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Saying Goodbye to A Decade

 

2020 has been a year unlike any other. We have faced enormous change and upheaval and its fair to say to most of us cannot wait for it to be over. 

On a deeper level, we must realize that it’s not only 2020 we are saying goodbye to. We are closing a whole decade.  Have you stopped to reflect on this? Can you spare a moment to reconnect with your 2010 old self? Where were you 10 years ago? What were your dreams? Which kind of issues were pertinent at that point in your life? It’s worthy comparing your there and then with your here and now. Even if you don’t believe just yet, the truth is, you have come far in your path, and I suspect that you may not be exactly where I thought you would be right now.

On my case, in 2010, still fresh from my divorce, I was working full-time as a supported housing worker, studying Counselling during the evenings, doing psychic readings on Saturdays to supplement my income and living in a lovely bedsit in Vauxhall. Here’s me in 2010 at Hestia Housing And Support where I worked: 

My life couldn’t be more different today. If someone had predicted my current life 10 years ago I probably would have been so disappointed.  In 2010, I imagined my 2020 self settled with a nice man, maybe with kids, probably working for the NHS as a counsellor and living a stable life with pre booked holidays twice a year. None of those things happened but other amazing things manifested instead – to the point that today I look at my old aspirations and realize how limited I was in thinking that a relationship would be the core of my happiness. Life gave me so much more but not precisely what I thought I wanted. Looking back, I wholeheartedly understand that the life I desired would have made me miserable. What I have today is not only better but it is better because it suits my personality. I work for myself, I drive, I have a cat, I travel a lot and meet incredible people. I’m not saying that my life is perfect, I have problems and issues like any of us but I am in a much better place, with myself and others. Projections can be a slippery slope. This time I prefer to remain open, I accept that I have no idea of where I will be in 2030 but I am sure I will be exactly where I’m meant to be. I learned that a bird’s trust doesn’t lie in the branch where it sits but in its ability to fly. We deal with life not in our terms but in life’s terms.

A new decade is different than a new year. The world changes, social and political priorities change, the music charts change, fashion changes – and we get older. We must not undermine how social media has influenced us for the past decade. If in one hand the spread of hostile posts and fake news created a lot of division, on the other hand, it is also important to acknowledge the benefits of new friendships, professional opportunities and the freedom to express our opinions and engage in meaningful dialogue with people that we would otherwise never meet. We will always respond to what is aligned with us. The divisive will seek division, the pacifier will seek union. We are all learning… 

Spiritually, we all sense that we are entering a completely different phase in our planet. It is true that we are in a constant process of awakening but it may be fair to add that this process was accelerated a great deal by the major issues we have to deal with, such a covid. The Age of Aquarius I feel, is about to start. Fasten the seatbelts, this will be an incredible journey but for now, it’s time to acknowledge and celebrate that you are not the person you once was. And in 10 years time, another version of yourself will be here. Wiser, better, more evolved, more fulfilled. More You! 

Wishing you all a wonderful end of the year, a great 2021 and an adventurous decade ahead. The best is still to come!

In Friendship,

Michelle Araujo

 

 

Leaves Of Time

While spring has the excitement and joy of the beginnings, autumn brings the anticipation of the gran finales. It’s a majestic season. Dramatic red hues, leaves falling off trees, days getting shorter and a cold and crispy wind starting to permeate the atmosphere. The seasonal shift is felt in no uncertain way. Autumn has always been the best season for me to reflect on my past experiences and the passing of time.  

In my youth, I didn’t care about time, I was only looking ahead and middle age was a distant future. My 20s were exciting but with an underlying anxiety to “make it” before 30 – that meant, in my day, settling down with a husband.  I “made it”, it didn’t last. I ticked boxes through my 30s until I reached breaking point at 38. In my willingness to make things happen I hadn’t realized that on most occasions I was just challenging myself unnecessarily and pursuing things that were incompatible with the life I wanted.  On my 40s, the penny dropped.  

Like puberty, middle age comes with some unsettling adjustments.  Losing my wrinkle free face and going up a few sizes as hard at first, but I made peace with that. It’s to do with attitude as well. Youth demands a lifestyle that I no longer have. The vibe of my 20’s when I could fit all my possessions in a suitcase, used phone boxes, smoked everywhere, social media didn’t exist (Thank God) and Axl Rose was fit, is gone. I’m not there anymore but other, better treasures emerged. 

There is immense power in being an adult in my prime. As adults, we are no longer amateurs in life. We say no with more authority. We can miss people and places without wanting them back. We are sharper, much harder to impress. These are amazing gifts. Our energy field changes as we evolve and there’s more to gain in embracing the new version of ourselves than denying the person we become the right to live an authentic life. 

40 was my turning point. I left the job at 38, graduated as a counsellor at 39 and at 40 my work with the Tarot took a life of its own. Since them I’ve seen amazing places, met super interesting people and had incredible experiences. The timing was perfect; I reached a space where I was ready to enjoy life rather than spoil things out with unnecessary dramas and self sabotage. I’m not alone on this. There are many uplifting stories of ordinary people like me and you deciding to do things they never dared before after reaching 40s. Relocating, embarking on a new profession, adopting a new lifestyle, rediscovering love and letting go of heavier burdens. At this stage we have reached some solid conclusions about who we are and how we want to live. It’s a powerful place to be. 

Autumn brings change and regeneration; by winter, only what’s meaningful will remain so that spring can start afresh on a renewed soil. The seasons are spices that Time sprinkled on to the Wheel Of Life to add different flavours to our existence. The flowers are beautiful but now they have to go so that we can receive the fruits that are indeed ripe. Nature always has new gifts for us.  All we need is an open heart to accept them. 

Season’s Greetings

Michelle 

 

 

 

Breakthrough in Birmingham – Women Economic Forum 2018

One of the best ways for me to get insight is to remove myself from familiar surroundings, break my routine and do something unusual and this time was no different. I just came back from Birmingham where a local Women Economic Forum was being held.

If you have been to a women’s forum you know what it entails but for those unfamiliar with the scene; a WEF event essentially, is a conference attended by women from all over the world who come to share personal stories, promote business, network or just to soak in the atmosphere and check on the program.  From discussions on women’s under representation in sports governance to learning more about the benefits of theta healing, there’s something for everyone. It’s great fun too as you can imagine, with many strong women from all walks of life bonding and discussing issues that they are passionate about.

The annual event in India where I received an award in 2017 was glitz and glamour in massive proportions. Held at a 5 star hotel in New Delhi with Bollywood stars and members of the government in attendance, saw more than 2.000 people attending daily over 5 days. It was my first time at this kind of event and the first time I had to make a speech to a (very) large audience. To say it was terrifying is an understatement but the friendly and appreciative environment made me realize that no one is there to see me fail.  New friendships started and Breakthrough, the book I’ve co-authored with 16 other ladies is a solid manifestation of our collaborative efforts.  It is fair to say that attending the WEF has made a positive contribution in my life. 

I was in Brazil when the book was released so I didn’t get a chance to catch up with my fellow co-authors in India this year. Birmingham would be ideal for us in the UK to meet up. Dr. Neslyn Watson-Druee very kindly allowed us a slot to talk about our book and we reciprocated by donating all the sale’s profits to the temple where the event was held.

A lovely gesture from the WEF to allow us a slot to talk about our book

If the annual event is a big party with all the girls, the conference in Birmingham was like visiting a friend at her house.  The WEF Birmingham was what they call a chapter; members can hold meetings in their own communities. These regional meetings are smaller in size and with shorter duration and have a more relaxed vibe. 

The best part of co-authoring Breakthrough – Secrets of Growth, Happiness and Bouncebacks From Women Around The World was being inspired by all the stories I read.

Shree Krishna Temple has the loveliest vibe. The sacred statues were truly alive, blessing our gathering and adding beauty to our event. The smaller crowd helped me to feel more connected with the other participants. I’ve made more new friends and learned from the incredible stories I heard. Although the WEF is women-led, men are welcome and it important that their presence is celebrated too.   

Krishna and Radha at Shree Birmingham Pragati Mandal – Birmingham

In my daily life I like to be a lone wolf but I answer the call when it’s time to regroup with my tribe. I plant the seeds of fulfillment by surrounding myself with supportive and like minded souls, reading insightful books, enjoying uplifting environments and learning from other people’s experiences.  Breakthrough, my very first experience as a co-author is an inspiring evidence that the fruits of those seeds can be lovely indeed. 

Breakthrough authors Pat Duckworth, Rachel Smets, Lynn Hope Thomas and I with our special guest Cora Cristobal in the middle.

To learn more about the WEF visit http://www.wef.org.in/

To purchase Breakthrough please visit https://read.amazon.co.uk/kp/embed?asin=B07BLXX9Q9&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_kmpmBb7D8DWE2

Choosing The Right Psychic for You

Choosing the right psychic is like choosing any professional. You may have to try a few before you get the right one. The right psychic for you will depend of what you need more at that particular time.

We may share the same tools (tarot, runes, mediumship, palmistry…) but each psychic will have a unique approach that is heavily influenced by our own views and experience and how we see ourselves in our role. In my experience as a practicing psychic as well as a psychic lover, there are 4 main types of psychics that you are likely to come across when you are looking for a reading. Of course all psychics share all characteristics but I would say that one is predominant in their work so I added some key words so you may have a clue just by looking at their website and the way they advertise their services.

 

Please bear in mind that what I am writing here is based purely on my views. I have the utmost respect for all my colleagues and I don’t think one is better than the other. In my first paragraph I have made clear that the right psychic for you is the one that can respond better to what you are looking for at a specific stage in your life. This diversity is beneficial, necessary and fun! Pick your favourite!

 

The Solution Focused

 

Keywords: transformation, empowering, success, achievement.

 

These ones are the most likely to give you a good dose of encouragement and inspiration to change negatives into positives. Their energy is uplifting and if you need motivation you will really benefit from a session with this type. They go straight to the light at the end of the tunnel, giving you courage to face your fears and hope for the future. The Solution Focused has a winning mentality and will give you inspiration to overcome your obstacles and find your purpose. Many psychics are joining the Solution Focused wagon so finding one won’t be too hard. They are super positive and really want to change your life.

The not so great side of this bunch: they can be bossy, “all knowing” and they love having “followers”. You will hear all about their latest projects and reviews, connections with the rich and famous and anything that will show you how special they are. Guru behaviour? Maybe, but if you get a genuine one you will find that in some cases the talent justifies the hype.

 

The Fortune teller

Keywords: natural born, gifted, past-present-future, divination.

 

Most natural born psychics fall into this category. They just “know” what’s going on and their accuracy can test the most sceptics of clients. They have the ability to connect straight to your soul so expect detailed descriptions of people, places and things as well as predictions about your future. If you look for a psychic like the “old days” when predictions were given more freely and psychics didn’t worry too much about third parties and the rights and wrongs of predictive reading, this one is right for you. Mind you, one of the downsides of Fortune Tellers is that their reading can leave you shaken. Most psychics (in my opinion) have stopped following that route so finding a genuine fortune teller can be frustrating. The best way to find them is via recommendation or you will meet them by chance.

Too heavy to handle? That may be true but when you get a real deal Fortune Teller you will have an unforgettable experience that you will remember for many years. And their predictions may well come true…

 

The Caring

 

Keywords: guidance, advice, support, healing.

 

They are like strong trees. There is a bit of Mother Earth in them and as soon as you enter the room you feel comfortable and grounded. Carers will be supportive and welcoming; they are naturally gifted in giving guidance and advice and restoring your sense of well being. They are excellent listeners too so you can talk about your problems without any fear of judgement. The carer is there to hold you with compassion and help you to see the other side of a situation. They are natural healers.

On the other hand, this type can frustrate you in the sense that you feel you are having counselling rather than a psychic reading. They are the most likely to “therapize” you so if you want clear answers this may not be the right one for you.

Too therapeutic? Perhaps, but a session with a caring psychic can help you to heal and to feel that you are not alone and that someone is there to support you.

 

The Analytical

 

Keywords: answers, clarity, awareness, perspective

Dispensing with any nonsense, this kind aims straight for the truth, which they are not afraid of delivering. Analytics are usually clean-cut and businesslike. Many appear un-psychic but do not be put off by this. They have a lot to offer, especially if you have very specific questions that you want some clarity on. Analytics will ask you directly what issues you want to bring to the session so you both know where you stand.

Intelligent and perceptive, they have amazing vision and are detached enough to give you clear answers without sugar coating. They won’t be afraid of challenging you if they feel that you are repeating the same question or asking something that goes against their ethical principles. They see beyond the question and their observations will give you plenty of food for thought. For some they are too clinical but if you want someone who will tell you as it is, this one is your best bet.

 

Final thoughts

 

I can’t stress enough the importance of contacting your psychic before you decide to book a reading. After an informal chat you will get the vibe and then you will be in a better position to choose what feels right to you. The best way to get it right would be via recommendation but I appreciate that sometimes we need to find alternatives.

Be careful with professional psychics that don’t have a website or a social page. They may avoid social media because they don’t want bad reviews to be made public. Watch out, keep safe and have fun!

Last but not least, if you would like to book a reading with me, feel free to get in touch.

Based on my own story and feedback from clients, I fall into the Fortune Teller/Analytical category so if you don’t mind a slightly unusual psychic without any previous Tarot training, who still follows the old style but with a strong sense of right and wrong, I am waiting for you.

Good luck with your search!

Michelle

 

YOUR MESSAGE IS WELCOME