During my two decades of conducting psychic readings, I have come across numerous instances of deception and fraudulent activities within my profession.

It consistently brings me great sadness to learn about this situation, particularly when I witness the direct suffering and harm it inflicts upon the victims who seek my assistance. I have frequently encountered the task of rectifying and mitigating the consequences for clients who have been unsuspectingly targeted by such fraudulent schemes.

Psychic scammers also make my work so much harder and ruin the reputation of authentic psychics everywhere. Psychic-related fraud leaves a bad taste in people’s mouths and makes the public doubt those of us who are genuine and well-intentioned.

To add insult to injury the criminal activity of these so-called “psychics” is something the media loves to report because of its sensational nature. Rarely do you see news reports of legitimate psychics helping to change, heal and even save lives.

Due to advancements in technology such as the internet, smart phones, social media, and artificial intelligence (AI), scammers now have numerous methods to deceive their victims, making it increasingly easier. I often find myself wondering if there are more fraudsters today compared to when I started my career, or if it is simply that they have become more noticeable.

This is one of the reasons why I love working with PsychicAccess.com. Psychic Access is a legitimate psychic reading service with verified readers and a zero tolerance policy when it comes to any form of scam or unethical conduct.

Bob Olson reassures you that you are not under any curse or spell. It is just a tactic used by others to control you, playing on your fears.

Psychic scams seem to occur primarily with so-called “psychics” that people contact directly or visit in person. Of course, this does not mean that you should distrust all psychics who have a storefront or their own website! Most of them are legitimate and talented psychics with established reputations. Just make sure you know who you are dealing with.

Psychic scammers prey on people’s vulnerability, curiosity, anxiety, and sometimes grief, offering false promises of miracles and cures, all simply for financial gain. These scams can take many forms, and while some are quite blatant, they are often subtle and manipulative. Common psychic scams to be aware of include:

Love Spells & Energy Manipulation

One of the most common scams that some of my clients have told me about is psychics preying on their loneliness and manipulating them because they are missing a spouse or partner who has died or ended the relationship.

In this situation, the individual claiming to have psychic abilities offers to perform a spell in order to either reunite someone with a lost love or attract a new romantic partner. The fraudulent scheme revolves around persuading the client that their happiness and romantic prospects hinge on the supposed psychic’s intervention. Additionally, the client is required to make substantial payments for spells and rituals that falsely guarantee outcomes which are never achieved.

The fraudulent individual claims to have the ability to transmit healing energy or manipulate the thoughts of the person who departed. In certain instances, they may even perform a prayer with the client to feign altering the energy surrounding the situation, or convince the departed individual to reconsider and return to the client.

There is no validity or substance to this, and the results you expect will most likely be what you do not want. Any reputable psychic will tell you that attempting to control or manipulate another person’s free will, and attempting to energetically influence them with spells, prayers, or even curses, can cause a very harmful energetic backlash and create very bad karma for the perpetrator. Trust me on this: It will come back to haunt you.

THE KARMA OF SPELLS

Respecting the independence of others and refraining from exerting negative influence on their decisions and journeys is a significant principle of karma in diverse spiritual beliefs, within the wider concept of karma.

Rooted in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, the concept of karma is fundamentally about the law of cause and effect. Our thoughts, intentions, and actions create energies that always lead to future consequences. Any cause we create will have a return effect on us. Therefore, ethical behavior, kindness, and a harmonious way of life that respects the autonomy and well-being of others are essential. Trying to build our own happiness on the misery or misfortune of others is never a good idea.

THE THREEFOLD LAW

A similar principle is the Threefold Law or the “Rule of Three,” which serves as a moral compass for Wiccans and Neopagans, guiding practitioners to act with kindness, compassion, and responsibility. This metaphysical law states that whatever energy, intention, or action a person puts out into the world, whether positive or negative, is returned to that person threefold.

The Threefold Law emphasizes a belief in the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of the effects of our actions on others and the world. The Rule of Three encourages practitioners to think carefully about their actions, spells, and rituals, considering not only their desires but also the broader implications of their magical work.

This attempt to interfere with the free will of others also creates a false sense of hope, lest the client move on with their life and find the right person for them. Years go by and confusion sets in when the partner or ex-spouse still does not return. No true Lightworker would ever interfere in someone’s life in this way or promise to manipulate another, even under the guise of “sending healing energy.”

If the person is meant to be in your life, they will be there without any external influence. Do you truly desire to be in a relationship with someone who requires a psychic’s manipulation to be with you? And even if the spell proves effective, what happens when the psychic ceases their efforts to bind that person to you using “healing energy”? Will the psychic be obligated to continue this practice indefinitely? Consider the toll that such constant involvement would take on your time and energy. Recognize that this is merely a deceitful scheme designed to ensure your continued dependence.

Finding a real psychic is like finding a needle in a haystack. Real psychics may seem rare because of how prevalent fake psychics are in the spiritual community ~ Liz Simmons

Curse Removals & Negative Energy

The second most common scam I have come across is the curse removal scam. In this scam, the fake psychic tells the client that they are under the influence of a curse or negative energy that is causing their current problems. The “psychic” then offers to remove the curse for a large fee. Over time, the cost of this service can also escalate, with the scammer claiming that the curse is more powerful than originally thought, or that additional rituals are required to remove it once and for all.

I have encountered several clients throughout the years who have been informed that their ex-partner is not with them due to a curse placed upon them. Alternatively, they have been told that the ex’s new partner has cast a spell, creating an obstacle between them. Naturally, the fraudulent individual claiming to possess psychic abilities is the only one capable of breaking this supposed evil spell. However, it comes with a hefty price tag to utilize their talents and eliminate the curse.

Get real. If your ex is with someone else, it’s because she wants to be. It’s their free will choice. If they don’t come back, it’s because the connection between the two of you has served its purpose and new love is meant to come in. This is a scam to keep you stuck in the old love and reject the new love that is knocking on your door.  Don’t fall for it.

If you receive negativity from others, it can be extremely exhausting and harmful if you allow it to affect you. However, it is important to remember that anyone who attempts to harm you through spells or curses will ultimately face the consequences. They may experience physical illness and encounter negative happenings in their own lives as the result of their actions. The negativity they send out will always come back to them in a powerful and unpleasant manner. It is best to avoid getting caught up in such situations.

If you ever find yourself overwhelmed by the drama or negativity of others, or if you believe that someone has tried to bring negative energy into your life, I always suggest practicing Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yong Bhajan for protection. This form of yoga strengthens your aura, preventing you from absorbing negative energies. Some may think that I recommend Kundalini Yoga for everything, as you may have read in my previous blog posts. Well, the truth is, I do! I have been teaching it for many years and have discovered that it can assist with a wide range of issues, and most importantly, it can help overcome various unhealthy conditions.

In the past, I have experienced attempts by others to harm me with negative energy. I have never desired to cause harm to anyone and have always focused on expanding my aura and energetically improving myself in a positive manner. However, as a result, two of these individuals became quite sick and another person’s life completely fell apart. I never had the intention to consciously cause these events, and I was just as surprised as others that they occurred. It seems that practicing Kundalini Yoga has made me reflect the energy directed towards me, rather than absorbing it, causing it to affect those individuals instead.

Fake Emails & Messages

People who have been targeted by a scam artist posing as a well-known psychic receive unwanted emails. These emails falsely claim that the psychic has had a vision or message about the victims. The purpose of these emails is to instill fear or curiosity in the recipients, and ultimately convince them to pay for a full reading or services to avoid the predicted dangers. The Maria Duval psychic scam is one of the most well-known cases of such fraud. Shockingly, over 1.4 million Americans were tricked by this scam, which is 60 times more than the number of victims in Bernie Madoff’s infamous Ponzi scheme. Countless other individuals worldwide also fell victim to this scam, resulting in the loss of their life and retirement savings.

Another scam that has come to my attention in recen years is the texting scam. The “psychic” tells you that for a large sum of money they will make sure that your ex will text you. In the past they never promised a phone call because you know the person’s voice, but beware: nowadays even that can be done with AI voice impersonation known as “voice cloning” or “voice synthesis”.

A text (or voice clone) message can come from anyone, so you don’t always know it’s the scammer texting you and not your beloved ex. They usually ask what city and state your love interest is in to get their area code, and then send a generic text on the exact day they told you. Again, if your ex is meant to come back, they will call, text or email you on their own. True love does not require the interference or meddling of others.

Regrettably, a few of my clients have been tricked by this fraudulent scheme. Fortunately, one of them inquired about specific details such as “What is our daughter’s first name?” and “Where did we go on our first date?” When the texter avoided answering these questions or responded with “I would rather not dwell on the past, let’s focus on the future,” the client realized it was not her former partner. In fact, two of my clients went to the extent of conducting a reverse lookup on the phone number, and both discovered that it belonged to a disposable phone, allowing anyone to select any number and area code easily.

Scammers are increasingly exploiting a user’s “for you page” (FYP) on social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram to deceive them. The FYP displays content tailored to a user’s interests and interactions, using past behavior to predict what they will enjoy. Scammers pretending to be psychics use specific phrases like “This message was meant for you if you’re watching this video today” to capture the attention of potential victims.

The truth is that these “special message” videos are general and generic and are produced to reach a wide audience. The messages are not unique or specific to anyone in particular. While this may seem obvious to many people, there are actually people who fall for these tricks.

Ryan Freitas emphasizes the significance of prioritizing one’s reputation over monetary gain and valuing integrity over professional success.

Spirit Attachments & Exorcisms

The evil spirit attachment psychic scam is a particular kind of psychic scam that takes advantage of individuals who are afraid of things they cannot explain and the supernatural. The scammer alleges to have the ability to detect a harmful entity or evil spirit connected to the person seeking their services. They might also persuade the person that their house is haunted or that they are under possession, resulting in unhappiness and distress.

They’ll describe the supposed symptoms of this attachment, often linking them to your current problems in life (e.g., bad luck, illness, relationship problems). They may claim that the evil spirit is making your situation worse and must be removed immediately. This can be very frightening and manipulative.

The fraudulent psychic or healer will proceed to propose an exorcism or cleansing ceremony in exchange for payment. Just like the curse elimination scam, the price may rise as the “psychic” discovers additional “issues” to resolve. The supposed “remedy” typically entails multiple paid readings, rituals, or blessed items to rid you of the malevolent spirit. These purification procedures can become exceedingly costly.

Some warning signs to be cautious about include a psychic who is unable to provide specific and detailed information about the supernatural entity and its connection to you. Additionally, be skeptical of any unusual or peculiar methods of “cleansing” that they propose, as well as the need for strange objects. Keep in mind that genuine psychics do not manipulate your fears or coerce you into spending money on costly remedies. Likewise, legitimate energy healers do not rely on peculiar tools or strange paraphernalia to carry out their healing practices.

The moral of the story is that no one should interfere with your free will, soul contracts, karma, or spiritual path. On rare occasions, a healer may be given permission to do so in order to help someone by removing an energy blockage, for example. But never in the areas of love and relationships, and never affecting anyone other than the client.

Psychic Impersonation

Impersonation is becoming a major problem in the psychic field. With this a scam tactic fraudsters pose as well-known psychics or mediums online to exploit victims. This form of scam is becoming increasingly common with the rise of social media and digital communication platforms. Scammers impersonate reputable psychics or mediums, capitalizing on the trust and recognition these names have built. Victims, believing they are communicating with a well-known and trusted figure, are more likely to engage and follow through with requests for money or personal information.

Scammers take advantage of social media platforms to easily target potential victims. They do so by either creating fraudulent profiles or sending unwanted emails, allowing them to make initial contact by posing as well-known psychics. This impersonation can be quite persuasive, particularly if the scammer possesses stolen photos or has the ability to imitate the genuine psychic’s style.

After gaining trust, the scammer commonly asks for payment in exchange for various services like removing curses, cleansing energy, or safeguarding against negative influences. They may also seek personal details, which can be exploited for identity theft or more fraudulent activities.

How To Recognize Psychic Scams

Protect yourself by identifying these typical red flags: psychic scams have the potential to cause both emotional and financial distress, while also having a negative impact on your karma.

Unsolicited contact: Be wary of strangers claiming to be psychics who approach you with messages, warnings, or readings you haven’t asked for, especially if they contact you via email, text, or social media without any request or prior contact from you. This is often a ploy to pique your interest or fear and encourage you to pay for their fraudulent services.

If someone contacts you claiming to be a well-known psychic or medium, it is likely that they are impersonating that person. Genuine and trustworthy psychics do not typically initiate contact. They are usually occupied with providing readings and do not have the time to actively seek clients, unless they are new to the field. Before seeking guidance from any psychic or medium, confirm their identity through official channels, such as their verified social media accounts or official website. Seek reviews or testimonials about their services from multiple sources, or ask for referrals.

High-pressure tactics: Scammers often use high-pressure sales tactics and a sense of urgency to force victims to make instant decisions on the spot, usually insisting that immediate action is necessary to avert disaster. A legitimate psychic respects your autonomy and decision-making process and will never pressure you into using their services.

Guaranteed results: Beware of “psychics” who promise things they cannot possibly control. Any psychic who guarantees specific outcomes, such as winning the lottery, getting a job promotion, or the return of a lost love, is probably not legitimate. Real psychics offer insight or guidance, but acknowledge the fluidity of the future and the role of free will. Beware of impossible promises that turn into expensive rip-offs.

Growing problems: A real psychic wouldn’t keep finding new problems that require more money to solve. Paying more money is a common tactic in psychic scams. The scammer may claim that additional funds are needed for special candles, crystals, or rituals to increase the effectiveness of their services. These requests often start small, but can escalate quickly, resulting in significant financial loss over time.

Financial information: Never give out bank or credit card information to a “psychic.” Scammers often employ pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency or fear, prompting victims to hand over financial information quickly. A legitimate psychic or service will never pressure you to make immediate payments or demand financial details upfront, especially under the guise of removing curses, ensuring positive outcomes, or avoiding calamities. Being asked for your bank or credit card information should be an immediate red flag. Legitimate psychics typically use professional payment systems or platforms that do not require them to directly handle your financial information.

To prevent becoming a target of these fraudulent activities, it is crucial to approach psychic readings and associated services with a skeptical and analytical mindset. Prior to seeking their guidance, conduct thorough research on psychics. Check online reviews or seek recommendations from trusted individuals like friends and family. Ensure you only consult with reputable professionals, such as the thoroughly vetted readers available on PsychicAccess.com.

Real psychics are respectful, do not use scare tactics, and do not pressure clients into paying for expensive services. Researching the psychic or medium thoroughly, asking for recommendations, and being wary of unsolicited offers can also help protect against scams. Remember, if something sounds too good to be true or plays on your fears excessively, it is probably a scam. If you suspect a scam, please report it to the authorities.

In the modern world, where individuals are constantly seeking guidance and answers in uncertain times, the psychic industry has become extremely popular. Although there are legitimate psychics who offer valuable insights and guidance, there is also a negative side to this industry – psychic scams. These scams can have devastating emotional and financial consequences for individuals. To protect yourself from psychic scams, it is vital to be aware of warning signs and take precautions.

1. Conduct Research: Before consulting a psychic, thoroughly research them. Look for reviews, testimonials, and any negative feedback about the psychic in question. Verify their credentials and check if they are associated with reputable organizations. This step will help you identify potential issues and make an informed decision.

2. Trust Your Instincts: Intuition plays a crucial role in protecting yourself from scams. If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts. Scammers often use persuasive tactics to manipulate vulnerable individuals. If a psychic claims to have all the answers or guarantees specific outcomes, it is a major warning sign.

3. Be Cautious of Cold Readings: Cold readings are a common technique used by scammers to make you believe they have psychic abilities. They use general statements that could apply to anyone and gradually extract personal information from you. If a psychic seems to know too much about you without prior knowledge, it is likely a scam.

4. Avoid Financial Exploitation: Psychic scams often involve financial exploitation. Be cautious if a psychic asks for large sums of money to remove curses, perform rituals, or guarantee future success. Legitimate psychics will not pressure you into spending excessive amounts or make financial demands.

5. Steer Clear of “Bad Luck” Scams: Some psychics claim that you are cursed or have bad luck, offering to remove it for a fee. This is a typical scam tactic that preys on your fears and vulnerabilities. Remember that no one can curse you or control your destiny. Do not fall for fear-based tactics.

6. Safeguard Your Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing personal information, especially financial details or social security numbers, with psychics. Scammers can use this information for identity theft or to manipulate you further. Genuine psychics do not require such information to provide accurate readings.

7. Seek Recommendations: One of the best ways to find a reputable psychic is through recommendations from trusted sources such as friends, family, or people you trust. If someone you know has had a positive experience with a psychic, it increases the likelihood of finding a genuine practitioner.

8. Consult Multiple Psychics: Seeking advice from multiple psychics can give you different perspectives and help identify any inconsistencies or contradictions. Legitimate psychics should provide similar insights, even if their methods differ. Significant discrepancies may indicate a scam.

9. Report Scams: If you have been a victim of a psychic scam, report it to the appropriate authorities. This will help prevent others from falling for the same deception and hold the scammers accountable for their actions.

Remember, psychic abilities are not an exact science, and no one can predict the future with absolute certainty. Genuine psychics strive to offer guidance and support rather than exploit vulnerable individuals. By staying informed, trusting your instincts, and taking necessary precautions, you can protect yourself from psychic scams and have a positive experience in your quest for guidance.

The quest to understand the significance of pain, difficulty, and adversity is a deep and ongoing pursuit of humanity.

Throughout the course of human history, our spiritual convictions and theological instructions have provided us with comprehension and purpose in the face of the hardships and distressing encounters of life.

These interpretations provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of peace in the face of adversity as we learn that suffering has a purpose or can lead to spiritual growth, enlightenment, or a deeper connection with the divine.

Our spiritual quest to better understand pain is driven by a deep desire to make sense of life’s challenges and to discover how these difficult experiences fit into the larger tapestry of our existence.

Different viewpoints on pain and suffering are provided by religions and spiritual wisdom traditions across the globe. Each of these perspectives offers its own interpretation of why these occurrences happen and suggests different ways to approach or comprehend them.

These diverse perspectives all share certain common threads: that the origins of pain and suffering lie in the concept of duality; that there is meaning to be found in suffering; and that through faith, reflection, and spiritual practice we can transcend the pain caused by duality and connect with something greater than ourselves.

The essence of the Garden of Eden resides within each of us, although we often perceive it as a distant and mythical past. – Joseph Campbell

Throughout my life, most of my spiritual education has come from the Christian faith. I was raised in a very strict evangelical family that held to a literal interpretation of the Bible. I was also trained and ordained as a Christian minister, so much of my knowledge and understanding of spirituality comes from this religious tradition. However, I remain open to all wisdom traditions and have gained deeper insight into God and spirituality through many other paths over the years.

I have realized that interpreting the Bible strictly as the absolute truth about God goes against its true purpose. By worshiping the Scripture as solely literal and the only source of knowledge and understanding, it unintentionally becomes a “god” in its own way. It goes beyond its intended role by trying to provide answers to all of life’s questions, not just serving as a tool to know and understand God, but to substitute God Himself.

This perspective turns the Bible into an idol or totem. Several passages in the Bible highlight the importance of directly worshiping only God and avoiding the creation or adoration of physical representations or idols. Idolatry is anything that stands above ultimate reality, our direct connection with the Holy Spirit, and our innate love for God.

The Bible should not be worshipped, but rather seen as a valuable resource that can help us develop a deeper understanding and connection with the infinite grace and love of God. It is important to approach it as a tool for spiritual growth and learning, rather than as the ultimate and definitive authority.

The texts in the Bible serve various purposes, one of which is to provide insight into the nature of human suffering, grief, and our capacity for a meaningful relationship with God’s love. However, in order to fully comprehend and benefit from its spiritual teachings and guidance, it is essential to embrace the profound symbolism and allegorical aspects of the text, rather than attempting to interpret everything literally.

These are a few of the discoveries I have made while embarking on my personal spiritual development.

The Story Of Creation

The Genesis creation narrative, well-known to many, presents a depiction of a world brought into existence solely by God. Within this world, God fashioned humanity in the likeness of the divine, within a beautiful and flawless garden, along with two extraordinary trees. One of these trees is referred to as the Tree of Life, which bestowed abundance and perfection upon the garden. The other tree was called the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. God cautioned the man and woman, known as Adam and Eve, that consuming from this latter tree would lead to their eventual demise.

As the story progresses, the man and woman were ultimately persuaded by a serpent to consume the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. The serpent holds significance as it symbolizes rebirth, immortality, transformation, healing, and life in various metaphysical traditions throughout history. This diverges from the traditional portrayal of snakes I learned as a child, where the serpent was viewed as the embodiment of evil, opposed to God, and maliciously sought to ruin God’s flawless creation by bringing about the downfall of humanity.

Today, I grasp the meaning behind the serpent symbolizing eternal life. In my understanding, within the story’s context, the temptation did not happen randomly or due to an evil presence within the paradisiacal setting. Instead, it occurred as a result of the garden’s intended purpose and fate. As the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil existed from the start, the longing to consume its fruits was bound to reveal itself as a deliberate design.

Banish me from Eden if you will; but first let me eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge! ~ Robert G. Ingersoll

The Emergence of Duality

The key point to keep in mind regarding the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil is that it is not inherently negative or “evil.” Instead, it represents the introduction of duality into human awareness: the understanding of two conflicting realities within a state of perfection. In the flawless Garden of Eden, there was nothing within human existence that could contradict the inherent “goodness” of their surroundings. In fact, this had been affirmed by God in previous chapters.

After partaking from the Tree of Knowledge, humanity’s initial encounter with contrast arises when they become aware of their nudity. They become conscious of their distinct existence separate from the surrounding world, prompting a desire to protect themselves from this newfound awareness. Despite their mistake leading to further suffering, they exerted strenuous efforts to cover up independently.

Duality is a notion present in different religious, philosophical, and spiritual beliefs, suggesting the presence of two essential forces or principles that shape the fundamental structure of existence. It suggests that the universe, creation, the world, life itself, and even human nature are comprised of or influenced by contrasting elements like good and evil, light and darkness, spirit and matter, or order and chaos.

In many traditions, spiritual duality is seen as a framework for understanding the complexity of existence and human experience. In Zoroastrianism, for example, there’s a clear dualistic cosmology of good and evil deities in constant conflict. Similarly, in Taoism, the concept of Yin and Yang represents interrelated and opposing forces that interact to form a dynamic system in which the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Duality is mainly utilized to examine and clarify the sources of pain, suffering, and evil, along with the meaning of life and the journey towards salvation, enlightenment, harmony, or transcendence.

The Persistent Love of God

The subsequent event in the tale of creation involves a meeting with God. God actively sought them. When I initially learned the literal understanding of this narrative, I was informed that the “sin” or wrongdoing that transpired after their consumption of the fruit led to a disconnection between the inhabitants of Eden and divinity. It was believed that God and evil could not exist together. However, this initial encounter reveals the contrary to be true. Despite the fact that duality caused them to embrace both good and evil, it did not sever their connection to eternal love. This love persisted in pursuing them even after they ate from the tree.

It still does today. The pursuit of the Divine for the attention of humanity has always persisted and will always persist. I am convinced that this Supreme Love has persistently sought me and is persistently seeking you. Thus, the symbolic image of God seeking the two naked and afraid humans in the garden represents God’s persistent search to connect with humanity regardless of our state of mind or being.

Immortality is what the mortals must try to achieve if they want to live up to the world into which they were born ~ Hannah Arendt

The Serpent of Immortality

The initial act of the Divine was to address the serpent. As a symbol, the serpent signifies the everlasting aspect of our being. Hence, it is crucial for us to grasp that God did not eliminate the serpent but instead subjected it to slither on the ground and created a conflict between humans and the serpent. Furthermore, God proclaimed that human descendants would eventually crush the serpent’s head, but the serpent would retaliate by biting their heels.

Because the snake represents immortality, what happens here is that man’s experience of immortality is diminished or downgraded. It doesn’t disappear or end, which is why it is still expressed in many spiritual traditions and teachings about the afterlife, rebirth, and so on. Immortality exists, but our full human understanding of it is lost or obscured.

More importantly, because of immortality and dualism, there is also good and evil in the afterlife. The only logical conclusion is that the duality we experience in mortal life must also be eternal in the afterlife. Granted, not all religious traditions view the afterlife as dualistic in nature, but it is a common belief in many. This is the nature of the serpent. Immortality exists and is often feared.

God also says in Genesis that the sons of the woman would crush the head of the serpent, but the serpent would respond by biting his heel. This is the rejection of the eternal or immortal nature of our existence, but even though the head is crushed, the serpent (immortality) will strike back. This represents our own struggle with the nature of our human experience and the concept of eternal life.

Humanity’s fascination with death has led to the creation of belief systems aimed at negating our inherent immortality. This is evident in the rejection of any concept of an afterlife and the denial of God’s existence.

The Nature of Pain and Suffering

In Genesis, the subsequent significant progression occurs when God addresses humanity and declares that they too are subject to “curse,” which entails facing difficulties, suffering, and hardship. This encompasses the struggles in daily life, exemplified by the necessity to exert significant effort for survival, as well as the pain involved in childbirth, symbolizing the renewal of life.

I was previously taught that God’s actions in this were driven by anger and wrath, but my current belief is that this is actually a significant blessing. When we perceive pain within the framework of duality, it appears as a dreadful curse. Taking this interpretation literally would lead us to view God as lacking love and reliability. Nevertheless, it is the inherent nature of our dualistic existence that gives rise to such judgments.

Pain is not our enemy. It is an honest teacher, telling us when there is something in our situation that needs to be changed or addressed. Both pleasure and pain are not just psychological states, but spiritual experiences that can lead to deeper insight, growth, and understanding of the true nature of our existence.

Our resistance to pain is represented in Genesis by the symbolism of nakedness. It represents how we became aware of duality, that parts of us are “good” and others are “bad” or “evil. When we resist pain because we conceptualize it as “bad” or “evil,” we are essentially judging and creating resistance. The result of resistance is suffering, which is represented in this story as the expulsion of the man and woman from the Garden.

Instead of resisting the duality in our human existence, we must recognize and accept both pleasure and pain as essential aspects of life, each offering opportunities for learning, transformation, and connection with God. By embracing duality rather than trying to escape it, we achieve a more harmonious and balanced approach to life, recognizing the role of both pleasure and pain in the spiritual journey toward enlightenment, self-discovery, or connection with the Divine.

Helen Keller once stated that even though our world is plagued with suffering, it is also abundant with the triumphs over it.

Birth of the Human Ego

The next step in the Eden story is clothing. To give them a method of dealing with their newfound awareness of good and evil, God, in absolute love, covered them so that they would not have to deal with the shame of their “nakedness” all at once. An insulation was constructed to deal with their “nakedness” in a way that would allow them to exist without having to completely isolate themselves. Thus the human ego was born – a means of experiencing the agony of duality and resistance to pain, which is suffering, without being consumed by it.

The ego is beneficial as it enables us to persist and search for truth. However, the ultimate objective is not ego but being vulnerable and open. It involves realizing that the events unfolding in our lives are neither inherently positive nor negative, but simply exist. The ego serves as a temporary shield to safeguard our emotions until we are prepared to embrace reality without any prejudice. It prevents us from completely disconnecting from what is real, a state known as psychosis.

The Kingdom of Heaven

Spirit also communicated to me that this narrative is not an actual occurrence, but rather a representation of life’s experience. It symbolizes the daily challenges we encounter and our path towards growth. Eden is still accessible to us at present. This is what Jesus intended when he stated, “The kingdom of heaven is within you.” It pertains to the inherent reality of existence and the fulfillment of non-judgment. To attain this, we need to let go of categorizing things as good or evil and instead simply embrace what is, whether it brings pain or pleasure. Pain can lead us to a deeper comprehension of our essence, while pleasure can resonate with the goodness of God within us.

Understanding the biblical creation story in this way resonates with my spiritual path. It may or may not resonate with you. I’m not asking you to adopt my belief system; in fact, I don’t want anyone to simply adopt my belief system. Belief is simply a state of mind that helps us move into a higher reality. It is inevitable that many of my current beliefs are flawed or my understanding is limited. My purpose is to share what I have experienced as a higher reality, a reality that accepts things as they truly are.

Suffering is always a resistance to something that, through our duality, appears inherently bad or good in our experience. The practice I want you to consider is the complete acceptance of what is happening in and around you without judgment. Tell yourself that it is okay. If you feel pain, give yourself permission to feel the pain. Allow yourself to ask it why it is there.

Embracing The Wisdom of Pain

I believe it was only after my father passed away and I had the opportunity to take care of him during his final six months that I truly started to see pain as a teacher and advisor. The sadness that accompanies such a loss is a normal reaction. As I navigated through the mourning process with guidance from my inner self, I discovered the importance of understanding the reasons behind my pain. There were times when I needed to cry, and occasions when I felt anger, but I always accepted and honored my emotions without passing judgment.

As I continue to experience this process of mourning, there are moments where I am reminded that the pain has become more bearable and has even become a treasured companion. It has allowed me to gain a deeper comprehension of life and a more authentic connection with my spirituality.

You couldn’t relive your life, skipping the awful parts, without losing what made it worthwhile. You had to accept it as a whole ~ Stewart O’Nan’

The Return To Eden

I firmly believe that the sole path to connect with God is by embracing both good and bad aspects without making any judgments. Love is achieved through acceptance. To clarify, love means accepting without judgment, and in my perception, God embodies love. God exists in everything around us- the birds, the trees, the walls, the floor, and in each of us. The essence of God’s love resonates through all elements, including our suffering, and consistently guides us towards greater acceptance. This is the genuine essence of faith.

When we accept everything that comes into our lives as the nature of God, we find the Tree of Life again. The ability to experience life fully without judgment, the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

This could be a novel idea for you, and that’s perfectly fine. Allow yourself some time to ponder, contemplate, or engage in prayer about it. Dedicate a few moments each day to live without judgment, and eventually, you’ll gain a better understanding of your suffering. Recognizing the presence of spirituality is a gradual journey, but my advice to you is to always persevere in this journey.

Let me share another personal example. One of my major challenges was dealing with being overweight in a society that idealizes thinness. I used to view fat as negative and thinness as positive. This perspective caused me a lot of pain for a long time. But when I eventually understood that there is nothing fundamentally wrong with being overweight, my perspective changed and I was able to find peace with myself again. Occasionally, I still struggle with these negative thoughts, but my experience is evolving in a way that now I am living in a state of contentment rather than self-imposed suffering.

In Matthew 7:7-8 of the New Testament, Jesus delivers a straightforward message. He states that if you ask, you will receive; if you seek, you will find; and if you knock, the door will be opened to you. It emphasizes that everyone who asks receives, those who seek find, and those who knock have the door opened for them.

Have patience with yourself and keep going. If you didn’t already have some perseverance, you wouldn’t be reading this. Understand and fully embrace this fact. Regardless of the time it takes to reach a better place, it will always be there, patiently waiting for your return.

How to Deal with Pain: Lessons from a Christian Mystic

Pain is an unavoidable part of life, whether it is physical, emotional, or spiritual. Everyone experiences pain at some point, and navigating through these difficult times can be overwhelming. However, Christian mystics offer valuable insights that can provide guidance and comfort. They have a unique perspective on pain, considering it an opportunity for personal growth, transformation, and a closer relationship with God. In this article, we will explore their teachings on how to cope with pain.

1. Embrace the reality of pain: Christian mystics stress the importance of acknowledging and accepting pain as a natural part of life. Instead of avoiding or suppressing it, they encourage individuals to embrace their pain and see it as a catalyst for spiritual growth. By facing pain directly, we can learn valuable lessons about ourselves, our limitations, and our reliance on God’s grace.

2. Seek solitude and silence: Christian mystics often find solace in solitude and silence as a means of coping with pain. They believe that in the stillness of being alone, one can have a profound encounter with God. By creating space for silence and reflection, individuals can find comfort and inner peace amid their pain. This practice enables a deeper connection with God, allowing us to draw strength and find solace in His presence.

3. Practice surrender: Christian mystics emphasize the significance of surrendering to God’s will in times of pain. They believe that by surrendering our pain to God, we can find healing and transformation. Surrendering does not mean giving up or resigning oneself to suffering; rather, it is an act of trust and faith in God’s plan. By relinquishing control and entrusting our pain to God, we open ourselves to His healing power and guidance.

4. Cultivate gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful tool for navigating pain. Christian mystics encourage individuals to develop a spirit of gratitude, even in the midst of suffering. By focusing on the blessings and gifts that still exist in our lives, we can shift our perspective and find hope amid the pain. Gratitude fosters trust in God’s goodness and provision, enabling us to find strength and resilience.

5. Seek support and community: Christian mystics emphasize the importance of seeking support and community during times of pain. They believe that sharing our pain with others can bring comfort, understanding, and encouragement. By connecting with others who have experienced similar struggles, we find solace in knowing that we are not alone. Supportive relationships can provide practical help, emotional support, and spiritual guidance, making it easier to navigate through the pain.

6. Engage in contemplative practices: Christian mystics often engage in contemplative practices such as prayer, meditation, and reading scripture to cope with pain. These practices help individuals connect with God on a deeper level and find comfort in His presence. By immersing ourselves in these spiritual disciplines, we can find strength, peace, and guidance amid our pain.

In conclusion, dealing with pain is a universal experience. Christian mystics offer valuable insights on how to approach pain from a spiritual perspective. By embracing the reality of pain, seeking solitude and silence, practicing surrender, cultivating gratitude, seeking support and community, and engaging in contemplative practices, individuals can find comfort, healing, and personal growth amid their pain. These teachings remind us that pain is not the end of the journey but rather a stepping stone towards a deeper connection with God and a greater understanding of ourselves.