I love being a medium and feel blessed that I not only recognize but also know how to apply my intuition. I also believe YOU, yes YOU, are also a medium. The motivation for normalizing mediumship is two-fold. Selfishly, the mother in me wants my intuitive daughter to live in a world that embraces her gift. The humanitarian in me wants everyone to utilize their intuition because it makes life easier and more fulfilling.
 
Unfortunately, while connecting to one’s intuition makes life “easier” in the long run, it isn’t always a comfortable ride to get there. It can, and often does, hurt!

​In my last Blog, What it Takes to Become a Professional Medium, I spoke about the tactics I believe assisted me in having a successful business. It is my belief that by applying these tactics and sticking to it, anyone desiring moderate success in their business will achieve it.
 
And I wish for that success for my colleagues and students for I’m not going to lie, my work is incredible! Having the ability to touch individuals’ hearts and souls is amazing, I wish everyone had the opportunity to do that. But, I also realize that not everyone is cut out for that. Just like not everyone can be an all-star athlete or president, not everyone has the talent or ability to become a professional medium.
 
Unfortunately, over the last year I have seen several individuals take the leap from practicing mediumship to doing it semi-professionally, meaning it’s not a full-time job but they are charging money for a session, that in my opinion shouldn’t be.
 
Feeling guilty for holding this opinion, I did a lot of soul searching. I’ve asked myself, “Am I threatened? Do I worry they will take business away from me?” To which I can honestly say I’m not. I’ve also asked as many of these individuals have been students, “Do I have an ego, and do I want to keep people down to lift myself up?” And again, I can honestly say no. Then I asked, “Am I worried they will reflect poorly on me?” To this, I had to answer YES. Why?
 
The reason I worry it will reflect poorly on me is due to the feedback I’ve been hearing. I’ve heard:

• “While the reader was nice, I spent the entire session counseling them! I basically paid to make THEM feel better.”
•  “The reading was so off-the wall and incoherent. Nothing resonated. I don’t think the reader knew what they were talking about and was just making things up. When I confronted the reader about this, I was told, you’ll see. I’m rarely wrong. It’s been a few months. I haven’t. They were. Do I think I was that rarity? No.”  
• “You saw that reader too? Let me ask you? What was your past life? You were in Egypt too? A priestess with ebony hair? Me too. That reader needs new material. Such a bunch of baloney.”

 
Every time I hear feedback from individuals like this it makes me cringe. Why? Because these unprofessional and second-rate readers water down the field and cast a negative light on the profession. Many already hold the opinion that psychic mediums are con-artists. These individuals, even though I know are coming from the right place, perpetuate that belief. Which makes me sad.
 
Feeling this way, there are times I really want to say something to these individuals. Which I struggle with because I honestly believe that a person’s path will take them where they need to be. Is it my place to intervene? Or do they need to have the experience of reading professionally, even if it means being knocked down, to learn a lesson?
 
Unfortunately, I’m not God… so I don’t know. So, unless asked specifically, I have been keeping my mouth shut.
 
But here are some of my thoughts for those readers who reading this worry that I might be talking about them AND for anyone who has had a reading with second-rate reader.
 
EGO
If you are a reader just beginning to read professionally, be aware of your personal beliefs and attitudes. They do affect the reading. You as the reader are NOT always going to like the advice you may be giving an individual. And remember the reading is NOT about you. It’s about your client. If you find your reading is full of personal anecdotes, you really need to check in with yourself and your ego.
 
FREE WILL
To the new reader, DO NOT argue with a client and insist that you are right and they are wrong. Even if you are sure a situation will work out a particular way, remember the client has free will. If they choose to apply what you are saying one way, you can encourage them to think of it in another way, but DO NOT argue with them. It will leave a bad taste in their mouth. And for the client, remember that no matter how much a reader insists upon something they are saying, ultimately you know yourself better. And more importantly, you have free will. In life, it is not the steps we make or the paths we take in life that are destined, it is the lessons we learn. Lessons can be learned in a multitude of ways.
 
EVIDENCE
If you are practicing as a medium, I encourage you to offer evidence to prove the existence of your client’s loved one. Don’t just say I have your grandfather and leave it. Describe the loved one. Their appearance, their voice, their personality, anything that loved one can provide you. My recommendation is 12-15 items. This is more than enough for the client to feel confident and trust you. If you don’t provide this, you could be telling them anything and they have nothing to assure you two really have connected. My advice to the client, be open to what the reader is saying. Their interpretation might not be exact. Remember that communication with the Spirit realm is a little like playing the telephone game.
 
CLIENT SATISFACTION
If it is apparent that a client is not happy with the direction a session is going. Stop. Don’t continue to try to convince them you are right. Stop and offer to end the session and not charge them. Assure them it has nothing to do with them, but that you two may not be connecting. If you are the client and you are unhappy with the direction the reading is going, stop the reader and let them know you would like to end the reading. Don’t wait until the end, at that point the reader has spent their time with you and may not have realized you weren’t getting what they were saying. At this point it is frustrating to both of you. Stop them.
 
NOT A DESTINATION
For the new reader, remember that becoming a professional medium is NOT the end destination. You still have a lot of spiritual growth to do. I recommend you continue to take classes, read books, expand your mind. The more you learn, the better you can become. For the client, find out about the reader’s continued growth. If it appears they have stopped training, then they may have plateaued.
 
That’s my thoughts. Hope this helps both the new reader and the client.

As a teacher to many student mediums and healers hoping to take their skills to the next level and run a spiritual business, I often get asked, “Dawn, how did you become so successful? What’s your trick?”
 
I am honored they look up to me. I also feel blessed to be able to do what I do every day. And there really is no trick, but these are some of the reasons I feel as though I’ve had success in a tricky business.
 
TIME
First and foremost, I tell people that success doesn’t happen overnight. I have been reading professionally since 2007. That’s almost TEN years. I can’t believe it has been that long as it seems like just yesterday I did my first paid reading out of my mother’s living room. It also surprises many of my colleagues. They are aware I have been around for some time, but because I am still younger than many of them, they find it hard to believe I have been working my business that long. But I have. And, ten years gives the business a lot of time to grow.
 
MULTIPLE JOBS
At the beginning, my business didn’t support a full-time income. In fact, it wasn’t until a little more than three years ago, that I jumped into it with both feet. Prior to that, I juggled my business with a full-time job. In juggling the two, it was not uncommon for me to work 70-80 hours in a week between the two. I worked a lot. Fortunately, I was a little younger, didn’t have a child and had a lot more energy.
 
NOT PICKY
Now that I am established, I can pick and choose when I want to work and what environments I want to work in. I have stopped doing psychic fairs due to drama and intense hours, and have transitioned to regular office hours. This is made possible by the client base I created by doing many, many, many psychic fairs, renaissance festivals and Pagan Pride events. To participate in these events required a lot of time, travel, and patience… but I did it. For a long time, I took any gig I could get to get my name out there. I’m glad I did, it paid off.
 
SPEND MONEY
There is the adage that you must give a little to get a little. In terms of business, to make money you must spend money. Starting a business is never cheap. There are overhead expenses such as space rental or fees to participate in events. If you participate in events, there are a lot of items you will need inclusive of: marketing materials such as business cards and pamphlets; décor to set you apart from other readers or healers; and, any materials you need for your craft. In addition, you will likely have equipment costs such as a computer. Add it all up and this can all be VERY expensive. Unfortunately, this money is not made back right away. In fact, many don’t make money on their first few events. Despite that, I have found that it is important to not go cheap. Patrons can tell if you are being cheap, and it can be a turn off.
 
OPERATIONS
If you become a professional medium, that means that you have a business to operate. Operating a business is not all fun and games. The time spent with clients is incredibly rewarding emotionally and by the fact that at the end of it you are paid for your services. But in addition to this time, hours and hours of time are spent on activities that are critical to keeping the business running that an individual doesn’t get paid for. A rule of thumb for small business is only 30% of time is spent providing a service, while 60% is spent on marketing and 10% on operations. In my business, the 70% of time is spent returning phone calls and scheduling appointments; marketing the business which includes scheduling Facebook posts, writing content for this Blog and a monthly newsletter, filming for my YouTube Channel, etc.; and, I must keep up with my bookkeeping and accounting. Many hours are spent each week doing this work. While it doesn’t equate to money in my pocket, I know it makes a difference because my clients comment on it.
 
GOALS
If you have read my Blogs or watched my YouTube Channel, you know the strategic planner in me LOVES goals. And I credit them with my success. The goals I set give me milestones to work towards. Rather than spinning my wheels going into many different directions, I have a clear vision and focus on what will bring me success. I’m not a jack of all trades, master of none. Instead, I focus my energies towards becoming the best I can become in one realm.
 
SUPPORT
I have the support of my family and friends. My friends and family opened their homes when I would travel for events early on. My mom and aunt babysit my daughter each week so I can see clients. My stepfather who upon hearing my dreams, for Christmas purchases a class to provide me with skills and steps towards being able to achieve it. My stepmom and my dad by proxy, follow everything I do on social media and whenever I participate in a podcast tune in. And most importantly my husband. He is my rock, without him I don’t know what I would do. He returns my calls for me, implements new technology such as my online scheduler to minimize the amount of work we have, films and edits my videos, drives me to all my events, and sacrifices his own career and personal success to see my business grow. I’m so fortunate to have so many people in my life that not only support me, but believe that what I do makes a difference.
 
LUCK                                   
And finally, I don’t want to dismiss the importance of luck. I have put a lot of work into my business, but I have also been incredibly lucky. There have been so many times where things have just fallen into place that have made the work easy. I am blessed.

​When I open my reading room door to greet my client, it is always nice to see the familiar face of returning clients. This is evidence to me that I have done a good job.

It is just as exciting to see an unfamiliar face as well. For these fresh, new faces, I always ask if they have had a reading before. Why? I’m curious and I like to know where someone is coming from.

It is exciting for me when I have someone who has never had a reading before. There is an excitement in them that is unmatched. For people who have had readings before, there are many who have had fabulous ones and I hope I live up to their expectations. And then there are those who have had readings before, but were disappointed. For these individuals, my heart always breaks. They are searching for something. That desire, that need, has gone unfulfilled. Yet, they are unwilling to give up. Hence them sitting in my seat. No pressure, right?? It is for these clients, and my profession, that I want to shine and prove there are good readers out there.

Because unfortunately, there ARE bad readers out there. If you remember Miss Cleo, you know there are readers whose sole purpose is to make money. These individuals will often have a ‘script’ and ask everyone, “Who is Mary or Margaret?” or “What about John?”

Fortunately, these bad readers are few and far between. Most readers are in the profession for the right reason, they want to help people. The majority of readers I know have huge hearts and truly care for their clients. That doesn’t mean they are always good and accurate readers.

If you have a so-so reading here are some things to consider.

Experience: As more and more individuals are discovering their intuition, more and more individuals are taking classes to assist them in developing their psychic or mediumship skills. After taking a class, two, or a whole program that “certifies” them as a psychic medium, many have the heart-felt desire to help individuals with their new found “gift.” These newly minted psychics and mediums hang up their shingle and open for business providing readings.

Unfortunately, a class, two or even a whole program doesn’t always prepare the individual to offer high quality, professional readings. They may have a skill, but not a talent. Let’s liken this to photographers. With a camera on every phone, anyone can look through the back of a camera lens and take a photo. My two year old does all the time! But, these snapshots don’t capture the beauty of a moment like a photographer would. Same thing with readers. It is a talent, and not always something that can be taught.

Fortunately, the longer someone has been doing readings, the more skilled they become – just like the photographer who knows where to look for that perfect shot. Does that mean that the person who has been doing readings for 30 years is always better than the person who has been doing it six months? No. There are some very talented newbies. But, chances are if someone has been around for a while, they have some talent.

Grace: If you have had a reading, you know that they can be emotional. I’d project that at least 85% of my clients tear up if not break into tears at some point during a session. Navigating these emotions and creating an environment of love is part of a reader’s job. And a good reading (at least in my opinion) should be healing. This takes some finesse.

There are some readers who disregard the importance presenting messages delicately and have chosen not to cultivate a finesse. Instead, like a bull in a china shop, messages are delivered in a blunt or flippant manner with disregard for the client’s feelings. I cringe when I hear an individual proudly proclaim they aren’t going to sugar coat anything because the client has to face the truth. If no one else is going to tell them, I will.

Now, this doesn’t mean that a reader should lie to the sitter and tell them what they want to hear. That doesn’t do any good either. But, disregard for their clients’ feelings is unacceptable. Without encouragement, they felt their world was coming to an end.

If this has happened, note that the information may not be as bad as you think. Readers present information in the manner they view the world. If they see the world pessimistically, that is what you are going to get. Think about what they said and how else it could be interpreted.

Ego: As just mentioned, readers see the world through their lens. We have our hopes and dreams. Our favorite places and foods. We readers also have bad days. We get annoyed by our spouses and children. Frustrated with insurance companies, contractors and bad drivers. Unfortunately, when these bad days come, some readers are not good at separating their own issues from the issues their clients face. If a reader is not doing a good job of removing their own thoughts and feelings from a situation, the client is likely to get the reader’s opinion not Spirit’s. For example, there is a colleague of mine that, before I refer anyone to her, I check to see what’s going on in her life. Because when life is good for her, she gives AMAZING readings. They are accurate, funny and inspiring. When she is having personal struggles, particularly in regards to relationships, the readings she gives lack luster and everyone is up to no good.

In these situations, my recommendation is that you trust your own intuition and look for the signs around you. If something doesn’t seem right, if there isn’t evidence to support the assertions, it probably isn’t being translated correctly.

Personality: It should come as no surprise that every reader is different. We are unique individuals, with different experiences and backgrounds. Our training is different. What led us to becoming readers is different. But one thing that is for sure is we are all a little kooky and quirky. Is it a surprise? We talk to Spirit all day.

Because of our quirks, it is important that YOU resonate and are comfortable with us. A statement many clients make that always makes me laugh is: “You’re Dawn Lynn? But you’re so normal looking.” That’s what I strive for – that the client doesn’t see me as much different than themselves. You should look for that in a reader. The more you relate to them as a person, the more likely you will relate to the message they are passing you as it is more likely they will speak your language.

So if you’ve only had a so-so reading, ask yourself… did you feel comfortable with the reader? If not, that’s probably one of the reasons it was only so-so. To get a better reading next time, my recommendation is to look at websites of a few readers then choose the reader that you wouldn’t mind having a drink or coffee with. Why do this? The reader you choose is going to be peering into your soul, talking to your loved ones, and seeing you at your most vulnerable state. If you wouldn’t want to spend the time it takes to have a cup of coffee with any of them, they aren’t the reader for you.

Accuracy: Perhaps you had a reading where the details provided were vague or off the mark. This could be due to experience, as the reader isn’t versed in obtaining detailed information or has a hard time translating it. Or, it could be that the source of the message is being vague and cryptic. For example, I thank the heavens when a loved one steps in and nails the details. Whereas, when a loved one comes in and gives me one word answers I know I have to work a little harder. It is their personalities! In fact, there are even cases that loved ones “lie.” But I liken it to this example. My husband INSISTS he is 6 feet tall. Well, according to the doctor, he is really 5’10” (and shrinking). If he were in Spirit he would insist the same thing, they don’t change. Consider who your loved one was.

Or perhaps you had a reading where predicted outcomes didn’t come to pass. It is important to know that the future is a moving target, and YOU have control over YOUR future. In fact, hearing what is likely to come begins to change what will be. When a reader looks at what is coming, it’s like taking a snapshot and predicting the weather. One can be good at doing that, but that doesn’t mean that something won’t come and change the situation.

Expectations: And, finally, what were your expectations for the reading? Sometimes the expectations are unrealistic. If you are looking for a single phrase or item, you may not get it. Readers aren’t mind readers. Nor are we magic. We are just people like each of you. We translate best we can, and hopefully do a good job of it.

Hope this helps you with a so-so past reading and perhaps get a better one next time around!!

We are in a time where people are awakening left and right. Hence it should not surprise me that whenever I turn around I hear about another medium or healer who is breaking into the business. This can be evidenced by the number of Lily Dale mediums. Right now there are 55!! Whereas back in 2008 there were only 40.
 
It is exciting to realize that so many individuals are coming into their gifts and that consciousness is shifting. That being said, every time I see a new reader, remnants of the old paradigm and my ego rear their ugly heads and causing me to wonder, “What makes them think they are good enough to be a professional medium?”
 
I realize this is motivated COMPLETELY by the fear as the real question that is running through my head is, “Are they going to take my clients?”
 
Trust me, I know that is a foolish thought. I have worked hard over the years to establish myself and have been fortunate to be busier than ever (probably because so many people ARE awakening). And because I whole heartedly believe in the law of attraction, I do believe there is enough abundance to go around to everyone.
 
After rationalizing these fears, I am very quickly able to put them to bed. A concern I have struggled with and don’t quite know what to do about is – What is the quality of the readers hanging up their shingle?
 
As I mentioned, I have worked hard to establish myself. I am also proud of my profession and have high standards for my colleagues. Perhaps it is wrong, but I do believe all mediums need to live by a code (click here to read mine).
 
With this in mind, I often find myself wondering what code do these new mediums live by? How have they been trained? And, what standard of reading do they provide?
 
I am not delusional and am quite aware that there are established mediums that do not live by a code. I am also quite aware that there are mediums who have been doing this a long time that aren’t very good.
 
So my hope is that these new mediums have taken the following into account. And if you are thinking about reading professionally, here is my advice to you…
 
Take Classes
A practice circle with peers is instrumental in continuing to hone you gift. But also be certain to dole out the cash and work with a professional. The professional will be able to mentor and prepare you with skills to be able to sustain the rigors of passing message after message.
 
People are often surprised when I share that I went to “school” to develop my mediumship. They ask, “I thought you were always a medium?” or “I didn’t think you could train for this sort of thing? I thought you were or you weren’t.” My response to these questions is: yes, I always was a medium and while the classes didn’t necessarily help me open up and receive messages they did was help me focus the message as well as ground, center and protect myself. These skills are what enables me to conduct five to seven readings a day on a continual basis.
 
Get Credentialed
Just because my husband knows a little about electrical circuits doesn’t mean he should go about rewiring our house or more to the point offer to rewire someone else’s. That could be dangerous! There is a reason electricians are licensed. Same thing with mediums. Unfortunately, except for organizations like Lily Dale that do register their mediums, there are few places that have a process for certifying individuals. is not a unified process to license mediums. This can and does circle back to my first point however, take classes. These classes ARE what credentials you.
 
Your Motivation
Just because you can do readings doesn’t mean you should. It is important to question what your motivations are for doing the work. Is it because it gives you a rush? Or makes you feel special? Is it because you think you it’s going to make you a lot of money? If any of these are your motivations, you may want to reconsider.
 
Be Professional
Remember mediumship and spiritual advising IS a profession. As such, it’s important to carry yourself in a professional manner. A teacher once told my class, “You need to dress the part.” At the time, I was incredibly offended thinking, “What right does she have to tell me what to wear.” But you know what, she was right. I may not go over the top with the airy fairy or hippie look, but I do dress to project a personality. And that goes beyond just dress, but also carries over into all of my marketing materials.
 
Expectations
You might think you are hot stuff during message circles as your peers sing your praises. A message you pass during a practice circle is VERY different than one you would pass during a professional session. For one, the message will be much longer. In a typical circle you may pass a message that is ten or maybe fifteen minutes in length, whereas during a session it could last up to an hour. Additionally, while a peer may be excited and help you piece together a message with limited details, your clients will expect to you piece it together and provide them with evidence that you are connected. They are the ones paying you, after all, and expect you to do the work.

Know What You Are Getting Yourself Into
Mediumship is more than a full-time job. The more you do, the more both spirit and your clients expect of you. It is not uncommon for a spirit to show up early for a reading. It is also not uncommon for them to "hang out" and talk to me beforehand. I've worked hard to set up my boundaries and ask them to leave. Additionally, you will find that clients want you (and some expect you to be available) at all times. I've had people call me in the middle of the night, frantic to talk RIGHT AWAY. Before I smartened up and got a business line, this was daunting. Learn to set your boundaries.
 
What You Say Matters
Finally, remember that what you say and what you do really does matter. You will likely (and I encourage you to for legal purposes) advertise that all sessions are for entertainment purposes only. Despite this disclaimer, people really do take what you say to heart. As a result, what you say has real impacts on people’s lives.
 
If after considering these things, you are still ready to hang your shingle.  I have one more word of advice.
 
Take Time for You
There was a time when I was first starting out I would take whatever reading I could get. At the time I was working my day job and was squeezing reading in on my clients' schedule. This meant I was working late nights and weekends. I was easily working 80 hours a week. Even after I left my day job and wasn’t working then, when I worked on my clients’ schedules I would have a reading then a few hour break then another then a break. The turning myself on and off become exhausting. Before long I found myself very sick and burnt out. Since then I make sure I take time for myself. I take Wednesdays off and try to take some weekends as well. I’m better for my husband and daughter. I’m better for myself. AND, I’m better for my clients.

With all that said, I am happy to know the troop of light workers is growing. Good luck to each of you on your individual journey, whatever path that may lead you down.

​Something that I have found amazing over the years is the amount of faith, trust and belief people put in me and what I do. Despite the fact my profession could be considered questionable, I rarely encounter an individual who is suspicious of my motives. I attribute that to me being comfortable in my skin, attempting to always be authentic, and most importantly… I don’t shove my beliefs upon others.
 
Unfortunately, not all people in my field have the same restraint. I was witness to the unsolicited shoving of ideals upon another the other day. It made me cringe.
 
My dear friend and her husband were looking for oils and/or crystals to assist him in healing. You see, a couple years ago he sustained an injury while on the job and hasn’t been right since. He’s seen MANY doctors. Undergone MANY treatments and procedures. NOTHING has worked. And he recently received a diagnosis with the prognosis of it being unlikely he will ever be the same again.
 
Seeing her husband in constant pain and unwilling to accept that nothing else can be done, my open-minded friend is exploring alternative solutions. To say her husband is skeptical of these alternative solutions would be an understatement, yet he humors her (not that he really has any choice).
 
Knowing my familiarity with the holistic world and at a loss of where to begin with alternative treatments, a few weeks ago my friend asked my opinion. Knowing her husband’s stubbornness and skepticism, and worrying some options would leave him thinking it was all a bunch of hooey, I recommended things like acupuncture, cranial sacral massage and oils. All things he could plainly see and feel, with the thought that he could eventually have Reiki, BioGenesis, Qi Gong or some other form of energetic healing.
 
With that in mind, my friend brought her husband and I to a spiritual store to pick up some of the items we discussed. While there, she asked my opinions. Overhearing the conversation, the shopkeeper appropriately jumped in and began offering advice such as, “Why not smell the oils, you’ll know what’s right and what’s not from that” and “Let me see what I can find to give you a little more insight.”
 
It was at that point another patron butted into the conversation as well. She asked questions as to what was wrong and (without hearing the whole story) started giving her advice. Very quickly it became clear she was not a fan of traditional medicine AND she was a Reiki practitioner.
 
It also became clear my friend’s husband was shutting down. He didn’t want to be in the store to begin with, now he was receiving advice from someone who didn’t know him or what he had been through! Advice, by the way, that was basically telling him to “think your pain away.” Surgery hadn’t helped. The pain pills weren’t helping. He crossed his arms and began to back away from the woman who was speaking and towards the door.
 
Seeing her husband’s reaction and fearing she was going to lose any interest he had in alternative solutions, my friend said to the woman on numerous occasions, “Yes... we plan on trying that. But, small steps.”
 
Unfortunately, the woman was oblivious and just kept pushing energy healing, specifically Reiki.
 
Now mind you, I appreciate the woman’s enthusiasm and beliefs. And, I admire her ability to sell herself and her services. But, there is a fine line between being confident and informational and being pushy to the point of obnoxious. In my opinion she unfortunately crossed that line, likely without even knowing it.

​What she also likely didn’t realize, is they both lost all faith in her and it is highly unlikely they would go to her for a treatment. She would have been better to listen, than speak. And educate by answering questions, rather than preaching.
 
I was raised with the adage, “Don’t talk about money, politics or religion and you won’t offend anyone.” And, that is what I try to do. Of the three, the only one I feel passionate about is religion/spirituality. But, living by this adage, I don’t talk about my beliefs unless asked. When I do talk about them – I make sure it is clear that they are MY opinion. I don’t force them upon anyone. And, I think that’s why people honor my opinion. I wish others in the field saw this. But alas, we all come to realizations in our own time.
 
To help people come to this realization, or if you find yourself preaching a belief, I encourage you to pause or ask them to pause and listen. You’ll be amazed what you find out by doing that.

Namaste.
 
It is a Sanskirt word most commonly used by Hindis, Muslims and Buddhists that pop and new age culture is beginning to embrace. I’ve heard it recently at a yoga studio, at the end of a meditation, even by a cashier (can you believe it!) at the supermarket. But, what does it mean exactly? Most simply stated, Namaste is a greeting that means “I bow to you.” My interpretation of this word goes a little deeper and is: “I recognize the Divine light that resides within you and that shines wisdom upon me.”
 
Unfortunately, as with any phrase that becomes mainstream, it is my opinion the true intent of the word Namaste is getting watered-down. Due to this, you will rarely hear me utter it.
 
I do, however, attempt to live EVERY DAY by its meaning.
 
I do this by honoring the role everyone – from the garbage man to the doctor to the bus driver and policeman – plays. I’m embarrassed to say that there was a point in my life due to my privileged lifestyle, I looked down on pink and blue collar jobs holding only the ‘educated’ white collar workers in high regard. Fortunately, I have matured and recognize the important role we ALL play. Can you imagine if we didn’t have garbage men or plumbers??
 
To honor the role each of you play, I always try to express my gratitude. Sometimes it is through words. More often through my actions.
 
One of those actions, the most important, is Respect. I recognize that due to each individual’s unique role and experience, we each have a unique wisdom to share. I try to Listen. It is why if you’ve ever attended a class you will see me facilitate discussion and exercises, rather than lecture or demonstrate. While yes there is information I have to share, I will often defer to others opinions. It is common for other practitioners, be it a chiropractor, licensed counselor or teacher – all experts in their own right – to attend my classes. These individuals (as well as the moms and real estate agents) have knowledge that does not only inform their peers AND adds value to the class.
 
Unfortunately despite the prevalence of the catch phrase in these groups, I have found individuals DON’T always honor the wisdom others bring. Sometimes people are critical of others opinions. And sometimes they are even critical of me for allowing these outside opinions. There has actually been occasions where due to this practice an attendee has made it apparent that they see me as “less than,” “inexperienced” and “unqualified” to teach.
 
Fortunately, I am confident in my abilities so the criticism didn’t phase me. When it comes to mediumship, I know I know A LOT. I also know, however, I DON’T know everything. AND, what I have found… when I defer to another attendee, more often than not they give the same response I would. So, the class is getting good information and more importantly… The simple act of honoring and respecting their wisdom is more empowering than a thousand of my words.
 
It’s amazing how far this kind of honor and respect, without hierarchy, goes. It is effective and memorable. And, IT FEELS GOOD! So, I’m going to keep doing it (most of the time… what can I say, I’m an imperfect human and sometimes the ego does get in the way!)! And, I encourage you to embody Namaste too.
 
Namaste.

Science has proven time and time again that meditation is beneficial to one’s health. (Check out this article from a Harvard physician for one perspective).

Unfortunately, many people have a hard time meditating. I can’t tell you how many people say to me… “I just can’t get myself to meditate!” with excuses like: “No time;” or “I’m constantly interrupted;” or “I just CAN’T quiet my mind.”

I understand those excuses all too well. Because, you may find this hard to believe, but I’m one of those people. I have a hard time meditating. Or, at least I did.

Like many of you, I become overwhelmed by my to-do list. Between keeping a watchful eye on my inquisitive toddler, throwing a load of laundry in the wash, picking up my little one’s (and my BIG kid’s aka my hubby’s) toys, feeding and taking care of the dogs, doing readings, writing, teaching, not to mention showering and eating… it can be hard to find ten minutes, let alone a half hour to meditate.

To fit the meditation in, I tried meditating before bed. That didn’t work as I found (like many of you!) I would end up falling asleep. Or sometimes worse, my mind would become so active with the messages I would receive I’d drift off into a lucid dream. This allowed me to process A LOT and receive LOTS of messages. Downside? I’d wake up more tired than when I went to bed, as if I’d just ran a marathon. THAT DIDN’T WORK!

In another effort, I thought… maybe I’d try meditating before I got out of bed. That was an epic fail as well. Unfortunately, as soon as my pups feel me stir they are ready to be pet. Go to the bathroom. AND, most importantly, be fed. Meditating between the nudges and licks to the face, not going to work.

AND… it wasn’t just the dogs. My daughter definitely has a sixth sense (or perhaps just super human hearing). Because like the dogs, as soon as I stir it’s only moments before I hear her start to whimper. That whimper turns into a babble… and then, if I make her wait too long an “I’m hungry. I want my diaper changed AND I want to play” complaint. Again, not something that is easy to meditate while going on.

Fortunately, (after a little trial and error) I’ve found the one place I can slip into that meditative state.

In… the... KITCHEN!

I love to cook. (And, I’m pretty good at it if I do say so myself). In my opinion there is something relaxing and meditative about chopping, peeling, stirring, and measuring. It brings me to my “zen” place. Before baby, I enjoyed my Sunday afternoons when I would whip up a bunch of food for the week. Now, after baby, I have the bonus and having to do it every day! And whether it’s scrambling eggs, chopping and baking zucchini, or peeling of apples to make apple sauce, my mind wanders. A peace and happiness comes over me.

And I receive messages, for ME! My guides talk to me. They encourage me. They send their love. And, sometimes even give me a glimpse (albeit small) into my next steps.

So rather than viewing it as another tedious chore, I look forward to making breakfast for my husband and daughter. And, I look forward to getting our crop share from Becker Farms each week filled with in-season fruits and veggies, knowing I’m going to need to spend time in the kitchen preserving the fruits and veggies not only for the week, but for the rest of the year. I look forward to it because I know I’ll get my meditation in.

I’ve shared with you my meditative spot. Where is yours? 

One of my favorite sayings (and I apologize if I’m being redundant) is: “What you don’t see with your eyes, don’t invent with your words.”

As a medium, it is important that I embrace this philosophy. People come to me not only to connect with their loved ones, but also seeking sage advice or words of wisdom. This has become apparent the past couple weeks, here’s an example.

A close friend, Mitch, attempted suicide the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Fortunately, unlike my step brother, Mitch was unsuccessful and we (my husband and I) have been able to offer support to both him and his new wife.

In an effort to get Mitch home for the holiday, he was released into the custody of his mother, a psychiatric nurse, Wednesday. Mitch and Courtney, his wife, stayed at his parent’s home through the holiday. On Black Friday, it was back to the daily grind and his family had places to be. To ensure his friend wasn’t alone, Don visited him. Knowing this and extending the time before she returned to her in-laws, Courtney, after getting off of work reached out to me.  Hearing the tears and frustration in her voice, I invited her over to talk.

We hugged. She cried. I listened. And then Spirit (as they so often do), spoke.

Through me they expressed concerns about situations/issues that she and Mitch were likely to encounter in the coming days. This included a forceful message that at this time, they needed to stand united not divided. She and her husband are still newlyweds (only 3 months!!) this would be a defining moment for the two of them. Spirit encouraged them to work and make decisions together, rather than allowing his strong-willed family (did I mention he’s Latino) run the show.

No sooner had the message passed my lips, her phone rang! It was her husband and she was immediately presented with a situation Spirit had cautioned her about. When I heard her echoing the message (albeit rawer), I recognized the impact words can have and was reminded of the responsibility being a messenger of Spirit brings!!

That being said, I, despite the fall-out and struggles Courtney and Mitch have faced as a result of her decisions for them, stand by what was passed through me that day. It was pure and from Spirit. However, it reinforced the importance of being able to recognize my thoughts from those presented by Spirit and not interpret what the message means… only then, can I stay true to Spirit’s intention. Because although I consider myself wise and some would put me (and other mediums) on a pedestal, I’m NOT God. And if I insert my thoughts or feelings, I stand to corrupt Spirit’s message and the results can be devastating. So, at this point I’ll repeat – “What you don’t see with your eyes, don’t invent with your words.”

Recently, a client challenged my need and desire to take classes. His belief was that, “Mediumship is a gift from God. Either you have it or you don’t. As a gift, there should be no need for classes.”

I disagree. It is my belief that while I view my mediumship a gift, it is better classified as a talent – similar to that of an athlete. EVERYONE can connect and communicate with the other side, but some people are just naturally better at it. For those people (like myself), the classes aren’t about opening ourselves up… rather, they teach us how to manage the gift AND turn it off (when necessary). The importance of learning that became apparent to me during a trip to Gettysburg.

The stop in Gettysburg about ten years ago was impromptu. My mother and I travelled to eastern Pennsylvania on a shopping expedition to the outlet malls (there are several in Hershey, Lancaster, and Gettysburg, PA). While in the area, not only did we hit the outlets, but we also got a chocolate fix, checked out the Amish, and decided to make our way down to the historic sites of Gettysburg – neither of us had ever been.

This trip came at a point when I was just beginning to accept and explore my gift. It had recently come on full-blown after being quieted for years and I was trying to make sense of it. I thought the visions and feelings were “cool” and didn’t completely understand how to process the messages. What happened in Gettysburg showed me that the gift isn’t always “cool” and that classes were necessary for my sanity.

Our stop in Gettysburg started off relatively uneventful. As we drove into town and made our way around the circle in the middle of town, I smiled but I began to feel heaviness in my chest and my breath became short. It also started to get loud. There were cannons and gunshots going off in the distance – I initially thought, “Lucky us!! We might see a reenactment!” The type of reenactment I saw that day was more than I bargained for.

As we made our way towards the battlefields, I began to see that the reenactments weren’t those of actors, but the spirits reenacting their last days. Trying to avoid that which was occurring around me, my mother and I decided (as any good tourist should) to stop at the Welcome Center… BAD IDEA! Before we even got out of the car my sixth sense was ringing and all my “Clairs” were activated: We were being charged by soldiers… the were wounded, scared, cocky, a whole host of emotions; there were cannons, gunshots, wails from pain and pleading from soldiers; my heart and whole body ached, my head throbbed and I felt as though I was about to toss my cookies; the taste of blood filled my mouth and the smell of smoke filled the air. Tears were in my eyes, but we headed into the Visitor Center – I foolishly thought I’d be able to shake these feelings.

That didn’t happen. Rather, as we entered the Welcome Center, I made a bee-line down the stairs to the Women’s Restroom hoping to pull myself together. Three soldiers followed me. No amount of water in my face was about to get them to leave. So after shutting myself in the stall for a few minutes and being accosted by one very persistent spirit… I darted out of the bathroom and told my mother WE MUST LEAVE. NOW! Not just the center, the town in general. We did.

My mother and I spent approximately 30 minutes in Gettysburg that day – the longest thirty minutes of my life. It was after that I began to understand the necessity for the “basics” of mediumship (grounding, protecting, centering and allowing). As a teacher, I now stress the importance of “mastering” these skills before completely opening oneself to the spiritual word. Without them, it’s a scary world out there.

It took a long time for me to return to Gettysburg. It’s still a hard place to visit and I have the most interesting experiences every time I go (more on that later), but fortunately, as my in-laws live ten minutes south of Gettysburg and we pass by the battlefields every time we travel to visit them, the classes have allowed me to dull the sensations and I’m able to enjoy the history.