important year in regards to evolving our collective consciousness. Especially since the end of 2012, we have been experiencing a massive expansion into all areas of the metaphysical and that trend will continue in 2014. We have seen spiritual philosophy make its way into the mainstream with television, radio and media.

7 is considered to be the bridge between Heaven and Earth and that doorway will be pushed wide in 2014. Awakened people who tap into this energy will experience a deeper connection to their soul. Spending time in Nature, practicing meditation and yoga, and approaching your life on a holistic level all would be beneficial activities for the new year. 2014 is a year that emphasizes dreams, messages, psychic phenomenon, wisdom, and our connection to the Divine. People will begin to question “Why am I here?” and “What is the purpose of life?” Hopefully, some definitive answers will begin to manifest.

And so I would most strongly suggest, take some time in 2014 to pause from your hectic life and do a little inner reflection. Don’t take things at face value, but rather, question something that does not resonate with you. Follow your intuition. One of the greatest gifts of the 7 is a deeper understanding of yourself and the world we live in.

Interesting to me that we are going into a year with the same kind of energy I have been talking about during the 2013 end-of-year holidays.

To help ring in the new year, on my radio show, my first New Year’s guest will Bill Attride who is someone who can shed further light on what to expect in 2014. Bill is a brilliant astrologer. I had him on last year and he got great reviews, so I’ve asked him to return for my first show of 2014, January 6th Monday at 6pm EST. Be sure to tune in!

My best wishes that in 2014, you can open up your mind and heart so that you can follow your positive inner ways, whatever they may be. Try to keep in mind throughout the year that 2014 is a Universal 7 Year, which is there for you to use to help you attain your life’s purpose, by establishing a deeper connection to your soul.

Lessons We Can Learn From Loss

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As I sit here about to write this newsletter, I am looking out at the trees gently moving their limbs on what is probably close to the most perfect day that the end of summer has ever seen. Feeling, of course, that Labor Day is around the corner. I ponder life, knowing how blessed I am to be able to soak in this day in the country while viewing my garden, my labor of love.

I recently got an email from a friend who wrote: “You deal with death every day, while nurturing the cycle of life. And you wear an awesome farmer’s hat to boot!!!” Yes for me, gardening and mediumship go hand-in-hand. I learn a lot about life from being a gardener, and of course doing my work as a medium. In my neck of the woods, the life cycle is reflected in the seasons: birth is spring, summer is growth, fall is harvest, and winter represents death but with the promise of new life in the future.

As I reflect on all this, I get a phone call from a friend who has lost his job. The phone call reminds me that there are many kinds of losses, and they all require a grieving period. And while any loss can cause problems, some losses may inspire us to go after something we’ve wanted to do our whole life, reflecting the beauty of change, and the change of seasons. That is an upside!

In contrast, some of the changes that a loss brings are so intense that they can trigger a spiraling down to a mindset of “I’m losing everything.” Which is not so farfetched an idea. People do lose their jobs, then lose their homes, and end up getting divorced. But from my friend I could hear that he was doing the best he could and keeping as positive as best possible – focusing on the love of his children.

I’ve had many of deep talks with my friend since he knows my work so well. During our conversations, he is reminded that nothing could be more devastating than losing a child. Not having suffered through that experience, he recognizes the need to count his blessings and pick himself up. He recognized his losses as material, which was a step in the right direction.

As with any loss, it’s important to let go, and eventually move on, and my friend has begun that part of the process. I feel such respect for the man who recognized that all of what he could lose was material, and could be replaced.

We all have a path to walk. For those of us with friends who find themselves on a difficult road, we can offer a listener’s ear when needed. Do let those we care about know that they’re not alone. Ask if there is anything we can we do to help them in some way or another.

Over the years, I’ve had the very distinct privilege of sharing thousands of these kinds of journeys with so many of you. I never cease to be amazed how people with deep losses and sorrows can rebound, move on, and find a healing place. As I see it, most of those who can right themselves tend to have a deep faith, and know in their hearts that there is a bigger picture than what it is they are perceiving here in the dimension of earth time.

Life is a force unto itself. Let it be a dance, with a few skips along the way!

Now, as this gardener and medium prepares for fall, I hope you too will recognize that another cycle of life is about to begin. As great as summer was, it’s important to be able to let the cycle of summer go, and transition to the autumn.

This Labor Day, as the Northeast colors prepare to emerge, I’ll continue to enjoy my labor of love with lots of harvesting still to come. And I will welcome my reconnecting with so many of you. I’ll be heading back to Tucson, Southern California, St. Louis, Chicago, Denver and Minneapolis to name a few. Hope to see many of you all along the way.

Lessons From Tennis

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I can’t say that I’m a huge sports buff, certainly not like my mother and sister. My mother watches every Yankee game usually twice, knowing stats, what team is in what place and the same goes for my sister with football. Well I think you get the idea of both of their obsessions with their perspective sports.

Doing physically activities, and of course playing sports is not only important for the mind, body and soul but I totally believe it has many other attributes. It teaches the young good sportsmanship, how to accept loss, fine tune a skill and many other attributes I haven’t even mentioned.

So with all that said, I did after all title this Lessons from Tennis, back to my focus topic! I started actually becoming a tennis buff right toward the end and connection with Chrisy Evert and Martina Navatilova who are best friends. Martina brought the game to a whole new skill level although Billy Jean King is attributed to making women tennis what it is today. Needless to say I got hooked, and although I can’t say I watch tennis all the time, I have my ritual of watching most of Wimbledon and the US and French Open.

When I was recently watching the US Open this year, and what a year it was, is clearly some of the most intense, best matches ever played. Trust me, if you saw it you know what I mean.

It occurred to me as the match started that one of the most wonderful lessons in life we all learn from is watching a veteran play their game. It made me think how most of us as children got to witness someone in our life; a parent, teacher, grand parent or friend of the family, something that stuck in us that we remember into adulthood. Those seeds planted made us who we are in terms of responsibilities, kindness and what is the right thing to do in many situations.

So I’m watching the beginning matches, and since I can’t speak for other sports, I became aware how these very young, and some not seeded or ranked get to play a number one player! How cool that is! Now I’m sure it can be very intimidating but what a crash course in learning from a “pro”. To get to be on that court with the number one or two player in the world! A player who has been in every situation possible in order to achieve a place in the top ten. And all of us know, there is nothing we learn more from in life than experience, something you can’t give anyone, they have to go through it themselves.

That is one of the most wonderful lessons we can learn from those who have gone before. Those mentors have lead the way for us in so many ways to be who or what we are.

As the week went on the matches became more intense, as the best players remained. Of course being in NY and being a New Yorker watching the US Open there is always for me a sense of “home” the beauty of NY. This year’s open “happened” to fall on 9.11, the tenth anniversary. I don’t need to say more, 09.11 was written on the court where they played.

When the final matches were played, Rafael Nadal expressed his deepest thoughts for the families of 911. Then after winning a brilliant match, Novak Djokovic said, what we do is a sport but what happened on 9.11 is a tragedy. A young man from Serbia knows about freedom, and though Tennis people know his countries’ freedom. It is freedom that gives us a life force to fight for. What a lesson from the number one tennis player in the world.