"The Dark Grimoire Tarots are therefore a true Clavicula due to their intrinsic nature and genesis: a key that can open forgotten doors in the darkest corners of the psyche, those doors hidden in the shadows and engulfed in spider webs. Opening those doors can mean gaining knowledge of our own fears and recognising our own dark side, learning how it can balance our whole being." - From the L(ittle) W(hite) B(ook)

Tales of "black books", heretical priests, forbidden rituals and dark magic weave through horror literature and films. Supposedly a mere literary device to awaken fears, reflect existential dread or "entertain" through vicarious catharsis, some individuals theorize that these types of stories--especially those of H.P. Lovecraft and The Necronomicon--contain couched truths of esoteric practices.

In this spirit of these occult mythologies, the Dark Grimoire Tarot unfurls the arresting artistic depictions by Michele Penco. Illustrated with a minimal color palette--mostly sepia tones, silvery purples, blue-gray and a smattering of green--Penco manages to capture the threatening, chaotic and maddening world of the "Great Old Ones", Cthulhu, Dagon and company.

Not being familiar with the works of Lovecraft, I wondered if the Dark Grimoire Tarot would be a dense mystery, only to be understood and appreciated by the "initiated". However, Panco's stark yet evocative images pulled me in, begging to reveal their secrets.

Many of the images are close enough to Rider-Waite renderings to be accessible to a wide audience. Some of the Minor Arcana evoke the situations and emotion imbedded within common interpretations, but those that don't are animated enough to stimulate intuition, invite speculation and encourage contemplation.

In some cases, the LWB to the Dark Grimoire Tarot conveys interesting observations but, unfortunately, it falls short as a guide--even for LWB standards. For example, there is NO description of the Minor Arcana cards other than a general guide to numerological and court meanings, and even those don't correlate with the actual imagery.

In addition to Panco's awe-inspiring, dramatic artwork, I was pleasantly surprised at how such a supposedly "dark" deck conveyed (to me) very practical perspectives on the Tarot. For example, in the Two of Swords, a blindfolded man stands fiddling atop a tree stump as demons encircle him on the ground. This brought to mind the proverbial "fiddling while Rome burns", a phrase often used to describe someone oblivious or apathetic to the destruction around them (even if set in motion by their own actions).

The Four of Pentacles shows a shriveled man clutching a book (presumably a dark grimoire) that almost looks to have his mouth sewn shut. This image suggests to me that hording possessions that may benefit others--even if it's something as seemingly innocuous as information--brings soul-rot, causing everyone to be poorer in the end.

As with most Lo Scarabeo decks, the Dark Grimoire Tarot cards measure approximately 4 ' x 2 ' inches with an intriguing--but non-reversible--backing. The front images feature a slate gray border (I love the look of dark borders on decks like this!) with a parchment scroll banner at the bottom noting the card/suit in four languages.

A small suit emblem hovers above the numbers in the Minor Arcana (a sword, a chalice, a brass coin, etc.), and in this deck, Justice is Trump 8 and Strength is Trump 11. The court cards follow the Knave, Knight, Queen and King designation.

Because I'm not familiar with The Necronomicon, I can't say with any certainty if fans of Lovecraft will love this deck. However, I think that those who appreciate striking artwork will want to add the Dark Grimoire Tarot to their collection, as will those who enjoy horror books, zombies, and tales of evil unleashed on the world as a result of consulting a secret tome. It's a very readable deck, but those disconcerted by images of monsters, "black magic" and demonic entities might want to pass on this one.

-- Janet Boyer, author of The Back in Time Tarot Book

Hello! I'm Janet Boyer, the author of Back in Time Tarot. Enthusiastic reviews of my book have been pouring in, so I thought I'd share a few of them here for you to enjoy:

' Janet Boyer's innovative BIT Snapshot Method is truly innovative and a refreshing departure from traditional approaches to Tarot. Boyer's useful book, Back in Time Tarot, belongs in every Tarot collection. -- Stuart R. Kaplan, author of The Encyclopedia of Tarot: Volumes I-IV

' The best ideas are often the simplest. One shift in perspective and everything changes. And this is what Janet Boyer has done: everyone uses the Tarot to explore the future, but Janet has had the brilliant idea of using it to explore the past, and she has created a method to do this which is quick and exciting and which succeeds in unearthing hidden memories and details. By doing this we not only explore the richness of our past, but learn to experience the cards in a deeper more personal way, which then improves our skill as a Tarot reader. I find Back in Time Tarot a truly valuable addition to Tarot literature and yet another proof of the Tarot's ability to constantly generate new ideas and perspectives. -- Philip Carr-Gomm, author of The DruidCraft Tarot, The Druid Plant Oracle, The Druid Animal Oracle and Sacred Spaces

' When there are so many good tarot books on the market it's a real treat to find one that says something totally and uniquely original. This isn't to belittle what's available but if like me and you've been dealing with the Tarot for almost thirty years, you begin to find that each new title, however excellent it may be, only embellishes what you already know with a choice selection of extra insights. Janet Boyer's Back in Time Tarot Book is something quite different. It's one of those rare titles that manages to tread well-worn territory whilst turning all your maps on their heads. It is truly original... (Click here to read the rest of Chris's review) -- Chris Butler, illustrator of five Tarot decks, including the highly-anticipated Quantum Tarot by Kunati

' This fresh, original approach to experiencing the cards is as fun as it is informative. Tarot enthusiasts of all levels will find the BIT Method a valuable technique to add to their tarot education and practice. Janet Boyer has written a gem of a book with Back in Time Tarot! -- Ruth Ann & Wald Amberstone Directors of The Tarot School and authors of Tarot Tips and The Secret Language of Tarot

' Lively, stimulating and fun, The Back in Time Tarot Book invites us to choose cards to picture our own past, present and future. A good Tarot reader needs to draw widely from their own experiences, and Janet Boyer's method provides a powerful new way of recognizing real-life situations in the cards. Packed full of a fascinating range of contributions from a virtual "who's who" of the Tarot world, this is a must read for those wanting to make their Tarot experience both more personal and more profound. -- Karen Mahony, Tarot author and creator of The Victorian Romantic Tarot, The Baroque Bohemian Cats' Tarot, The Bohemian Gothic Tarot and many other decks

' I thoroughly enjoyed Janet Boyer's fascinating book, Back in Time Tarot. Janet takes her many years of experience and knowledge of Tarot, and passes them on generously with a warm and down to earth writing style, which instantly engages the reader. The Back in Time (BIT) Method, which is the focus of the book, is a wonderfully refreshing approach to Tarot that any reader or Tarot enthusiast will just be itching to try themselves!... (Click here to read the rest of Emily's review) - Emily Carding, creator and artist of The Transparent Tarot

' Reading Janet Boyer's Back In time Tarot is like talking tarot with a good friend. In an accessible and engaging style, Janet describes her Back in Time (BIT) Tarot Method and shares her own readings. There are also a stellar collection of guest readings from tarot luminaries such as Mary Greer, Mark McElroy and Lisa Hunt.

Janet says that her BIT Method--which came to her while taking a bubble bath!--involves "Deconstructing memories and then consciously choosing Tarot cards to represent their components can forge a deeply personal link between a person and individual cards." She explains how to associate personal memories with the cards, chosen consciously for their instinctive association with those memories. The method involves breaking down a memory or an experience into its component elements, choosing a card for each of those parts. The BIT Method is playful and fun, but also a powerful and experiential way of learning and understanding the Tarot. It encourages a personal, intuitive approach to learning the cards rather than relying on a particular system or set of associations. I found Janet's book fascinating and refreshing, and I can't wait to apply the BIT Method to my readings. - Kay Stopforth, creator of the Quantum Tarot and author of its companion book

' Janet Boyer's Back in Time Tarot Book promises a LOT: "Whether you are completely new to Tarot or are an experienced Tarotist, the BIT Method will forever change the way you look at Tarot cards... utilizing the BIT Method will increase and sharpen your innate intuitive abilities... [it] is a technique for experiencing the Tarot, not learning it... the BIT Method not only makes me a better Tarot reader, but also aids me in becoming a more self-aware and compassionate person".

Well, this book does deliver all this, and even more. It introduces a new use of Tarot other than divination. An alternative way of playing. A profound way of looking at one's life events and experiences. A refreshing habit of making connections between visuals, sounds, words, memories, emotions. The most significant part for me though, was the presence of healing attributes. The BIT Method is not an innocent game--it has a manner of touching you deeply, staying with you, and being available whenever you need it.

Both newcomers and masters can benefit from this method, and it even works for those that don't believe! The Back in Time Tarot Book takes advantage of all the diverse richness that the various different decks have to offer. It stimulates and lets loose a burst of your creativity. If you decide to give it a try and play, be certain, that no sense of yours will be left untouched. I recommend Back in Time Tarot to anyone who loves Tarot and appreciates symbolic living. I definitely enjoyed the book, and really added a new value to things... not just tarot! - Monicka Clio Sakki, creator and artist of The Sakki-Sakki Tarot

' It is a rare Tarot book that presents a new and different way to learn and explore the Tarot. The Back in Time Tarot is one such book. Janet's BIT Method- and the many engaging sample explorations using it--shows beginning Tarot readers how to develop their own personal connections to the cards, while also leading experienced Tarot readers on a surprising journey of discovery. Whatever your level of Tarot expertise, after reading this book, you'll gain valuable new perspectives on the cards. - James Ricklef, award-winning author of Tarot Tells the Tale and Tarot: Get the Whole Story, as well as the creator of the Tarot of the Masters deck

' Janet Boyer's Back in Time Tarot Book is a ground-breaking new way to use Tarot to add meaning and make sense of our lives. What has happened to us in our life has a major influence on who we are. Janet's BIT Method empowers even a complete Tarot novice to use a deck's archetypical images to analyze those events, both large and small, that have lodged deep in our memories and have had a lasting influence. By choosing cards that remind us of aspects of a situation in our past, we can look with fresh eyes for the reasons why that event happened, and its impact on the person we've become. (Click here to read the rest of Kat's review) -- Kat Black, creator of the popular and critically acclaimed Golden Tarot and the forthcoming Touchstone Tarot

' The card-reading methods that Janet Boyer teaches in Back in Time Tarot are valuable, unique and much needed. I know that if I had read this book twenty years ago, my life would have been so much easier and less anxious. - Judika Illes, author of Pure Magic and The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells

' Janet Boyer's groundbreaking system provides a fresh approach to experiencing and using the Tarot. Back in Time Tarot is a significant contribution to the field for novice students and seasoned professionals alike. I love what I've seen and can hardly wait to get my mitts on the final production! - Phyllis Vega, author of Power Tarot and Romancing the Tarot

' Janet Boyer's BIT Method uses the power of choice to help you explore the cards and your life in new ways. It's become a welcome addition to my Tarot toolkit. - Joan Bunning, author of Learning the Tarot, Learning Tarot Reversals and Learning Tarot Spreads

' Janet Boyer's BIT Method is a refreshing approach to Tarot. Her innovative technique is user-friendly and yields amazing results. After working on my own BIT Snapshots, I see what a valuable tool this can be for people. I don't think I will ever look at tarot cards the same! - Lisa Hunt, author/artist of Animals Divine Tarot and artist for Fantastical Creatures Tarot, Shapeshifter Tarot and Celtic Dragon Tarot

' I can think of no better way to make the essence of Tarot archetypes instantly relevant to the world around us than the exercises found in Janet Boyer's marvelous book Back in Time Tarot. - Lon Milo DuQuette, author of Understanding Aleister Crowley's Thoth Tarot

' Janet Boyer's BIT Method is a powerful tool for exploring multiple aspects of any person or situation. It's especially good for gaining personal insight into the stories you live by. - Mary K. Greer, author of 21 Ways to Read a Tarot Cardand Tarot for Your Self

' Janet Boyer's Back in Time Tarot not only opens a new way of understanding Tarot but of storytelling itself. I recommend the BIT Method to novelists seeking to overcome writer's block, to poets in search of inspiration, and to counselors who seek to encourage their clients to re-claim and re-create their own life stories. - Elizabeth Cunningham, author of Wild Mercy: Tarot Inspired Musings, The Maeve Chronicles and counselor in private practice

' What a great idea! The best way to learn Tarot is to live it, and Back in Time Tarot helps you do exactly that. Janet's BIT Method is a fun, unique approach to relating the Tarot to our modern lives. Everyone should try it! - Teresa Michelsen, author of The Complete Tarot Reader and Designing Your Own Tarot Spreads

' Janet's BIT Method is a superb experiential technique for both beginners and seasoned professionals alike. Fun yet deeply thought provoking, Back in Time Tarot really hit the spot! - Josephine Ellershaw, author of Easy Tarot

' Janet Boyer's Back in Time Tarot is wonderful. Because hindsight is always 20/20, the student/seeker can easily learn the language of Tarot cards by reflecting on the past using the BIT Method and then easily use the cards to project into the future. - Wilma Carroll, author of The 2-Hour Tarot Tutor

' All too many people associate the Tarot with simple (and sometimes scary) fortune telling. Janet Boyer's Back in Time Tarot is a wonderful antidote to that view. Do you want greater insight into a past event, today's headlines or a work of art? Use the Tarot! Janet's BIT Method is a wonderful guide in introducing the reader to a fantastic Tarot adventure. Travel back in time, across the universe or across the room. As Janet so eloquently shows, all you need is your mind and the Tarot. - Nina Lee Braden, author of Tarot for Self Discovery

"Ego is a conglomeration of recurring thought forms and conditioned mental-emotional patterns that are invested with a sense of I, a sense of self. Ego arises when your sense of Beingness, of 'I Am', which is formless consciousness, gets mixed up with form. This is the meaning of identification. This is a forgetfulness of Being, the primary error, the illusion of absolute separateness that turns reality into a nightmare." -- From the book

I have several books, decks and audios by Eckhart Tolle (The Power of Now, Through the Open Door to the Vastness of Your True Being, Stillness Speaks Inspiration Deck, Power of Now Inspiration Cards, and others), but A New Earth is by far the most illuminating, accessible and uplifting.

For those unfamiliar with Eckhart Tolle, this man experienced a profound instantaneous inner transformation at age 29. Born in Germany and schooled in England, he integrated and deepened his experience with an intense inward journey. Tolle then began teaching small groups as a spiritual counselor. In 1995, he moved to Canada and is now considered one of the most influential spiritual thinkers of our time, largely in part to his books The Power of Now and A New Earth.

In A New Earth: Awakening Your Life's Purpose, this gentle teacher traces human suffering to one simple, yet insidious, root: the ego. While many authors and philosophers throw around the word "ego", Tolle actually exposes what the ego IS--and why it causes us so much trouble.

While 17th century philospher Rene Descartes may be considered the "father of philosophy", his famous dictum "I think, therefore I am" mechanized humans into "thinking machines" that can reason their way through any problem--and to "ultimate truth". Cartesian philosophy (named for Descartes) has permeated our culture for centuries and can be best summed up with "I think--that is my identity--and therefore, my thinking is my Being". According to Tolle, Descartes discovered the root of EGO, not Beingness.

However, Tolle echoes another philosopher who came a few hundred years Descartes, Jean Paul Sartre saying: (my paraphrase) Wait a minute. If we become AWARE that we are thinking...then what is that part that is observing...that can make that assessment? If thinking equals Being, then we wouldn't realize we're "thinking' in the first place! We'd be like a dreamer "who doesn't know he is dreaming".

Tolle asserts that this awareness outside of thinking is our TRUE Being, the part that is "I Am"--a dimension of consciousness that, unfortunately, is often discovered at the point of tragic loss or hitting a "limit-situation". It's an inexplicable peace that descends, a sacred sense of Presence. Could this be the "peace that passes all understanding" that St. Paul talked about in the New Testament?

The reason it takes a "tragedy" for some to wake up is because a disidentification from form has occurred. In other words, let's say a person experiences a house fire and loses everything--but ends up experiencing a sense of peace...a feeling "It's OK, and it will be OK". Or what about those who experience illness, death of a loved one, disfigurement, or debilitation? When these ones experience an all-pervasive Presence, a "Being prior to all forms, all identifications", an individual, through direct experience (not thought), realizes 'Wait a minute...I am NOT my thoughts...(or possessions)'.

So what does this mean to you, dear reader? Well, if you are not your thoughts--then who ARE you? Why is it that some people become bitter or resentful after tragedy...but others become wise, compassionate and loving? How many unexamined thoughts do you have bouncing through your head--thoughts that have been handed down to you through parents, religion and the media that influence every move you make? What if THOUGHTS, and their resulting emotions, are the source of your suffering?

What if the true "you" is not your body? Not your bank account? Not your title? Not your actions, reputation or accomplishments? Then, who ARE you?

A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose will introduce you to the "you" that's always been with you, the part connected to the peace of God, a higher Presence and joy unspeakable. In addition to Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life by Byron Katie, the spiritual truths of Eckhart Tolle have changed my life (and continue to do so when I "remember" who I really am). Time and time again, when I "suffer", I can trace it to my "stinkin' thinkin'". (And just so you don't think I've lived a charmed life absent of difficulties, I've experienced widowhood at age 25, post traumatic stress syndrome, poverty, general anxiety disorder and a son diagnosed with Autism at age 3, among other trying circumstances.)

Do you hate your body? Get this book. Are you plagued with thoughts that you're not "enough"? Get this book. Do you fear that if you lose something precious (money, spouse, youth, vigor, job, etc.) that your life will be "over"? Get this book. Is your attachment to "stuff" and striving to live up to the expectations of others wearing you out? Get this book. Do you want to heal from painful emotions and negative states of being? Get this book.

Do you want to experience peace that passes all understanding? Get this book.

I'll leave you with a quote from A New Earth:

"'And I saw a new heaven and a new earth', writes the biblical prophet. The foundation for a new earth is a new heaven--the awakened consciousness. The earth--external reality--is only its outer reflection. The arising of a new heaven and by implication a new earth are not future events that are going to make us free. Nothing is GOING to make us free because only the present moment can make us free. Thus realization is the awakening...So the new heaven, the awakened consciousness, is not a future state to be achieved...What did Jesus tell his disciples? 'Heaven is right here in the midst of you'."

Janet Boyer, author of Back in Time Tarot (coming Fall 2008 from Hampton Roads Publishing)

"Ego is a conglomeration of recurring thought forms and conditioned mental-emotional patterns that are invested with a sense of I, a sense of self. Ego arises when your sense of Beingness, of 'I Am', which is formless consciousness, gets mixed up with form. This is the meaning of identification. This is a forgetfulness of Being, the primary error, the illusion of absolute separateness that turns reality into a nightmare." -- From the book

I have several books, decks and audios by Eckhart Tolle (The Power of Now, Through the Open Door to the Vastness of Your True Being, Stillness Speaks Inspiration Deck, Power of Now Inspiration Cards, and others), but A New Earth is by far the most illuminating, accessible and uplifting.

For those unfamiliar with Eckhart Tolle, this man experienced a profound instantaneous inner transformation at age 29. Born in Germany and schooled in England, he integrated and deepened his experience with an intense inward journey. Tolle then began teaching small groups as a spiritual counselor. In 1995, he moved to Canada and is now considered one of the most influential spiritual thinkers of our time, largely in part to his books The Power of Now and A New Earth.

In A New Earth: Awakening Your Life's Purpose, this gentle teacher traces human suffering to one simple, yet insidious, root: the ego. While many authors and philosophers throw around the word "ego", Tolle actually exposes what the ego IS--and why it causes us so much trouble.

While 17th century philospher Rene Descartes may be considered the "father of philosophy", his famous dictum "I think, therefore I am" mechanized humans into "thinking machines" that can reason their way through any problem--and to "ultimate truth". Cartesian philosophy (named for Descartes) has permeated our culture for centuries and can be best summed up with "I think--that is my identity--and therefore, my thinking is my Being". According to Tolle, Descartes discovered the root of EGO, not Beingness.

However, Tolle echoes another philosopher who came a few hundred years Descartes, Jean Paul Sartre saying: (my paraphrase) Wait a minute. If we become AWARE that we are thinking...then what is that part that is observing...that can make that assessment? If thinking equals Being, then we wouldn't realize we're "thinking' in the first place! We'd be like a dreamer "who doesn't know he is dreaming".

Tolle asserts that this awareness outside of thinking is our TRUE Being, the part that is "I Am"--a dimension of consciousness that, unfortunately, is often discovered at the point of tragic loss or hitting a "limit-situation". It's an inexplicable peace that descends, a sacred sense of Presence. Could this be the "peace that passes all understanding" that St. Paul talked about in the New Testament?

The reason it takes a "tragedy" for some to wake up is because a disidentification from form has occurred. In other words, let's say a person experiences a house fire and loses everything--but ends up experiencing a sense of peace...a feeling "It's OK, and it will be OK". Or what about those who experience illness, death of a loved one, disfigurement, or debilitation? When these ones experience an all-pervasive Presence, a "Being prior to all forms, all identifications", an individual, through direct experience (not thought), realizes 'Wait a minute...I am NOT my thoughts...(or possessions)'.

So what does this mean to you, dear reader? Well, if you are not your thoughts--then who ARE you? Why is it that some people become bitter or resentful after tragedy...but others become wise, compassionate and loving? How many unexamined thoughts do you have bouncing through your head--thoughts that have been handed down to you through parents, religion and the media that influence every move you make? What if THOUGHTS, and their resulting emotions, are the source of your suffering?

What if the true "you" is not your body? Not your bank account? Not your title? Not your actions, reputation or accomplishments? Then, who ARE you?

A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose will introduce you to the "you" that's always been with you, the part connected to the peace of God, a higher Presence and joy unspeakable. In addition to Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life by Byron Katie, the spiritual truths of Eckhart Tolle have changed my life (and continue to do so when I "remember" who I really am). Time and time again, when I "suffer", I can trace it to my "stinkin' thinkin'". (And just so you don't think I've lived a charmed life absent of difficulties, I've experienced widowhood at age 25, post traumatic stress syndrome, poverty, general anxiety disorder and a son diagnosed with Autism at age 3, among other trying circumstances.)

Do you hate your body? Get this book. Are you plagued with thoughts that you're not "enough"? Get this book. Do you fear that if you lose something precious (money, spouse, youth, vigor, job, etc.) that your life will be "over"? Get this book. Is your attachment to "stuff" and striving to live up to the expectations of others wearing you out? Get this book. Do you want to heal from painful emotions and negative states of being? Get this book.

Do you want to experience peace that passes all understanding? Get this book.

I'll leave you with a quote from A New Earth:

"'And I saw a new heaven and a new earth', writes the biblical prophet. The foundation for a new earth is a new heaven--the awakened consciousness. The earth--external reality--is only its outer reflection. The arising of a new heaven and by implication a new earth are not future events that are going to make us free. Nothing is GOING to make us free because only the present moment can make us free. Thus realization is the awakening...So the new heaven, the awakened consciousness, is not a future state to be achieved...What did Jesus tell his disciples? 'Heaven is right here in the midst of you'."

Janet Boyer, author of Back in Time Tarot (coming Fall 2008 from Hampton Roads Publishing)

"There's almost a universal sense that we have ancient magical powers within us. From the time we're children, we fantasize about our ability to do things that are beyond the realm of reason and logic. And why not? While we're children, the rules that say miracles can't happen in our lives have not yet been ingrained in us to the point that they become limits in our beliefs." - From the book

From Christianity to Hinduism, Sufism to Judaism, prayer serves as a vital cornerstone to spiritual traditions worldwide. It has been said that prayer is talking to the Divine, while meditation is listening for the answer. But what if the body--our physical, earthen vessel--contains a lost mode of prayer? And what if sacred texts and traditions reference this type of prayer--some of which were lost during human editing?

In Secrets of the Lost Mode of Prayer, author Gregg Braden explores ideas both scientific and spiritual in the quest for understanding the mechanics of prayer and its effects on "reality". Explaining quantum physics and "The Field", Braden demonstrates how "reality" is simply the mirror of our beliefs. That is, the sum total of our experience is, in fact, the result--indeed, the projection--of our beliefs.

By praying "for" peace, Braden surmises, are we not inviting more war by acknowledging that peace is not already here? While this may seem like New Age gobbledygook, the author presents convincing evidence that spiritual traditions and avatars knew a secret to prayer that was beyond mere words--a mode based on "feeling".

The Gnostic Gospels and the New Testament were edited for various reasons, but Braden shares an intriguing version of John 16:24: "Ask without hidden motive and be surrounded by your answer." He then relates a story about accompanying a Native American to the sacred medicine wheel to "pray rain". Not pray FOR rain...but to :pray rain". Rather than supplicate a deity to provide what isn't there, this particular spiritual tradition advocated being surrounded by the answer. That is, imagining the smell of impending rain, actually "feeling" the droplets on an upturned face, and visualizing lush flora.

Echoing this same idea, Braden facilitated a 22-day pilgrimage to Tibet, and the monks and nuns shared instructions for a way to pray that was largely lost to the West because of fourth-century Biblical edits. Preserved in ancient texts and traditions, this "lost" mode of prayer has no words or outward expression, but is based solely on feeling.

Braden cites scientific studies on prayer and the Quantum Field, showing how the "observer" affects reality not only on an individual level, but also on a larger, societal level. Braden also shares the wisdom from various spiritual traditions--from Jesus to the Dalai Lama, Navajo to Gnostics--pointing to why we are here on Earth and how to make the best out of our Earthly journey.

Peppered with poignant personal anecdotes, Secrets of the Lost Mode of Prayer reveals five powerful secrets to prayer and spiritual growth:

1. Our Lost Mode of Prayer - Braden shares the powerful secret of "feeling" prayer and being surrounded by the answer.

2. Hurt is the Teacher, Wisdom is the Lesson - Braden says that balance is not all it's cracked up to be. Using fractal geometry as an example, he explains that just when things seem to be "just so", chaos ensues. However, the Universe never brings about any situation until we already have the tools to handle it.

3. Blessing is the Release - Describing blessing as an "emotional lubricant", Braden discusses how "frozen" hurts can cause illness, and how blessing can move us beyond confusing and frustrating situations--allowing these feelings to move THROUGH us.

4. Beauty is the Transformer - Using the raging fires of Taos as an example--as well as encounters with "imperfect" people--the author movingly shows readers how beauty surrounds us always.

5. Creating Your Own Prayers - Childhood rhymes and traditional singsong prayers may hold the key to a powerful mode of praying.

Printed on 194 glossy pages with an attractive "puffy" covers, Secrets of the Lost Mode of Prayer taps into a potent spiritual "technology" that enhances life, heals hurts, and transforms perspectives. Sharing personal stories, scientific theory, and sacred wisdom from several traditions, Braden offers humanity a powerful blueprint for consciously creating a beautiful, peaceful reality.

I loved this book! I felt spiritually nourished while reading it, often moved to tears by Braden's stories. But I also felt anticipation and excitement, especially at the thought that if humanity gets a hold of this "lost mode" of prayer--and puts these simple yet profound ideas into practice--that anything is possible.

"Allow your teachers to illuminate your wisdom, to raise your vibrations, burn away anything that lies with confusion, darkness, injury, sorrow, or separation. Merge with your teachers into a brilliant rose flame and dance in your heart-dance with your breath." - From CD 1

Author and six-sensory teacher Sonia Choquette has teamed up with singer/song writer Mark Stanton Welch for a 4-CD series intended to raise the vibration level of the listeners. Attunement to Higher Vibrational Living is not a lecture or workshop. Instead, these CD's are contain a series of guided visualizations accompanied by acoustic guitar, singing, and humming.

CD 1 - Entering the Fourth Dimension and Meeting Your Guides

With a run-time of 52:41, the first CD is intended to induce a trance-like state, take your to a higher vibration, and connect you to your Higher Self and spirit guides in the fourth dimension. Mark sings a lovely song, inviting listeners to "ask and receive" as they attempt to meet their spirit helpers. Sonia begins what sounds like a free-form guided meditation for following your spirit, dancing with angels and guides, visiting the inner Kingdom, receiving help from healer and joy guides (who greet you with somersaults and hula hoops), and merging with the ascended masters within a golden flame.

CD 2 - Working with Your Guides to Create a Vibrationally Empowered Life

With a run-time of 45:38, Sonia and Mark take you back to the fourth dimension with the intention of calling back your authentic self, freeing yourself from all past negative vibration, and energetically attracting exactly what you need in the moment. Mark sings "Heart please open wide, free the love I am inside...heart please open wide...I am...I am...", and Sonia invites the listener to surrender to the support of the Holy Mother, the Holy Father, the Holy Spirit, and Divine Essence. She then guides the listener to observe life as an incredible, complex drama and as she "opens the curtain", individuals are walked through their childhood, adolescence, young adulthood, present, and even into the future. Sonia encourages individuals to leave behind those things that no longer serve, reclaim the authentic self, and receive gifts from the future self for empowerment.

CD 3 - Living Your Perfect Divine Self

With a run-time of 28:30, this CD is intended to increase internal personal vibration to a higher Divine resonance, allowing the listener to receive more love, health, abundance, and support from the Universe. Sonia begins a dreamy guided meditation, sounding like she's high on Who Hash. "Dreaming...relaxing...resting...your body...your spirit...floating with your spirit..."

CD 4 - Healing Your Life through Forgiveness

With a run-time of 41:11, Sonia leads the listener on a journey of forgiveness and instructs them about the four levels of the heart chakra. This is the only CD that comes close to a lecture. Sonia invoked one of her spirit guides, Rose, for advice for the group. According to Sonia, Rose connects to the heart chakra. Mark plays guitar in the background, singing "I ain't gonna carry that load no more...I'm gonna let go...take that pain, lay it down, down, down..." Sonia explains that you tell how balanced your heart chakra is by how much energy you have, and goes on to delineate the four positions of the heart chakra:

1. Only gives, doesn't have an opening to receive

2. Happy to take, but when it comes to giving back, it's blocked

3. Neither gives nor receives-blocked off for fear of being wounded or influenced

4. Open heart - a place where an individual gives and receives with equal comfort

Sonia offers some interesting observations in the fourth CD, including the idea that givers are control-freaks deep down-using giving as a way to avoid their own vulnerability. Another interesting observation is that positions 1-3 are postures of the mind and ego, which in turn control the heart.

According to Sonia an open heart is:

"...a sensibility and consciousness that must be cultivated. An open heart is a metaphor for one who has good taste. In other words, an educated and sophisticated awareness of beauty. The next step in our evolution as six-sensories is to cultivate our good taste-our discernment of all things beautiful."

I'm a big fan of Sonia's book Trust Your Vibes, and recommend it quite often to my clients and friends. Although I'm familiar with several of her books and her intuitive decks, I've not heard her live. Thus, this was my first experience hearing her voice. As a result, I don't have anything to compare Attunement to Higher Vibrational Living to in terms of lectures or workshops.

From my experience, I found this CD series to be unstructured. The free-form feel of the "guided" (and I use that term loosely) meditations-as well as the dreamy vocalizations and odd verbal inflections sometimes uttered-had me feeling like I just entered a reading of Beat poetry. I expected snapping fingers any moment, or perhaps the passing of a bong. In fact, my husband entered the room when I had CD 3 playing and he told me later that he almost busted out laughing. (He's not a "typical" guy, mind you. He's very intuitive, receptive, and gentle.)

At times, Mark's singing is a bit too loud and intrusive and the "guided" meditations go on far too long. Not only that, the imagery lacked detail, hindering pathworking or clear visualizations. Yes, things need to be left to the imagination, especially how spirit helpers look and what they say. But there was a lot of ad-libbed, meandering talk about "fire", "flame", and "spirit" more than anything. As one who happens to be quite "fiery", I didn't find the visualizations especially helpful. What may have worked is having a different "feel" for each CD, with one focusing on the Earth element/grounding, another focusing on the Water element and receptive feminine energy, and so on.

With all the "fire" talk, there was a very masculine feel to Attunement to Higher Vibrational Living. I suppose this would be quite helpful for folks heavy on Yin energy as well as those who need empowerment or struggle with self-pity, victimhood, low self-esteem, and lack of courage. It is because I can see how these CD's could help some that I'm giving it 3 stars.

"There is a need to create limitation, as the soul uses limitation in your realm for growth. As you experience limitedness, there is a need to overcome frustration, work within one's own parameters, and focus energy--an energy that cuts through the density in your realm and creates spaces of light and a higher vibration." - From Courageous Souls

At some point, everyone on Earth has asked "Why?" in the face of difficult circumstances. Why did my fiancé die in a car accident? Why is my mother an alcoholic? Why is my son Autistic? Why do I have cancer? Why is my brother a quadriplegic because of a diving accident? Why do some people die at the hands of serial killers or suicide bombers?

Like existential detectives, many of us try to wrap our heads around life challenges and, ultimately, find out "whodunit?" Was it because of a nasty devil wanting to afflict? Is a capricious god punishing me--or is the wheel of karma catching up? Is negative thinking the root of my illness?

What if NONE of these scenarios was the case--but, in fact, we CONTRACTED our life challenges before incarnating?

In his book Courageous Souls: Do We Plan Our Life Challenges Before Birth?, author Robert Schwartz takes readers behind the veil of forgetfulness into the conversations and decisions that have taken place "between lives". Interviewing about a dozen people who have experienced loss, illness, accidents, and addictions, Schwartz explores the idea of agreements made before birth to learn and experience certain life lesson--and coming to know our true selves.

In addition, the author facilitates sessions between these individuals and several mediums. These mediums access the Akashic Records (an etheric "book of life" that records every thought, word, and action) for information on pre-birth planning sessions or "channel" messages from their spirit guides about specific agreements.

Echoing the case studies of hypnotherapist Dr. Michael Newton, author of the books Journey of Souls and Destiny of Souls--as well as the children's book The Little Soul and the Sun by Neale Donald Walsch-- Schwartz maintains that Earth is place of duality where powerful creators incarnate in order to learn through opposites. A candle surrounded by brilliant light can only experience darkness by entering it.

"Who but the most power of souls could conjure an illusion that appears real to its very creator?" he asks. While we're on the other side, we consult with members of our soul group and guides and agree to perform certain roles--all for the purpose of soul growth and experience. By incarnating on the Earth plane--being born--we enter a "river of forgetfulness", as Caroline Myss describes in her book Sacred Contracts. We forget so we can have a powerful "remembering".

If we accept that each human has contracted particular life lessons such as parenting a disabled child, losing a loved one, participating in an addiction, or experiencing an illness, then the concept of being a "victim"--either of a negligent person, system, or god--is neutralized. Even more than that, there is a sense of meaning and empowerment that enables the personality to move forward, heal, and even contribute to the well-being of others and the raising of group consciousness.

Courageous Souls parts the curtain on the great stage of life, revealing the elaborate play and agreed upon roles that humanity acts out here on Earth--all motivated by deep love and respect for one another. Schwartz writes:

"We love the souls whom we plan our lives. During our earthly existence, they may be people who complicate matters, cause us stress or worry, or even become our `enemies'. When not incarnate the estranged husband and wife, the abusive parent and neglected child, and the warring ex-business partners are loving friends. They care deeply for one another and will often reincarnate together in an effort to master lessons unfinished in previous lives."

Of course, empirical verification of the stories and channeled information relayed in Courageous Souls is impossible, but so are, ultimately, any assertions made by a sacred text, religious leader, or jaded philosopher. One thing I know for sure: ALL of us tell stories to ourselves (and others) that attempt to explain why things happen as they do. Many of those interpretations of "the facts" come from outside us, such as the doctrines of religion or the mores of a culture.

So if we're all telling stories about what we're experiencing on Earth in the attempt to explain situations or create meaning, why not tell ones that embolden, enlighten, and inspire? What is accomplished by playing the victim, wallowing in blame, or becoming entangled in mind games of "woulda, coulda, shoulda"?

What IS has already happened--and how empowering is the idea that we all are playing our roles brilliantly--and that we will embrace all the actors on the other side, congratulating them on their performance and their act of service!

If these ideas sound like the kind of reality you would like to learn more about, then I highly recommend Courageous Souls by Robert Schwartz. By allowing us, the readers, to eavesdrop into pre-birth planning sessions and post-"trauma" interviews, we are given a precious gift of comfort, peace, and meaning--urging us forward in our unique destinies with the knowledge that none is a victim...and EVERYTHING can be used for our highest good.

"Trying to control isn't the answer. When we find the true `God Experience', the fight over whose religion is best--it fades. There's just one truth." - From the movie

A New York Times best-selling book published in 1993, The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield has sold 14 million copies and has been translated in over 45 languages. Written in novel form, The Celestine Prophecy describes the synchronistic adventures of John Woodson as he travels to Peru to find out more about an ancient prophecy that describes modern life in startling detail--as well as the future evolutionary path of humanity. While there, he meets up with Father Jose, guardian of the scrolls, as well as others who are dedicated to disseminating the transformative nine Insights found in the Celestine Prophecy.

Redfield had wanted to make a movie version of The Celestine Prophecy, but despite offers from several big studios, the timing didn't feel right. In the spirit of the book, which advocates following intuition and gut hunches towards a more aware, purposeful life, Redfield waited--and now the time has come for the film to be birthed into the world.

After seeing the Indigo movie debacle and the mediocre acting in What the Bleep Do We Know!?, I admit that I didn't hold much hope for the movie version of The Celestine Prophecy. However, after watching the film and its special features last night, I was surprised and delighted at the results.

The Celestine Prophecy was one of the first "New Age" books I read while in the process of coming out of organized religion as both an adherent and a minister. It's been years since I read it, but I remembered that the prose was a bit clunky and didactic, but the information on synchronicity, auras, and control dramas were spiritual gold. I was especially impressed with the types of relationship control dramas humans use to "steal" energy until they learn to tap into their own internal reservoir.

Because the novel was heavily instructional (as I recall), I figured that the movie would be more "telling" than "showing"--one of the biggest mistakes a writer can make. Yet, Redfield's screenplay was utterly elegant--translating the nine Insights into a compelling demonstration that both the characters and audience experience for themselves. For example, instead of explaining the types of control dramas, one scene shows John trying to coerce Marjorie into getting together with him. Through seamless special effects, we see his red aura extending and then encroaching upon Marjorie's shrinking blue aura. John is new to the world of energy, and through interactions with Father Sanchez, Wil, Julia and the other characters, he learns what it means to generate energy for himself through openness and awareness.

Another example of "showing" instead of telling occurs when the characters vibrate to such a level that they become invisible. Rather than explain to the viewers about vibration (in fact, I don't even think the word "vibration" is used in the movie!), we are shown how focused intent and awareness made them invisible to the violent Peruvian rebels and corrupt law enforcement agents.

The beautiful musical score supported gorgeous cinematography and first-rate acting. Next to the screenplay, perhaps this was the most surprising of all: the convincing performances by a fine set of actors. Annabeth Gish, resembling a young Sigourney Weaver, looked so familiar to me--and then my husband pointed out that we had just seen her in the holiday TV movie Candles on Bay Street. The actors who played Father Sanchez, Wil, and Jensen were especially compelling, and while watching the performance of Sarah Wayne Callies, I had the thought "Boy, she would have been a much better Lois Lane than Kate Bosworth in Superman Returns."

Perhaps one reason these actors were so amazing was because Redfield wanted, specifically, actors that were on a spiritual path that would "get" the gist of The Celestine Prophecy movie. (Needless to say, Hollywood would have royally botched this movie.) One by one, the players came to HIM, as we find out in the special features. Especially intriguing was how actor Thomas Kretschmann, who plays Wil, relied on intuition and hunches to escape East Germany as a youth. He felt to talk to someone on the street and this person happened to be a central cog in the underground railroad that smuggled individuals across the Iron Curtain into the West. Because Kretschmann "lives" by following intuition, his character was even more believable. In fact, in less deft hands, Wil could have come across as superior and preachy--but this fine actor portrays his character as humble, wise, and laissez faire.

On a personal note, I had three synchronistic events happen to me concerning The Celestine Prophecy movie:

1. A few days ago, I received in the mail The Intention Experiment by Lynne McTaggart. Unaware of the book, I hadn't even requested a copy from the publisher. Yet, somehow, someone in the publicity department of a major publisher had my name and address--and sent me the book. I'm four chapters into this book and it's extraordinary: if you're scientifically minded and want "proof" for the Insights that Redfield writes about--especially the reality of energy, light, and consciousness in living organisms--you MUST get this book.

2. While watching the special features of this film, Redfield mentions that Barnet Baine produced the movie What Dreams May Come. I received only one DVD for Christmas (from my husband), and guess what it was?

3. Last night, I was taking a bath and was debating on watching The Celestine Prophecy (I had the film for a week, but couldn't bring myself to watch it just yet). I opened up my copy of New Age Retailer that I received in the mail that day, and guess what I turned to? A full-page ad for The Celestine Prophecy movie!

Several of the inspiring truths found in this movie include:

* Follow hunches!

* Instead of taking energy, give it.

* We are helped--we are not alone.

* Wonderment can be restored--and curious, fearless living opens unexpected doors.

* Powerful change is coming in the world--and the shift has already begun.

* "The guidance within evolves the world towards a heaven that is already here. To know this is to know our destiny."

In addition to serving as a wonderful reminder for those familiar with the book, The Celestine Prophecy movie provides a gentle, intriguing introduction to those unfamiliar with the subtle world of energy, "coincidences", and power/control. Bravo, Redfield and company, for doing such a fine job on this film!

(Note: This DVD includes both Widescreen and Full Screen versions and includes The Making of the Celestine Prophecy--interviews with Redfield, the actors, producers, etc. The movie is about 90 minutes long and is rated PG for violence. In my opinion, the violence/shooting is closer to PG-13, so you may want to watch it first before introducing it to young children.)

"The best scenario is to desire something and to bring yourself into the belief or expectation of achieving it...If you have a strong desire for something but you doubt your ability to achieve it, it cannot come, at least not right now, for you must bring your thought of desire and your thought of belief into alignment." - From the book

For several decades, a group of advanced spiritual teachers known as Abraham has channeled messages through Esther Hicks. What began as a series of audios has now been compiled in book and deck form, with Esther and her husband, Jerry, disseminating three major laws advocated by Abraham: The Law of Attraction, the Law of Deliberate Intent, and the Law of Allowing.

In The Law of Attraction: The Basic Teachings of Abraham, the Hicks' convey the fundamentals of the "Creative Workshop" which is the place that we enter, every day, as we ponder what we want--and don't want--out of life. They assert that individuals are always creating and attracting, regardless of ignorance of the three Universal Laws. We create by default, they say, just by thinking and speaking along certain lines--believing in the likelihood of a result and gathering confirming data from our environment. Here's an example of this creation from the book:

"The steady offering of details of illness is very influential in the increasing sickness in your society. If you allow yourself to focus upon the constant barrage of unpleasant statistics regarding the never-ending stream of possible physical maladies, it cannot help but affect your personal point of attraction."

Here are a few more snippets of Abraham's wisdom as conveyed in The Law of Attraction, as channeled by Esther:

"Your negative emotion is your indication that you hold beliefs that are contrary to your own desire."

"The more you think of what you want, the more the Law of Attraction will bring the evidence of it to you, until you *will* believe it."

"If there are others who see something in you that they do not approve of, most often you see their disapproval reflected back through their eyes, and you feel that you have gone wrong in some way. And we say unto you, it is not *your* lack, it is *theirs*. It is *their* inability to be the *Allower* that brings forth their negative emotion; it is not *your* imperfection."

"When you consider many subjects at the same time, you generally do not move forward strongly toward any of them, for your focus and your power is diffused, whereas if you are focusing upon that which is most important in any point of time, you move forward more powerfully toward that."

Now, let me share a bit of my impressions and experience. As a teaching, I was first introduced to the Law of Attraction by Michael Losier. In my opinion, his book of the same name is far superior to this title by the Hicks'. I had experience with manifesting what I desired before I read Michael's book, so I was familiar with the law of attraction. However, I have some misgivings about a portion of it, and here

is my reasoning:

Most times I read something on the Law of Attraction, I feel sick to my stomach. I was totally turned off by Lynn Grabhorn's Excuse Me! Your Life is Waiting, but found Michael Losier's book Law of Attraction pretty darn sensible.

Yet, I can't help but feel the Law of Attraction is a bit simplistic--offering only a portion of the big picture. I'm especially troubled that the Law of Attraction seems to fly in the face of the wisdom of avatars like Jesus. For example, the Bible encourages compassion with passages like "weep with those who weep". Yet, books like the Hicks' pretty much advocate turning away from anything unpleasant and instead focusing on "feeling good". After all, those poor souls are only attracting what matches their vibration--so let them suffer with their miserable magnetism.

I agree with Abraham that being joyful is the best gift we can offer to the world, but I can't see how burying heads in the sand will add good vibes to the planet. Yes, what you focus on increases--I agree with that, too. But to run away from those who are hurting and suffering merely because we don't want to taint our precious vibration field... It smacks of "fiddling while Rome burns".

While I appreciate the wisdom of the Law of Deliberate Intent, the Law of Allowing and even much of the Law of Attraction-- I can't help but feel something is missing from this picture. (Perhaps...heart?) I'm very big on "over thinking" to my detriment. And even Abraham advises that it's best to "follow good feelings" rather than monitor our thoughts 24/7. But for one such as I who is a "mental type", it's not so easy to turn off the constant evaluation of thoughts when buying into the Law of Attraction. It can create a cycle of fear, in my opinion.

To be fair Abraham *does* address this very thing in The Law of Attraction:

"...some of you feel uncomfortable with what seems like the overwhelming task of monitoring thoughts, sorting them out, and offering only those that will yield things that you *do* want. We do not encourage a monitoring of thoughts, for we agree that would be incredibly time-consuming and cumbersome, but instead recommend a conscious utilization of your Emotional Guidance System."

I totally concur with this idea, but the rub is that in order to be aware of how we create by default, we need to educate ourselves, in part, as to how our thought patterns, expectations, and emotional state contributes to manifestation. And that involves a degree of thinking/monitoring--at least in the beginning stages--which can be a bit frustrating.

I love the information on Segment Intending and the Art of Allowing, and know them to be very helpful in deliberate creation. I just feel that the way in which Abraham's wisdom is offered is a bit "top heavy". If you're just beginning your journey towards Deliberate (conscious) Creation, I recommend that you get Michael Losier's book, as well as two decks from the Hicks' (also published by Hay House): the Ask and It Is Given Cards and The Teachings of Abraham: Well-Being Cards.

However, if you want thorough information straight from Abraham's mouth, then you'll no doubt want to get this book. The Law of Attraction is quite readable, but the way some of the wisdom is presented may give you a bit of a headache--especially as you juggle some of the ideas on attracting undesired situations.

"There have been so many self-help books for relationships written over the years, on topics ranging from `how to have a better sex life' to `how to stay married' and even `how to get a friendly divorce'. Yet I haven't seen a single volume on how to have a spiritual relationship with the different people in our lives." - From the book

In her book Spiritual Connections, controversial psychic Sylvia Browne tackles the topic of spiritual awareness among life's relationships. From the bank teller to the mechanic, romantic partners to yourself, Browne explains that each relationship present in your life is an opportunity to create connection, express love, and discover compassion.

While significant relationships tend to be ever-present--parents, children, siblings, co-workers and spouses--Browne contends that many frequently take these connections for granted, unaware that these relationships are present for a very good reason: you scripted them in your chart before incarnating in order to learn specific life lessons and expand your soul.

Browne also addresses the relationships that grace our lives at school, on the job, and out in society. From the bus driver to a teacher, the butcher to a secretary, each person--even if they happen to be aggravating or toxic--can teach us valuable lessons about our soul and higher purpose.

Spiritual Connections also covers the 47 life themes that Browne has identified through life experience, study and readings--and then explains the beneficial aspects to various combinations, as well as possible challenges between seemingly opposite life themes.

Each life theme, she explains, has a higher expression and a lower expression. The higher expressions of a life theme operate for the good of others and self while the lower expressions drain energy or sabotage connections with others. Browne also describes the difference between personality traits and life themes and their interplay among relationships.

Browne wisely notes, "For those of you who are looking for a relationship or want to try to repair a current one, you must start by looking inside yourself." She also reminds readers "The fear of rejection can make us act like what we think they other person wants--this can't last long, since putting and keeping up such a pretense is exhausting."

The last comment reminded me of Lance Armstrong's ex-wife who once appeared on Oprah. She explained how she tried to be who she *thought* Lance wanted over the years--but that her attempts actually pushed him away, because he felt he didn't know "the real" her.

Emphasizing honesty and flexibility in Spiritual Connections, Browne also shows readers how to cut others slack while remaining self-respecting.

The only part of this book that seemed a bit out of place was Browne stating that she's made mistakes as a psychic, but repeatedly stressed that she's "much more right than wrong"--countering accusations by skeptics and dismissing bad publicity. All that matters is motive, she says, because "No one is here to win a popularity contest."

While I whole heartedly agree with that last comment, I feel that Browne may be feeling the heat from the recent Shawn Hornsby case where she was exposed for telling Hornsby's parents that Shawn was "gone" (as in dead). As we now know, Shawn was and is alive--and there were other public appearances where Browne incorrectly predicted the fates of other loved ones.

Yet, she doesn't address this and other grievous mistakes, which is unfortunate. She could have used this opportunity to show the quality of humility by apologizing for causing grief to others--but, interestingly, humility is a trait that she openly decries in Spiritual Connections. (And frankly, I almost didn't read or review this book because of those cases.)

As in another recent book, she also defends her $700-$800 price tag for her "sessions"--saying that if a psychic is any good, they will not only have a long waiting list, but also charge a high fee. This is, of course, patently false. There are plenty Tarot readers, psychics, and mediums who are extraordinarily accurate, but charge modest fees. It's easy to have a large waiting list when you're appearing on Larry King and Montel on a regular basis--not to mention doing the occasional soap opera cameo!

One other criticism I have is the same one I had for her book Mother God. When discussing the Spirituality life theme, Browne states, "If they're not careful, they can even be pulled into the occult."

The correct term is CULT. A cult--a group that seeks to control and isolate members--is entirely different from the OCCULT. The word "occult", a word sadly misaligned due to ignorance, merely means "Beyond the bounds of ordinary knowledge; mysterious". In many circles, psychic abilities, metaphysical studies, and Gnosticism would be considered of "the occult" simply because its existence has been "hidden" from public view for many years. (See my article The Occult, found on my site in the Articles section.)

If you're an enthusiastic fan of Sylvia Browne, you'll love Spiritual Connections. Those unfamiliar with Browne's books will likely find her conversational approach to relationships appealing, especially since Browne shares some of her own relationship challenges and outlines her interesting theory of Life Themes.

Fortunately, she doesn't beat a dead horse by recounting (yet again) her experiences with the "dark entity" that was her mother. But, in the spirit of "too much information", she *does* disclose that her parents had sex well into their 80's).

Accessible and practical, Spiritual Connections provides sensible advice for cultivating nurturing relationships and learning from ones that are toxic--honoring the spirit of love in self, others, and the world.

(Note: Two of the best relationship books with a spiritual bent that I've ever read are The Five Love Languages and The Five Love Languages of Children. Sacred Contracts by Caroline Myss is also good, especially if you're fascinated with the idea of "Life Themes" made pre-incarnation. I don't agree with her complicated wheel system, but Myss' work on archetypes can be incredibly helpful for understanding self and others.)