 If you are like me, you enjoy walking through old cemeteries-especially at this time of year. In my book “Grave Spirits” I have several photos of cemeteries that I have visited across the U.S... Currently, my favorite haunt is Hollywood Cemetery here in Richmond, VA. It’s spacious, beautiful and spooky. However, whenever I go to visit the places of the deceased, I never go empty handed!
Cemeteries have long been places of reverence, reflection, and mystery. Among the headstones, one often finds small offerings—pennies, flowers, and even bottles of alcohol—left by visitors. These offerings may seem simple, but they carry deep significance. Rooted in cultural traditions, spiritual practices, and personal beliefs, these tokens reflect humanity's enduring connection to the deceased and the unseen world. But why do people bring such offerings to the graves of loved ones, historical figures, and even strangers? My favorite to bring—pennies! Pennies, and sometimes other coins, are commonly found on gravestones, particularly in the U.S. The tradition of leaving coins on graves has its origins in several sources. For military graves, especially those of soldiers who served in wars, pennies can symbolize the act of paying respect to the deceased and acknowledging their service. The type of coin left can vary in meaning: A penny: indicates that someone simply visited the grave. A nickel: signifies that the visitor trained with the deceased in boot camp. A dime: shows that the visitor served with them. A quarter: means the person was present when the soldier died. Beyond military symbolism, leaving coins can be a universal act of remembrance and respect. In ancient times, the practice of leaving coins with the dead was linked to the belief in paying Charon, the ferryman who carried souls across the River Styx to the afterlife in Greek mythology. While that belief may have faded, coins today can still represent an offering to the spirit, a connection to the past, or a wish for the deceased's peaceful journey. Moreover, alcohol, particularly in the form of libations, has been used as an offering to the dead for centuries. Across cultures, the act of pouring alcohol on graves or leaving bottles behind serves multiple purposes. In some traditions, alcohol is thought to nourish the spirit of the deceased, allowing them to partake in a communal act they enjoyed in life. For example: In Vodou and Afro-Caribbean traditions, rum is commonly offered to spirits as a way to honor ancestors, deities, and the dead and in Mexican culture, during Día de los Muertos, families may leave tequila, mezcal, or other favorite beverages of the departed on altars or gravesites as part of the celebrations. These offerings symbolize the continuation of life and the idea that the spirits can return and enjoy the things they loved. Alcohol offerings can also serve as a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms, acknowledging that the dead are not truly gone, but remain a presence in the lives of the living. Likewise, in many cultures, bringing food and flowers to cemeteries is a long-standing tradition. Food offerings, particularly those placed on graves during special occasions, festivals, or anniversaries, serve as a gesture of care. In cultures like the Chinese Qingming Festival or the Hindu Pitru Paksha, food is offered to the spirits of the dead to ensure their well-being in the afterlife and to foster a continuing relationship between the living and the deceased. Flowers, especially in Western traditions, are another popular offering. While their presence beautifies the cemetery, they also serve as a symbol of life, love, and the fleeting nature of existence. Different flowers carry specific meanings—roses for love, lilies for purity, and marigolds for remembrance—connecting emotions and symbols with the act of honoring the dead. Aside from the more widely recognized offerings, people often leave personal items on graves—notes, photographs, toys, or trinkets. These objects represent intimate memories and personal connections to the deceased, allowing loved ones to continue communicating with the dead in a tangible way. Whether it’s a sentimental item or an object tied to the person's identity, these gifts keep the memory of the departed alive and offer comfort to the living. For those who practice witchcraft, occultism, or other spiritual traditions, leaving offerings at graves may hold deeper ritualistic significance. Graveyards are often seen as liminal spaces where the boundary between the physical and spiritual worlds is thin. Practitioners may leave offerings to spirits, deities, or ancestors to request guidance, protection, or favor. Items like alcohol, coins, or specific herbs may be used in these rituals to honor the dead and seek their blessings. In many magical practices, acknowledging and respecting the spirits of the dead is an important part of connecting to ancestral wisdom or ensuring that one's spells or workings are successful. In all its forms, the act of bringing offerings to cemeteries is about remembrance, respect, and connection. Whether a coin left on a grave, a libation of alcohol, or a bouquet of flowers, these gestures remind us of the continuity between the living and the dead. They allow us to honor those who have come before us, reflect on the impermanence of life, and affirm that, in some way, the dead are still with us. At its core, the practice of offering these tokens speaks to humanity's deep desire to stay connected to the past, even in the face of death. Whether stemming from religious traditions, personal sentiments, or spiritual practices, these offerings are symbols of our enduring relationships with those who have passed on, ensuring that their spirits remain honored and remembered in the world of the living. So---do you have a penny for the dead?
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 Happy Octoberween!
Although the veil has been thinning for some time, it feels like the spirits become especially restless as October approaches, eager to break through! If you’re sensitive like me, this time of year can be challenging. Spirits surround you, either seeking to communicate or simply making their presence known. It can often be difficult to distinguish between your emotions and theirs. My emotions are a whirlwind right now. I’m excited for Halloween, yet I feel sluggish and weighed down by feelings that aren’t even my own. The energy can feel chaotic, and I can shift from intense euphoria to utter pandemonium in just a few minutes. Navigating this time of year as a sensitive, medium, or empath can be quite challenging. However, there are effective ways to separate your energy from those around you, including spirits. It requires time and consistent practice, but the more you engage in this work, the easier it becomes to "shut down" when needed. With practice, you'll also find it easier to open yourself up whenever you choose. Here are my top six ways of separating your emotions from those seen and unseen: 1. Boundaries: The first and most important step in working with spirits is to set clear boundaries. Empaths often absorb the emotions and energies of those around them, which can be overwhelming. It’s essential to define what is acceptable for you emotionally and physically. Don’t hesitate to say no when necessary. I often speak aloud to the spirits or energies, saying things like, “I’m not ready to communicate with you” or simply, “Leave me alone.” Being assertive helps establish and maintain your boundaries. 2. Visualization: When you’re out and picking up on the emotions of others, visualize yourself surrounded by a protective circle. If you’re Pagan or Wiccan and have a specific phrase you use when casting a circle, recite it in your mind. I often use this technique, as circles can take on a cylindrical shape as well! Once I’m inside my cylinder, nothing can enter that I don’t wish to allow. 3. Grounding: Engage in grounding exercises like walking barefoot on the earth, meditating, or visualizing roots extending from your feet into the ground. These practices can help anchor you and provide a sense of stability. One of my favorite grounding methods is to sit in a quiet space with some incense and soothing music while savoring a piece of my favorite chocolate! 4. Limit Exposure: Most empaths (not all) that I know are introverted and avoid large crowds. I am one of them. If certain environments or people drain you, try to limit your time with them. Its ok to leave an event or party early if you feel like its to much for you to handle. 5. Use Crystals and Talismans: Crystals like black tourmaline, obsidian, hematite, or amethyst can help with protection and grounding. Carry or wear them to provide comfort. Also, if you have a favorite necklace use it has a talisman to help you ground when you feel to the energies are too much 6. Art: Lastly, get creative. Channel your emotions and feelings into artwork! Writing, drawing, painting or dancing can allow you to ground the energies you have picked up and help to recenter yourself.  Mabon, celebrated on the Autumn is a sacred day in the pagan Wheel of the Year, marking a moment of perfect balance when day and night are equal. It is after the Welsh God Mabon, son of the Earth Mother Modron. Mabon symbolizes the gathering of crops and the winding down of the year as we prepare to move into the colder, darker months.
In ancient times, this was a period of great significance to our ancestors, whose survival depended on the bounty of the harvest. They would honor the land, spirits, and deities responsible for the fruits of their labor, offering thanks for abundance and preparing for the challenges of winter. Today, Mabon remains a potent time for modern witches and pagans to give thanks, seek balance, and cultivate a deeper connection to nature’s rhythms. Mabon is all about balance—between light and dark, action and rest, external work and internal contemplation. As the Sun wanes and the nights grow longer, the energies of the earth shift. It’s a time for us to reflect on our personal harvests—what we’ve achieved, learned, or gained over the past year. It is a time to take stock of the year’s abundance, both material and spiritual. Acknowledge the blessings, relationships, and growth in your life. Gratitude raises your vibration and helps you align with future abundance. Additionally, Mabon is a perfect time to let go of what no longer serves you—whether it’s a bad habit, toxic relationships, or outdated goals. Just as the trees shed their leaves, we too must release the unnecessary. My favorite way of celebrating Mabon is with warm apple cider! With its connection to the harvest, apples are associated with wisdom, love, and protection. When you drink apple cider during Mabon, you’re not only partaking in a delicious autumn drink but also connecting to the cycles of nature, the wisdom of the Earth, and the sacred energies of the season! The apple is a sacred fruit in many pagan traditions, often seen as a symbol of life, death, and rebirth. When cut horizontally, an apple reveals a hidden pentacle inside, representing the interconnectedness of life. Apple cider, made from this magical fruit, is a staple for Mabon feasts and rituals. Mabon Apple Cider Gratitude Spell: This simple spell using apple cider is designed to help you express gratitude and invite balance and abundance into your life for the coming year. You can perform this spell alone or with a group as part of a Mabon ritual or celebration. What You’ll Need: - A cup of warm apple cider (preferably homemade or locally sourced) - Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon - A small candle (yellow, orange, or brown works well) - Pen and paper Find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Light your candle and take a few moments to center yourself with deep breaths, feeling your energy align with the Earth and the changing season. Take your pen and paper and write down at least three things you are grateful for from the past year. These can be anything from relationships, health, personal achievements, or lessons learned. Stir the apple cider gently with a cinnamon stick or sprinkle ground cinnamon on top. As you do, speak aloud the following or similar words: “Fruit of the Earth, cider of gold, Abundance and blessings within you hold. Grateful I stand for all that’s been, May balance and bounty flow once again.” Sip on the apple cider while you reflect on the past year. Allow the candle to burn out and keep your list of gratitude in a safe place to reflect on when your soul needs a little pick me up.  Being a witch is not just something I do; it’s the essence of who I am. It defines me completely. My car proudly displays witchy stickers, and even my license plate leaves no doubt that a witch is on board. Witchcraft has been my constant companion through every stage of life. As a child, it served as my guide. During my teenage years, it kept bullies at bay. In young adulthood, it helped heal the wounds of heartache. And now, as an adult, it's been my anchor through life’s highs and lows. Witchcraft has always been there for me, especially in my darkest moments, when I am gripped by depression and anxiety.
Having both depression and anxiety doesn’t diminish my identity as a witch. But it does often turn me into a recluse, pulling away from people while still craving connection and friendship. It makes me flakey—eager to engage, yet easily overwhelmed by the crushing weight of the world, causing me to cancel plans at the last minute. I may come across as distant, even unapproachable, when in truth, I’m just struggling to navigate social interactions. It fills me with fear at the thought of going to unfamiliar places alone unless I have someone I trust by my side. I’ve lost friendships because of my mental health, and I don’t blame them for it. I’ve missed out on promising opportunities, too. I have even missed out on family events, which hurts a lot. Living with a mental illness has taught me the painful reality of loss. While I might seem adventurous, inside, I’m trapped in a prison from which there is no escape. Does this mean I can’t create magick for myself or others? Absolutely not. I can still weave spells, create, and manifest magick—nothing stops me from that. Witches can practice magick even with anxiety and depression because magick is an inherent part of who we are. It doesn't rely on constant external perfection. In fact, magick can become a source of healing and strength for those dealing with mental health challenges. Casting spells, setting intentions, or performing rituals offer structure and meaning, helping witches reclaim a sense of control and connection to the universe. Magick is deeply personal and flexible—it can be practiced in moments of stillness, during emotional turmoil, or even through something as simple as lighting a candle. Anxiety and depression don’t weaken a witch’s power; rather, they can bring deeper layers of vulnerability, resilience, and insight, enriching the practice with a profound sense of transformation. Additionally, witchcraft can be a powerful and healthy practice for those with anxiety because it provides a sense of grounding, structure, and personal empowerment. Engaging in rituals, whether through spellwork, meditation, or working with natural elements, allows individuals to create moments of calm and control amidst the chaos of anxious thoughts. The act of setting intentions, visualizing outcomes, and focusing energy on a specific goal can help quiet the mind and reduce stress. Witchcraft encourages mindfulness and self-awareness, guiding practitioners to connect with their inner selves and the natural world, which can be incredibly soothing for anxiety. Additionally, the spiritual aspect of witchcraft fosters a sense of belonging and connection, offering emotional comfort and helping those with anxiety find meaning in their journey. Similarly, witchcraft can be a healing and empowering practice for those dealing with depression, as it offers a sense of purpose and connection that can help alleviate symptoms. Through spellwork, ritual, and meditation, witchcraft provides structure and focus, which can be particularly beneficial when depression causes feelings of hopelessness or lack of direction. Engaging with nature, setting intentions, and working with elements like herbs and crystals create small yet meaningful acts of self-care and mindfulness. These practices encourage self-reflection, helping individuals reconnect with their inner strength and reclaim a sense of control over their lives. Moreover, the spiritual aspects of witchcraft, such as connecting with deities or ancestors, foster a sense of belonging and support, which can be deeply comforting for those feeling isolated or disconnected. By nurturing the soul and mind, witchcraft becomes a tool for healing, helping to shift energy and invite positive transformation. Lastly, connecting with pagan deities during a depressive or anxiety episode can provide a profound sense of comfort, guidance, and spiritual support. When struggling with overwhelming emotions, reaching out to a deity can help ground you, reminding you that you’re not alone in your journey. Pagan deities, often associated with different aspects of life such as healing, transformation, protection, and strength, offer a direct link to ancient wisdom and energies that can soothe the spirit. This connection allows for a personal dialogue with the divine, where you can ask for clarity, courage, or simply for someone to witness your pain. The act of invoking a deity during these difficult moments creates a sacred space for release and renewal, allowing you to shift your focus from internal turmoil to spiritual growth. By connecting with these powerful forces, you tap into a timeless source of strength and compassion, which can bring emotional relief and a renewed sense of purpose amidst the storm of anxiety and depression. If you are a witch with a mental illness, you are not broken. You are not alone. You can still weave spells and practice magick. Be who you are. A witch. In the world of witchcraft and spellcasting, tradition often emphasizes the importance of following specific rules and guidelines. These rules, handed down through generations, provide a framework that can help practitioners focus their intent and ensure the safety and effectiveness of their work. However, there are times when deviating from these established norms can lead to powerful, personalized, and profoundly transformative experiences. Here’s why you don't always need to follow the rules when working spells. One of the most compelling reasons to break away from traditional spellcasting rules is the power of personal connection and intuition. Magic is deeply personal, and each practitioner has a unique relationship with the energies they work with. Rigidly adhering to prescribed methods can sometimes stifle this personal connection, preventing you from fully harnessing your innate power. Trusting your intuition and allowing your personal experiences to guide your spellwork can result in more meaningful and effective outcomes. Magic is an art as much as it is a science. Creativity and innovation are vital components of effective spellcasting. While traditional rules provide a solid foundation, they should not limit your creative expression. Experimenting with new ingredients, incantations, or ritual structures can lead to the discovery of powerful new methods. By stepping outside the boundaries of conventional practices, you can tap into a wellspring of creativity that enhances your magical abilities. Many traditional spellcasting rules were developed in times and cultures vastly different from our own. As society evolves, so too must our magical practices. Modern witches often face challenges and circumstances that ancient practitioners could never have imagined. Adapting spells to fit contemporary life—whether by incorporating modern tools or addressing current issues—ensures that magic remains relevant and effective. Breaking old rules can be a necessary step in making your practice fit the realities of your life today. There is a profound sense of empowerment that comes from forging your own path in spellwork. When you take the initiative to modify or create your own spells, you assert your authority and confidence as a practitioner. This self-assured approach can amplify your magical intent, making your spells more potent. Believing in your own power is a critical component of successful magic, and sometimes that means breaking away from established norms to follow your own path. While some rules are designed to ensure safety—such as those involving the use of fire, sharp objects, or toxic herbs—many others are more about tradition than necessity. If certain rituals or ingredients make you uncomfortable or feel unsafe, it’s perfectly acceptable to modify them. Your comfort and sense of security are paramount in spellcasting, as anxiety and discomfort can interfere with your focus and intention. No two witches are alike, and neither are their needs. Spells are most effective when they are tailored to the individual practitioner. Adhering strictly to another’s rules can result in spells that are less aligned with your personal goals and energies. By customizing your spells, you ensure that they resonate with your specific desires and circumstances, making them more powerful and effective. While tradition and rules provide valuable guidance, they should not be seen as unbreakable laws. Magic is a deeply personal practice that thrives on intuition, creativity, and adaptability. By trusting yourself and your unique connection to the energies around you, you can create powerful, effective spells that resonate with your personal truth. So, don't be afraid to break the rules and explore the boundless possibilities of your magical practice. Remember, the most potent magic often comes from following your heart and trusting your inner wisdom. I always feel that it is important for me, as a spiritual person, to share with others that I am not always perfect. That I too have struggles that only make me stronger. This one of those stories I wanted to share.
Four years ago today, while I was living in Tampa, Florida, I woke up to the worst panic attack of my life. I remember getting up, shaking, numb, and unable to move. Tears streamed down my face as I struggled to comprehend what was happening to my body and mind. It felt like a switch had been flipped in my brain, sending my flight response into overdrive. This marked the beginning of the most terrifying and traumatic depressive episode I have ever experienced. I felt like I had forgotten how to do everything. I remember getting into my car, and everything around me seemed to grow larger and close in on me. I attempted to drive, but as I pulled out, it felt like I had forgotten how to operate the vehicle. I had to stop and go back inside. The following weeks were a blur of sleep and exhaustion, with constant dark thoughts fluttering through my mind. I could barely eat and felt like an empty shell. Thankfully, my primary care physician was amazing, and I found a psychiatrist who, even though I had to pay out of pocket, helped me get on the right medications. It took me a full six months to recover from that depressive episode. It felt like my brain had been damaged, and my neurons needed time to heal. To this day, I gauge the severity of my depressive episodes against that experience in June 2020. While I’ve had other episodes since, nothing compares to that time. I remind myself of my strength and resilience, knowing that I never let the darkness consume me. I kept fighting and ultimately won, and I will always continue to fight and win. Remembering the Struggle and Celebrating the Victory Though I've had other episodes, nothing compares to the darkness I faced in June 2020. That time in my life serves as a benchmark for my resilience and strength. I remind myself daily that I never allowed that darkness to pull me under. I never allowed it to win. I kept fighting, and I won. And I will always win. Finding Hope and Strength If you are struggling with depression, remember that you are not alone. Seek help, reach out to professionals, and lean on your support network. It's a tough battle, but with determination and the right support, you can overcome it. Keep fighting, and know that you have the strength to win. Many of you have been wondering where I have been. I am now living in Richmond, VA with my husband and my menagerie. I have pretty much dipped out of the dance scene, save only for Snake Charming and I am entering the Crone phase of my life. I am after many years of struggling, redefining my identity. In October of 2023 I lost one my best friends and belly dance colleagues. Her passing really forced me to reevaluate my life and the idea of self-identity. My life had changed so much since living in Boston and I had lost so much of “who” I was when I left. I was trying so hard to recreate what I had in Boston and would find myself in depressive episodes when it never happened.
After many years, I have accepted that I have changed and shed my skin into a new identity. That of an artist and author. As the proprietress of Snake and Bone, I am enjoying the creative process of making new pieces for the shop. I have also written my third book and am currently working on my fourth as well as a secret project! I am excited to start vending in Richmond and beyond, bringing Snake and Bone out to the public where I can share not only my jewelry, but my handmade oils, incense and Spirit Bottles! One thing I have also been focusing on is the Tarot. I have been reading Tarot since I was 13, however, I never focused on them as spiritual tools. I have become a member of the Tarosophy Association and have been taking their in-depth courses on the Tarot and their spiritual significance. Needless to say, while I am not the Zehara I was 10 years ago---I am still Zehara, just on a new journey! Tarot cards have long been a tool for divination, self-reflection, and guidance. Traditionally, they are used to gain insights into various aspects of life, including relationships, career, and personal growth. However, one often overlooked aspect of tarot readings is how the cards can reveal issues with the querent—the person seeking the reading—rather than just focusing on the person in question or the external situation.
The Mirror of the Soul Tarot cards function as a mirror, reflecting the inner state of the querent. Each card holds a multitude of meanings, which can be interpreted in various ways depending on the context of the question and the querent's current life circumstances. When a querent asks about another person, the cards can often shed light on the querent's own feelings, biases, and influences to the situation. This reflective quality makes tarot an invaluable tool for self-awareness, personal growth and self-empowerment. Projection and Perception One psychological concept that explains this phenomenon is projection. Projection occurs when individuals attribute their own thoughts, feelings, or motivations to another person. In the context of a tarot reading, the cards can highlight these projections, helping the querent understand how their perceptions and emotions might be coloring their view of the situation. For instance, if a querent draws cards indicating betrayal or mistrust while asking about a partner, it may reflect the querent's own fears or insecurities rather than the partner's actions. The Role of the Tarot Reader The tarot reader plays a crucial role in interpreting the cards and guiding the querent to a deeper understanding of the reading. An experienced reader can help the querent see beyond the surface meanings of the cards and explore how their own thoughts and behaviors might be influencing the situation. By gently questioning and providing insights, the reader can encourage the querent to reflect on their own role in the issue at hand. Common Cards Reflecting Inner Issues Certain tarot cards are particularly indicative of issues within the querent: The Hanged Man: This card often suggests a need for a change in perspective. When it appears, it can indicate that the querent needs to consider how their own viewpoint might be contributing to the problem. The Moon: Associated with illusions and subconscious fears, The Moon can point to hidden anxieties or misconceptions the querent may have about the person in question. The Devil: While often interpreted as external temptations or bindings, The Devil can also signify internal struggles, such as unhealthy attachments or negative patterns of behavior within the querent. Five of Cups: This card reflects grief, loss, and focusing on the negative. Its appearance might suggest that the querent is too fixated on past disappointments, affecting their current relationships or situations. Using Tarot for Self-Reflection For those using tarot cards for self-reflection, it's essential to approach readings with an open mind and a willingness to look inward. Here are some tips: 1. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of asking, "Is my partner unfaithful?" consider asking, "What can I do to improve my relationship?" This shifts the focus from blaming others to personal growth. 2. Journal Your Readings: Keeping a tarot journal helps track patterns and recurring themes. Over time, this can reveal underlying issues and personal growth areas. 3. Reflect on Emotional Responses: Pay attention to your immediate emotional reactions to the cards. Strong reactions can indicate areas that need deeper exploration. 4. Seek Professional Guidance: Sometimes, an outside perspective can provide clarity. Consulting with a professional tarot reader can offer additional insights and support. Tarot cards are more than just a tool for predicting the future or understanding others; they are a profound instrument for self-discovery. By reflecting on the querent's own issues, thoughts, and emotions, tarot readings can promote greater self-awareness and personal growth. Embracing this reflective aspect of tarot can lead to more meaningful insights and, ultimately, a more empowered and enlightened approach to life's challenges. The Tarot AddictSince the age of 13, I have been reading Tarot Cards and started professionally reading them when I was in my twenties. I have done both private and corporate events as well as reading for clients who found me via my website or picked up one of the many business cards I leave lying around whenever I am out and about.
I have my regulars. The ones I read for on a regular basis. Usually every three to six months or so. However, since the pandemic started last year, I have begun to notice a trend in my clients that I actually had to put the breaks on. Maybe it was the lockdowns, the unemployment worries, the constant bombardment of news that left everyone in a state of constant anxiety. I can't say that I myself was not affected by the pandemic stress. Whatever it was, I noticed that some people were becoming Tarot addicts. They wanted a reading every week or month. At first, I didn't think much of it. Different issues needing some guidance. But there was more to it. There was this weird sense of urgency and need. I realized, that receiving Tarot readings had become a type of drug for some people. It was an itch they needed to scratch. It wasn't that they were asking for guidance--it was that they were feeling unable to make a rational decision for small problems. Or needed to hear that, what they knew was the right thing to do, from someone else. It was unhealthy. I felt like I was becoming a drug dealer feeding a habit. Except for their drug of choice was my beloved Tarot deck! I knew inherently, that COVID-19 was partially to blame for this. When we were struck with the pandemic, it left us all in a state of unknowingness. We all needed some direction in a future that seemed blinded by doubt. Since then, I have had to set clear boundaries with all my clients, past, present, and future. For starters, no new readings on a new issue for a month. If you come to me for a reading on a specific issue, you need to wait three months before I do another reading on it. Three months is enough time to see if things pan out. As always, I tell my clients' readings are not set in stone. They offer guidance on a situation only. They are not predictions for the future and things can always change. I also offer spell work -- if in three months, things don't work out or you need more guidance-- I am happy to do another reading on the issue. The truth is, as a Tarot Reader, I am not helping anyone by feeding their addiction. Some would see it as a monetary loss. But I believe as a reader, I am here to offer assistance, and by filling a void by doing constant readings for the same person for the same issue--I am not doing anyone any favors. Yeah, sorry .... no. The words "medium" and "mediumship" get tossed around way too much nowadays with nearly everyone with some type of claire-psychism claiming to be a medium. You may be a psychic-- but you are not a medium. I am not saying real, genuine mediums do not exist. They do. Absolutely. I just do not believe that they exist to the point where there are many of them that you can type in the word medium and pull up thousands of results. And people claiming to be mediums may have psychic abilities but they are not true mediums.
I discuss this in my book "Grave Spirits." There are three types of psychics: Clairaudient (means you can hear the dead), clairsentient (you can feel the dead), and clairvoyant (you can see the dead). Unless you have ALL three--- you are NOT a medium. You can have one or two. But you need all three to be a medium. It is why I have never in my life claimed to be a medium. When people hear the word medium, they immediately think of big names like John Edwards and James Van Praagh. Both of whom, I have seen in person and both of whom I can say are true mediums. It is not ok to toss around the word medium. And the reason is simple. It brings false hope to those who need reconciliation. Imagine the pain of losing someone close. I recently lost my mother in law who was single handly one of the most influential women in my entire life. If I were not already connected to her in a spiritual way and did not have a healthy relationship with death, you better believe that I would be reaching out to anyone who said they were a medium to get in contact with her. And what about those families who have lost a child to murder or suicide? Claiming the word medium is claiming a major responsibility. It's more than just stating whether or not someone Uncle Joe left them a thousand dollars in a box in the attic somewhere. It's claiming that you can literally without a doubt, 99% communicate clearly with the dead. As a clairsentient, I feel the dead. I feel their presence. They will send me impressions of things-- like the feeling of wearing a sweater or impress upon me the feeling of love or anger. I can pass that message onto someone. But I can not hear them directly or see them. Therefore, I am not a medium. Frankly, I do not want to be a medium. I do not want that responsibility. And if you are not a medium, you should not want it either. |
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