Friday, April 30, 2010

Haunted New York: Enjoy a Spooktacular Tour of the City


New York City is known for many things: the bright lights of Broadway, fine cuisine and corner vendors, glamour and excitement. Yet for those interested in the paranormal and unexplained, the Big Apple may very well be renamed the Big Haunt.


A growing interest in the paranormal and unexplained draws visitors to the City, year after year, to explore the less than touristy parts of the five boroughs. Celebrity spooks and historical specters are the stars of these underworld tours, and you never know when some will stop by to say hello, or "Boo!"


Once you've seen the popular sights the city has to offer, why not take a trip down the eerie side of the City many call home…years after they have departed? If you're in the mood for a frightfully fun stay in New York, and can't wait until the Halloween, the city is not without yearlong otherworldly charm.


Here are just a few frightfully fun spots to explore:


Merchant's House Museum: This is a must-see for any ghost chaser, where else but the one place called the "most haunted house in Manhattan?" Certain times of the year, the Merchant's House Museum presents ghost tours and lectures on various topics, including the art of dying. If you're lucky you might catch a glimpse of any of the curious spirits known to wander the property, perhaps one of Seabury Tredwell, who died in the very house in 1865. Call ahead to find out when the Museum offers an authentic recreation of his passing and funeral.


Hotel Chelsea: The Chelsea Hotel is long known as a one-time residence for widely-known literary and pop culture icons. William S. Burroughs, Donald Sutherland, and Bob Dylan once hung their hats here, and rocker Sid Vicious reportedly killed his girlfriend Nancy in their room.


Whether Nancy haunts the Chelsea remains to be confirmed, but it is said that the ghost of Dylan Thomas haunts the famous hotel. Of course, he died after drinking too many spirits at the White Horse Tavern and was taken to the Chelsea after collapsing outside the pub. It is believed he haunts the White Horse, too, so maybe he's pulling double duty?


New Amsterdam Theater: Did you hear the one, too, about the Ziegfield Follies showgirl who haunts this popular venue? Many have claimed to see Olive Thomas strutting the stage in her beaded costume, no doubt looking to take one last bow.


Radio City Music Hall: If the Rockettes are kicking extra high some nights, it could be from fright! The ghost of Roxy Rothafel is said to haunt the theatre he built.


The Algonquin Hotel: Known for the eclectic group of wits and writers of the earliest 20th century who gathered often as the Vicious Circle, this hotel is also home to permanent guests. It is said some of the Circle have continued their stay at their favorite Round Table and elsewhere in the hotel. Could it be the tart-tongued Dorothy Parker, the hilariously mute Harpo Marx, or maybe Alexander Woollcott? If you hear a horn blow from nowhere, that may narrow it down.


The Dakota: This stylish Manhattan apartment building is believed to be haunted by the ghost of John Lennon, who was fatally shot near the entrance.


Hotels and theatres, pop stars and fallen stars, New York City is home to millions. How many are living as opposed to the living dead is difficult to say, but for those with a fascination for the paranormal half the fun is finding out.


Thursday, April 29, 2010

Are We Heroes?


 


What is mankind's fascination with the paranormal and mystical really about? Is it a reoccurring fantasy of role playing that we have indulged ourselves in for millennia, or is it something much deeper that beckons us?

Let us explore the realm of the real super hero in all of us. Let us explore the possibilities of perception that will peel back the very veils of reality. Does something sleeping within us wish to awake?

How many of us play online games like World of War craft or Dungeons and Dragons? We've all seen a host of these games over the years. Every one of them speaks of magic and abilities ranging from weather manipulation, mesmerizing our enemies, casting spells that confuse our opponents, to having special magical sight and powers!

Seeing mankind's innate desire to have more than just the ordinary perception of reality is as old as the Shamanic rituals of ancient times. From the peyote ceremonies of the Navajo Indians to the psychedelic movement of the 60's we can see a recurring pattern in mankind's quest to unveil a world more mystical.

What is this insatiable romance we have with the mystical? For eons man has wished to be inundated with mystical powers of the clairvoyant to the psychic, the psychokinetic to the prophetic.

However the reality of hokey psychic hotlines and parlor psychics are unfortunately something we see every day. But what if all of our curiosity and intrigue into the world of the paranormal and mystical, were really the subtle voice of something within us that mankind stopped using long ago?

The Sixth Sense. Every person has the ability to develop something within themselves that will literally change the way they see reality. Does it sound too incredible to be real? Twenty years ago remote viewing was a term only a few conspiracy theorists even knew.

Today the concept of remote viewing like in the movie Subject Zero, or the newest programs on psychics who find missing people are as common as a trip to the video store, or a Thursday evening on the Discovery Channel.

The truth of the matter is we are all fascinated by the possibility of becoming more than the ordinary selves we see each other as from day to day. All the more reason comic book characters typically have abilities that go far beyond the five senses.

The answer we seek is found by de shrouding the romantic from the practical. While not everyone is going to start of as a Nostradamus we all have had premonitions about things in our lives that were perhaps eerily accurate. We have all thought about someone only to have them call a few seconds later. We have even had dreams that have come true. Do these things wash themselves away during the bustle of our day to day life, or are they glimmers of something real?

Perhaps these common synchronicities are the first whispers of a dormant sensory? This sensory that in primitive times, when we didn't have the tools, technology, or brain power to navigate us through life, was the dominant survival mechanism. Lets us imagine that that unused mechanism is still there, in the recesses of our consciousness subtly using its voice and giving us the clues we need to bring it forth.

The bottom line is that man has always been fascinated by the mystical, magical and the paranormal! From movies like the Matrix to X men, to popular television series like Heroes we have always thirsted for the unknown and unbelievable. Is there a hero in all of us? Perhaps we are simply listening to a long silent inner voice that is clamoring for its return to a place in our conscious minds once again!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Can A Ghost Follow Me Home From An Investigation?


We can never make a blanket statement about the activities of spirits. They are all individuals. We seldom worry about whether or not the people we meet will follow us home. The same conditions can usually be applied to ghosts.




Ghosts have to be approached one by one. They are all different and as such most ghosts have a reason to be wherever they happen to be. Sometimes it is unfinished business from when they were alive. Sometimes they haunt a given area because of a traumatic event or a sudden un-expected death. Some are afraid to move on and stay at the location they feel most comfortable in. In a nutshell, they all have a different reason to be where we run across them.



So taking each haunting one by one and evaluating it carefully before doing an investigation can often answer the question before hand as to whether or not a spirit will follow us anywhere. Each site is different as each ghost is different, so follow some common sense and plan each investigation before starting. After all, there are no “givens” in paranormal investigating.



So generally speaking it is doubtful a ghost will follow you home. As I mentioned before they are all different. Some have different abilities then others and can go wherever they choose. Some are stuck at the location they haunt and couldn't follow you if they wanted. But most are at the location they haunt for a reason, and we the living are not it. Follow some basic common sense, and all will be well.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

How does a true professional 'Exorcist' react to skeptics and debunkers ?


Q. What do you as a professional Exorcist think about Skeptics and Debunkers?

A.     Firstly, I’d like to make it clear that in my line of work, I also need to be a Skeptic, or should I say, be objective in my approach. There are many people passing themselves off as experts, and there are also many who make fraudulent claims for ‘fun’.  I take my work extremely seriously and have no time or desire to go off on tangents or be led down paths wasting time. And in the case of people who honestly make mistakes about what they’ve experienced or whose problems are not Spirit caused, I have no interest in telling them that their problems are something that they are not. My interest is in the truth, and giving people the help that they need, be it through Spiritual means or otherwise.

Now, myself aside,  there IS a real need for Debunkers to exist because as I said, not only are there  many people passing themselves off as ‘Exorcists’ and experts in the field,  but there is an incredible amount of ‘garbage’ out there being passed off as ‘Psychic Healing’, ‘Paranormal activity’, ‘ Religious healing’ etc.  It is always a good day when some of this ‘stuff’ get’s properly ‘debunked’ , and disappears .

Unfortunately though, there is an even greater amount of garbage passing itself off as ‘debunking’. The largest problem is that most active Skeptics are extremely narrow minded amateurs who are usually driven by their own negative experience that they wish to purge via a crusade to 'prove' that these things don't exist, therefore no matter how much evidence they are provided with, their own fuzzy logic invariably refuses to accept it as such. For what it's worth, the same can be said for many Medical professionals. These people are more embarrassing than those they are trying to debunk.

Many calling themselves ‘Scientists’ have the catch-cry “There is no proof�? and approach the subject with a completely biased and closed mind . Well, there is plenty of proof , provided by Science, as well as the general public and people in the field that is equal or greater in quality than that in many other fields.  A real Scientist would say “show me what you have�? ,and view it with an open perspective.

For what it’s worth, I have had a fair share of ‘Skeptics’ and ‘Scientists’ amongst my clients over the years and in each and every case their viewpoint changed as they were faced with the reality of what they were experiencing and enlisted my help.

Another important consideration as to whether the Paranormal exists or not, is the fact that not only do many Police Departments around the World enlist the help of skilled Psychics to help with investigations, but the extremely well documented Paranormal research and Psychically based espionage programs sponsored by the US Department of Defense, The former USSR, China, The UK, and so on , to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars.

The bottom line is that peoples own inner fears will ultimately guide their feelings on this subject. If someone chooses to not believe in these things that is their free choice, but if they wish to fancy themselves as a 'Debunker', they should do so in a sensible and professional manner with an analytical and open perspective and be willing to accept evidence when it is presented to them.

I myself am here not to judge, but to help those who know what they may be facing and have nowhere to turn.

Peace.

www.spiritentityremoval.com

Monday, April 26, 2010

Farmer With an Axe Handle; A Haunting Encounter


Old New England Estate
southern Vermont
late August 2006

I have a friend of mine whose been  metal detecting for over 20 years and he’d shown me some interesting artifacts he discovered. Many of the items of were found on an estate in southern Vermont that dated back before the Civil War.

One day, during the late afternoon, we had the idea to lay out the stuff on a white blanket on top of a rod iron patio table and take a picture.. Both of us are very interested in history, and this expresses itself in his propensity for metal detecting and my interest in the paranormal.

It was about 11pm at night and my friend and I were standing around a campfire in his backyard. I had wanted to visit the estate where he discovered most of the artifacts because he told me about being ‘helped along’ by a ghost when he was metal detecting. This took the form of a helpful hand on his back.

“No way, you’ve been touched?�? I said, a little too exuberantly.

“Oh yeah. It was like I was walking in line. I paused a moment, and felt a hand on my back. It was like it was encouraging me to keep moving.�?

My friend isn’t scared of ghosts, but he is very leery. Of course, he probably is wise to be cautious.When you’ve seen full-bodied apparitions that have spoken to you, ended up in a line of ghostly revolutionary war soldiers, and been metal detecting and found a ring still attached to skeletal hand and arm hen re-bury it–ring intact–as quickly as you can, he had every right to be wary.

So, after nagging him for about a year, he finally indulged me, and we hiked down the road and crept up on the big estate during the full moon.

We stuck to the shadows as we edged up to the well-manicured lawn and looked toward the house–an old New England estate that even had a photograph of some Civil War soldiers standing outside the residence hanging in a frame above the fireplace. This photograph could be easily seen–I had glimpsed it one during the day–if you could get close enough to peek inside the large bay window looking in on the living room.

I had kept telling my friend that I wanted to run up and look in the window. He said that he didn’t think that this was a good idea. My friend had permission to be on the property to metal detect whenever he wanted, and we weren’t worried about the police arresting us for trespassing as both of us are the trust-worthy sort.

The house wasn’t abandoned by any stretch of the imagination, though we knew no one was there. Well-taken care of by a caretaker, it was an excellent example of an old New England salt box, with an old red barn on the property. Considering the historical nature of the location–and with all the artifacts that had been discovered–the place something we definitely treated with respect.

We had crept to the edge of a lilac bush, next to a big tree, across an expanse of lawn from window that I planned to look in. Being a fledgling paranormal investigator at the time, I had a vague realization that this isn’t really how you should do that sort of thing, and wasn’t prepared in the least.

With this thought in my brain, I made a break for the house. I ran to the northwest corner, and hid in the shadow of a rhoderdenron from which I could inch my way up and peek in the picture window.

I moved forward very slowly. The sound of the crickets and other insects was very loud. I got to the edge of the window, and put my hand on the frame, pulling myself forward, just wanting to gain enough of an angle where I could seen the picture hanging above the mantle.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the front door. Two solid knocks. I paused, and had the distinct feeling that looking inside the house wasn’t such a good idea. I turned and ran back toward the tree–across the open yard–to where my friend was standing.

At the same time I saw a shadow rush out from the door to the barn, which was closed. At the same time, my friend swears he saw a farmer in overalls moving quickly from the barn toward the house, with something like a shovel or axe handle in his hand. By the time I had made it to my friends location, the apparition had disappeared.

We stood underneath the tree, trying to comprehend what had just happened.

“What the hell did you do?�? he asked. I had no answer to his question.

We crept slowly along the edge of the shadows to the road, then walked home.

Something I have learned is to respect the paranormal. And intent is everything. If we hadn’t been sneaking around like we were, perhaps we would’ve had a completely different experience. My feeling is that we stirred something up, and it reacted to us.

And, whatever it was, it wasn’t messing around. Instead it appeared to be protecting the location, ensuring that the property was safe from two people who hadn’t made their intent clear.

In all my years of ghost hunting, this remains one of the strangest and most unsettling experiences I’ve had, and it’s not one I intend to repeat. Now, I go in with an open mind and announce my intentions, ensuring that whatever spirits I encounter don’t misconstrue my curiosity for something else.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

HAUNTED HISTORICAL OCALA VICTORIAN MANSION & ANTIQUE SHOP CONTENTS TO BE AUCTIONED SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3RD AT 10AM


Florida Auctioneers Charles Fudge of Professional Appraisers and Liquidators of Crystal River & Kale Albritton of Lakeland Will Liquidate the Contents of Upstairs Downstairs Antique Gallery on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at 10am Along With the Late 1890's Victorian House, Which is Rumored to be Haunted.

Ocala, FL, October 1 2009 - This Saturday, will be an important day for Antique Collectors, Dealers, curiosity seekers, and ghost hunters alike when a Crystal River auction firm liquidates the contents of Upstairs, Downstairs Antique Galleria at 725 E. Silver Springs Blvd in Ocala Florida beginning at 10am. Besides over $200,000 worth of antiques that will cross the auction block, the 1885 Victorian Mansion zoned for commercial use, which is rumored to be haunted, will also be auctioned. This is the second "haunted" historical building in the Fort King district to be auctioned during the last year.

The Historic District of Ocala is an important spot on the map for those interested in all things paranormal. Sci-Fi Channel's Television Show "TAPS Ghost Hunters" featured The Seven Sisters Inn on an episode last year. Ocala Ghost Walks, a local firm offerning walking and carriage tours of the district, features several historical buildings in the Fort King area including Seven Sisters and the Ritz Historic Inn. The ghost tour owner, Catherine Wendell said, "The hauntings throughout the area seem to be in clusters of 2 or 3 houses near each other, with no rhyme or reason". The former Upstairs Downstairs Antique shop building is an important stop on their tour.

When Professional Appraisers & Liquidators was hired to liquidate both the contents and Victorian building at 725 E Silver Springs Blvd, they were told that the painting of a gentleman, circa 1840s, that was hanging in the shop was NOT for sale. The owner stipulated that it "went with the house" and would be given to the person who purchases the Victorian seven-bedroom mansion. Why? Because it seems that strange occurances seem to happen whenever that painting is moved.

Auctioneer Charles Fudge stated, "The comment about the painting sparked our interest as to the history of the building". His firm's research led them to an Ocala firm that had investigated the mysterious occurances in June, 2009 and posted audio and video of their overnight surveillance of the Victorian home on their website. According to a spokesman for American Paranormal Project Inc, the not for profit volunteer based organization, made up of citizens, each with unique backgrounds who have an interest in the paranormal, "It is truly one of the most haunted places I've seen". Besides their findings of EVPs and ENPs, they heard footsteps upstairs while the entire team was "locked down" on the first floor. He also said that "something" besides a member of their team turned a light on during their overnight investigation.

Whether you've always dreamed of owning a Victorian Home, which happens to be commercially zoned in a high traffic area, or you'd just like to own a building that has been "verified" as haunted, now is your chance. The building will be auctioned at noon to the highest bidder (upon owner's approval). If a haunted house is out of your price range, then you still might want to take home some of the fine antiques that will be auctioned from 10am until about 5pm. Who knows? Maybe one of the antiques you purchase will bring a spirit along with it. And you'll have it home just in time for Halloween.

 

Saturday, April 24, 2010

3 Places To Enjoy A Haunted Half Term In Your Motorhome


As the nights start to draw in and the weather gets colder, many of us start to look towards cosy nights in front of warm fires and the summer fades to a distant memory. Before we start stocking up on festive wrapping paper and dusting of the mince pies there's plenty of fun to be had first.

With Halloween conveniently placed at the end of half term why not get the kids interested in some of Britain's rich heritage (not to mention spending some quality time with the family) with a short break in your motorhome? Thanks to recent media sensations, the paranormal is more popular than ever with the younger generation so why not take this opportunity to really spark their interest in history and with a motorhome at your disposal, no corner of the UK is out of your reach. Here are just a few places that have a fascinating enough history to excite the children, intrigue the teenagers and even entertain you.

Let's start with perhaps the most well known of haunted place in Britain, the Tower of London. Most famously known as a royal fortress to imprison those of high standing within society, the Tower is a great place to start educating the younger generation about the history of Britain and the monarchy without boring them, even the ghosts are educational. The most famous allegedly being that of Anne Boleyn who was beheaded on the orders of King Henry VIII. British history may have connotations of being boring and stuffy, Anne Boleyn was anything but, held on charges of adultery, incest and treason her life is bound to capture the interest of your children, maybe you can spot her ghost wandering around the grounds carrying her severed head under her arm.

If you want to take your motorhome to explore some of Britain's tranquil scenery and escape the hustle of the big cities, the stunning Thirlmere Lake in the Lake District boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK, originally two smaller lakes the water hides a sinister secret, Armboth House. Legend has it, the occupying family were arranging the wedding for their daughter due to take place the next day, when they were informed their daughter had been pushed and drowned in the surrounding lake. Although the murderer was never caught, strange happenings were still reported at the house long after the family abandoned it, lights would be turned on, sounds of the wedding feast being prepared could be heard, always on the same day every year, the day of her death, Halloween. The house has lain submerged beneath the waters of the lake for over a hundred years now but many who visit the area still report to feel a chill and strangely unsettled especially on Halloween. While the kids enjoy the eerie mystery, the picturesque surroundings are bound to keep you enthralled too.

If you would like a little more education with your paranormal, it might be worth taking your motorhome down to Sussex. The battle of Hastings took place in 1066 in a small town that is known today as Battle and is often included in most schools history curriculum. Whilst this may not necessarily capture your children's interest, the site itself is of course rumoured to be haunted. Battle Abbey was built to commemorate the battle and help defend England during in the 100 year war, and although part of it now lies in ruins, it is open to the public and is supposedly haunted by a whole host of ghosts including an apparition wandering around with a spear in his eye (King Harold?), a knight on horseback and the plaque on the alter to mark the death of King Harold running with blood all of which seem more likely to make an appearance on the October anniversary of the battle. With all the paranormal activity in this small town, it's impossible not to get your interest in British history sparked.

With a motorhome at your disposal there is no corner of the UK that you can't explore, and with so much on offer you're bound to find something to capture the imagination and interest of the whole family without having to spend a fortune on expensive holiday packages, so whether it's just an overnight trip or a week away - enjoy!

Friday, April 23, 2010

The Most Haunted House In Savannah


The most haunted house in Savannah, Georgia is the Hampton Lillibridge residence. It is the scene of several tragic deaths and the source of true scary stories about real ghosts.  Exorcism has failed to cleanse the house.

The Hampton Lillibridge House

Too Creepy For Occupancy

The most haunted house in Savannah, according to old-timers, is the Hampton Lillibridge House at 507 East Saint Julian Street on Washington Square. The home was originally built by Rhode Islander, Hampton Lillibridge in 1796.

When Hampton Lillibridge died, his widow remarried and disposed of the property.  The home passed from owner to owner, and eventually became a boarding house. A sailor hung himself in one of the third story guest rooms during that period.

A Fateful Move

No one would live in the house for a number of years after that until it was finally purchased by intrepid antique dealer Jim Williams in 1963.  The house was rapidly deteriorating. Williams also purchased the house next door, with the intent to restore both.  However, a laborer was crushed to death during the move of the second house, another victim of the curse attached to the structure.

Workers involved in the 1963 relocation, conceivably stumbled on the source of the paranormal activity associated with Savannah's most haunted house.  To their horror, workmen uncovered an ancient crypt as they were preparing the foundation to move.

Judging from the crypt's tabby construction, it dated back to early colonial times.  Workers reported that the crypt was empty and so they had simply sealed it up and reburied it.  Williams now suspects this to be the source of the haunting and regrets not having investigated more thoroughly at the time.

The Others

There is an abundance of macabre events associated with the Hampton Lillibridge house.  Tools and equipment of men working on the restoration mysteriously disappeared or were relocated.  Mocking laughter and footsteps were reported on several occasions.

Jim Williams himself reported numerous abnormalities during his tenure in the hosue.  For example, he once followed a shadowy figure to the end of an upper story hall, where it mysteriously disappeared through a door.  Williams tried to open the door himself, but it was locked tight.

On December 7, 1963 the distraught Williams at last conducted an exorcism of the haunted house under the auspices of an Episcopal bishop.  Unfortunately, the cleansing was ineffective as the paranormal activity resumed within a week.

There are no willing buyers because of the many true scary stories associated with the most haunted house in Savannah.  Neighbors report shadowy figures in the windows and eerie music and laughter as if some paranormal party is underway at one of Savannah's most haunted places.

For More Information

Learn more about the Hampton Lillibridge House and the "7 Greatest Mysteries" of Savannah-Hilton Head Island at http://www.best-hilton-head-vacations.com/ghost-stories.html   Follow the links below for an expose of the real ghosts on Hilton Head Island, the No. 1 vacation destination in the Continental United States.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Romance Stories - Looking For Love And Hot Romance


Modern romance stories cover a broad field that embraces the paranormal, historical, western, black, fantasy, as well as American romance fiction.  Plot lines strive to be fresh and settings are often intricate and detailed. Above all, the characters experience a yearning that has them looking for love and intimacy.

Many readers enjoy romantic fantasies and some of the best writers of romantic fiction are active today. Of course, the success of the Twilight novels (and movies), the True Blood TV series and the Vampire Diaries have given a push to what is known as paranormal romance.

Although the love lives of ordinary people are still hugely popular, as can be seen with the work of Nicholas Spark (The Notebook, Dear John and Message in a Bottle), many romance novels today delve into a fantasy world that is a step (or more) beyond normal reality.

So, although readers might still hunger for the Rhett Butlers who carry Scarlett O'Hara up the staircase (Gone With The Wind), a lot of the heroes and heroines in today's fiction also possess uncommon powers. Maybe they can change shape (shape shifters and werewolves), read minds (telepaths) foresee events (seers), speak to the dead (necromancers), display extraordinary strength and speed (vampires) or have other skills that equip them beyond the ordinary.

Of course, historical romance is still very much alive and kicking with many modern romance novels that make use of gothic, Victorian, Regency, confederate, western, etc. settings.  Lords, princes, highlanders and pirates abound in the historical fiction of Stephanie Laurens (The Elusive Bride), Diana Gabaldon (An Echo in the Bone), Sabrina Jeffries (The Truth About Lord Stoneville) and many others who like their romance touched with the atmosphere and customs of a bygone era.

Western and country romance is also strong, with many adherents. Although True Blood (Charlaine Harris) is thought of as paranormal romance, it is also set in a small town in Louisiana. Those who like to read about heroic, passionate cowboys should consider Kerry A. Jones (Loved Enough), Leigh Greenwood (A Texan's Honor) and Lorelei James (Branded As Trouble).

Story lines reflect attitudes women can identify with, regardless of the settings. For instance, Lora Leigh, in Nauti Deceptions, writes about an attractive female teacher who changes her identity after being framed and involved in a sex scandal in a small town in Kentucky.

In Dark Slayer, by Christine Feehan, Ivory is a rarity, a Carpathian female who has been protected throughout her life but circumstances compel her to free a 'mage' from a cave that serves as a prison and to flee with him.

The leading characters in modern romance stories have feelings and emotions that build to moments of intense passion and the plots may be clearly erotic. The heroines in these stories (despite their settings) are not the delicate, restrained women to be found in Jane Austen novels. They often face danger with courage and embrace romance with an eagerness that earlier generations could only dream of.

Those who are looking for the romantic and social subtleties of an earlier age might well be advised to seek out the writings of Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters. However, for those who prefer their romantic fantasies to be more akin to hot and sweaty, modern romance writers serve them well.


Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Love Spells for Sceptics



Is there such thing as Paranormal Power?


In our society today it's easy to laugh at those who believe in the powers of the paranormal or the occult, in magic, psychic or new age remedies. But for millions of people worldwide life can be a very demanding journey and so they may choose to seek relief or guidance by turning to paranormal power.





Does Faith Work?


Mainstream religions accept the power of prayer as a way to receive blessings, perhaps in the form of a physical cure for a disease or to provide emotional guidance. Medical professionals now recognize that an individual's faith and beliefs can play a major role in improving quality of life and health and bring about a faster recovery from trauma or surgery.





For many thousands of years, people have relied on their faith in spiritual or mystical powers to achieve really remarkable things. In times before modern medicine most health issues were traditionally handled by using astrology, witchcraft, or psychic powers. Of course, that was before the option of going to the doctors and getting a prescription. Today we take for granted what we can achieve through modern science, and perhaps this stops us accepting or exploring other areas that require belief and faith.





Love Spells


So how can a love spell performed by a psychic attract a partner for a lonely person looking for love? Those who believe in psychic powers and the paranormal world think that there is a spiritual or metaphysical helping hand involved.





There has always been a bit of embarrassment regarding visiting a fortune teller or psychic, and this prevents some people accepting their value in our society. However, there are more people than you think who use love spells on a regular basis, sometimes to bring improvements to a poor relationship or help find new love. They will tell you that these spells work for them and their lives have been enriched.





A great opportunity for everyone was the opening up of the internet which has enabled thousands of people to access good psychics and clairvoyants from across the world to help with their relationship issues by getting a good psychic reading.





Believers will tell you that those who refuse to open their minds to the possibilities of love spells and other spiritual solutions will never know what they are missing.





Why limit your mind to just the visible things in our physical world? What about for example electricity – we can’t see or touch it but we know its there through its effects. Maybe we all need to broaden our horizons and have a look at some alternative help once in a while.





Visit the popular website Clairvoyants Today, to learn more about psychic phenomena.





Please feel free to republish this article if it is kept intact, with the author / site biography and links kept in place.


Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Is Psychic phenomena for real?


Yes it is very real , and it can be split into two basic catagories. The first would the '6th sense' that all human beings and animals possess , the sense of 'ambience', or 'feeling' , or 'awareness', our feeling of 'self'. The sense we have that alerts us to danger, or gives us a feeling of excitement, awe, fear, etc. in certain situations even if there is no other stimulus. Then there is the connection to, and awareness we have of 'feelings' and 'emotions' from within us. Anyone with a heartbeat will know what I am talking about and can not deny it's existence.  This level of Psychic ability actually accounts for probably 90% of what is passed off as 'gifts', where as in truth anyone can develop these senses to quite amazing levels. The belief that a 'sense' must have an assigned body part is extremely narrow minded and to be honest a little silly.

To be honest, it still amazes me that some people still deny the existence of a 'sixth sense' when not only does it account for the above examples, but there is a phenomenal amount of Scientific proof ( that is easily accessable with a little effort ) that not only does it exist  , but it is trainable. Probably the best and most well known example of masses of controlled Scientific study and evidence, would be the Remote Viewing and Psychological Warfare programs run by practically every World Government, with the most extensive and well known being those conducted by the USA, The former Soviet Union, China, the UK, and Czechoslovakia. These countries have, and continue to spend millions of dollars developing and running these programs. Although there was a 'debunking' program run by the CIA in the mid 1990's in an attempt to take credibility away from some 'whistle blowers', Freedom of Information acts in several countries have since permitted huge volumes of research to be released, confirming what many former operatives have said, and then some...

Then we have what could really be called a 'seventh sense'. That which everyone can and does experience to a certain degree at times .That which very young children, and few truly 'gifted' adults have to an even greater level of sensitivity. The ability to see / hear / communicate with Spirits. This again is something that while is somewhat harder to 'prove in a Laboratory', is certainly very real and has been evidenced since the beginning of human history. I can guarantee that practically all people have had a glimpse of this at times in their lives, but most will choose to brush it off or explain it with 'logic', with inner fear being the main reason. Human beings tend to be afraid of that which they either can't control, or can't understand. It sometimes amazes me some of the paranormal events that  people will explain with 'logic' that clearly isn't doing the job. But this is fine, everyone is entitled to their own beliefs, it is our right to free choice.

Obviously the main protagonists in the campaign to 'debunk' the Paranormal are Religions. This is especially hypocritical when their doctrines are often almost entirely based on Paranormal events. As Religion is used as a tool to control others, it is generally in their best interest to try and quash anything that appears to take away some of their power. A Religion should be one that illuminates people and leads to a peaceful and accepting way of life. Not slandering other Religions or other peoples beliefs causing hatred and strife.

Again, the bottom line is freedom of choice. Despite the extensive evidence in favour of the 'Paranormal', which outweighs much in some fields of Science and Medicine, people are entitled to believe in what they wish based on their own experience, and should not be persecuted either way.

Peace.

For more information please visit   www.spiritentityremoval.com


Monday, April 19, 2010

Haunted Half Term Days Out


With the paranormal more popular than ever, why not use it as an excuse to shoe horn a little bit of history and education into your children's half term break, with Halloween conveniently situated around most schools half term schedules they won't even realise they're learning!

When it was first launched in 1843 the SS Great Britain was the largest ship of its kind and she lead a diverse and exciting life, but since her return to Bristol Docks she has been rumoured to be home to several ghosts and strange happenings. This magnificent ship is open to the public and promises a fascinating day trip for those of all ages. From experiencing what it would have been like to sail on such a ship in the Victorian ages to examining her detail in the dry dock, the SS Great Britain offers a truly educational experience, but if you're after something a little more paranormal, the SS Great Britain is said to be one of the most haunted places in the UK. In 1872 the ship's captain, John Gray disappeared after suffering from illness, thought to be suicide his ghost has been sighted on several occasions about the ship, reports have also been made of hearing piano music playing in empty rooms and locked doors been opened and slammed closed. Between the fascinating history, the stunning visuals and paranormal happenings, there is bound to be something is this day trip to entertain the whole family.

London has a vast offering of entertaining days out for the whole family, and if you're looking for paranormal activities you're not going to be disappointed. Being the oldest standing castle in the world, Windsor Castle as been host to the royal family for hundreds of years and to this day is still one of the official residences to the Queen. Open to the public, you can watch the changing of the guards or explore some of the castle's stunning architecture and view some of the most spectacular pieces of art in the world. After standing for over 900 years it's not surprising it's gathered a few indistinct residents too. Perhaps the most famous ghostly resident at Windsor castle is that of King Henry VIII who has been sighted on numerous occasions wheezing and stomping about in his heavy boots, when she's not too busy haunting The Tower Of London, his ill fated wife Anne Boleyn is sometimes seen looking out one of the windows. A few members of the royal family have even claimed to see Queen Elizabeth I although she is only ever sighted dressed in head to toe black as if in mourning. Like the SS Great Britain, Windsor Castle also offers a great range of entertainment and education for the whole family.

If you prefer your history a little more Romantic and a little less gory, the legend of King Arthur may be for you. Ledged has it that King Arthur led the British defences against the Saxon invasion during the 6th Century. Although little is known about him and his very existence is subject to debate, the legend and the myth surrounding him is encapsulating. The legend of King Arthur is strewn throughout Britain but has some of its strongest routes in Cornwall. The stories of King Arthur and his knights of the round table talk of victorious battles, wizards and magic and love and betrayal and have been circulating for hundreds of years, long before Shakespeare penned his great tragedies or Harry Potter was fighting evil foes yet the parodies prove what a classic narrative it is. Throughout Cornwall there are ties to the myths and legends of Arthur just waiting for you to explore them, The village of Titangel in Cornwall is said to be the birth place of this valiant king and home for much of his early life, the Dozmary Pool also situated in Cornwall is said to be the bottomless lake King Arthur's sword, Excalibur was cast into after he was mortally wounded. No trip to Cornwall's mythical culture would be complete without a visit to St. Michaels Mount, rumoured to be a battle ground in which King Arthur defeated a local giant. If you're in the West Country and looking for an exciting day trip out to capture the kid's imagination this half term, why not see what you can find in Cornwall?

It's always going to be tricky finding something entertaining to please the whole family, but with a little research you're bound to find something worth investigating that can enthral all of you within Britain's diverse cultural heritage.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Ghost Hunting 101


Do you hear bumps in the night? Does your hair stand on end when you walk into a room? Maybe you feel as if someone is watching you or perhaps you think you see someone out the corner of your eye, but when you turn to look no one is there? What you may be encountering in those unsettling moments is a ghost. So before you go running out of your house screaming, let's take a moment to talk about ghostly encounters and those that investigate this phenomena.



A ghost is believed to be the spirit or soul of a person who has remained on Earth after death. When a ghost has taken up residence in a location, it is referred to as a haunting. There are two different ways in which a ghost inhabits a location. The most common type of haunting is a residual haunting. A residual haunting is typified by ghostly energy that is static or goes through a number of movements over and over again. It can be likened to watching a movie clip that repeats itself or a record album that has a skip in it, causing the needle to jump back to an earlier point on the album and begin again.



The second classification of haunting is the classic haunting. In a classic haunting the ghost displays intelligence and interacts with the people in the environment. It is not uncommon during a classic haunting for items to be moved around, for lights or electrical appliances to turn on and off, to hear voices our sounds out of nowhere or to be touched, tickled, stroked or even shoved. These ghosts often reflect the personality of an individual, even after their death. With this type of haunting, the aroma of flowers, perfume, cigarette smoke or other scents that are associated with the individual are often detected.



So whether you think you are being haunted by a ghost and want to have a group of trained professionals to come to your home or are interested in investigating all that goes bump in the night, but don't know where to begin, here's some information that can help you get started.



It is held that ghosts are electro-magnetic in origin and they create these fields when trying to manifest into this dimension. The energy that is given off by a ghost causes disruptions in the locations magnetic field, thus making it detectable by specialized equipment and psychics alike.



Because the presence of a ghost can be detected by specific types of equipment, a ghost hunter can become well equipped with a number of affordable pieces of equipment, many of which you may already own. From basic to advanced, there are many different types of equipment you can use to detect an otherworldly presence. For someone thinking about participating in an investigation, this doesn't mean you have to own every piece of equipment in order to perform a reliable investigation. It does mean that you should at least possess a basic set of tools to use.



Basic Equipment



35mm or Digital Camera For a beginner, having a camera is probably the easiest and least expensive way to begin. Pictures, whether digital or recorded on film can capture paranormal activity, activity that is often invisible to the naked eye. This is especially true in the case of documenting the presence of orbs and ectoplasm.



Notebook & Pen or Pencil Simple as this may be, it is always a good idea to have something to record any notes, findings or experiences you may have during an investigation.



Flashlight Many times an investigation will take you to a dark or foreboding location such as a cemetery, old warehouse, abandoned building or other place that is dark or without electricity. In these instances you will need to have a portable light source.



Extra Batteries Depending on the paranormal activity of a location, batteries oftentimes will mysteriously and unexpectedly lose their charge leaving you in the dark. Regardless of the type of equipment you use, make sure you bring extra batteries along to replenish depleted ones.



Intermediate Equipment



EMF Detector The Electromagnetic Field Detector is probably one of the most important pieces of equipment to own if you are serious about doing an investigation. In addition to detecting the energy fields of ghosts, it is a key tool to use when taking baseline readings of a site. A baseline reading is a preliminary evaluation of a location, where investigators identify any existing or man made electromagnetic fields such as those created by power lines or electrical appliances.



Digital Video Camera Video cameras can be a useful investigation tool. Unlike still cameras, a video camera will document any activity in its entirety including the length of time the phenomena occurs, the surrounding conditions, as well as the phenomena itself. A tripod to rest the video camera on is also helpful, especially if it is going to be left in a stationary position to record the activity in a specific location.



Tape Recorder with an External Microphone There is no better way to capture EVP's (electronic voice phenomena) than through the use of a tape recorder. Whether using a traditional tape recorder with high quality tapes or a digital recorder, an external microphone should always be used. A detached mic will eliminate the sounds of internal gears and turning wheels that can contaminate your recording.



Advanced Equipment



Motion Detectors Motion detectors can be used to sense the movement of unseen forces. Many need to be plugged in to an outlet, but battery operated ones are also available. Before you go out and buy one, decide which type will best support you investigatory needs.



Thermal Scanner A thermal scanner or non-contact thermometer can be used to detect rapid temperature changes. A change of ten degrees or more from the ambient temperature (the temperature of the surrounding area) can indicate an ethereal presence.



Psychics As An Investigative Tool



In addition to tools such as cameras, meters and gauges that are used by ghost hunters, many groups also utilize the services of trained psychics as a means of gathering information about a site. This is the role I play when working with ghost hunting groups.



Finding a true psychic to work with can be a real asset to the quality of your investigation. They can play an invaluable role in supporting the efforts of any paranormal investigation. Like a good piece of equipment, a psychic can help to detect anomalies as well as provide additional insights into the nature of activity encountered.



If your group decides to include the use of a psychic as part of the investigation team, there are a few items that should be considered. To maximize the objectivity of the investigation, it is critical that the psychic go into a location "cold". This means that they do not know the details of the location or of any activity that may have been encountered by other members or the property owner. Telling the psychic the history of a property can cause the individual to become "contaminated", which can make it difficult for them to differentiate what they perceive from what they have been told.



Conducting An Investigation



With at least a basic kit of equipment in hand, you are now ready to explore the world of paranormal phenomena. Before you begin, there are a few ground rules to consider. First, never go on an investigation alone, in addition to personal safety, you never know what may happen. Next, consider the fact that ghost hunting groups are often judged by their behavior and professionalism so always try to be respectful of the people, places and situations you may encounter.



To do an investigation, the first step is to select a location. Locations can include cemeteries, old buildings, historic sites, private homes and businesses. Always get permission to be on a site. This will keep you from getting in trouble for trespassing. Before you begin a formal investigation it is a good idea to do some research on the site. Talk to the owner, check out old newspapers, or contact the local historic society to see if anything happened there in the past. It is also a good idea to evaluate the terrain for potential hazards or/or to identify places where you can setup stationary video cameras, motion detectors or tape recorders.



Most investigations occur after dark, between the hours of 9pm and 6am. These hours are considered the "psychic hours" and are believed to be the best time to record paranormal activity.



When you get to the selected location, walk around to get a feel for it. Next, set up any stationary equipment and take baseline readings of the site. Then let the investigation begin. Take pictures, shoot video, record for EVP and take meter readings. Take them everywhere and anywhere, especially if you feel something or get a reading on another piece of equipment. When you are done walking around a site, turn your stationary equipment on and let it run while you and your group are out of the area.



When you have finished collecting your data, it is time for analysis. Here each picture, video and tape is reviewed for evidence of a haunting. This is probably the most important part of any investigation. As you review your materials, be skeptical. Look for earthly causes of any phenomena. Was someone smoking in the area? Was the room or location dusty? Where there reflective surfaces that could be the cause of the anomaly in your image? It is important to make sure your evidence will stand up to scrutiny by eliminating any other explanations. This will give your data more credibility.



As you pore over your data, what you will find is that not every location you go to will have ghostly activity. You may discover that many of the things you initially detected during your investigation actually have real world explanations as opposed to supernatural ones. What keeps many ghost hunters going is that one-in-five chance that this investigation will be the "real" thing.



When your analysis is done, presenting your finding to the home or property owner or sharing your results with others is often done. Many groups also post the results of their investigations on their group's website, thus share the outcome of their investigation with the rest of the world.



If you are interested in ghost hunting or think your have a ghost hanging around in your local, there is a plethora of information available on the worldwide web. Here you can find articles about ghost hunting in general, stories of other people's ghostly encounters, places that sell ghost hunting equipment and even sites hosted by ghost hunting groups in your geographic area.



So if you think you are hearing bumps in the night, don't be afraid it just might be a ghost!



© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer (www.soulhealer.com) 2006. All rights reserved.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

The Metaphysical View of Death and Life After Death Part 9


In this section we will deal with some of the phenomena relevant to our discussion on the subject of death as probed into by researchers on the paranormal. Two of the most interesting of these phenomena that have been researched into in recent years by scientists of varied disciplines and which indicates the plausibility, and perhaps proof of the survival of consciousness from the scientific angle, are the "Out-of-the-Body Experience" (OBE) and "Near Death Experience" (NDE). These two phenomena are just two of the many ways that the afterdeath state or the survival of the consciousness may be known. Other methods of the occult tradition, however, may include meditation, and spiritualism, or channeling. Psychic phenomena that indicate life after death are those of apparitions, hauntings, possessions, and reincarnation claims. In this section we will specifically discuss OBEs and NDEs and their association with the after-death state; aside from these we will also briefly look into the practice of hypnotherapy, where it is used as a tool to successfully regress patients to the pre-natal state to uncover their life experiences in the higher planes prior to birth.





These experiences of subjects describe in some detail of the nature and life in the higher dimensions, or subtle realms. The findings of hypnotherapy substantiate certain long held assertions and claims of psychics, occultists and metaphysicians concerning the nature of "death." In addition to OBEs and NDEs, we will, therefore, consider what hypnotherapy has uncovered through the practice of regression, as the findings are surprisingly similar to the occult tradition. Parapsychological phenomena offer us a glimpse of what contemporary scientists are discovering about the nature and survival of the human psyche through the "great initiation," as death is often called among initiates of Mystery schools. The survival of the soul through the change called death is on the verge of being openly acknowledged by scientists and scholars of academic circles. Why, there have even been scientists that declared that the soul weighs 2 grams!





NDEs





Although NDEs are laboriously researched into in modern times, this phenomenon was known centuries ago by savants such as Henry Cornelius Agrippa, and even scholars of the ancient Greek period. Agrippa remarks in his Three Books of Occult Philosophy that Plato was well familiar with the subject of NDEs and even recorded one such NDE case in his work, "The Republic," where he relates the story of a certain individual named Phereus of Pamphilia who was slained in battle and laid with the dead for several days in a comatose state until he returned to tell the tale of his wanderings in the netherworld. The phenomenon of NDEs is likewise no stranger to Eastern cultures. Tibetans, for instance, are well familiar with this psychological anomaly. They call such a person who returns from the threshold of death, "Delog." Tibetan delogs relate experiences remarkably similar to their western counterparts eventhough coloured by their cultural framework.





NDEs were probably first brought to the attention to the scientific community and society in general by medical doctors and nurses. There are literally hundreds of cases on medical record where dying patients were clinically pronounced "dead," only to revive moments later in a spontaneous manner or resuscitated with the aid of medical instruments. Clinical death is where the consciousness, reflexes, respiration and cardiac activities are suspended; it differs from biological death where the organism begins to deteriorate gradually on the cellular level. This activity of dissolution is, however, counterbalanced with a form of nourishment to certain parts of the body, and this accounts for the phenomena of the growth of hair and nails found on those who were long dead and buried but exhumed for certain reasons.





Delogs of both eastern and western cultures, testify of their visions and encounters with beings, and experiences of certain conditions or events that their soul was going through in the transition state as it left the physical body before being redrawn into physical consciousness. In NDEs, the transition in progress is always somehow interrupted for one reason or another enforcing the soul's return to the physical world. Although some scientists are skeptical as to the nature of these experiences, these "deathbed" visions, labelling them as "hallucinations," there are others who are convinced that delogs do in fact relate actual events occurring in different dimensional spheres. Skeptics, nevertheless, are adamant in attributing NDEs to various physical causes such as mental illnesses, anoxia, brain fever, stress, chemical or hormonal imbalance, temporal lobe seizures, drugs, anesthetics, etc. Such skeptics even attribute consciousness or the awareness-principle to chemical action and reaction in the brain. Notwithstanding these assertions of skeptics, however, it should be acknowledged that hallucinations through drugs do indicate a similarity in imagery as that of the bardo; and in a sense, certain things seen in the afterdeath state are indeed hallucinations. From the occult point of view, drugs, like the process of transition, trigger the release of subconscious images and project them onto the screen of consciousness. The images in both cases are hallucinations, but the experiences are genuine. In both cases the survival of consciousness is not disproved. Skeptics are not able to prove the annihilation of consciousness through the great change. When the matter is investigated with any seriousness though, skeptics are often instead faced with indications pointing to the possibility and plausibility of the immortality of the awareness-principle. Concerning the nature of deathbed visions, Ian Currie, paranormal researcher and author of "You Cannot Die" comments:





"Our efforts to `explain' deathbed experiences by finding normal, ordinary causes for them have ended in complete failure. They cannot be explained by the medical condition of the dying person nor by the state of his mind, nor by his religion or cultural background . . . the only remaining possibility is that they are genuine psychic experiences" (1995:175)





The majority of NDEs share common elements. A common characteristic of the experiences of delogs, for instance, is their sense of soul-transition as something joyful and idyllic. Resuscitated subjects claim that the dying process is a blissful or a beautiful experience. Some report of even strongly fighting the urge to return to the physical form because of the strong attachment to the dying experience. There are other common characteristics of NDE that researchers have found to be impressive such as a sense of peace, painlessness and weightlessness; a sense of being discarnated and dead but alive in a euphoric sense; a perception of oneself being surrounded by deceased friends and relatives, or a spiritual being of light waiting to receive or greet the soul; a tunnel experience where one sees a white brilliance at the distance; a life-review and a sense of ascending towards the heavens; a sense of mental lucidity; a heightened psychic awareness where one perceives grieving friends and relatives; a sense of being conveyed by a guide or a current of energy to one's soul destination in the subtle spheres; visions of beautiful landscapes and sounds of heavenly music, etc.





Paranormal researchers have been very impressed by the fact that NDEs cause a very profound transformational effect on the psyche of those who undergo the experience. They have found that the moral quality of delogs improve dramatically by transitional experiences. A reverence for life, among other spiritual qualities, was one of the characteristical expressions of transformed subjects. Psychic abilities are often developed as a result of NDEs. This alchemical transformation of the psyche through a NDE is very much akin to the psychological transformation that occurs to astronauts as they orbit above the earth in outer space.





The accounts of deathbed visions of NDEs very much parallel the visions of psychics and mystics. Incidentally, psychics who were witnessed to deathbed events, confirm the statements of the dying who were undergoing an NDE or a real transition, of the presence of discarnate beings waiting to fetch or greet them on the Otherside. Sometimes discarnate beings in the presence of the dying are seen by ordinary individuals as well. When more than one individual perceives the same thing at the same given moment, it can hardly be called a hallucination, especially when animals also react to such apparitions. Such psychic visions capture the attention and fascination of the dying and weary soul to the point where the attachments to earthly ties are forgotten and the desire for release augmented. In the same work as the above, Ian Currie sums up the core phenomena of deathbed visions that are universal to NDEs-visions that goes beyond one's cultural background or religious beliefs:





"1) Most of the apparitions seen by the dying were `other-worldly'-dead close relatives and religious figures.





"2) Most of them were there `to take the dying away to another existence.'





"3) Most of the dying were eager to accept the invitation and `go'-by dying.





"4) Most landscapes visions were of `otherworldly' scenery of such compelling beauty that the dying did not wish to remain in this world.





"5) Medically-inexplicable mood elevation occurred in some patients shortly before death." (1995:175)





OBEs





Like NDEs, the phenomenon of Out-of-Body-Experiences was also widely known to ancient mystics and psychics; but unlike NDEs, OBEs, commonly called astral projection in the occult tradition, is an innate ability of the soul to voluntary project its subtle form and consciousness--and this occult ability may be unfolded with the aid of psychic exercises and occult procedures; or induced through the use of certain hallucinogenic herbs or mushrooms. OBEs may occur spontaneously, or enforced in some cases--as through accidents or anesthetics; but usually it is a voluntary practice in the occult arts.





Astral projection may be said to be the externalization or exteriorization of the consciousness from the physical form. In OBEs one feels and perceives oneself aware and functioning in a subtle, or astral body. In most cases, the astral senses perceive the physical form to be lying dormant and asleep as it emerges from the physical body. Usually though, this step is bypassed and the consciousness finds itself in another world, time, or place where physical laws do not apply. According to occultists, the quality or evolutionary status of the human soul and mind, as well as its willful expression may determine the nature of the astral form, and this very principle is being discovered by paranormal researchers. Although normally appearing as a counterpart of the physical form, the astral body is plastic-like, and may appear in any form imagined--and this quality is often taken advantage of by practicing occultists. Creative thought energy is a force that is often utilized by occultists to mould the astral form. Lycantrophy, or the so-called superstition of the metamorphosis of a human physical form into a werewolf is probably an occult practice based on the mind exerting its creative force upon the protean quality of the astral form within a certain mental matrix. It is reasonable to regard the shape-shifting of shamanism, of lycantrophy, to be of the astral form rather than the physical. In the Tibetan Tradition, one of the six realms is the world of animals. This refers to a locality within the lower astral realms where carnal and animalistic souls congregate or "incarnate." Such souls with animal characteristics and traits assume animal forms as mentioned elsewhere in this work.





The transformable or unstable form of the astral body that occurs in OBEs is reflected in the statement of Filipo Liverziani in his book "Life, Death & Consciousness," who along the lines of parapsychology, wrote concerning the OBE experience that:





"The projector may thus become aware of having the form of a small cloud, a wad of cotton or a luminous ball floating in space, just as he may see himself as possessing a very clearly defined human form that closely resembles that of his physical body." (1991:33)





There are often cases in OBE phenomena where both astral and physical bodies are seen at the same time--although at different places. Technically, this is called bilocation. This phenomenon occurs when intentionally or unintentionally the vibrations of the astral form are lowered or densified with etheric substance, thus making it visible to physical perception momentarily--only to disappear at an unannounced moment. OBE subjects under such circumstances are often mistaken for "ghosts," by Man and animals. In fact, a high percentage of ghost sightings of the so-called dead, are in fact sightings of the astral form of living human beings. As a side-interest, we may presume that, therefore, there are three kinds of apparitions: that of the dead, the living and the dying--the dying person, like the normal living individual, may spontaneously or unintentionally astral project to close relatives and friends. Apparitions of the dead and of the living share many common characteristics and abilities. This is stated emphatically by Ian Currie:





"Both the living and the dead have appeared as apparitions, been responsible for hauntings, communicated through mediums, appeared in death-bed visions, provided post-mortem accounts, spoken of a reincarnational past, and possessed the bodies of the living . . ." (1995:141)





From what we have stated so far, we may surmise that the trained mind may affect the astral form in various ways--it may affect the form of the astral, its density or frequency, and its locomotion. The astral form is described in parapsychological literature as being able to appear in three varying densities: as "invisible-permeable," where it is invisible to physical perception, and physical objects offer no resistance as to its movement; as "transparent-semi-permeable," where it appears as a haze to physical sight and somewhat subjected to physical laws; and "solid-appearance--impermeable to matter," where it appears and behaves like a regular physical form and completely subjected to the laws of three-dimensionality. It should also be noted that the mind, when occultly trained and working through the astral form--and by manipulating etheric energies--may cause such psychic phenomena as the teleportation or the movement of objects. This is probably one of the many causes of the poltergeist phenomenon which is actually an unconscious manipulation of energy done by human subjects.





It is interesting to note how perception through astral senses differ from the physical. Unlike the five senses of the physical body, the astral senses are reported to be diffused throughout the astral form. Subjects of OBEs declare that they were able to see in all directions at once, that they possessed a 340-degree vision. Objects in the physical world are not perceived in the same way as through physical sight, though. Through astral eyes, earthly objects are said to appear "transparent." According to reports, the magnetic emanations of objects are more easily seen than the physical forms themselves; and as for astral forms in general, objects in the astral world were discovered by adepts of astral projection to be "mental constructs" at the personal and collective level.





Among occult adepts living in the physical plane, as well as discarnates of the subtle spheres, the astral condition is often utilized as a media of contact between dimensions. In the astral form one is free of certain limitations or restrictions where time and space are concerned. This very fundamental law of the higher worlds is an important tool utilized by highly evolved entities to promptly attend and assist incarnated souls (or even discarnate ones) in aligning and harmonizing themselves with what may be called soul-destiny in conformity with the Divine Plan. These guides are sometimes called guardian angels or invisible helpers. These invisible helpers, whether from the physical plane or higher worlds, function as protectors, guides, and as the inner voice of incarnated souls. Hunches and intuitive impressions are often derived from these beings. They also provide strength and courage to souls who are in need of moral support.





These guardian spirits, as stated above, do not always come from higher spheres. Some of these entities are ordinary human beings with the occult ability to astral project. More often than not, they are highly evolved with much soul experience and are able to minister and offer counsel to suffering or wayward souls, or even to fulfill certain prayers addressed to the Great One. In the case of possessions or hauntings it is normally the exorcist who acts on the physical plane as counselor to the lost, confused, or "earth-bound" soul. It should be noted that not all souls may accept the proffered help by invisible guides or exorcists. In the case of possessions, such entities are forcefully ejected from the hold that they have on their victims. Generally, invisible helpers only assist and guide souls who request such help. This very principle is recognized by Liverziani who comments in his aforementioned book:





"In the spiritual world of the other dimensions it is not possible to help somebody who does not want to be helped. Help is made effective only by the fact that those who stand in need become aware of this and therefore ask for help, accept it, and collaborate with those who give it." (1991:132)





It will be helpful here to enumerate the various points of experiences as reported by OBE subjects. According to paranormal investigators, subjects of OBEs, and collaborated by subjects of NDEs declare the following sensations and discoveries pertaining to the astral body and world:





1) A feeling of being very much alive and more mentally lucid than while being brain/body bound.





2) A feeling of euphoria, of peace profound and joy, with full possession of mental faculties.





3) A feeling of possessing a novel body with a protean quality, alterable with the use of the will--with the use of thought and desire; and that it may be densified so as to be physically visible.





4) Discovery that locomotion is driven through the use of the will.





5) Discovery that the astral body may be subtle enough to pass through physical objects and that it may be densified where interaction with the physical environment may be effected or desired.





6) Discovery that the astral form and awareness may influence the psychosomatic principles of sentient beings, as in the phenomena of psychic healing and possession.





7) Discovery that the psychic senses are heightened or enhanced; and that the consciousness functioning in full awareness in the astral world, activities in the astral realms may be engaged in.





8) Discovery that the astral or mental environment may be personally "created."





Copyright © 2006 Luxamore

Friday, April 16, 2010

Evp Electronic Voice Phenomenon Voices From the Dead


Electronic voice phenomenon, if true, seems to exceed the bounds of what is physically possible; thus, it is of paranormal origin. Colin Smith invented the term to describe speech or sounds resembling speech on recording media that has never been used.





Some researchers speculate that its origins rest in psychokenisis or the voices of spirits. Psychokenisis connotes the ability to move objects with your mind. It concerns the manipulation of matter and energy with just the mind.





Other researchers, more skeptical, point to pareidolia or radio interference. Pareidolia means that you mistakenly perceive images and sounds as being recognizable. A man in the moon, a face in ripples of glass windows, or hearing messages on records played in reverse are keen examples of pareidolia.





Most EVP sounds are in short, abrupt segments, usually the length of a word or phrase; sentences are uncommon, but not unheard of. The segments are frequently heard in the language of the listener.





A psychologist, Konstantin Raudive, conducted over 100,000 recordings under different conditions. His research amassed some conclusions about elements that all EVP sounds share. They used an altered rhythm compared to customary speech, were short in duration and resembled telegram-like speech, did not follow grammatical guidelines and rules, and several languages were heard over the space of a single recording.





Possible explanations, paranormal and non-paranormal, have been proposed and scrutinized by researchers and laymen.





A paranormal explanation, for example, is the idea that bodiless, ethereal spirits, in the absence of their own vocal cords, imprint their messages on recording media through some elusive method. Another is that extraterrestrials communicate, intentionally or accidentally, through some blip in space-time. The third most common idea is psychokenisis in which the subject is said to possess influence over matter with his mind. This term is popular in parapsychology.





Non-paranormal and scientific explanations include interference, pareidolia, capture errors, processing artifacts, and hoaxes. Interference is common when EVP phenomenon is recorded on devices that contain RLC circuitry. The sounds are, evidently, voices and sounds from broadcast radio sources. Capture errors are anomalies created by the overamplification of a signal at the time when it was initially recorded. A plethora of odd noises can result from it. A processing artifact is a sound that results from attempts to boost the clarity of an existing signal. I.e., frequency isolation, re-sampling, and noise reduction and enhancement can all conspire to create a sound that is artificially unique in comparison to the original.





Important researchers of the past and present are notable in the course of your further studies in electronic voice phenomenon. Some names to remember are Attila von Szalay, Raymond Bayless, Alexander MacRae, Judith Chisholm, Konstantin Raudive, Friedrich Jurgenson, Hans Bender, William O'Neil, and Sarah Estep. Many of these researchers made strides in exploring and popularizing EVP, but they don't represent a good sample of current researchers. This is because there are very few researchers today. There are scant articles in peer-reviewed journals, but EVP continues to be ignored by scientists at large. Experiments have produced mixed results. Despite this, there are several organizations that collect research, articles, photographs, and other media that support the legitimacy of EVP.





In the end it is up to you to decide whether or not electronic voice phenomenon recordings are of paranormal origin or if they have a more mundane explanation.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Ghosts, Ghouls, Spooks And Hauntings, Do They Exist?


Ghosts, Ghouls, Spooks and Hauntings, Do they exist?

Over the years many people have reported seeing Ghosts, lived in Haunted Houses and being scared by a mischievous spooks. Sightings of the unexplained paranormal kind have been documented throughout history in many formats. So following years off so-called "true accounts" we ask,  "Do they exist", that's Ghosts, Ghouls and Hauntings.

Sceptics will always say that these sightings and accounts, relating to the paranormal are figments of the human mind, hallucinations of peoples over active imaginations. They will maintain that unless they have concrete proof they will not and cannot accept the existence of so called Ghosts, Ghouls and Hauntings. Concrete proof that means solid doesn't it? I ask are the accounts of millions of people, from all walks of life not proof enough?  These accounts/recordings have been documented in many ways, shapes and forms throughout the whole of history. Bringing reporting up to date, in the UK alone, there are on average over 200 reported sightings a year.  Whether they are recorded in a picture, included in some old diaries, repeated in ghost stories or on a forum from of the many Paranormal Event Companies, there has to be some truth in it. Not everybody is disillusioned with wild imaginations, are they? Whilst working for UK Ghost Nights I have had a few of experiences that have left me shaken up, and convinced that ghosts do exist and are a part of a science we do not yet understand.

Having been involved in paranormal investigations for several years I personally, from my own experiences, can undisputedly say, "they do exist".  I have witnessed things I cannot scientifically prove, for example a table move across a room under its own volition.  Not very unusual you may say, but when I tell you a 17 stone man was sitting on the table and the incident was witnessed by 4 other people, now that's spooky. This took place in a renowned haunted church. 6 people all imagining the same thing, I think not. An interaction of ghostly energies perhaps, I think so. In the same haunted church the Ghoulish apparition of a demonic looking preacher also was witnessed.  Ghosts, Ghouls, Spooks and Hauntings, Do they exist? Well I say YES they do.

David Vickers - Spiritual Medium www.tslholistic.co.uk

Paranormal Investigator with www.UKGhostnights.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Book Review Of Apocalypse In Mind By Frank J. Roberts


You can almost taste the sulfur bubbling up from the fires and brimstone of Hell in this action thriller by Frank J. Roberts. It's 1968 again, God isn't dead, the Devil is tired of waiting, and the USSR and USA, locked in the Cold War, are searching for a paranormal path around the others' guard.


This is a very busy novel; there are at least two interacting parallel plot lines. (At least two...there are a couple others hinted at that I assume he intends to enlarge upon in his next book--according to the cover this is book one.) First is the oldest conflict of all, the supernatural one, good versus evil; and who better to play the protagonists in this fight than God and the Devil? Actually God stays in the wings (no pun intended); it's Lucifer that floats around, as he always has, causing problems. Then, of course, there's the conflict between the two earthly powers, the USSR and the USA.


The plots play out in Hell and on Earth. Hell is described in detail that might thrill Dante with tormented souls crying in the slag pits. While I don't know much about the biblical war between the angels of good and evil, I am willing to believe in the supernatural world created by author Roberts, and his Earth, while less interesting, is believably circa 1968.


Our hero, newly commissioned CIA Special Agent Brian Crawford, not long out of the jungles of Vietnam, arrives at a naval air base in March of 1968 expecting a normal counterintelligence assignment with the Soviet Union as the opponent; instead he finds himself over his head in a paranormal punching contest with the Devil himself. While Special Agent Crawford tries to find and destroy a Soviet paranormal research facility with the help of some buddies he met in Vietnam and several rather special paranormals, the Devil-tired of his number two position in the firmament-blindsides both the USSR and USA with the intent to destroy all mankind--and is blindsided in turn by the paranormals working with SA Crawford.


The Devil, Lucifer, realizes the paranormals working on the project with SA Crawford have stumbled onto his plan to destroy the world and he decides he has to get rid of them all; he can't afford God finding out about his plan. To this end he sends his demonic emissaries out into the world to corrupt and frighten politicians and wealthy industrialists into doing his bidding and terminating the project. The Catholic Church comes in for a bit of a beating too; the pope is killed and the altars of some of the world's great churches are corrupted. Then there's Dr. Mindhammer...but I'm going to let you read about him yourself.


As you may have guessed by now, the cast of characters is both long and at times confusing: there are multitudes of demons and spirits with conflicting agendas, good-guy scientists, bad-guy scientists and one scientist in the Dr. Mengele mode; there are paranormals with the ability to control the mind and burn you to a cinder; there's a swami and even an assortment of cheap thugs that do things the old way with a gun. We find clones, calculating millionaires and rogue US Senators. Throw in a few beautiful women--one demon possessed--and you've got a hard time keeping up. Not that that's so bad. You never get bored. You do, however, get distracted by the author's lack of attention to point of view. Occasionally you're not certain which character is talking much less emoting. This is something I hope he works on in his next novel. And there had better be another novel because he leaves us hanging in this one with the forces of evil in the ascendant! Find this book at Dog Ear Publishing

Monday, April 12, 2010

Ghost Hunting Should Be Professional


Ghost Hunting can be very fun and yet at times it can be one of the most terrifying things you will probably ever do in your life.


The following are just a few of the things folks have encountered during ghost hunting or paranormal investigations:




  1. Smells: These smells can seem to come from no where, and develop instantly and disappear just as fast. The smells are often putrid like rotted meat, or like fresh bowel movements, and are very overpowering at times.



  2. Apparitions: Some spirits appear as barely visible forms, while some become as solid and normal looking as a living person.



  3. Clouds - Mists - Masses: Often fleeting shadows, things seen out of the corners of the eyes are encountered. Or a rolling black mass may appear, sometimes a whispy form like smoke is seen.



  4. Disembodied voices: These are often heard and at times they can be very scary. Imagine being in a darkened room, and having something invisible whisper or even shout in your ear. These are not EVP's, but normal sounding speech.



  5. Physical Sensations - Some ghost hunters have been touched, pinched, slapped, had their hair pulled, been scratched or even bitten by invisible entities.



  6. Rappings - Scratching - and Knockings: In walls, ceilings and floors. Strange sounds and noises are often heard in haunted locations, as well as hearing what sounds like objects being dropped, or moved in nearby rooms.



  7. Cold spots: Sometimes just before a spirit manifests they draw energy from the surroundings. Often a spot in one area of a room will suddenly become very cold. For example the temperature thoughout a room may average 75 degrees but in one corner or area, the temperature will suddenly plummet to 50 degrees or even colder. This is a sure sign of a spirits presence or a soon manifestation.



  8. Power drains and equipment malfunctions: Like cold spots, when a spirit is drawing energy needed to become solid or more visible, they will often draw-in nearby energy, this energy can also come from batteries in video camers, and other devices. Often cameras, tape recorders, even lights will suddenly go haywire or stop working all together when a spirit is present.


  • Almost everyone that does ghost hunting believes that there are two types of spirits, human and in-human, the latter are also called demons. I am a born again christian and believe the bible 100%. From my beliefs in the bible as factual. I believe there is only one type of spirit involved in any haunting, and these are in-human or demons.


    According to the bible, when we are dead our spirits or souls are present with God, from there we are either granted a life of love and peace in heaven with the creator and the other believers, or we are cast into hell forever, with no chance of escape. The bible also says there is a huge chasm or void that separates the living from the dead, they cannot cross over or communicate with each other. There are other statements in the bible that clearly says that ghosts can not be the spirits or souls of people who have died.


    Whether the creatures involved in a haunting are spirits of dead humans or whether they are demons, if one is trying to prove that they truly exist or if you are trying to disprove a haunting, then you must do paranormal investigations as a professional.


    A professional Ghost Hunter or paranormal investigator needs to have the right tools. Here I will explain devices that every ghost hunter or paranormal investigator MUST have, if he or she is truly taking the phenomenon as real or as a business, and not as a joke.




    1. Voice Recorder: It doesn't matter if you use a standard tape recorder or one of the new digital recorders, what does matter is the quality and the ability to use an external microphone. Try to get one that is of good quality, but make sure you get one that has a plug in microphone with a cable or cord so the end of the microphone is away from the recorder. The small all-in-one recorders that have the built in microphones, pick up a lot of the hiss and gear noise from the recorder when they are in record mode. A recorder is a necessity for recording EVP's. EVP's also called (electronic voice phenomenom) are a very unique and sometimes frightening thing that is often encountered in a haunted area. What an EVP is, is a voice or other communication that is heard on a tape or digital recorder during playback, that was not heard when the recorder was recording.



    2. Film Camera: Do NOT use a digital camera because the photo will always be questioned as being fake, no matter how good it is, where if you use a film camera, you at least have the negatives as some proof. And unless you buy a high mega-pixel digital camera, the photo quality will be less than a nice cheap 35mm film camera.



    3. Camcorder: A camera is good, but a camcorder is even better. Get one that uses a tape, either the small cassettes or one of the older models that use the full sized VHS tapes. I bought two of these older camcorders for under $75 each recently.



    4. Thermal Imaging scopes or goggles: These capture the upper portion of the infrared light spectrum, which is emitted as heat by objects instead of simply reflected as light. Hotter objects, such as warm bodies, emit more of this light than cooler objects like trees or buildings. Often spirits that manifest have a temperature in their form that stands out in this spectrum, especially if a spirit is present in a cold location.



    5. Night Vision scopes or goggles: These little devices have become very cheap, a nice night vision scope can now be purchased easily for under $200. They work by collecting the tiny amounts of light, including the lower portion of the infrared light spectrum, that are present but may be imperceptible to our eyes, and amplifying it to the point that we can easily observe the image.



    6. Flashlight: Take along two small pocket ones for each team member. What can be worse then exploring a dark cellar or underground area, and having the lights or another flashlight fail.



    7. Walkie Talkies: If you have a group of team members, and you are investigating a large location, walkie talkies are not just a good thing to have, but they can be a life saver at times.



    8. Notebook and pencils: Often any electronic, electrical or other devices may fail in a haunted location, so it's very wise to carry along a small notebook and some pencils in case you need to keep some valuable notes.



    9. Thermal Scanner: A hand held thermal scanner (thermometer) uses infrared technology to measure the surface temperature of material without touching it. You simply point at your target, pull the trigger and read the temperature on the lit LCD display.


  • One of the best tools I recommend, is also the cheapest, under $10 U.S. It is a computer software program that is made just for Ghost Hunting and Paranormal Investigations. It's called 'Ghost Hunter'. The software is for anyone who explores haunted houses or locations where any type of paranormal activity is occurring. Whether you are trying to gather evidence of the haunting or other proof, this software can help make the job more organized and easier.


    Ghost Hunter software was made as a scientific tool, for paranormal researchers that believe in spirits, demons, or ghosts. Researchers can easily keep track of vital data gathered at the haunted locations. With this software you can know at a glance such vital information as; the date and times of the activity, location info, GPS data, telephone numbers, notes, sounds heard, odors detected, temperature anomalies, and more.


    You can use the software on location during the investigation with any WINDOWS based notebook Computer or back at home or in the office after the investigation.


    For more information and the ability to download and try a free demo version of the 'Ghost Hunter' software, please visit the website:


    http://www.rb59.com/ghosth


    By Robert W. Benjamin


    Copyright © 2006


    You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter on your web site as long as it is reprinted in its entirety and without modification except for formatting needs or grammar corrections.

  • Sunday, April 11, 2010

    Frauds in the Metaphysical Field Part 1


    This is an important subject to address for like in every field of human endeavor, the metaphysical branch has its charlatans, scoundrels, and manipulators who are ever ready and eager to mislead the earnest seeker of Truth. Students of metaphysics as well as laymen should understand the difference between true spiritual metaphysicians and scoundrels assuming the title. Disciples of the Spirit should be able to discern between metaphysical practices and services of spiritual worth and those objectionable operations of pseudo-metaphysicians that simply mislead the human soul. Too often paranormal practices are erroneously considered as "spiritual."





    The metaphysical path is fraught with many temptations, glamour and illusions, and one could easily fall into the contrived traps of Maya and the Dark forces. Because of the rapid growth of the metaphysical, holistic, and paranormal fields in recent years there have been many unscrupulous individuals entering the profession promoting and advertising themselves excessively hoping to take financial advantage of the public's interest, curiosity, enthusiasm and ignorance. Most of these people--these frauds--will cheat, lie, deceive, promise you anything that you will want to hear, and please you in order to grab your hard-earned cash. They even go so far as to indulge in immoral practices such as sexual molestation and rape under the pretext of transferring magical power. Often they would resort to stage magic and tricks to mislead one's senses into believing their "extraordinary" powers and faculties. Even the genuine psychics possessing some power and ability would over-exaggerate the little knowledge or talent that they have. Should they master a single metaphysical art, such as clairvoyance, for instance, they would go so far as to say that they possess the other psychic abilities as well. One should be wary of the persuasive tongue of so-called psychics and metaphysicians. If these spiritual con-men did not involve themselves in the metaphysical field, they would enter any other field with the same hidden despicable motive of self-aggrandizement and ego-promotion.





    A little knowledge is a dangerous thing, and so-called paranormals are quick to establish themselves as metaphysicians or experts in the psychic/parapsychological/magickal field who actually know very little or have acquired very little metaphysical learning, training and experience. Most psychics read a few books on metaphysics and adopt its associated terms and terminology without a profound understanding of what they truly mean. Students of metaphysics often fall into such glamour as well. They may have read a few books, attended a few seminars or workshops, or even studied under a few Gurus and yet with the little that they acquire, they feel themselves to be knowledgeable in all aspects of metaphysics, and subsequently, they often express spiritual and mental pride. They may even feel disdainful or look condescendingly upon a genuine Guru should they perchance come across one. Ignorant of the characteristics of a true Spiritual Master or Adept, they simply follow those who vainly display unusual powers and knowledge, or those that offer them the instant transference of occult knowledge and the awakening of the serpent power. These students of metaphysics are more seekers of sensation than seekers of God or Truth. The writer of this work have personally read countless books on metaphysics, studied metaphysical teachings of various schools and yet, still feels that he knows so little. Even worst than this, he has come to realize how ignorant he really is from the Cosmic point of view and that there is still so much to learn about the Omniverse. He has come to realize that a question answered only gives rise to several more questions that needs to be answered, ad infinitum. To be knowledgeable of one's ignorance is positive but to be ignorant of one's ignorance is negative and blind.





    Thus, having said all of the above, it should be realized that professional metaphysical con-men are generally individuals who present themselves as persons whom you would least expect to be frauds.





    We would like to quote Dr. Paul Leon Masters, the founder of the University of Metaphysics on this very subject of spiritual con-men, extracted from the newsletter "In Touch" (Feb. 1997):





    "Generally, they dress well, are sociable, charming and outgoing. Above all, they speak very spiritually, constantly referring to the Light, to having a better world through the Light. They have learned to prey on the gullibility of true seekers, who in their own honesty and heart, simply accept all of the flowery spiritual phrases used by the metaphysical con man as being representative of what the spiritual con man (and I might add, woman) really is. Christ warned his disciples 2,000 years ago to 'beware of ravenous wolves masquerading in sheep's clothing.' The spiritual con person is very clever. As an example, if ever accused or convicted of anything, he/she will ask that the accusers be forgiven. This con person knows this plays well before a spiritual audience who believe this person certainly has been wrongly accused, because look how really spiritual they are in their forgiveness. It is all an act! In the heart of a sincere person, of course, it is genuine. However, here the reference is to an insincere person. Another sign is that a sincere person, when caught with a hand in the cookie jar, will show some sign of remorse and/or conscience, because the presence of God of Light truly is active in him/her. Not the spiritual con person, who will go into tremendous denial, and whose game is that if it can be denied often enough and vehemently enough, you will begin to believe that he/she is innocent of any wrongdoing.





    "Con persons will try to impress you as to their holiness by surrounding themselves with spiritual props. This can take the form of many spiritual books displayed in their office so you may think how spiritually involved they may be. Also, they will surround themselves with symbols, works of art, anything to give the impression of how genuinely spiritual they are. If challenged, they become enormously defensive--that you would even dare to challenge their credibility. How dare you! Remember, an honest spiritual person has nothing to defend against, and therefore, welcomes communication.





    "Challenge con persons a little too much and something happens. The true dark side of their nature surfaces. These people, who you are accustomed to hearing speak in joyful, flowery terms of light, suddenly threaten you, becoming the ruthless bastards or bitches they really are. In other words, if the old two-faced spirituality will no longer work with you, they will not hesitate to switch to threats, intimidation, and coercion.





    "The old expression, 'time will tell,' is a good one to follow. If someone enters your spiritual space who may seem a little too slick, too charming, who speaks and writes in the most flowery of metaphysical terms, do not rush into any spiritual, financial, or professional involvement. Remember, fools rush in where angels fear to tread--so, allow a great deal of 'time to tell' whether they are in truth filled with Light or really with DARKNESS."





    To professional metaphysicians psychic frauds are easy to spot; the layman, however, knowing even less than the self-proclaimed paranormal experts, regard these bogus individuals as nothing less than minor gods. These charlatans come and go and their establishments are usually fly-by-night in nature. Involvement with such people could bring adverse effects to one's personal, social and professional standing. But most importantly, one is led astray spiritually. It is, therefore, advisable to recognize these spiritual and psychic con men in order to prevent oneself from being duped and harmed in any way and to stagnate in one's spiritual evolution.





    An objectionable point to consider is the god-like status given to paranormals by those who are ignorant of the laws of Nature and the true purpose of Life. These paranormals are placed upon pedestals often by hired hands or even by sincere, but ignorant persons caught in the charismatic web of pretenders to power and spirituality. Although the clients or patients of these psychics are seemingly helped in some way, and strongly believe in the appropriateness and value of the services offered by those who proclaim themselves as "metaphysical" experts--the help offered is not permanent, nor does it promote evolutionary growth. On the contrary, psychic help often causes a person's spiritual unfoldment to stagnate in the mire of matter as we have been alluding and reiterating ever so often.





    Just because a person may have success or is accomplished in one line of endeavor does not make that person well-informed or knowledgeable in other fields; and yet we see how low-caliber paranormals are often eager to comment on anything and everything from sex to politics. Nowadays we see how the mass media is being exploited to the full by false prophets who are so keen in making their beastly mark in the minds of men and to be regarded as celebrities. Not only do they present themselves in the printed media but also on television as well. Here we can easily perceive how the latter-day idols mislead human souls by blinding humanity's Divine Vision of Truth, Reality, Purpose, and Goodness; and presenting false teachings and statements.





    It would be wise to be armed with the knowledge of the reality underlying the many psychic frauds and pseudo-metaphysical practices that violates the Law of Harmlessness and deceive sincere persons and which eventually causes stagnation to their soul-growth in their evolutionary journey toward perfection.


    The ignorance of the masses are taken advantage of by pseudo-psychics and metaphysicians and it would be helpful to combat this situation by enlightening those who regularly make use of, or plan to make use of the services of people involved in the metaphysical field, and who call themselves "spiritual teachers," "psychics," "shamans," "paranormals," or "metaphysicians." Every bona fide metaphysician and the average person on the street should be aware of the true facts and nature of the deceptive and glamorous metaphysical practices filled with sensation and designed only to satisfy human curiosity without properly considering the real needs of the unfolding soul. Persons who are unaware of fraudulent practices and are victims of these metaphysical deceivers may find themselves getting nothing of true worth, aside from the exorcism of their pocket of their hard-earned monthly wage.





    Deception may be apparent or it may be subtle. To the discerning person the deceptive methods, both apparent and subtle of pseudo-metaphysicians and psychics can be seen and felt in their mannerism, the way they speak, the way they behave, the demands that they make, the way they present themselves, and the general energy that they radiate. These are all keys revealing the negative nature hiding beneath their pretensions. It is said, by the fruit we shall know the tree and this is a truism especially in the metaphysical field. Professional metaphysicians who are psychically and spiritually developed and knowledgeable, may detect these pretenders to metaphysical knowledge, wisdom and power through spiritual, rational, and psychic means. The spiritual disciple should learn as much as possible how to discern the true from the false so that they may lead others from darkness to Light.





    Most of the modern psychic deceivers will make excessive use of metaphysical terminology to sound erudite, and also exploit and misappropriate the little information and knowledge that they acquire through insincere metaphysical studies in order to make a big impression upon people so that the unknowing and innocent ones may be greatly influenced by their heinous machinations. From the very onset their motives for "aiding" people are simply the promotion of their ego--or self-aggrandizement, and the commercialization of the infinitesimal knowledge or psychic ability that they possess for huge financial returns. Basically, there is nothing wrong in offering one's psychic services to the public and charging a price for it, what is objectionable is that this is often done irresponsibly, excessively, irrationally, and for ignoble reasons. It may be true that some individuals possess a certain psychic ability, however, they often use this as a blatant argument that they possess other "powers" as well. They often exaggerate and brag much and make bombastic statements such as celebrities or governmental people constantly make use of their services, or that they have long studied overseas in Tibet or in India . . . Whether true or not, such statements are egoistic and unprofessional and it is easy to see the stratagem behind these proclamations. Their intentions and machinations are clear as daylight to those who have eyes to see.





    One of the most apparent signs that may indicate falseness on the part of pseudo-psychics is their use of fancy titles that is supposed to reveal their "spiritual" standing. All sorts of high-sounding titles are used to impress the public concerning their so-called spiritual status or the many "powers" that they are supposed to possess. Sometimes these titles are legitimate, but most often they are self-given or "purchased." And even though legitimately and officially given by honorable men or by metaphysical/spiritual/academic institutions, these titles from the spiritual standpoint are just empty labels without any spiritual value. We know a thing by its character and expression, not by its label. With the possession of titles, psychic frauds promote themselves hoping to dupe and exploit the gullible public. The love for titles simply show an egoistic tendency and self-centeredness--a glamorous condition that the disciple of the spiritual path should not be dragged into. The lower nature of man enjoys the glamour of being at the center stage, or in the limelight. Needless to say, metaphysical self-deceivers enjoy promoting their physical image by placing their photographs excessively in books, magazines and advertisements. People with such a personal and egoistic trait seek to control and manipulate others, usually the motive is to instill fear and the acquisition of fame and fortune; and their services to others simply benefit their client's or "patient's" earthly natures. What psychics are not conscious of is that most of their services and wares do not promote spiritual evolution--they neither liberate nor cause enlightenment--which are important goals in the higher aspects of metaphysics. It is factually true that being in this world one should strive to improve it; it is also vitally important for us to transcend our earthly condition--our personality, our earthly desires, and our dualistic, delusive thinking. Our condition can be compared to being in prison. Even-though we may strive to improve our surroundings while in jail so as to experience the maximum comfort, our prime objective is to be released from it so as to acquire a greater life experience.





    The problem of titles also applies to the graduates of academic and religious institutions. Though one may legitimately receive the title "Doctor" in the field of metaphysics, or "Reverend," "Ulama," "Romo," "Swami," "Yogi," "Lama," "Ki," "Kyai," "Ustad" and "Sri," etc., as a priestly or sacred title in the field of religion or mysticism, it does not indicate that the person bearing it is spiritual, holy or magically powerful in any way. We make this statement from the standpoint of being both a Doctor and a Minister--and the right given to wear the esoteric title of "Ki," designating a titile of respect in Indonesian occultism--so realize that there are no pretensions on our part as well. Often title holders are deluded in this respect and are victims of spiritual pride. This is a glamorous illusion that all spiritual aspirants, that all on the path of spiritual unfoldment must overcome.





    We appeal to title or degree holders to maintain humility and a sense of goodwill and love for their fellow men, with a desire to serve God and the higher Spiritual Intelligences. Titles mean nothing. One's spiritual standing has to be manifested and proved sincerely on a daily basis without the thought of any praise or recognition from the mouths of men. The old adage declares that one should practice what one preaches.





    Traditional teachings also warn us not to be the "blind leading the blind." Most paranormals or psychics deceive themselves as to their self-importance, power, and ability. They overestimate themselves while at the same time belittling other metaphysicians who may be the genuine article. They believe that all that they receive psychically are true, that their spirit guides are infallible, that their visions are God-sent, that their predictions must come true, that their work are beneficial to humanity. Concerning the latter, it may be factual that some of their services are of value on a short-term basis, but in the long run their help may cause soul-stagnation, as mentioned before--and this is the unseen danger.





    Most commercial psychics are under the impression that they are truly helping others, but in fact, are causing great harm in the process. The Dark Forces work in such a way: they offer you wonderful "trinkets" that would make you happy and seemingly solve your worldly problems but in the process cause you to forget your soul-purpose and spiritual journey. Most psychics and so-called priests of Religion are unaware that they are the instruments of "Iblis," or the Fallen One.





    Copyright © 2006 Luxamore

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