THE DOG WHISPERER ECONOMY

Most people are familiar with Cesar Millan and his show, “The Dog Whisperer” that airs on the National Geographic channel. Cesar is a basic miracle worker when it comes to the canines. In a typical scenario, a dog owner has a dog that is out of control. It bites, barks, displays neurosis, attacks, chews, runs away or has a host of other problems from depression to over exuberance. At their wits end, the dog owner calls in Cesar to work his magic and that is exactly what he does. At the end of each show, pet and owner find peace and harmony.

There is a persistent theme at the heart of Cesar’s miracles. What is almost always revealed is that the root of the problem is not the dog, but the dog owner. Owners are found to lack authority, i.e. not the pack leader; over indulge or smother the animal in too much affection; give in to the pet’s demands; act in fear when confronted with other dogs or negative situations, and they generally have no control over the dog. All of these failings lead to the host of issues that make both dog and owner miserable.

So what the heck does this have to do with the economy? The most important bit of wisdom that Cesar imparts to his clients is that it is the pet owners “perception’ or mindset that creates the problem. The solution always rests upon the thoughts of the owner and not the acts of the dog. It is obvious to all that the U.S. and world economies are in a mess. Official recession was announced for E.U. nations, job losses are escalating, consumer spending is at all time lows, retailers are in a panic, mortgages are still collapsing, the auto industry is on the verge of bankruptcy, credit is stalled, and governments simply do not know what to do. The G8 has become the G20 and will probably become the G120 if things continue on their downward spiral.

The economy, represented by the corporate giants, has become the mad dog in need of taming. But what are governments doing? Just like Cesar’s clients, government is not the pack leader, over indulges, spoils and is fearful of the economy and those who have wielded economic power since the Industrial Revolution. Just as with the dogs, all that does is create more neurotic, selfish and out-of-control behavior. They are pouring billions of bones, i.e. dollars, into kennel of insatiable beasts and the negative behavior goes unchecked and exacerbated.
So what might Cesar suggest? The first thing would be that governments, but really the people, must become the pack leaders and assume authority and dominance over the beast. The people must change their mindset of fear and act with confidence. They must understand that the pet (economy) is not in control, they are. If we have seen nothing else from the economic debacle it should be that the state of the economy is ‘totally’ one of perception. People perceive the problem and according to the Law of Attraction, the problem grows because that is where the mental energy flows. In the book, “Polarizing Your Life Toward Perfection,” once the weeds are eliminated from your mental garden, you make room for new positive thoughts and realities to grow and flourish. With all of the news hype about consumer and investor confidence heading for the bargain basement, there is little wonder that things are getting worse.

If we follow the advice of Cesar Milan, we should see that consumers are now in a position to greatly alter economic, social, political and environmental policy. In the past, consumers have allowed economic forces, the dog, control our lives. The economy demanded and like “good’ pet owners, we gave. The result has been usurious interest rates, poor lending practices, mindless spending, over flowing landfills, environmental degradation and a life at the mercy of the economic elite. President-elect Obama knows the power of a people who take control of their lives. We have seen that if an enlightened public will asserts itself, change follows. The current pause in the economy is a wonderful thing. We are now given a chance to reassess our priorities and our lives. With what dollars we have, we can demand quality, eco-friendly, and green products and services. If we do not buy cars that are gas guzzlers, Detroit will have to produce better cars if they want our money. If we do not accept loans and credit cards at 19.9% interest, they will have to offer lower rates. If we demand an end to poisoning our children with plastic food containers, they will have to produce something better. If we do not indulge fast food chains that are ruining the health of our children, they will have to come up with something better. If we do not produce lasting products, we do not buy them. If they insist on using child labor to produce their products, we do not buy them.

The consumer can now become the economic “pack leader” and forever alter the course of the world. Consumers can demand that no money be given ‘unless’ economic change is part of the package. It is our money, our taxes that now controls the pack. Use this resource wisely and a new reality will be created in which the dog and its owner live in peace and harmony. I hope Cesar Milan is offered a post in the Obama administration!

WANT TO MANIFEST MONEY TO BEAT HIGH GAS PRICES?

In an interview with Dyan Garris, Author, Money and Manifesting I asked her some questions about manifesting in a time when everyone is thinking scarcity. This is my second interview with her since the topic has gained renewed importance as food, oil and gas prices have begun to skyrocket. People trying to use the Law of Attraction in the current “recession” are trying to ease financial burdens. Dyan note’s that for many, nothing is happening. She says, “It is not enough to think positively, repeat affirmations and attract positive energy. We must implement and integrate this leaning.” In her new book, Dyan talks about belief systems that are impediments to a life of abundance. Factors such as fear, the duality of consciousness, karma, the concept of entitlement, the illusion of separateness, the illusion of limitation and of time are keys to understanding why efforts at manifestation fail. In truth, we manifest all of the time. We may not like what we manifest, but we must take responsibility for “all” that is in our life. With opening our internal energy centers, Chakras, as part of the real secret, Dyan and I talked about many of these issues.

Q. It is said we are a product of our past. Actually, some would say the past dictates the future. What, in your opinion, are the major obstacles in one’s past that need to be overcome or “deleted” to effectively free our minds to pursue our own dreams?

A. From a different point of view it can be said that there is no past and there is no future. It depends on how one conceptualizes time. I will, however, answer your question in terms of earthbound perspective. To effectively move forward on the path, we need to look at belief systems that were taught to us as a foundation and study where those belief systems came from in the first place and why we believe them. The biggest obstacles in this arena are fear, the concept of money as it relates to self-worth, and the illusion of limitation. Any fear based belief system is an obstacle to moving forward, because fear keeps us stuck. Also, keep in mind that freeing our minds is just one step in pursuing our dreams. We don’t create with just the power of our minds.

Q. To what extent do you feel that religious beliefs prevent people from utilizing the LOA?

A. I can see that to some extent people may feel that the Law of Attraction is not simpatico with their religious beliefs. If the religious concern about utilizing the Law of Attraction has to do with “God providing,” then people could try to understand that The Law of Attraction is a universal law, sort of like gravity. It isn’t a religious thing. It simply is. If we’re looking at a religious belief that teaches “money is the root of all evil” or the “pursuit of money is evil,” I could see how that could get in a person’s way. But it isn’t really money that’s evil. Money is simply a means of exchange. It’s the glorifying of the money that’s at the heart of the religious objection. Wherever one’s religious beliefs or any beliefs are fear-based, this gets in the way of moving forward in any direction. It is important to understand that in general, and right now the manner in which the Law of Attraction is being utilized is as a warped distortion of what the ego wants, rather than what God wants. The Law of Attraction is not meant to be used by itself as a way to get what one wants. It’s one step in the process of manifesting. The Law of Attraction works best when one’s own will is first aligned with universal/God’s will.

Q. How does one overcome these beliefs?

A. Most people think that by making a change this will change their entire foundation and completely shake up who they think they are. This is not so. But it isn’t really a matter of overcoming one’s religious beliefs. It’s a matter of overcoming fear. And in order to do that, one would have to get to the very root of the fear and then have a desire to not be afraid. So it isn’t that you chuck your religious beliefs. It’s that you incorporate the truth instead of fear. You open your mind to endless possibilities and realize that we’re living in an illusion. No matter what the religious beliefs are the truth is that fear and love cannot exist in the same place. We cannot serve two masters, so to move forward we need to pick one. It’s really a matter of being willing to align your free will with your universal purpose and be willing to get out of your illusions. The concept of “lack” did not originate from “God.”

Q. How does a person deal with the pressures of church, family, friends and even the media when it comes to altering ingrained belief systems.

A. You give yourself permission to just be who you are and do whatever it is you came here to do. You give yourself permission to move past the illusion of limitations that don’t even belong to you in the first place. If your concept of self-worth is not coming from the outside, you are capable of validating your own parking ticket.

Q. We believe we are sick, sinners, the product of our environment and society. How do people effectively end the reign of “dogmatic terror?”

A. We need to examine why we persist in believing in the concepts of fear-based and punishing beliefs regarding religion. We are here to learn about love and grow and we have chosen to believe in this illusion and other illusions that give us room to learn and grow. What we believe certainly has dominion over us. Ending the reign of “dogmatic terror” becomes a matter of choosing to believe what is true rather than what is illusion.

Q. In order or rank, please list the major obstacles (and reasons) people need to overcome to master control of their lives.

A. 1. Fear – Nothing is created from a place of fear. The power is in the love.
2. Fear of losing money and possessions – We have convinced ourselves that we need money and possessions to survive. If we didn’t have these we would figure out a different way to exchange and a different way to live. There is nothing to be afraid of.
3. The illusion of limitation – If we believe that we cannot, then we cannot. If we believe that money is going to solve all our problems and we will just wait until we win the lottery or have enough of it to live life on our terms, then we truly have missed the point of our lives.

Q. Is it necessary to alter the social paradigm of lack and scarcity for an individual to achieve manifestation success? How do they combat the constant onslaught of negative media regarding how “bad” things are?

A. Change that affects everyone does actually begin on an individual level. So those mastering manifestation individually are already helping to shift the entire paradigm. Eventually that shift ripples into mass consciousness and begins to shift on a collective level. It helps to examine at a basic level what we are really afraid of. Are we afraid of not having houses and cars? And why? Fear is a vibration that emanates and permeates. An individual can achieve manifestation success by first understanding that the Law of Attraction is a function of the mind and understanding that is but one step in the process. Combating the negative onslaught becomes a matter of what you are willing to vibrate to and what you are willing to invest your energy in.

Q. How does one manifest abundance when “everyone” says there is lack?

A. Abundance depends on how you define it. There are different forms of abundance. One could actually manifest an abundance of lack. Belief systems shape reality. By not “buying in” to lack, you’re not investing in it. If you aren’t invested in it, you can’t “lose” anything. People need to learn to co-create. It’s how we are intrinsically and biologically designed to create. At the point that you’re consciously co-creating and living in synchronicity, “lack” is an illusion.
I would encourage all who seek to fend of the “sling and arrows” of outrageous food and gas prices to read Dyan’s book. There is no scarcity, only the belief in scarcity will keep you from sharing in the abundance that “appears” reserved for the few.

Q. Most people never heard of Chakras, how do you overcome the notion that this is some strange eastern concept that is not appropriate to the western thought? Even the Dali Llama has said people in the West should not adopt a Buddhist way of thinking and yet that is what you are suggesting. Is there anything in Western thought that would correspond to the whole concept of energy centers that would be more “appetizing” to the average person?

A. I find it sad that spiritual and religious leaders still believe in and promulgate the illusion of separation. However, what the Dali Lama said here is probably taken out of context. I’ve been seeing Chakras since I was a small child. At the time I just didn’t have a word, label, or category for what I was seeing. I’m not a Buddhist. And as a child it never occurred to me to label Chakras as East or West. Our labels are taught to us. The concept of energy centers is very simple. We have our physical bodies. We have our spiritual bodies, our aura, and that includes our Chakras. To me it’s like saying that teeth are part of a different or strange way of thinking. Teeth are teeth. Chakras are Chakras. Everything has its purpose. Just as an arm or a leg is part of the physical body, Chakras are simply part of the spiritual body.
Part of the purpose of Chakras is to provide the connection between your physical reality and your soul. If you truly didn’t understand the function of an arm or a leg, you might think it was a strange thing. But when you learned that this really had a specific function and you learned to use it in a way that helps you, then perhaps it would cease to seem so odd. And most importantly, in order for us to move forward as a species, West really needs to meet East in an integrative effort. It’s what we’re currently trying to learn on individual levels in the guise of manifesting. That’s what’s going to shift everything ultimately, “integration.”

Q. People’s social, political, spiritual, moral and ethical values are very scattered and disjointed these days. You want people to integrate body, mind and spirit. Keep it simple, how do people do that in an age where everything is changing so rapidly?
A. We do that simply by remembering who we are and what we came here to do.

SPECIAL NOTE
Each person who posts a comment on any or all of the blog tour spots will be entered in a random drawing for a copy of Dyan Garris’ CD – Release. In addition – the blog owner that hosted the winning commenter will also win a free copy of Release. Share your thoughts and comments with Dyan. She will check in throughout the day to answer questions. You’ll learn more and you have a chance to win a CD.
For more information about Dyan Garris and her virtual tour, you can check the full schedule at http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/04/dyan-garris-may-schedule.html and here are more details http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/04/dyan-garris-may-blog-tour.html.
Her website is full of great details about all of the items within her “toolbox” and there are many special features. She provides the tools you need to have a full and happy life – http://www.voiceoftheangels.com/ and it’s not as hard to achieve as you think. Visit Dyan’s Amazon profile http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/AYREZNHQDLRFM/.

IS THE U.S. HEADED FOR DEPRESSION?

Some say it is the declining value of the dollar; others blame drought, oil prices, and the mortgage crisis. No matter who or what you blame, the certainty is that the American economy is in crisis. Despite appearances and rhetoric, the depth of the crisis confronting Americans and the world go deeper than many are willing to admit. While economic pundits and politicians are finally using the word “recession,” there are those who are beginning to think depression.

This past weekend we went grocery shopping at the largest retailer in the area, one that is the largest worldwide. What became immediately clear was that there were many wholes in the shelves which, on any normal Saturday morning, would have been stocked to overflowing. In addition to our normal bag of flour having risen from $2.99/5lb. bag to $4.99, it was clear that this commodity was in short supply. The same was true for rice, eggs, meats and many other staple products. The shelves were certainly not bare, but the gaps and low stock was clearly evident. While this could have been attributed to late deliveries, concern rose the next day when a friend went shopping at a different chain and found a similar situation; jacked prices, no flour, little rice and obvious gaps in product stock.

There is no question that rising fuel costs are having a dramatic impact on food prices and availability. Reports are aired everyday about the soaring costs of staples. The truck driver rally in Washington, D.C. could not help but go unnoticed by the media as the plight of drivers worsens. Still not sure how widespread and how deep this problem had reached; I conducted a very informal survey of various writer groups nationwide. Being an author and always watching the world around me for ideas, it seemed that members of such groups would also have their fingers on the economic pulse in the areas in which they lived. I sent a survey to numerous groups and asked what they were seeing at the stores in terms of prices and product availability; whether they were going alter their purchasing habits; if they were going to buy more or less consumer goods; how they would spend their “economic stimulus check;” the price of gas in their area and if they were going to change their eating, driving and shopping patterns. The results, which are being verified by growing news reports on the economy, are frightening. One cannot help but wonder if some of the events that led to the Great Depression of the 30’s are being to be repeated. In the late 1920’s there was overproduction, a growing gap between rich and poor, a large increase in foreclosures and large stock investments by those who were really on the economic margin. Does this sound familiar? Given attempts by the Federal Reserve, Congress and even businesses to try to stimulate consumer buying, are we in a situation where a silent desperation pervades those in the economic know?

The survey spanned the nation. Writers in both cities and rural areas from the East Coast to Alaska to the Mid-West responded. While I will not report every response, I will show the nature of most responses along with some interesting quotes and thoughts from those who sent in the survey. The following are typical responses (by the time this article is published I am sure the numbers will be a little out of date-I am sure they will all be higher):

“Yep, seen it, experiencing it here in farmland rural Pennsylvania where cow manure has become THE fertilizer - the only one that won't bankrupt. Feeding a household of five including two always hungry teens, it's glaringly obvious things are going downhill. Our cupboards are dwindling to the barest of bare necessities. Our veggie
garden is doubling this year and I'm checking into a chicken coop. Has anyone seen the price of eggs? Eggs for crying out loud! They more than quadrupled in price in just a few weeks here.
I read somewhere that 25% of the US grain has been taken for alternate fuel possibilities - can't find it again and have to ask if it's true? If so, whose stupid idea was that? Don't take it from existing supplies, make it. I'm thinking maybe my hubby isn't so nuts in busting his behind running his mother's grain farm along
with his full time job this year. I may pitch in. I've got family in all areas, farming (grain and livestock), trucking, construction, and I've seen how all of it is being hit.”

“I'm tacking on some things that worry me. I came from California where I made a decent wage. When we moved to TN a few years back, housing was much cheaper here than CA, but that was about all. Everything else was equal, food, clothing, cars, etc. Gasoline was still a little cheaper.
Wages here are 1/2 of what people make in California, and very few companies provide any type of medical or dental insurance. I was shocked to learn that the job I'd done for over 23 years in California required the completion of a master's degree in TN, which I do not have, yet the salary was 1/2 of what I made. They would not allow me to apply, even though my qualifications were a perfect match for the job.
The typical wage here is $8.00-10.00 per hour. My husband is a truck driver for a local company and makes $14.00 which is considered high. Of course, his company provides no insurance or extra money towards such. I noticed today that gasoline has climbed another 2 cents to $3.57 and diesel is $4.72. Already my husbands company is cutting back on runs and trying to combine them, so we're very worried about our financial future. I wonder how people who make $8.00 can afford the fuel to get to their job. Basically they are working to buy gas to get to their job...where will the money come from for all their other expenses. It's very scary.
It just ticks me off beyond belief that we are paying over a billion dollars a day for a war, borrowing money from China and our economy is going down the toilet, but President Bush, when asked will still claim that we're in good shape.”


“I live in south central Kentucky where nothing is close. Driving is a necessity. If gas prices get much higher, we are thinking of getting an Amish cart and training one of our horses to be driven. It would take all day to get to town but we could go to the convenience store.
We still have good availability of products but the prices are going up in the supermarkets. I no longer buy beef. Instead I have a friend who raises Black Angus cattle and we split a cow. I have a friend who is raising sheep so I will probably buy a couple of the lambs. I shop at the Amish bulk food store in the county and save a lot over the supermarket prices. I will be eating fresh veggies all summer, grown in our garden or those of my neighbors. Gas prices are $3.59.9 for regular as of last Sunday. Over $4 for diesel! I combine errands and don't leave my farm unless I have more than one place to go in the same direction. We are eating out less.
We are planning on saving the stimulus check. Just an aside, my daughter-in- law is in retailing in NYC and she says we are in a major depression. People are just not buying.”

“In the Seattle area, wild salmon is going for $19.99 a pound, gasoline at
Costco $3.65 at the regular gas stations $3.79 a gallon. People here are
driving less, eating out less, and purchasing food at the lower end stores
such as Grocery Outlet and Cash and Carry. We were in a huge Asian market
one week, rice stacked up as high as an elephant's eye. Now just try to find
regular rice - many of the people here are purchasing rice to send to
relatives overseas.
Unfortunately, I am a volunteer driver for Catholic Charities - IE, I haul people who don't have transportation to the doctor - so have little control over my gas consumption. I drive 700 to 900 miles a week so buy from 30 to 50 gallons a week. They supposedly pay us for our gas used, but are consistently six months or so behind in updating their prices and the past six months have been the worst ever.”


The following are snippets of responses from around the country. It is evident that people are frustrated and even frightened. While products are available, the current trend in prices is continuing upward. Recent reports indicate that state governments are cutting back on budgets and employees; tourist destinations are already feeling the pinch and more and more storefronts are displaying “space for rent” signs. Since many plan on reducing driving, this summer does not bode well for that industry. Agriculture reports show late plantings of corn and wheat crops and who knows what summer weather will unleash. It is clear from U.N. reports that the food situation is rapidly declining in poorer nations as droughts and floods destroy staple crops. I am sure many of the comments that follow are a mere shadow of what is beginning to happen in your area as well:
I used to be able to buy a pack of chicken breasts for $3 or $4, now the same pack is $7.
I traveled to Spartanburg where gas was $3.29/gal (middle grade). When I got back to ATL to fill up, it was $3.49/gal. Last weekend, I paid $3.69, now it is $3.79 or $3.89.
Saturday is usually a busy day in Fayetteville, but there were no cars in all five lanes at one of the busiest intersections. Some of the independent stores had no cars in parking lot and it looked like they were closed.
How will you use your economic stimulus check? Put it in savings
Gas $3.74 Rockford, IL
Prices, though? Meowza! They are up, and rising!
But am I buying what I don't really need? Not on your
life. Not with heating oil where it is, and climbing.
I'm trying not to take unnecessary trips, and I'm certainly not
eating out very often. I'm using my old lawn mower, which I had
thought about replacing this spring.
I haven't noticed any shortages except the "sale items," but prices have definitely increased.
I have received mine (stimulus check) as a direct deposit, and it will stay in the bank. I don't plan on buying anything new, just my usual necessities.
$3.89 for medium grade
I haven't noticed a decrease in the availability of basics, but prices have risen considerably here in PA--this includes basic such as eggs, flour, butter....
Eating and shopping will all be dependent on what I can afford. I anticipate, if the prices keep rising, having to forgo some of the necessities.
in SE Michigan. Prices, however, are another story. Eggs have doubled, milk, dairy products skyrocketing. Good beef cuts (steaks, prime roasts, etc.) are a rare buy in our household these days because they are so expensive. Fish/seafood products are also beyond reach as a steady diet.
Save those left-overs and use them as part of a creative low-cost menu for tomorrow's dinner.
Get caught up on a bill or two and treat ourselves to a gourmet (home cooked) dinner.
$3.65/gal
Less frivolous foods, the munchies, you know. Bulk peanuts and fresh raw veggies make good inexpensive snacks. 86 all the packaged crap. Drive only when and where necessary. Make a list. Plan a driving session in a well-routed circle that accomplishes several chores in one outing. Planning for a vacation now includes high on the list, "how much will it cost in gas to get there and back?" Shorter trips/destinations if you are driving a car.
I've noticed the prices skyrocketing - quadrupling in a matter of weeks for some things like eggs... A lot of what I used to get I can't find local anymore.
It will go toward an alternate heating source, most likely a wood burner in the basement.
Last I looked, diesel was $4.59 a gallon and today's local report said low grade is now $3.62.
Anything we do over the summer will be local, no major travel.
Rural farmland in the mountains of Pennsylvania where the cost of living is very low and so is the average family income.
I am concerned about stories on the news about Sam's Club and others
rationing rice. Is there a rice shortage?
I live in Arizona in a town between Phoenix and Tucson. There is no real public transportation in my area, and, with summer temperatures going well into
the triple digits for about 4 months of the year, riding a bicycle really isn't an option.
Let's face it. The American people are getting hosed by greedy speculators who are driving the price of oil, (hence food prices) artificially high.
I don't blame people for not buying. Prices are going out of sight. Yesterday, gas here was $3.79 and I bet it's up from that today.
Food prices are up varying percentages, from 15-percent to nearly 50-percent on many less expensive cuts of meat. Hamburger (80 percent lean) has risen from about $1.99 per pound a year ago to nearly $4 per pound
Overall, my daughter said the supermarket tab here for her family of four has jumped from about $130 per week to nearly $200.
Also, shortages of some products are starting to become apparent, with some shelves bearing large gaps in mute testimony to lack of availability of rice and flour…
Hope that helps
As to gas prices: Spokane, WA prices range from $3.50 to $3.70. I live in a small town where our one station is $3.87 for unleaded. More to the point, Diesel in Spokane that has more effect on food prices is about a dollar higher at $4.50 to $4.80.
Unfortunately, I am a volunteer driver for Catholic Charities - IE, I haul people who don't have transportation to the doctor - so have little control over my gas consumption. I drive 700 to 900 miles a week so buy from 30 to 50 gallons a week. They supposedly pay us for our gas used, but are consistently six months or so behind in updating their prices and the past six months have been the worst ever.


So what does all of this mean? The early warning sign are there and I would strongly suggest that people keep an eye on commodity report, climate calamities, and, of course, the price of fuel. There is little doubt that people will be tightening their belt, going out for meals less, traveling shorter distances and using their “stimulus” checks to keep their head above water this summer. Living in a region that depends on fuel oil, it is scary to hear that contract prices for hearting oil less winter will approach $4.00/gallon. This will surely collapse to the economy in the Northeast. If diesel continues to rise, truckers will be at a loss and food will simply not be delivered to stores. Already, many truckers who deliver saw logs are calling it quits. How long can fishing fleets absorb continued price rises? Summer employment looks bleak. The key is to be alert and be informed.

Is there is bright spot here? If you read my article, “The Mother of All Course Corrections,” you will see that the consumer is now in a position to finally make intelligent buying decisions. You can affect what is produced with your valued dollars. If you stop buying the junk food, stop buying sodas, buy only healthy foods and cereals, the market will have to respond. This is your opportunity to finally make a difference in terms of what is produced and what you consume. Insist on quality and use your power to create a more sensible, sustainable economy. The time is at hand for choices, choose wisely!

MANIFESTING MONEY!

I have had the opportunity to interview, Dyan Garris, author of the new book, MONEY AND MANIFESTING. Given my recent blog on TIPS FOR THE RECESSION, the timing of this interview is perfect and the timing of the book is perfect. There is no lack of money, all you need to do is to manifest money in your life and the word recession will be a bad dream. read the interview, then buy and read the book!


1.Many critics of The Secret argue that focusing on the accumulation of wealth is a poor use of the Law of Attraction. While I disagree with this, why have you decided to make this at least one focus of your work?
The focus on the accumulation of “wealth,” which here we will define as “money” (because there are different types of “wealth”), is not in and of itself a poor use of the Law of Attraction. The problem is that having the focus there is focusing on attracting from a place of ego. Ego is not the place from which we manifest anything. So, we may be able to attract; but that isn’t really manifesting. One of the problems is that by having the focus there we are creating from a place of limitation, and/or within an existing framework, belief system or pattern, while one is trying to do exactly the opposite. I call this “negative manifesting.”

2.Do you unblock the energy flow of money or do you unblock energy that allows the flow of money?

This is a good question, Phil. The answer really is both. The energy flow of money is often blocked by the blockage of the energy that allows for the flow of money.

3.When you say “transform energy,” what exactly do you mean?

Everything is energy. Money is energy. It’s a form of exchange. The representation of that is “paper.” The paper itself has no real power. But the energy of money does because we believe it does. Our belief system fuels the energy of money. We firmly believe that money has power.

Here is a basic example of transforming energy: Let’s say we take a raw egg. It’s an egg. Whether we scramble or fry it or boil it, it’s still an egg; but its form has changed. The energy of it has changed. So it is still an egg, but now it vibrates differently than it did as a raw egg. There are a lot of things you can do with a hard boiled egg that you cannot do with a raw egg.

Taking this a bit further, if we add a raw egg to a cake batter and then bake the cake, the energy of the egg, which is still an egg, transforms into something that makes the cake rise. By doing something different with the raw material we have basically transformed the energy of it.

So if we’re talking about transforming the energy of money, it’s about really understanding at a basic level what money really is and then transforming that base energy into something you can use in a different way.

4.Is it a question of “learning to manifest,” or controlling what we manifest? According to the law of Attraction, we manifest everything in our life either consciously or unconsciously. So isn’t it really a matter of taking conscious responsibility and control of what we do every day?

Manifesting is a process. Utilizing the truths of the laws of attraction is one step in the process of manifesting. Form definitely follows thought. Our thoughts have power. And we can control our thoughts, and therefore ostensibly control what we manifest. So, yes, we need to take conscious responsibility of our everyday thoughts and actions. However, the energy of creation lies in another part of our body and that part of our body is the root, not the mind. So, in learning to manifest, one learns to connect the thoughts with the energy that rises up from the root, thus taking conscious responsibility of what we manifest and intend to create.

5.When you use the term “voice of the angels,” what do you mean? Is this in a religious context or a metaphor for spiritual guides?

It is neither. Angels cross all religious boundaries. Angels are bringers of information and messages. “Voice of the Angels” began as the title of my deck of angel cards, journal, and companion CD. Each card has a message from angels in quatrain verse. They are the “voice” in Voice of the Angels. They brought forth messages of comfort and angelic guidance and continue to do so through the music , meditations, and my entire body of work.

6.Please define clairvoyant, clairsentient and clairaudient.

We were not dropped off on the planet without ability to communicate with Creator, Source, angels, guides, or other disincarnate beings. Even if you don’t believe in a supreme being, we were still all given the ability to communicate. We all have intuitive ability. Lately as the veil thins between our world and the other realms, people continue to awaken to and accept the truth of who they really are. That is spirit in a physical vehicle, with the ability to naturally intuit.

Then we began to have a lot of people who started calling themselves “psychic” or “clairvoyant.” True clairvoyance means the ability to predict, to see into the future, usually without the aid of a bridge tool such as tarot cards or crystal balls or the like. And that “seeing” usually is in pictures or images. It is more than a “knowing” or a hearing of voices. If one understands time as multi-dimensional, rather than the linear concept of time that we have come to accept as reality for convenience sake, seeing into the “future” really isn’t so strange.

Clairsentient can be defined as an intuitive sense of “knowing.” Clairaudience is the ability to “hear” frequencies that other people aren’t usually tuned into. In other words, we are not all tuned into the same radio station. All of these gifts function similar to a radio. First one must turn the radio on; and then in order to “get” anything clearly, one must then tune in to a particular frequency.

7.What is a voice recognition psychic and how does this work?

Everything is energy. Every name and every number has a vibration and a sound vibration that equates to a particular unique frequency. When a name is said aloud, and together with a number - a birthdate, for example - that works like a personal unique key to that particular individual. A voice recognition psychic is simply someone who can recognize or “know” that person’s energy from the combination of the sound vibrations of their name, number and voice.

You can have two people named John Smith with the same birthdate, but the energy of their voice is very different and unique to them. You can have someone with a nom de plume, or even someone that gives you a fake name, and the minute they start talking I can tell that is not their given name. But the intrinsic vibration of their spirit is the same.

So, the name or number isn’t really that important. Most times I don’t need a last name or even a number really. I can usually tune in on someone’s energy just by hearing the voice and whatever they say their name is. It’s a sound vibration and frequency that connects the energy of a person with who they really are.

8.Can you read into a person’s written word as well? I will open myself up here to scrutiny so what sense might you be getting of me from these questions? I will print what you say!

Everything is energy including the written word, and so the written word also carries with it the energy of the person who wrote the words. You aren’t asking me for a reading, are you Phil? I’m smiling.

There is something I didn’t mention in question #6 about psychics and clairvoyants. Most “psychics” or “intuitives” or even empaths can read energy that already exists and therefore can tell you what has already happened or things that you already know. But they can’t tell you what’s going to happen because that isn’t where they’re looking. That isn’t where they’re putting their focus. It is relatively easy to read energy that already exists here already or that has existed.

Clairvoyance is forward moving energy and can read energy that perhaps to others doesn’t seem to exist. It does exist somewhere, but isn’t here yet. It just depends upon where you are looking in “time.” I just have the ability to bring that information back here. It’s what is normal, rather than paranormal, to me.

It never made much sense to me to tell people things they already know. This would perhaps make us both feel good in terms of you being able to think that I might actually know something, and verify that I am right about certain already existing facts. To me this serves no real purpose. My point is that I could tell you a lot of things you already know, but why? It wastes both our energy. You already know what you know about yourself. And there are perhaps a lot of things I could tell you about what I sense about you that someone could say I looked up somewhere, or surmised in some manner. Or, these things might sound very general. I like to be specific.

Therefore, I will tell you something you don’t already know and you can give me confirmation when it occurs. Spirit says that in June or July of 2008 you will have slight injury, sprain, twisting or similar to your left knee. Now, the common response to that usually is, “I don’t have anything wrong with my knee, “or “I had something wrong with my knee last year.” People have gotten very used to psychics telling them what already is or what has already happened. Clairvoyance is telling what has not yet occurred.

9. What is a channeled message for those who do not understand the concept? Who gives you the message and to what extent do you feel that your own thoughts and ideas intermingle with those messages?

I am simply just a bringer of information. The “Daily Channeled Message” on my site is information that I am asked to bring forth. I do not channel ascended masters and guides. I do not believe in the illusion of separation. I am channeling “source.” I’m tapping into a universal grid. I receive the theme of what I am to write about for the day while I am in prayer and meditation, and it is my choice as to form of delivery. I try to write it in terms that everyone can relate to in some way and apply in their daily life. My own thoughts and ideas don’t really have anything to do with the channeled message, but certainly my writing style or style of delivery does. Sometimes I do have my own ideas about what I think I’m going to address for the day or what I want to address, and I sit down to write it and out comes something entirely different.

10.What role does music play in achieving a higher state of awareness? Do you feel that popular music, in general, helps or hinders this process? Are there certain types of music, vibrations, that you feel enhance the awakening process?

Music is sound vibration and frequency. Music has the ability to help someone quiet their inner chatter, and therefore reach a relaxed state of being and through that a higher state of awareness. Everyone resonates to and feels resonant with a certain rhythm or beat. Popular music can make some people feel frenetic while at the same time helping another person to relax. It’s a matter of personal vibration, beat, frequency. All types of music have the ability to enhance the awakening process. It’s simply a matter of what one feels resonant to. Any music that relaxes a person can have an effect on the person’s ability to focus on whatever it is they need to focus on for their personal awakening process.

11.In your opinion, what are the basic steps in consciously manifesting your higher desires?

This is a very interesting question because when we’re defining “higher desires” we would be talking about desires that don’t have anything to do with what the ego thinks it wants, needs, and desires. The two really are disparate. To manifest higher desires one would have to first align one’s own will with universal will and go from there. However, I think what you’re asking me is to outline the basic steps in manifesting. The very first thing to do is to understand everything, including money, as energy. Then one needs to examine one’s learned belief systems and patterns about whatever it is they are trying to manifest to see if and where exactly they are blocking the flow of energy, and why. Then one needs to clear those limiting belief systems and open a pathway upon which energy can flow smoothly. Then one needs to connect up the energy and power of creation with the energy and power present in all of the other energy centers and integrate it as truth. Then you simply let go. Letting go is a necessary step in manifesting anything. In general, those are the basic steps.


12.Why the use of cards and what role does visual stimulation play in the awakening process?
The first goal in the awakening process is to quiet the chatter of the conscious mind to be able to begin to connect with inner guidance or higher guidance. If you’ve got a microwave, vacuum cleaner, television, radio, and ten cell phone conversations all going on at the same time, it’s hard to hear much of anything except noise. Cards can help in that way by providing an initial basis for centering, grounding, and, most importantly, focus. Visual stimulation plays a big part in this process, by stimulating different parts of the brain and also by activating things on an emotional level. So you could have a person that has read something over and over again and doesn’t understand it; but show the same person a picture or image and all of a sudden it triggers something inside them and they are then able to have complete understanding.

13.As you view your compiled messages, what major themes seem to be playing out in human consciousness?

“The Book of Daily Channeled Messages” is a compilation of messages from angels that I put together last year. I definitely see some major themes. One of these themes that translates very clearly and that is playing out in human consciousness is love. Love is what we need to remember. All of our earthly dramas give us opportunities to remember love. There is absolutely no power in fear. The power is in the love.

Thanks-I think these will suffice-LOL

Phil

For much more information about Dyan Garris and Money and Manifesting, visit http://inspiredauthor.com/promotion/Dyan+Garris for complete tour details. To learn about the products Dyan offers, visit her website - www.voiceoftheangels.com. You can order your copy of Money and Manifesting from her website or from http://www.amazon.com/Money-Manifesting-Dyan-Garris/dp/0977614069

TIPS FOR THE RECESSION

Stock market goes up; stock market down. Gas prices go up; employment down. Oil corporations get richer; average folk getting poorer. Food prices are up; energy costs are up, mortgage foreclosures are up, consumer confidence is way down. Does all of this sound familiar? While economic “experts” debate about the possibility of recession, millions are living a recession. The question is, why? There is ample energy in the world; food is plentiful; there is more than enough money; so much needs to be done there is no reason for people to be unemployed or underemployed. So what gives?

The government, economists and big business is imbuing the public with a sense of defeat. While the few are making their billions, they continue to insist that there is not enough to “go around.” Argue for your limitations and they are yours. We are at a point where the consumer can strike back with the power of their hard earned dollars and show all of the economic gurus that they are wrong. There are no “laws of economics.” You believe there are because that is what you are taught, but the truth of the matter is that what you believe, you manifest. We are all subject to the same events, yet some are having no problems while others are struggling to make ends meet in “these tough economic times.” People must come to understand that times are tough because that is what you believe.

Since so many people believe oil prices will go up; that money is scarce; that food may be hard to come by; that banks will foreclose; that jobs will be lost and that we may have to fight our way out this so called mess, that is the way it will be. Form follows thought. So what is the average person to do? How can you keep your eye on the prize while the winds of change seem unstoppable? The following are just a few ways to beat the system that seems intent on breaking your economic back.

1. The first thing to do is to not buy into all of the economic “doom and gloom.” If you think that things are getting rough, they will get rough.
2. The next thing you want to do is to truly evaluate all of the garbage that you have been wasting money on. It is obvious that we have been in a buy, use and throw away state of mind. This way of living is not sustainable and no longer acceptable. You are bombarded daily with commercials that want you to spend your money on things that you really do not need. Stop watching commercials.
3. Buy basic! I am not talking sacrifice; I am talking about living a healthy and less expensive lifestyle. Look at your cupboards and all of the junk food that is only killing you and your children. You do not need expensive, sugar filled cereals. You do not need all of the junk treats that are clogging your arteries and making you and your children fat. You do not need all of the sweets. Buy basic, healthy food and you will find it more nutritious and more filling. I will not list brands but your basic whole grain cereals, without the color and sugar added; real bread that is more filling; less prepared foods-they are expensive and not good for you. Make your own. A can of tomato sauce that you spice yourself for pasta is half the cost of prepared sauces. Frozen foods must go. Make your own and it will be cheaper. Get the family involved in food preparation and maybe actually talk to your children.
4. Get off of the meat kick. Meats are expensive and should not be the mainstay of your diet. Cut back and be healthier and if you must, buy no hormone meats. They may cost a little more but they will make you feel better. Use recipes that include some meat but which add vegetables and it will go a lot further.
5. You do not need all of those snack foods in the house. Again, this is not a sacrifice, it is common sense. Forget what your children demand. Make real popcorn, use fruit for snacks and get the sugar out of your diet.
6. Eliminate soda. Neither you nor your children need it and it is not good for you. Water works just fine. Cut back a little each week and watch how you feel better and watch your dollar go further.
7. Forget the latest fashion. Dress basic. You do not need to constantly purchase new clothes just because fashion changes. All you are doing is making someone else rich, at your expense. You are better off buying quality that lasts than buying cheap clothes that do not hold up.
8. Reduce unnecessary driving and save gas. If people do not show up to events, sports, or other social functions because of the cost of gas, maybe someone will get the hint.
9. Rent the movie, don’t go to one. The cost of movie theaters and the food that they sell are ridiculous. This is just wasted money.
10. Live differently. Forget how others say you should live and go with what your instincts say. A more natural life is a less expensive life. Stop mindless consuming and buy what makes sense. Your money can change the way business does business. Don’t buy what “they” say you need, buy what you really need and watch your expenses shrink.

The so called “economic crisis” that we seem to be in is self induced. The banks and lenders did not have to raise rates. They did not have to make loans to people they knew were not financially sound. Oil prices did not have to skyrocket. Consumers did not have to waste millions on junk. We did not have to settle for poor quality and products that polluted the environment. What we have done by default, can be undone by conscious choice. Consumers can make its own “course correction” and by their action create an economy that is sustainable, efficient, environmentally compatible and logical.

The tips offered are just a beginning. If you are loosing your home, let it go if it was truly out of your reach. Use this as an opportunity to re-think your priorities, the way you live, the way you spend your money. Use this as an opportunity to re-shape your world into one that makes sense to you, and not one created by the latest commercials that would have you give all to line the pockets of those who have much. Buy a few less beers, eat healthier foods, get off the sugar habit, stand up to wasteful buying, ignore the adds and take control of your life.