Haunted Lighthouses - The St. Augustine Lighthouse
Posted by Editor in Haunted Lighthouses
The St. Augustine Lighthouse sits on the north end of Anastasia Island in St. Augustine, Florida. The current tower, which was built in 1874, rises to 165 feet above sea level. The original lighthouse, built in 1824, was approximately 500 yards northeast of the current lighthouse. Due to the receding shoreline, it fell into the ocean back in 1880.
Throughout its early history, the lighthouse employed up to three lightkeepers at a time. There was a head keeper and two assistants. In 1955, when the lighthouse was automated, there was no longer a need for lightkeepers and the last one left at that time. The lightkeepers, who would actually live on site, were replaced by lamplighters, who would tend the light but didn’t actually live there.
According to the lighthouse’s official website, there have been seven people who have died on the lighthouse grounds: three lightkeepers, a keeper’s wife and three young girls. Several of these are said to have died of natural causes. One man fell to his death from the original lighthouse in 1859, and the three girls died in a tragic drowning accident.
The lighthouse and its surrounding buildings have a long history of paranormal activity and stories of the hautings have been passed on and have been featured in popular television shows, books, and local lore for decades. Visitors and workers say they have seen moving shadows and heard voices along with unexplained sounds. Some tour guides claim they hear someone climbing the tower steps, but the footfalls fade away, and no one is ever there at the top of the tower. There is also said to be a little girl who likes to play pranks residing in the keeper’s house, a tall man in the basement, and a spirit who likes to play with the merchandise in the gift shop. One former keeper was infamous for enjoying his cigars. Today, the scent of his cigar can still be detected several times a week.
Several employees have reportedly seen a hazy male figure walking through the lighthouse. Footsteps from an unseen presence can be heard shuffling on the gravel and the steps outside the lighthouse. Other reports are of a woman seen on the lighthouse stairway or walking in the yard outside the buildings.
Perhaps the most famous tragic story is that of three young girls who died during the construction of the second lighthouse. The story says that there was a rail car or some type of vehicle that went from the light station to the ocean. The children liked to play on it and ride on it for fun. On July 10, 1873, the cart somehow ended up in the water. Five children fell into the water and some of the Workers managed to save a boy and a girl. Two of the constuction superintendent’s daughters, Mary and Eliza, and a young black girl, either a servant or the daughter of a worker, drowned.
It’s said that today, the girls can be heard laughing in the tower late at night. The eldest of the construction superintendent’s daughters, Mary, has also been spotted wearing the same blue velvet dress and blue hair bow she was wearing when she died. Reports also say that the the figures of two little girls can sometimes be seen standing on the lighthouse catwalk.
For years there have been reports of a large dark, male spirit that hangs around the water collecting cisterns in the basement. Supposedly he was a sailor or a former lightkeeper who hung himself in the lighthouse in the 1930’s. According to the lighthouse’s website, there isn’t any proof or evidence that anyone ever hung him/herself there.
History says that the original owner of the lighthouse was forced to sell it to the government in 1865 because it was believed that the land under the lighthouse was receding and the ocean would eventually swallow it. The state offered to buy the lighthouse for alot less than it was worth and he refused to sell. The government then threatened to take the lighthouse via eminent domain and give him nothing. At this point, the former owner was outraged and vowed never to leave the lighthouse. Lighthouse staff say he seems to have kept his vow as his spirit is sometimes seen late at night walking in and around the property.
One of my favorite episodes of Ghost Hunters was filmed at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. The Atlantic Paranormal Society (TAPS) stopped by to see if they could prove or disprove any of the hauntings. During the episode, they caught a few interesting things on both video and audio. There was a female voice that seemed to say “help me” a few times on the audio recording. The video camera captured a dark figure moving really quickly up the circular staircase and then stopping to look over the railing down at the camera crew from the top floor. The figure then disappeared. When Jason and Grant went to investigate, they realized the door at the top which would be the only exit was padlocked from the inside. There was also a motion detection light that never came on until the TAPS guys got up there. Overall, with the evidence they captured, the guys determined that they really couldn’t prove the place wasn’t haunted.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is currently owned and maintained by the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum, Inc. The lighthouse is operational and is is an official, privately-owned, active aid to navigation. The museum is open to the public and the admission price funds preservation of the lighthouse and programs in maritime archaeology and education. The lighthouse offers night tours of the site, though they don’t promise any ghosts.
Haunted Houses Can be Great Deals
Posted by Editor in Haunted Houses
If you’re looking for a deal on a home, you might try your local haunted house. Haunted houses are also known as “stigmatized properties”, along with houses that have had murders, gang usage or other unpleasant histories. These properties may be short on reputation, but their price may well make up for it.
Houses with purported ghosts in them don’t do as well on the market as their spiritless neighbors. There are still people who believe in otherworldly entities (or just don’t want to risk that they might be lurking in a corner). This can drop a home’s value by up to 35% in some cases. On average, a house reputed to be haunted will sell for 2.4% less than similar houses in the neighborhood. 2.4% doesn’t seem like a lot, unless you’re dealing in real estate. 2.4% of a $400,000 home is $9600. That’s nearly ten thousand dollars that you could be sinking into that $400,000 home to make it worth $450,000.
Some realtors are understandably reluctant to reveal that the house they are showing may or may not have a non-corporeal tenant. Disclosure could mean that the buyers refuse to consider the property. Also, disclosure means that prices go down. The laws in each state vary as to disclosure of negative aspects of a property. Find out what your state’s laws are concerning properties with a negative incident in their past - sometimes nondisclosure is grounds for legal action.
If your state has no disclosure laws, then you may have a difficult time finding out from your realtor if the house has an unsavory past. If you have an understanding realtor, you can ask specifically for properties with a negative past. Some realtors would be more than happy to show an interested buyer a house that is lingering on the market due to rumors of creepy happenings.
You might have to do some digging for stigma. Or you might go to your newspaper archives and look for creepy stories about houses in the area you’re considering. If you’re looking at a specific house, Googling the address might help. That and asking around the neighborhood. People are usually delighted to tell you any juicy stories about any creepy tales. If there is a property tale that the seller is not disclosing to the public, you could make it a factor in offering a lower price on the property.
Understandably, these properties involve some risk-taking for an investor. Just because you’re willing to take on the negative vibes from a purportedly haunted house doesn’t mean future home investors will be so eager. If the stigma is bad enough, it may well last for years. However, with a little work, it is possible to make current memories erase the ones that stigmatized the house in the first place.
The Hauntings of Alcatraz
Posted by Editor in Hauntings of Alcatraz
Located in San Francisco Bay with a great view of the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown San Francisco, you’ll find perhaps the most famous prison in the world. Alcatraz, nicknamed “The Rock”, was originally known as “La Isla de los Alcatraces” or “The Island of the Pelicans” because of its appearance as a barren white rock. The white was caused by pelican droppings, hence the name. It served as a lighthouse, then a military fortification, then a military prison followed by a federal prison until 1963, when it became a national recreation area. Today it is maintained by the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and nearly a million visitors per year stop by to check the place out.
The island, believed to be an evil place by Native Americans, has seen centuries of death from accidents, murders, and suicides. With this dark history, it’s no wonder Alcatraz is said to be one of the most haunted places in the nation. If ghosts return to haunt the places where they suffered traumatic experiences when they were alive, then Alcatraz must be bursting at the seams with spirits.
For years there have been reports of mysterious happenings on Alcatraz Island. These reports come from visitors, former guards, former prisoners, and national park service employees. From the original lighthouse reappearing on occasion to clanging, screaming, and sobbing, there are too many tales to put into this short article. It would definitely take a book to tell them all. Some of the strange occurences are recounted in the following paragraphs.
The Lighthouse - There have been several reports that on foggy nights the old lighthouse, built in 1854 and torn down after it was damaged in the great 1906 San Francisco earthquake, will suddenly appear, accompanied by an eerie whistling sound and a flashing green light that makes its way slowly around the island and then vanishes as suddenly as it appears.
The Grounds - Many guards and park rangers have reported experiencing unexplainable crashing sounds, cell doors mysteriously closing, unearthly screams, and intense feelings of being watched. A number of guards from 1946 through 1963 experienced something out of the ordinary at one time or another. There have been reports of sounds of sobbing and moaning, horrible smells, phantom cannon shots, gun shots, and screams. Once in a while, groups of phantom prisoners and soldiers appear in front of startled guards, guests, and the families who lived on the island. None of these occurances have ever been explained.
The door and the corridor - Behind a door in Cellblock C that looks as if it has been welded shut, lies the utility corridor where Bernard Coy, Joseph Cretzer and Marvin Hubbard were killed by grenades and bullets during the bloodiest escape attempt in Alcatraz’s history in 1946. Additionally, the attempt took the lives of two guards and injured 18 others. The trial afterward resulted in the execution of two more convicts who took part in the aborted escape. Behind this door can sometimes be heard loud clanging along with the sounds of people running as if trying to escape and disembodied voices. Others have reported seeing the apparitions of men wearing fatigues at the site of the riot that left the three prisoners dead. As a result, this utility corridor is recognized as one of the most haunted spots in the prison.
The laundry room - Also in Cellblock C is the laundry room that is said to hold an unseen presence. The story is told that a hit man named Butcher was killed in the laundry room. The room is said to occasionally emanate a strong odor of smoke, as if something was on fire. The sensation of the choking smoke would drive guards out of the room, only to return a few minutes later, the area now completely smoke free.
The most haunted area on Alcatraz is Cellblock D, or solitary, as it was often called. D-Block, which became known as the Treatment Unit was made up of 42 cells with varying restrictions. None of the prisoners put in D-Block was able to have contact with the general population. These inmates were not allowed to work or go to the mess hall to eat; they had to eat in their cells. They were allowed one visit to the recreation yard and two showers a week. These cells faced the Golden Gate Bridge, from which fierce cold winds often blew and one guard who worked D-Block was notorious for turning on the air conditioning to make it even colder for those confined on the block.
Five of the cells in D-Block, cells 9-14, are known as “The Hole,”. These cells contained only a sink and toilet, had no windows and only one light with a low-wattage bulb that could be turned off by the guards on a whim. The darkness made it seem like a hole in the ground. Reserved for the most serious prison rule breakers, these cells were located on the bottom tier, the coldest place in the prison. All mattresses were taken away during the day and the prisoners were not allowed time in the yard, showers, or reading materials. Inmates could be sentenced to up to 19 days in the hole, completely isolated from the rest of the world.
Needless to say, these horrible conditions led to misery, anger, and possibly even insanity. That ambiance seems to linger to this day. Most people who go to Cellblock D get feelings of sudden intensity and a feeling of cold in certain cells, especially cell 14-D. This cell is often reported to be 20 degrees colder than the rest of the cells on the block. Psychics who have visited the area reported picking up on the feelings of torture, misery, and abuse that were left behind by 29 years’ worth of prisoners who were forced to stay there. These cells are so eerie that some national park service employees refuse to go there alone.
A guard who worked at the prison in the 1940’s reported that guards often saw the ghostly presence of a man dressed in late 1800’s prison attire was often seen walking the hallway of “The Hole”. Perhaps the strangest event occured when an inmate locked in a cell in “The Hole” immediately began to scream that someone with glowing eyes was in there with him. The spectral prisoner had become so much of a practical joke among the guards that the convict’s cries were ignored. The inmate’s screams continued well into the night, and then suddenly stopped. When the guards inspected the cell, the convict was dead with a terrible expression on his face and noticeable handprints around his throat. The autopsy revealed that the strangulation could not have been self-inflicted.
At the time, many believed the inmate was strangled by a guard who got tired of hearing the inmate scream, but no one ever admitted to the strangling. Most believed the prisoner was killed by the restless, evil spirit of the nineteenth century prisoner who was so often seen wandering the corridors.
As a footnote to this tale, when the guards lined-up the convicts for the daily count, there was one too many convicts in the line-up. At the end of the row, stood the recently strangled convict. As everyone looked on in stunned silence, the ghostly figure vanished.
As the years go by, ghost hunters, authors, crime buffs and curiosity-seekers continue to visit the island hoping to have their own encounter with the ghosts of Alcatraz. Although most encounter nothing, they do have a tendancy to leave with a feeling of uneasiness. The majority of the ghostly experiences of Alcatraz have been reported by former guards and national park service employees who often spend hours alone on the island. Many claim not to believe in the supernatural but occasionally, one of them will admit that weird things happen here that they cannot explain.
Various Types of Ghosts
Posted by Editor in Types of Ghosts
You have read volumes about ghosts and have browsed hundreds of websites to devour more information on ghosts, but have you ever wondered how many types of ghosts there are? The fact is that there are various types of ghosts out there and all these are minutely described and documented by the Spiritual Science Research Foundation (SSRF).
The Spiritual Science Research Foundation has undertaken extensive research on ghosts in order to demystify this widespread phenomenon and help people in recognising and treating the adverse effects caused by ghosts through proven methodology according to the science of Spirituality.
At the outset, it is important to note that while we use the phrase ghosts (demons, devils, negative energies, etc.) as a collective noun to cover the entire gamut of negative energies, there is a vast difference between the lower order ghosts and higher order ghosts such as subtle sorcerers (maantriks) from the sixth and seventh region of Hell. They differ according to their spiritual strength. Ghosts primarily use their spiritual strength to harm humanity.
The generic types of ghosts as identified by the Spiritual Science Research Foundation in ascending order of hierarchy as well as power and strength are:
# Common ghost
# Demons
# Black serpent
# Female goblin
# Jaakhin
# Witch
# Spirit
# Subtle sorcerer
The Hierarchy among Ghosts
There is a hierarchy among ghosts which is based on their spiritual power or strength. Ultimately all ghosts are controlled by subtle sorcerers (maantriks).
Basic shape and form of types of ghosts
The spiritual principle that word, touch, form, taste, smell and its associated energy coexist is also true with ghosts. Depending on their type of energy, they take up generic forms. These forms can however change, depending on what the ghost is trying to achieve. For example, if the ghost is trying to intimidate, it will take up an intimidating form, whereas if it is trying to fool a spiritual healer it may take a form of an angel or a positive energy. They can also take the form of our departed ancestors thus misleading psychics and the people who come to psychics to enquire about departed relatives. This is true in almost all cases.
How does one become a Ghost in the first place?
When a person dies only his physical body ceases to exist. His subtle body however continues to exist and moves on to the other regions of the Universe. Some of these subtle bodies become ghosts. Most ghosts have unfulfilled desires such as cravings for sex, alcohol, revenge, etc. or derive pleasure out of exerting control over and tormenting humans and other subtle bodies. The subtle body of a person after physical death is defined as a ghost if their characteristics and intentions match the above. There is no special process as such which they go through to become a ghost.
How does a Ghost become a particular type of Ghost?
The main reason behind a person becoming a certain type of ghost is due to their predominant personality trait and their predominant thought at the time of death. For example people involved in adversely affecting humanity at large are more likely to become subtle sorcerers (maantriks). On the other hand excessive worldly desires and constantly thinking ill about others may culminate in one becoming a Common Ghost (Bhoot) after death.
Summary
The most reliable way of reducing the risk of being affected or possessed by the various types of ghosts, is undertaking spiritual practice as per the 5 basic principles of spirituality. Spiritual practice and spiritual healing remedies, coupled with personality defect removal and eradication of ego are the tools to access supreme protection from God that insulates one from the attack of ghosts as well as helps us proceed to higher regions in the afterlife.
Visit SSRF’s website to explore more on the salient features of the various types of ghosts, view subtle drawings and pictures of various types of ghosts and discover how they can affect our lives:
Twilight Zone?
Posted by Editor in Twilight Zone
The Twilight was an American television anthology series by its narrator and host Rod Serling. Each episode was a mixture of fantasy, science fiction, and often concluding with an unexpected twist. We are sowly, but surely, moving into just such a real life twilight zone. In football the so-called “red zone” (within 20 yards of the goal line) is very difficult. The 2012 Twilight Zone will be not so much as difficult as mind-boggling. A 2012 Final Fantasy!
Everyone has experienced some deja vu moments, precognitive happenings, telepathic messages, and out of body or mind events. They are going to increase and become more normal than abnormal- more normal than paranormal. I’m not sure of all the reasons. Destiny? Tipping point? Collective consciousness? Ah, there’s lots of thughts, but the reality is, we’re stepping into a new world.
The God, or gods (if that’s your bag), are going to behave as we’ve thought and planned.
Our expectations that if we do A then B will happen isn’t going to work. The laws of nature that have been established by the One who created all life come from One who’s really not all that predictable. We need to get ready to rely more on our spiritual Self than our false egoic self. Get ready to enter the Twilight Zone of the world’s consciousness.
Let me bring this back down to earth by giving you an historical example- Bill Russell.
In case you’ve never followed basketball, Bill Russell was one of the greatest players of all time. He won an Olympic gold medal in 1956 and as the spark plug of the Boston Celtics won 11 championships in 13 seasons while being voted the MVP FIVE TIMES! How did he do it? A fifth dimensional consciousness?
Vodoo?
His testimony is that as a teenager he had a “mystical experience-revelation”. He began to “spiritually see” things that he’d never seen before. He could closhis eyes and see a play and then go into the game and execute it. At varying times throughout a game he felt he’d step into a ZONE and miraculous things would happen. And to his surprise, while he appeared to be the most competitive person on the floor- he was the antithesis.
When he “felt the zone”, he had no desires of winning or losing but just BEING! Remote viewing?
Therein is a clue. We are too busy with life, paying bills, carrying out the expectations of everyone else, and just “getting by”. We have no time to just BE. We’ve become too competitive- too dualistic in our life styles. However, a more cosmic zone era is approaching and we’ll have no choice but to enter in. NOW is the time to prepare.
Will you?
Frauds in the Metaphysical Field Part 1
Posted by Editor in Metaphysical Field
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.
The Basics of Paranormal Investigation
Posted by Editor in Paranormal Investigation
The word paranormal comes from the words “para” meaning beyond, and normal. So the term paranormal really means something that is beyond the normal scope of science or being beyond a scientific explanation. According to the Journal of Parapsychology, the term paranormal describes “any phenomenon that in one or more respects exceeds the limits of what is deemed physically possible according to current scientific assumptions.”
Ghosts generate strong electro-magnetic fields. These fields cause disruptions in the magnetic field of a location which makes it detectable by both specialized equipment and psychics. Ghost hunters use many different types of equipment to detect an paranormal phenomena. A 35mm or digital camera is probably the easiest and least expensive way to begin. Pictures, whether digital or recorded on film have the ability to capture paranormal activity that is usually invisible to the naked eye. In addition to a camera, it’s important to have a flashlight since most paranormal investigations will be in dark places like cemeteries, basements, attics, or old buildings. Also, most investigations occur between 9pm and 6am when it’s dark. This is believed to be the best time to record paranormal activity. Along with the flashlight you’ll need extra batteries, since batteries will sometimes mysteriously lost all their charge during paranormal investigations, literally leaving you in the dark.
Once you have these basic items, you’re ready to start exploring the world of paranormal investigation. Some important things to remember are: never go on an investigation alone, and be respectful of the of the people, places and situations you encounter.
The first step in an investigation is selecting the place you’re going to investigate. Once you choose a location, be sure to get permission to access the property to ensure you won’t get into any trouble for trespassing. It’s also very important to do some research on the location before you go out and physically investigate it. You can go to the library and look up old newspapers, visit the local historical society to find out about the history of the place and if anything strange has happened there, and of course talk with the owner of the property.
Once you get all your data collected you have to analyze it. Every picture, video, audio recording is reviewed to look for any sign of a haunting. When doing your analysis, be sure to be skeptical. Make sure you rule out any explainable causes for anything odd that may show up. Check for mirrors, shadows, light sources or anything else that may cause something weird to be seen or heard in your collected data. Most of the time, the things you initially detected during your investigation will have real world explanations as opposed to supernatural ones. It’s important to make sure your evidence will stand up to any scrutiny by eliminating any other explanations. This will give your data more credibility.
Once you complete your analysis, you need to present your findings property owner. At this point you would recommend whether the owner needs to seek additional help, such a having the property blessed or if there is really nothing that needs to be or even can be done. Sometimes just having someone investigate the place and find nothing can help ease the mind of the person experiencing the haunting.
The Basics of Residual Hauntings
Posted by Editor in Residual Hauntings
The most common type of haunting is a residual haunting. A residual haunting can be described as an image that has been recorded in time and played back in a continuous loop over and over again through the years. Additionally, there is no intelligent ghost, spirit, or other entity directly involved. You may see the same scenes all the time, hear the same noises repeatedly, or even smell the same smells, usually at the same time of day. The image you are seeing will not even realize that you are there.
Although you might think you’re seeing a spirit, it isn’t really an actual spirit. It’s not even there; it’s just the leftover energy of an event in the past; like a recording. This repeated scene that plays over and over is usually a very significant event, life-altering event, or even a common event of a person or place. Usually the sounds and images recorded are related to traumatic events that took place at that location and caused some sort of disturbance or “psychic impression” to happen there. Traumatic events like beheadings, great battles, murders, or even a celebration can be the focus of a residual haunting.
In most cases people may hear the sounds of screaming,crying, breathing,phantom footsteps walking on the stairs or through hallways, or even odd, repetitive sounds like tapping or slamming. Although these images may manifest themselves Visually, they won’t interact with the living and will just continue to repeat the same actions over and over again. It’s just like rewinding a movie and watching the same scene over and over. The activity, whether sounds or sightings, will be random.
Although research is ongoing, some theories on residual hauntings have been suggested. A common explanation for this type of haunting is the energy has, in a way, become part of the dwelling it once occupied. This can be explained by the fact that some building materials, such as the slate that was used to build old castles and stone structures along with iron nails used in many of the same buildings, have properties similar to audio or video tape which have a tendency to make “recordings” of things that happen near them. The energy of these occurances imprints itself into the atmosphere of the place and cannot be erased. The materials store the energy created by these traumatic events and play them back at a later, random time. In some cases, the images have been created by events or actions that were repeated over and over again, which causes an impression. In older places like Europe, it has been suggested that the porous stones of castle walls soak up the energy and that’s why there are so many haunted old buildings there. Some of the most famous hauntings appear to be residual ones. The Tower of London’s ghost of Anne Boleyn and the Brown Lady of Raynham Hall are two famous examples of residual hauntings.
There is usually very little that can be done to stop this kind of haunting. This type of haunting is not dangerous at all so if you or someone you know ever has to deal with the situation, understand what is going on and realize that there is really no danger. Someone who is in this situation will have to learn to live with it or relocate.
Spirit of Power, Love and Sound Mind
Posted by Editor in Uncategorized
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7
The spirit the Lord has given us is not a spirit of fear. It’s a spirit of power, love and a sound mind. Let’s see the context in which this verse is said:
“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began”
2 Timothy 1:6-9
We can see the Lord saving and calling every one of us with a holy calling, according to His own purpose and grace, even before the foundation of the world (verse 9). We can also see that He has placed gifts on the inside of us, which we must stir (verse 6). That’s God’s image for us. But obviously, there is an opposition; there are spirits of fear, shame, blockages, obstructions, afflictions, etc (verse 8).
So, the Lord has given us a spirit. This Spirit gives us the ability to rise above the image of the devil. It makes us more than conquerors in 3 specific areas which cover the whole spectrum of our life.
1. Spirit of power.
The Holy Spirit is a Spirit of power. His power is greater than all the power of the enemy.
“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”
Luke 10:19
The devil has principalities and powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places at his disposal (Ephesians 6:12), but the power of the Lord is greater than them all – so much greater that if we tap into that power, we’ll not even consider the power of the devil.
Please look at Elijah. He was able to confront 850 of the false prophets of Jezebel (1 kings 18:19). They all had been deceiving the people of Israel for years with their magic, their witchcraft; their false prophesies, their tricks, etc. Yet, Elijah knew his God so well, that this event can not even be called “a confrontation”, because Elijah literary made fun of these devil’s worshippers. They could not perform even one trick (1 Kings 18:26-29).
Can you imagine that? Can you imagine yourself standing against 850 occult practitioners? Not only that – can you imagine you being the one to challenge and confront them? Can you imagine yourself saying something like: “Hey, you that worship the devil your god, show me the power of your god, and I will show you what my God can do”? What would make you say such a thing? The image of God in you! Nothing else!
Let’s look at Jesus Christ our Lord. Have you ever thought about the fact that He had Pharisees, Sadducees and teachers of the law right next to Him all the time? Wherever He went, they were there as well. And let me assure you that they were not supporting Him.
Now imagine yourself being surrounded by such negative religious people trying to discredit your life and ministry all the time. Every move you make and they have what to say about it, and it is not an encouragement for sure. They know better about everything. They are self-righteous, considering themselves holy, blameless and beyond reproach. They think they have the right to find fault in every word you say and every thing you do. And you are trying to minister salvation, healing, deliverance and wholeness to individuals and multitudes at the same time. How about that?
And Jesus did not tell His “bodyguards” to get rid of these negative people around Him. No, Jesus functioned in this very environment all the time. He was preaching the good news of the Kingdom of God, He was healing the sick, He was casting out devils and He was doing good everywhere He went. He was so focused on His mission from God that nothing could distract Him.
That amazes me so much, because some times, it takes just one person (a good one too – a Christian brother or a sister) to say just one word or sentence and that could make us stop, retreat and even quit. Just one word! Even if it was not intentional. If it was intentional and was coming from an oppressed by the devil person, the chances are that one such thing ruins our service or whatever we are trying to accomplish at the moment. And if the person is demon possessed and the manifestation is actually purely demonic in its nature, then I don’t want even to think what could happen for the normal, usual Christian minister.
Yet, we are not usual Christians. We are not usual ministers. There’s nothing usual about us. We have been supernaturally recreated in our spirits, we got absolutely supernaturally born again, and the God of the whole Universe came to dwell right inside our hearts (spirit beings). We are being renewed in our mind through the word of God that is so powerful, that He created everything that exists by it (Hebrews 1:1-3). The Lord has placed His fruit of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance in us, which is so supernatural as well (Galatians 5:22-23). He has also placed gifts on the inside of us (1 Corinthians 12) that are the abilities of God Himself. He has also given us ministry gifts, such as apostles, prophets, teachers, pastors and evangelists, intercessors, worshippers, marketplace ministers and so much more (Ephesians 4:11; Romans 12:4-8) so that all the saints can be equipped to do the work of the ministry the Lord has given us all – the Great Commission to take this Gospel to the ends of the Earth.
Well, as you can see, there’s nothing that is not supernatural about us. We are not living by the natural, worldly standards, methods and principles – we are living by FAITH.
There’s no other way to challenge 850 occultists and win. There’s no other way to stay focused in an environment filled with hostile religious fanatics and unbelieving people.
We can do it though, because the Lord has given us a Spirit of power. We can finish our course, fulfill our mandate and be the witnesses the Lord wants us to be for Him:
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
Acts 1:8
When the Spirit comes upon us – we will receive power – the Spirit of power. Nothing and nobody will stop us. The demons will fall and the powers of hell will be overpowered by God’s Spirit of power in us.
1. Spirit of love.
The Spirit of power works in the area of confronting and overcoming every demonic power and opposition that could stand in our path. It gets rid of every demonic stronghold, every demonic power, every demonic image and every demonic blockage and limitation. It completely wipes the devil out of our way, so we can serve the Lord and His people fully and most effectively.
Now the Spirit of love covers another area – the area of our relationships with the Lord and the people around us. There is so much hatred in this world – so much division, separation, divorce, racism, prejudice, discrimination, lack of sympathy and compassion, false love (perversion, prostitution, homosexuality, lesbianism, fornication, adultery, and promiscuity) and who knows what else.
We all find ourselves bombarded with this moral and relational degradation on every side. That’s why the hospitals are full. That’s why the cemeteries are full with young people. That’s why the asylums are full. That’s why the prisons are full.
That’s the reason for the family devastation, for the rape rate, crime rate, murder rate, abortion rate and every other negative rate.
We can never even go above the surface of all this except by and through the Spirit of love. We are called to carry another standard – again in an environment filled with scoffers and hostile people (Psalm 1).
I once had a conversation with a “Christian brother”, who was a homosexual. He said: “Love is the greatest power on Earth”.
I said: “You are right, but God’s love, not homosexual love”.
Suddenly, all his “brotherhood” flew away and the demon manifested. He said: “Homosexual love will defeat all evil in this world”. Then he turned at me and said: “You are evil” (me being a representative of God’s love in this conversation).
Can you believe that? The devil calls God’s love – evil, compared to the “love” he is offering to human kind – perversion.
Well, we must bring God’s love to this lost and dying humanity. We must love the people, but hate their sin, because it is the devil that has imposed it on them to destroy them – Christians and Non-Christians alike. God’s love is perfect love – it’s so pure and holy. It’s so unconditional and true. It’s amazing what it can do if we allow the Lord to use us as channels of His love and mercy and compassion. Love is not just a feeling. It’s not just an emotion. Love is an image, because love is a Person. God is Love! And we must have that same image of the God of love on the inside of us, so we can love the Lord back, with all heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27) and so we can show that love of God to our neighbor, as the image of that same love in us is leading us.
Who is our neighbor? Whom shall we show love to? Whom shall we release that image to? You can find the answer in (Luke 10:29-37)
God’s love is indeed the greatest power on Earth. There’s no relationship that can not be healed, restored and brought to life by God’s love. Love will heal our marriage, love will restore our family, love will connect us all in God’s purposes and love will make us whole in each and every relationship we have. Love will keep it going with more and more of God’s power and fulfillment. Love will also keep our faith strong, because “faith worketh by love” (Galatians 5:6).
Here’s what love is. Who can resist that? Who will not give in to that? What relationship will not bow before that?
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth:”
1 Corinthians 13:1-8
Love is all consuming. It should be the motivating force behind our every word and deed. We can have all the power, but without love – we are nothing. Love is the cement that holds everything together. Love works in the motives. Everything we say or do – if we say and do it with love as our motivation, it will succeed in God’s eyes and bring reward. Otherwise, it will be worth nothing.
Love is the main thing. It’s the greatest thing. We should be moved only by love. God loved the world and that’s why He sent Jesus to die for us (John 3:16). When Jesus indeed came, the Bible says He was moved by compassion (Matthew 9:36; 14:14; Mark 1:41; 6:34). Compassion and love are the same. He was moved by it. He didn’t have any hidden agendas for His relationships. He was not moved by promotion possibilities, by offers, by His abilities, by His gifts, by His power, or even by His faith. He moved when God on the inside of Him moved. God’s essence is Love and Compassion. When God stirred the heart of Jesus with His image of love for a person, a given relationship, or a situation – Jesus was moved by that image. He was moved by love. The Spirit of love was upon Him to preach the Gospel to the poor, to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, opening of the prison for the bound, recovering of sight to the blind, set at liberty those that are bruised, and preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Isaiah 61:1-2, Luke 4:18-19).
It’s the Spirit of love that compels us to preach, heal, bind up, care and move in God’s purposes and intentions. Whatever the situation is and whatever point the relationship is, the Spirit the Lord has given us is not a spirit of fear, so we run away from our responsibility, but it is a Spirit of love.
Love is not passive. It attacks the enemy. It’s aggressive. It takes responsibility because it cares for the other person. It does not want to lose the person. It does not say: “I am right.” No, it gives, it loves, it ministers, it sheds abroad, it distributes, it sows, it does not quit.
Love wins all the time!
1. Spirit of a sound mind.
Now, we dealt with the area of outside demonic opposition of all kinds, we saw how love will help us excel in every relationship, and the only other area remaining is the area of our inner life - our thoughts, our inner struggles, our emotions, our heart issues. That’s where we need to exercise the Spirit of a sound mind. Sound mind means wholesome mind, healed mind, active mind, focused mind, dedicated to serve mind.
We all know that everything that is happening in our life – positive or negative – is leaving a mark in our inner being. The way we have been raised, the place of our upbringing, the family we have been a part of, the words we have heard, the Church we have gone to, the conditions and people at work, school, etc, the TV programs we are watching, the places where we go – all this and everything else is leaving its impression in us and thus, is forming our thinking and behavioral patterns, and hereby – our actions.
If we have been surrounded by negative things all the time, those things form strongholds in our mind, our emotions and our overall composure – our way of life.
And since the devil knows that, he is constantly trying to surround us with people, situations and things that will try to exalt themselves above God’s image in us. See for yourselves:
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ”
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
See? We are to pull down all these strongholds and to cast down every thing that is exalting itself against the knowledge of God and to bring every thought to the obedience of Christ.
Christ the Anointed One and His anointing is teaching us (1 John 2:27). God’s knowledge is bringing God’s image, but there are things that try to exalt themselves against the knowledge of God (the image of God). These include the internal scars, wounds, hurts, agonies, confusions, disappointments and fears.
The Lord though has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of a sound mind – able to rise above every internal (inner) struggle and rejection and bitterness and hurt.
God’s Spirit of a sound mind heals us on the inside and helps us clothe ourselves internally with God’s image. Greater is He that is living in us, than he that is living in the world (1 John 4:4).
All in all, the Spirit the Lord has given us is a Spirit that will lead us in victory in each and every area of our life with God. It will make us more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
“And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.”
Revelations 15:2
The Spirit and The Conversation with God
Posted by Editor in Spirit and The Conversation
At a point in time not known to us on the earthly plane a spirit was wondering happily around heaven. Everything is so perfect here thought the spirit and harmony is all around. I wonder why so many spirits decide to leave this place and become a human being on that place called earth.
The spirit continued to wander and ponder the question it had asked. After a while the spirit thought, I know, I will go and ask God. Since he is all knowing and all seeing, I’m sure he will have the answer to this question.
So the spirit set of to find God and satisfy the curiosity that was burning deep within.
After a short while the spirit found God and asked if he could answer a question. “Off course said God, you know you can ask me anything you want. Come with me, I feel this question might take longer to answer than you might think”.
The spirit followed god and they sat down in some big comfortable chairs in a large quiet room. “So, said God, what is the question that you seem so keen to ask me?” “Well, said the spirit, I was just wondering why, when things are so perfect and in complete harmony here in heaven that so many spirits decide to leave and become human on the planet called earth?”
“Mmmm”, said God, “I knew your question might take a while. Let’s start by letting you observe the earth from here. That might answer your question, but I know it will raise even more questions”. The spirit looked at God not quite sure what he meant but agreed to do as God asked and observe how life on earth was attracting spirits to it.
After observing several years of life on earth, the spirit had seen enough to satisfy the curiosity it had felt but now had so many questions it wasn’t sure if it could remember them all. As if he knew the spirit was ready God appeared and sat himself down in the big comfortable chair again.
“Well” said God, “has your question been answered?” “I think so” said the spirit, “but now I have so many other questions I don’t know where to start.”
“How about from the beginning” said God.
“Ok I have seen the thing called birth and know what that is. But with so many births how does a spirit know which birth it wants to move into?”
“That’s a good question” God answered, “and since you have been to earth several times you should be able to answer that yourself”. The spirit thought for a moment and realised that God was right.
“I remember now” the spirit uttered. “The last time I left here and went to earth you said it didn’t really matter which birth I chose as long as I never allowed the human experience to lose me within itself”. You said that I would know which human experience to choose because I would learn the lessons I needed to grow”.
“That’s right, and if you can remember your last human experience you will remember if you learned those lessons or if you need to go back and relearn or learn new ones in order for you to grow and reach your full spiritual potential” said God looking closely at the spirit to see if it was beginning to make sense.
“I’m not really sure” the spirit replied, I haven’t really thought about it until now. What I can’t understand is why life on earth seems so complicated and why most humans are so unhappy all the time. When I was observing earth from here, there seemed to be so many things that go with the human experience. Things like happiness, sadness, fear, anger, love, hate, jealousy..”
“Woa Stop said God, Let’s back up here a little bit. Most of what you are saying is all about human emotions and they are all part of the human experience. Do you have any specific question you would like to ask?
“Well yes” said the spirit. Is it true that when we are born into the human experience that we are as pure in spirit as I am now.
“Absolutely” God replied.
“So why do so many spirits get lost inside the human experience and lead a life on earth that doesn’t seem fulfilling and is full of sadness and pain?”
“Well” said God, “the human experience involves something I created called the brain. Sadly few humans actually use this creation the way I designed it, to be a great tool for creating things for themselves. In fact some humans on earth, right now, are beginning to realise that they are using 10% or less of this great creation and are starting to find ways to use more. But at this time on earth these people are few and far between. It’s all part of the learning experience that each human and spirit has to go through”.
“It is changing but it has been a long, slow process. To answer your question, humans use the brain for almost everything they do but they don’t hear the voice inside, the spirit, because they are to busy trying to figure out everything from a creation which they are only using a very small part of. Soon they become so tied up in the life that they are creating, good or bad, that the spirit get lost or drowned out. It’s only when the human body stops functioning that the spirit is released and can come back to contemplate the lessons it has learned”.
The spirit looked thoughtful for a moment and then said “I still don’t really understand how the spirit gets lost inside the human experience. How can the brain if it’s not being used to its’ full potential be stronger than the spirit and drown the spirit out? Why can’t you make it so that a human can use the brain you created to its full potential and let the spirit be part of that?”
God smiled and said “that’s because not only did I create the brain, I also gave the human experience free will”.
“Free will” the spirit exclaimed, now looking even more confused.
“Yes” said god, “Free will. You see, if everything was perfect on earth the human would not be able to learn and grow just as in the same way the spirit could not learn and grow. So I gave the human experience free will to choose and make decisions about how to best live that lifetime”.
“Some are very good at using free will and some are not. So when the spirit is born into the human experience it is as pure as you are now but it is the use of the brain and free will that determines whether that human experience is good, bad or indifferent. It’s only when the human experience and spirit are working together in harmony that life on earth can become a wonderful occurrence, filled with joy, abundance, happiness and inner peace”.
“I see” said the spirit, “So humans have the choice to make their lives on earth as good or bad as they want to. It’s just at this time not many are aware of this”
“Got it in one” said God and he leaned back on the chair grinning as he saw the spirit was beginning to understand. “Everyone on earth can make choices and decisions using their free will. It’s the quality of there thoughts and actions whilst using free will that determines the outcomes throughout their lifetime”.