Today is April 29th, and because numbers are simplified and added in numerology, it's an "11" day (2+9=11). Any day that adds up to "11" will be a power day for what some spiritualists call  #TwinFlames (one soul separated by two bodies). If we were to add the month, it would add up to "6" (4+1+1=6). Take that "6" and add it to the year (2+0+1+6=9) and you get another "6" (9+6=15, simplified to 1+5=6). So, if you consider yourself a #TwinFlame with a soul number of "6" (the simplified number from the day you were born, e.g. if you were born on the 6th, 15th or 24th, your soul number would be "6"), or, the person you consider your #Twin does, it's a day where you are being cued by the universe to take positive steps forward in your journey toward unconditional love. Of course, you don't need the numbers to back you up on that. You can use any day to improve yourself.

Every day is a new day, a new chance. If you've made mistakes, every time the Sun rises, you have another opportunity to make things right. We all mess up. It's just part of being human. Maybe facing those things we did poorly makes us feel weak, cowardly, less-than. Feeling any of those things is uncomfortable. More often than not, rather than feel discomfort, you just avoid the "problem," even if that problem is you. The irony? If you just faced whatever it is you did wrong, took responsibility, everything would improve. You'd actually gain confidence. You'd feel more powerful, less stress. You'd even feel brave. Because, you are.

Courage is all about being scared out of your mind, but doing what you know is right anyway. Pretty simple, eh???

Facing our fears, usually involving the worst reflections of ourselves, is never simple or easy. But you are here to break free of that karma. By the way, the clock turned 9:11, an 11:11 minute, when I wrote the above about breaking free of your karma (9+1+1=11).

Sometimes, the Universe sends us messages. You find the same synchronicities keep showing up in your life. Numbers are the universal language. Mathematics. What is your math telling you?

Maybe the numbers show up on the clock. It's a clock. You'd expect that, right? But what if those same numbers started appearing everywhere else? At gas stations, on the inside of your yoga pants after part of the label wears away, on receipts, the TV, simply walking down the street and seeing it on license plates, etched in the dirt patch on the side of the road, and, in the very clouds in the sky??? Just so you know, when I looked up at the clock right now, it turned 9:20 (9+2+0=11).

Albert Einstein said there are no coincidences in the physical universe. And, clearly, there aren't. But what is a synchronicity? What does it mean??? If you see "11's" everywhere, chances are good it means you are awakening. Many who feel they are on a #TwinFlame journey are hoping to find or reunite with the person they feel is their other half when the number "11" is doubled. But even if you're Destiny does not include the #TwinFlame journey in this lifetime, synchronicities can help you understand yourself better, and, point you in the right direction to improving your life.

The term "synchronicity" was used by psychiatrist, Carl Jung, to describe a series of events that point a person in a certain direction. One of Jung's notes on the subject included a patient of his, sitting in his office, telling him about a dream that had to do with a golden scarab. At that moment, a golden scarab found it's way into the room where doctor and patient were sitting. Was the patient psychic? Did she see that happen? Or, did she make it happen? Was it the power of positive thinking, drawing to her what she wanted to make manifest???

Jung felt synchronicities such as the scarab meant a "falling together of time." For Jung, a student of the paranormal, synchronicities, or what he considered "meaningful coincidence," was a phenomenon of merging energies. Though nearly impossible to definitively prove a causal, or cause and effect, relationship between synchronous events, it nonetheless has meaning.

Physicists like Wolfgang Pauli studied Jung's work on synchronicity. Pauli was nominated for a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1945 by Albert Einstein. The Pauli Principle uses spin theory to help define the structure of matter. It would seem scientists like Pauli and Jung and Einstein were constantly trying to make physical sense out of energy principles. Energy, unlike matter, is unlimited. Because we humans are limited by our physicality, it is nearly impossible for us to fully conceive of how energy works. Even by trying, we are putting limits on something that has none. Energy is infinite. No beginning, no end. Matter is fixed in space and time. It's a/effected by gravity. By things like radiation. Matter degrades. It ages. Energy doesn't.

So when we talk about synchronicities, #Destiny, life paths, and #TwinFlames, we are really talking about energy. Things we can't see, yet we know exist. We can "feel" it. And many of the most brilliant minds born to humanity have tried to quantify it, measure it, label it...make "it" make sense. Give it form, meaning. Einstein did just that when he ruled out coincidence in the physical world. Just because we may not be able to see or identify the causality, does not mean it doesn't exist. In fact, it does exist. It has to. Or, there would be no synchronicity in the first place.

You always have a choice. You can face your fears. Or, you can turn your back. Just remember, there are no coincidences. Running away only delays the inevitable, it doesn't prevent it. We all have free will. Including me. We don't have to follow the signs or pay attention to things like synchronicity. We can ignore life-parallels. We can argue away numerology, astrology...but we can't deny the math. Believe me, I've tried. To no avail. Two-plus-two will always equal four. My soul number is a four. And math has a way of holding us accountable. Because, numbers don't lie, even when we do.

Whatever today's numbers add up to for you, make it a great day. Remember that there are no coincidences. Remember that there is more to heaven and earth than dreamt of in our philosophies. And, remember, just because we cannot yet see why events are related, our limitations do not negate the existence of what is very real. That's not a negotiable statement either. It has been proven by Albert Einstein himself. Synchronous events are just another example of Relativity and Special Relativity, but that's a topic for another spacetime.

When you work from a place of positive energy, you will find yourself becoming less reactive and more proactive. You'll start to view "mistakes" as opportunities for learning and growth, not sources of fear, shame and guilt. You'll also begin to see solutions instead of problems; as you do, all the synchronicities, signs and symbols you've experienced will finally make sense. And, that's not a coincidence....

#DoTheMath


#TwinFlame #1111 Post-script: The clock just turned 11:29 or 11:11 (2+9=11)....

Today is National Superhero Day...I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry. While I'm thrilled at the recent surge in popularity for the characters that have kept me company since I was a wee bairn in the early 70's, I find it sad that most fans know superheroes, not through comics, but through television and film. 

Shows like Arrow and The Flash on CW, and Netflix's Daredevil, as well as Jessica Jones, the first popular female superhero character television show, are great examples of the oversaturation of screen-versions of superheroes. Of course, Jessica Jones is not your run-of-the-mill superhero. At least part of the popularity of the show is due to how Jessica wears pants, swears like a trucker, drinks whiskey, and fucks whoever she wants. Basically, Jessica Jones is a man. A very pretty man, played by Krysten Ritter, who ironically started her acting career with a Dr. Pepper commercial. But it's 2016 and definitely time for a kick-ass female superhero who doesn't wear a mini-skirt while flying over men's heads. Still, these are TV shows. In film, all the popular supes have already been exhausted. Guardians of the Galaxy and Dr. Strange are now being dug out of the vaults. And true comic book fans, like me, couldn't be happier. Except...I am a little concerned that the original comic books (and their storylines) may be getting lost in the superheroic rush toward both big and small screens alike.

As The #PopCultureProfessorTM, I've had the pleasure of meeting every living icon within the comic book industry, and yes, that includes Stan "The Man" Lee, as well as Neal Adams, Michael Golden, Chris Claremont, Gail Simone, Rob Guillory, Kody Chamberlain, Nate Edmondson, Mark Waid, Matt Kindt, Mike Raicht, Charles P Wilson III, Chrissy Zullo, Mark Texeira, Hope Larson...heck, the list of who I've worked with in "the biz" is super-long. Those are just a few of my favorites. Superheroes are still very much a boys' club, but as you can see, there are at least a few ladies represented. Speaking of ladies in comics, I happen to be one of them.

No, I haven't published a comic book. At least, not yet. Though Kody Chamberlain and I did talk about collaborating on a future project the last time we saw each other. Women aren't just under-represented in "the biz", we're also few and far between in terms of scholars, researchers, and writers on the subject. According to Thomas Wagner, the Emmy-winning writer and producer of PBS's American Master Series on Lucille Ball, I am the first American female scholar in comics. Tom found me in 2009 after a comic book expert at San Diego Comic Con sent him my way. I helped Tom with his script for a documentary called "Paper Heroes," as well as an NEH grant for the project. Then, in 2014, Donna Davies of Ruby Tree Films interviewed me at Austin Comic Con for her internationally-released documentary on fandom, specifically surrounding comics. And hey, Wizard World, the Los Angeles-based company that puts on Comic Cons across America, hired me as their first professional female moderator for not only fun celebs like James Marsters from the Buffyverse and Jason David Frank from Power Rangers, but to host every comic book panel at every Comic Con for half of my three-year tour. I opened every Comic Con during my tenure with my show on 12,000 years of human history on the first superheroes, connecting it to twenty-first century pop culture. Emmy-winning stars like Michael Madsen would get 65 people in his Q&A while my shows filled 500-person rooms on a Thursday afternoon during rush hour. It was crazy. And, so much fun!!!

Women have a much greater presence today in both comic books, superhero television and film, as well as comics-genre writers, authors, scholars, speakers, and illustrators. It's great to see, but if we want to keep seeing it, we have to keep buying those comic books!

One of my best moments on the Wizard World tour was when a mom brought her 13-year old daughter to see me perform; they followed me all weekend, attended each of my twelve shows. After the last one, which I believe was with John Barrowman in Philly, the mom brought her daughter to the stage as I was packing up. She introduced herself, and her daughter. The next thing she said was, "Thank you for existing. Now, Elizabeth knows she can one day do what you do...."

I'll never forget those words. As a feminist scholar and social theorist best known for her books on pop culture, and with chapters on subjects like the women of X-Men and how Edward Cullen of Twilight is nothing but a sparkly stalker, it was the epitome of everything I have literally scratched and clawed my way to create: My niche as the one and only #PopCultureProfessor. That title and trademark are mine. I not only created the brand, I own it. Superheroic humans like Alice Paul and Susan B. Anthony helped inspire me to accomplish everything I have done in the last 30 years. No cape required...and, no Botox either.

Happy #NationalSuperheroDay! And for fuck's sake, go buy some comic books!!! By the way, the 15th anniversary of Free Comic Book Day is coming up May 7th...might be a good time to start your collection if you've only ever seen superheroes on a screen.

Up, up and away, y'all...

Today is 4+2+6=12, simplified to "3." Add "3" to the year, 2+0+1+6=9, and you also get "12." That makes today a #1212 day. December 12th happens to be the day my daughter died. But, her death really began on December 11th. That's how tragedy happens. There's always something that comes before it. People don't just die. Nor do people just change their minds, or, disappear. That is why, when someone tells you not to live in the past, punching them in the face may be what you want to do rather than politely smile and nod.

Our past is our present. If we do not recognize our past, it will also be our future. Denial of the past is what leads to deep social problems, both individually and in larger groups. Maybe that's the ultimate message of the #1212 day: Rather than forget the past, we should study it. Connecting the past to our present makes for a more stable future. Even though it's often perceived as the opposite, remembering the past is solution-based behavior. It's asking not "why" things happened, but, "Why not???" That's healthy.

Are you???

Lately, I've been seeing a lot of "E's" in my environment...a giant "E" was recently etched into the gravel along the path of one of the hiking trails I frequent. There are even definitive E-shaped clouds in the skies where I hike, one of the highest points in the county, by the way. By no small coincidence, my daughter's name is #Emma. The name itself was an acronym I created for "Everything (in) My Mind Awaits." Today, it's one of my trademarks, and, a division of my LLC, #SoulArrow Entertainment. #EMMA™ will be eventually be responsible for $10,000 in donations to local charities in 21 major cities across America over a two-year period. At least, that's the goal.

The number "1212" has appeared to me for days now. In numerology, it means that it's time to step out of your comfort zone and begin a project you've been putting off. This project is something you manifest through your natural gifts and talents. Basically, it means that it's time to take a leap of faith.  When you see "1212" on repeat, it's important to remember that within that leap of faith, positive energy is what will power your journey. Keeping the negatives at bay will be crucial. Believing in yourself and the Universe is more important than anything else.

On a side note, today's "1212" ultimately adds up to a "6." It's a great number. Balanced, nurturing, but it comes with a few karmic pitfalls, like holding on to toxic relationships. Some people may see that as holding on to the past. Psychology sees it as self-sabotage. Martyrdom is actually a symptom of covert or vulnerable narcissism--a psychological disorder where a person blames others, or circumstances created by others, for their own failures, thereby avoiding responsibility for their own problems. It's actually one of the most dangerous of all psychological issues, considered part of the "Dark Triad" in psychology--which also includes psychopathy and Machiavellianism. Ruthlessness is the commonality in all three. With a covert or vulnerable narcissist, that ruthlessness is disguised by victimhood. The supposed "weak," "scared" covert narcissist will outright destroy anyone or anything that provides the option of becoming empowered or independent.

It's raining where I am today. Which means, I can't be outside. Staying indoors only ever means one thing to me: Writing. And yes, I do work out "indoors" at the gym, too. But that's happening later on. A day like today reminds me of walking in the rain. I was at this old horse farm. It was full of ghosts. But I was there looking at the horses; the ghosts were the ones watching me that day.

A "1212" day reminds us that there are things we cannot see happening behind the scenes to help us succeed. That's why it's called a "leap of faith." You have to trust in things you can't see or hear. You have to believe that there is a larger purpose at work. And, in order to achieve that purpose, regardless of what you can or cannot see, one must move toward success. No matter what negatives haunt your past.

We all have a past. If we didn't, none of us would have a future. The #TwinFlame narrative explains that many #Twins choose difficult environments to be born into. That's how unconditional love is realized.

Recognizing that our difficulties, whether past or present, are our choices is not easy. If that's the case, then I chose a life that would lead to cancer, disability, and a shortened life span...that last part, I believe. But I can believe it all. Why? Because, I'm the wolf who chews off its own paw. It is consistent with who I am. I believe I would take that nightmare over others all-too readily available in the expanse of human existence. My proof is in my longevity. Most people die. Yet I've survived for 25 years. Doctors don't even know what to say. I'm an anomaly.

There's nothing good about cancer, or debt, or addiction, or mental illness. When unconditional love evolves, it is not because of tragedy. It is in spite of it. A survivor rises, no matter what. I am a survivor.

Bill Irwin, the father of anything that includes pop culture and philosophy, invited me to attend a conference and moderate a panel on the subject. Bill and I started corresponding after I was asked to review one of his books for an academic journal published by Blackwell, eventually absorbed by Wiley. And yes, Wiley is the publisher who published the books I'm best known for. Like I said, no coincidences.

A time of great awakening, I was only at the beginning of more discovery than I can relay here. While I thought I knew everything, understood everything and considered myself "evolved," it's almost laughable compared to who I am today. Didn't even think I was sexually attractive. Given that, today, I'n infamous for "sexy" interviews with stars like Manu Bennett, who still calls me "sexual napalm," it's pretty ironic. Clearly, what I saw when I looked in the mirror did not reflect what I truly am. After watching the season premiere of #GameOfThrones on Sunday, "You know nothing, Jon Snow," comes to mind....

My early life experiences blinded me. So were the toxic chemicals that my body had marinated in for years. Yes, I mean drugs. But not the kind you voluntarily take. Chemotherapy are the drugs I'm referring to. The "therapy" part of that word is nothing but pure rhetoric. It's about as helpful as a two-dollar bill. My mother, full of colloquialisms in her every day speech, used to say, "Any port in a storm." When doctors tell you you'll die if you don't ingest toxic amounts of even more toxic chemicals for about a year or so, you do it. I imagine that people who become addicted to chemical substances, like meth, for example, may feel the same way. At least, at first.

Life is so bad for a person who becomes an addict, that survival requires ingesting toxic doses of chemicals just to make it through a single day. Meth is one of the most accessible drugs because it can be made with everyday things like fertilizer and battery acid. It can also be snorted, smoked, eaten, or injected. The judgement society issues on people who become addicted is very much a part of the overall problem--the "blame the victim" mentality. Socially, it is almost impossible for the majority of adult-meth addicts to find jobs, gain an appropriate education, or do anything to change or improve their lives. Why? The better question is always, "Why not?"

Addiction doesn't happen because a person is weak or evil or bad. Addiction happens because of genetics. Epigenetics, if you want to get technical about it. Generations before you are even born contribute to inherited neural pathways that make you prone to addiction. Even things like genetic markers that indicate fewer dopamine receptors, for example, make a person more susceptible to risky behavior. You can't blame people for following their programming. But blaming the victim is easier than helping that victim beat generations of genetic code. It's cheaper, too.

Meth is one of those drugs that causes brown staining on the teeth and sensitive gums--particularly if smoking the drug. After enough time, meth addicts lose their teeth altogether. As well as their minds. Things like hallucinations are common. So is hyper-sexuality, anxiety, depression, the inability to sleep for long periods of time, dilated pupils, and heavy sweating during periods of inactivity, like sleep. You might also see an addict frequently picking at their skin. This is because a meth addict often feels their skin "crawling." Unpredictable, anxious behavior is common. When someone you know to be gentle and kind suddenly starts saying and doing cruel things, it's very likely a drug like meth is involved.

Social cancer is no different from biological cancer. The "patient" must treat the disease with toxicity in order to survive. But before you do that, the tumor or cancer has to be cut out. Then, you douse any remaining cells with the chemicals. That's how you "cure" the disease. Cutting out a tumor is easier than cutting out things like poverty and mental illness. When there is no "tumor" to remove, drugs seem the only logical course. If you think you're somehow outside of that life, or above it--superior in some way--ask yourself this: Do you ever consume alcohol? Smoke cigarettes? Gamble? Have you ever cheated on a partner or spouse? Do you overeat? Do you over-indulge at all? Maybe through things like shopping? Or perhaps you like expensive cars??? If you answered "yes" to any of the above, you're not any better than someone addicted to meth. You just think you are. The major difference between you and a meth addict is that you can afford to indulge in more expensive addictions. Anytime we go to extremes, it is unhealthy. A sign of a deeper issue.

Getting help is never easy. I can write about anything. I'm a good speaker, too. And a decent social media maven. But that doesn't mean it's easy for me to communicate when I'm in trouble. That "blame the victim" thing again. Even when you ask for help, people won't always give it. When they do, the "help" comes with a hearty serving of "just desserts." I prefer a lot of whipped cream on my judgement. But if I were being honest, I'd rather not swallow anyone's judgement, no matter how much whipped cream is added. Chocolate is always a nice alternative. Lately, I'm liking fresh berries, too. In fact, I'm making a brunch in the near future and dessert will include a multi-tiered white cake with orange zest, covered in fresh berries. But that's not on the menu for today....

No one said life was a cake-walk. Fairy tales were more like nightmares before Disney got involved. The human journey through life and love can feel like a fairy tale at first. Anyone who has ever been in love can relate to that. Things seem magical, mystical, mysterious...you are swept up in a Universal current. And you want to go wherever it takes you. But if you grew up near the ocean, like I did, you know that the current never takes you anywhere good. You know that you can get pulled under. Drown. Or, worse. End up in the middle of the ocean with no life vest. I'm a strong swimmer and can fight the current for hours if I have to. And yes, I have had to. But unless someone comes by and offers to tow you in to shore, even the strongest of swimmers will eventually tire.

I want to tell those of you who are now tired to stay afloat. To keep paddling. Keep moving in the direction of the shore. I want to give you #Light and #Love and convey the feeling of #Joy and #Peace that await you in the future when you finally make it. And, you will make it. But I'm not your lover. I can't inspire you to be better men and women. I can only tell you that, when you believe you can win, you can win. And, when you believe you'll lose no matter what, you'll lose no matter what. When you're in between winning and losing, it feels like there's no end in sight. Your miles from the shoreline. How can you possibly make it???

Just survive. For another minute. Another hour. Another day. Don't ever stop moving, no matter what you believe your fate may be.  It is the only way to eventually make permanent change. Even if it feels painstakingly slow, progress is still progress. And, a chance is still a chance, no matter how small. Simply put, don't give in and never, ever give up. You must, must, must take that leap of faith. Because, when you have nothing more to lose, there's only one question left to answer....

#WhyNot


#TwinFlame #1111 Post-script: I finished editing this piece at 6:50pm (6+5+0=11), and finished uploading it at 6:56 (6+5=11, and 5+6=11 for 11:11)...no coincidences indeed.

It's 5:06pm (5+0+6=11) on April 25, 2016 (April=4, 4+2+5=11), an "11" day. Combine the month, day & year (2+0+1+6=9) and you get 1+1+9=11, or 11:11.

Happy #1111 day!

My day started at 4:34am (4+3+4=11), and ALL DAY, "11's" have followed me around the clock. I also saw 8:08, 9:09, 10:01, 10:10, 12:21, 1:11, 2:22, 3:33, and 4:44. All of which have numerological meaning. It's funny how the smallest details in life can suddenly become mini-miracles. Every time you assign purpose to an event, you give it meaning. 

I have become more mindful of the little things in life as a result of loss. Gratitude has replaced attitude. I understand now that I'm capable of unconditional love. My kindness and compassion have expanded tenfold. And, I perceive the world differently. Even the clouds in the sky speak to me. My faith that there is a plan, a purpose, has been renewed. A purpose-driven life is the best life any human can hope to achieve. Purpose is everything.

When you believe there is a reason for certain events unfolding in the way they do, it softens even the most heart-wrenching of tragedies. You can forgive yourself and others more easily. You also begin to see how the different threads weave together in a larger tapestry, creating a cohesive picture. Everything is connected, including our very thoughts.

Prince, the musical genius from the #Twin Cities, recently passed away; it was sudden. Given his age, his loss was even more tragic. But one of the things that came out about the man, the myth, and now legend, was that he believed everything was connected.

Prince was a spiritual man. A friend of his worked as a news personality, and commented after his death on a recent conversation the two had. She had called him out of the blue a week before his death, saying she was thinking about him. He had been thinking of her, too. Prince believed that's how it worked. A connection is only a connection because it exists on both ends, or, it wouldn't exist. That's the main premise of the #TwinFlame narrative--an undying, infinite connection.

About two months ago, I started acupuncture treatments for my heart. It's broken, you see. Nothing can fix it. The number "1:11" has been present for me for a week now. That number essentially means I have the ability to create my own reality. My thoughts, my words, my writing...all contribute to effecting change today, tomorrow and in the future. If I am the author of my own story, how would I want it to go from here?

You may think it an easy question to answer. But, it isn't. As individuals, we can only control our own fate. And, when it comes to love, or rather, lost love, there is another soul involved who must act with equal courage or you will feel heartbreak forever. How do we bridge the sometimes formidable distance between hearts? The gaps? And, fill the holes left by arrows??? I found white caulk worked rather well....

What? Your story doesn't include being hunted with arrows??? How very dull of you. I'm kidding. About the dull part, not the arrows. Sadly, that's all-too-real. But so am I. And, I can still change my story. Just like you. That goes for anyone out there who needs a happy ending....

By the way, you and only you can influence your story. Haters out there (of which there are many) can do nothing but hurt themselves with their negative energy. Negative people are reactive people. Let their immaturity and hateful natures do their worst. When you are a positive force of nature, as ALL #TwinFlames are theorized to be, there is nothing that can change that. You are unconditional love made manifest in a physical body. You are not sad or pathetic or living in a fantasy world. You are hopeful, faithful, a survivor. You live in the "real" world--a world that is not run by printed paper issued by power-hungry men.

Positive people are proactive. Proactive people are unlimited. Whether rich, poor, educated, uneducated, from cities, or the rural South...it doesn't matter. Those are all differences derived from pieces of paper. Money. And money has no value anymore. There's not enough gold behind American paper to give it true value. The two are no longer tied to each other. That green paper isn't even meaningful today. You can simply have "theoretical" money represented by your phone, your watch, your tablet. We all need money to live. Buy shelter, food and transportation. But money is of no use when it comes to real love.

Debt is a terrible thing. That's where money comes in handy. But it has been my experience that money follows purpose. No matter where you are on your journey, remember that you are an infinite being. You are quite literally heaven-sent. If you ask for help, and move in that general direction, you will receive it. I'm not saying you'll win the lottery. I'm saying that you'll succeed at whatever it is you have to do to increase your wealth and decrease your debt...as long as you operate from a place of proactive positive energy.

I sometimes watch Joel Osteen, a Texas preacher who I'm quite sure is a #TwinFlame. He uses a religious context, but if you substitute "the Universe" for "God," you can hear the positive energy, the proactive, purpose-driven soul behind Osteen's preacher-persona. Osteen will sometimes say things like, "You are anointed...," meaning, your soul was sent by the Universe for a very specific purpose. Whether you feel yourself to be a #TwinFlame or not, that purpose does not include failure. Failure is a temporary trial on the path to success. So, when your journey is daunted and/or haunted by things like arrows...the story ain't over yet. In fact, it's only just begun.

YOU write your own story. No one else. You open your eyes each day. You take every breath. You put one foot in front of the other. So why is it you believe someone other than you controls your life? Your direction???

It is you, and only you who decides what happens next. No, you can't make your #Twin do what you want. But, why would you want that anyway??? We all deserve people who appreciate us. Who won't take us for granted. If that's not your #Twin right now, live. Love. Laugh. You have this life but once. You will not live it again. Your #Twin will eventually catch up. Especially if you continue thinking, feeling and living your own happy endings.

Your story is not over. Not yet. Neither is mine.

We are all obligated to live our best lives. Being self-aware increases your freedom and removes limits, not the other way around. That's part of the benefit of unconditional love. But even if you are a reader who does not relate to the #TwinFlame narrative, unconditional love has the same benefits for everyone.

Surround yourself with positive energy. Positive people. People who help improve your mind, your body, your soul. Settle for nothing less. But, if your heart is as stubborn as mine, take a deep breath. Do your best to find a purpose. Help others. Give generously of yourself and your gifts. Don't just shine, BE #Light itself. And, one day, you may see someone familiar walk toward you. At first, it will seem like a dream. But it will not be a dream.

You are the hero of your own story. So, be a hero. No matter what.

#Rise


#TwinFlame #1111 Post-script: As I completed the edits on this piece, the clock turned to 11:56, or 11:11....

Joy...that's what I felt this morning around 9:48 (9+4=12, simplified to 1+2+8=11). The song, "One Call Away," by Charlie Pluth started playing in my head, too. Particularly the lyric, "And when you're weak, I'll be strong. I'm gonna keep, holding on. Now don't you worry, it won't be long, Darlin', when you feel like hope is gone, just run into my arms...."

I'm crying a little now,  just thinking about it....

I wish there were arms to run into. I had to look up that line. What followed, "...when you feel like hope is gone," sounded different in my head. Everything else was accurate to the original song, as I later verified. But, instead of "...just run into my arms," I heard, "...just know you're not alone."

Because I've remained open after loss, I'm never alone. Not even when there's no one else in the house but me. Not surprisingly, a knock of confirmation just resounded in the room where I am currently writing. And now, another.

After what has been professionally classified as "severe" loss and trauma last year, I have done my best to live my life. To be happy. To not waste my time on the planet. But not a second passes where my heart isn't broken. I had yet to learn of the #TwinFlame narrative, and how it is theorizes that, after #TwinFlames initially unite, it's common to have latent gifts emerge, or become stronger. That certainly happened for me. As did the abandonment.

Almost all of the celebrity clients I manage are from paranormal television. That's not a coincidence. 

My experience in entertainment (and ghosts) goes well beyond scheduling radio interviews and appearances for my clients. Part of why I represent people who work in paranormal entertainment is because I get it. I really do. One of my grandmothers, who helped raise me, passed away in 2009; that's when I started getting the dreams. They were always set in her house, something Ghost Hunters alum, Amy Bruni, would later tell me is common in communications with those who have passed.

Within six months of my grandmother's passing, she was bringing people to me. People from my family who had died years and years before. It was always in a dream. But, just like in life, my grandmother was facilitating big family gatherings in order to foster familial communications and connections.

I miss her...so much.

Much of my current research (and subsequent writing) deals with mental illness. Not surprisingly, evidence has emerged from a number of university-driven studies that prove corollaries between certain psychological conditions, like schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, mania, borderline personality disorder, etc., and believing you've been touched by invisible fingers, hearing voices no one else hears, paranoia about "evil" demons disrupting your life...none of which is helped by an American supernatural-centric pop culture. That does not mean that if you think you see, feel, or hear something unusual, you are schizophrenic. Nor does it lessen the validity and value of legitimately gifted individuals who really do have a connection to those who have passed. It just means that when it comes to the paranormal, I know that there can be more behind a sighting or incident than an actual spirit.

My house in Atlanta was situated on what is now Paulding Forest, in the mountains of Northwest Georgia. It was the most peaceful house I've ever lived in, which made leaving it all the harder. But, as I did not wish to become a ghost, or, create any new ones--leaving my home, my job, and my life behind was necessary. Just to survive. Not because of the ghosts who were already dead. Because of a living one. And, a sad collection of stereotypes and caricatures of life in the rural South.

I'm not so good at translating communications that aren't direct. By direct, I mean things like email or a letter. Even a direct conversation can be translated incorrectly. But written language holds encrypted secrets that rhetoricians like me can definitively translate. I like that. I'm comfortable with that. Any writing, in almost any language. I'm a polyglot, better at reading and writing than I am at speaking. But I am still fluent in a number of languages, including Hebrew. In fact, I led a Seder last night, and read and sang and spoke in Hebrew, trying to help my English-speaking guests understand more about Middle-Eastern languages in general. No matter what hat I wear, I'm always a teacher....

In some ways, I'm something of a soul-cartographer, sketching maps and translating directional signs so people don't get completely lost on their journey through life. I do it for myself, too. But I'm not nearly as motivated to make change these days. Too tired. Life has beaten me up. I'm making my last stand, so to speak. Like those Confederate soldiers with the Army of the Tennessee haunting my Atlanta home. And, just like them, one day, I'll be a ghost, too. When I'm quite old, tired, and ready to go home again to my grandmother, and taste those poppy seed cookies once again.

Last week, my car was broken into...yeah, that happened. It was pretty scary. Because the thief had been watching me. For about five days. He may have been planning something worse than just smashing my car window with a hammer. At least, that's what his police record indicated. I knew it was an adult male in the same way I knew he was more than just a thief. But I'll expand on that later.

While I was hiking in the woods where a stag, a wolf and angels have greeted me, this man, a parolee, broke into my car. He didn't rummage around. He was after only one thing. I'd had a dream about the item the thief stole four days earlier. The item had a registration number. I had the distinct feeling in the dream I should go look for it. The number. Naturally, that never happened. Mainly because, a day later, I was moving furniture in my car. My back seat was folded down. The item was trapped under the seat, completely concealed. Unless you were a thief who'd been canvasing my car for theft and saw something you wanted days earlier, waiting every day thereafter for me to come alone, like I normally do. But my gut had warned me that something was off. So, I wasn't alone....

For three days after my dream, I hiked with a friend. I prefer to hike at night...I know, I know. But that's really when the natural world comes alive. I love it. Feel very comfortable in the dark. Perhaps it's because I can see so well. Perhaps it's because creatures like bats, snakes snd frogs are my friends. I've identified at least two of the bats in the area; that's how close they come to me. Like the peregrine. And, the wolf. However, the day of the theft, I started about an hour earlier than usual. Even though it was after eight o'clock by the time I got back to my car, it was still light out. That was unusual, too.

The moment I pulled into the parking lot, my gut put me on alert. I wanted to turn around and go home. But I wasn't alone and my friend doesn't believe in things like guts, or, ghosts. So explaining what sounds like a nebulous "feeling" isn't something people who consider themselves "rational" give much weight to. I did say, "It's really crowded, maybe we should come back tomorrow...," but that was met with the expected override command. And, I did have a lot of fun. No one bothered us. I took a ton of amazing pictures, too. So, by the time we got back to the car, I wasn't feeling anxious anymore; I was more concerned about getting a good shot of Jupiter and the Moon than anything else. That is, until I saw the glass.

A window had been shattered. After I got my dog safely off the ground full of glass shards, I looked to see what, if anything, had been taken, calling 911. Even though I don't always listen to my gut like I should, I still approach the world proactively, not reactively. That's the real "reason" the unreasonable happens to me: I have the uncanny ability to effectively shine light in the darkest corners, bringing about positive change.

It was close to midnight before I finished with the police, but I woke up early the next day anyway, and began making calls. In my research, I found there had been a string of similar incidents at parks all over my zone of the county. I also discovered the pattern. A particular running group seemed to be present at every park where there was an incident. Every victim was a woman, too. Which meant it likely the perpetrator was a male. And, a professional. This wasn't a teenager; this was a practiced pro, unafraid of jail, so had likely already served time. I called people in the Parks and Recreation Department, called the Town Supervisor, offered to use my PhD and grant-writing skills to obtain funding for cameras and signage and safety classes, and also explained the pattern I'd discovered. By noon, three different people in positions of political power contacted me about the case to ask about my research. Within less than 48 hours, the perpetrator was caught. One of the items found in his car at the time of his arrest was what he stole from me. It's part of evidence now, but will be released after all the legalities are taken care of. And yes, the perp was male, huge, and was on parole for good behavior after being incarcerated for a very dangerous crime. He was also a runner....

I don't always get to see the results of my #Light this quickly, but every time someone injures me--one way or another--they are held accountable. Not because of anything I do. I won't even eat meat because I abhor violence. And, I loved steak. No, it's just part of being a soul-cartographer, I think. Helping people get back on the right road...the road that will lead them to a better life.

Before things can get better, they often have to get worse. In order to clear the negatives from our lives, we must first have those negatives surface. Once we recognize--not the problem, but the solution--we can remove any toxicity (and corresponding drama) from our world. But, it can be a frustrating process.

Once again, I found myself cleaning up the mess a man had left behind. Not only was I inconvenienced, I was scared, I was angry, feeling as though I may never see a day where there is peace in my life. A day where I won't have to look over my shoulder for people who want to hurt me. But even though I was victimized, I would not (and will never) allow myself to be a victim.  Using my academic training, I looked for the context, the background. Once I found it, I looked for a pattern. Patterns are language. And I can translate almost every language on Planet Earth. Once translated, I used my communication skills to accessibly explain what I found to the right people at the right time.

The results of a morning's worth of efforts was seen in less than 48 hours. That rarely happens. But I'm glad it did. Because,  I didn't just help myself; I helped everyone victimized by the thief in the last three weeks. I helped raise awareness, and brought a sense of connection and community. I also helped create a safer environment for people in at least three local towns. Basically, by using positive energy to turn around what could have been emotionally, physically and financially draining, I gave the negatives a purpose. Purpose is the key to finding the untapped riches within all of us.

By the way, when I typed that last line, the line about purpose, the clock turned 1:11....

Sometimes, when I remember feeling a certain joy--the clock turns some variation of "11," and it makes me wonder...why? I like hard evidence, facts, proof...big blinking red signs that show me exactly what I need to do. To say I'm uncomfortable with the unseen is a grave understatement--pun untended. I'm not afraid at all. But seeing the  things I've seen does feel a little insane to a person trained to be grounded in solid research. An academic who checks, double checks and triple checks her sources. A writer and editor who lives and dies by putting the right dot in the right place at the right time. Bringing those two sides of myself together has been a struggle, but as a result of being open to the possibilities, I've experienced real miracles. Sometimes, on a daily basis.

How many people can say that???

#MoreThanAFeeling

As "The #PopCultureProfessor™," I'm regularly interviewed as an expert by newspapers like the LA Times and USA Today, but also asked to do guest spots on podcasts and radio shows both in the States and around the globe. Monday night, I was on with guys from Louisville, Kentucky; tomorrow, I'll be on a radio show out of Portland, Oregon. In March, you could find me on shows outside of DC, New Orleans, and Los Angeles. Whether in a newspaper, on a radio show, podcast, video blog, or, on stage, what you see and hear is real. You can engage with the real me on social media, too. Read my real thoughts here on this blog and in my many books sold in nine languages and more than 30 countries. But like all comedians and entertainers, while what you see is what you get, what you get isn't all there is to see....

Long before Amy Schumer was called a "sex comic," I was standing on stage at Nick's Comedy Stop in Boston with guys like Dane Cook, making jokes about cocks and cunts--not necessarily in that order, of course. Don't pretend to be shocked. Haven't you heard??? Sinners make the best saints. I'm neither. But my life has been full of sadness. So much of it, I can't get through a single day without breaking down. Like most comedians, I turned my pain into laughter. When other people start laughing, I do, too. It feels good to make folks smile. Maybe, like me, they're in my audience because their life is currently a suck-fest. Rather than cry together, I'd much prefer we laugh.

Being bawdy with my body isn't hard to do; nature's gifts make my jokes even more funny. As does my saying "shocking" sexual things as a "woman"...and, that's the point. Not to shock you but to entertain you. I'm quite good at it, too. Besides, I only say the things you yourself are thinking. And, you know it. What you don't seem to know is that my comedy routine is just that, a planned, practiced, perfected, professional act. An act designed for your entertainment. Nothing more.

After every show, whether live or on air, there's always someone who mistakes my comedy for the real deal. As if my professional persona was more than it is: An act. That's a problem. Yours. But it becomes mine all-too often. Reality can be hard to swallow (though coffee drinkers do "taste" better, lol), so, let me ask you the one question that should help you take my full load:

Do you really believe an award-winning college professor, social theorist, feminist scholar, transnational researcher in women's oncology, international best-selling author, polyglot of more than five languages, owner of multiple trademarks with an annual reach totaling one-million, CEO of her own LLC, Entertainer hired for a three-year tour with Wizard World (now infamous for interviewing over 200 pop culture icons), author of a syndicated blog with over 900,000 readers from 54 countries, and, last but not least, merit- and honors-scholar who holds four college-degrees, including an international Doctorate, is just sitting around, waiting for you to cum all over her (otherwise flawless) face and tits???

In the words of Aerosmith, "Dream on...."

For the record, I'm not untouchable. My grieving soul is on intimate terms with heart-break. And, while I may miss my recent losses for the rest of my life, it doesn't mean I'm not still living my life. Even if I die a little more each day, I'm very much alive. Dead inside, but not buried. Not yet.

What you see me do in the entertainment world is really just my job. One of many professional hats I wear (blame it on the ADD). But being an entertainer's not just a job; I love what I do. And, I love the people who tune in to hear me, buy tickets to see me, purchase books I've written, support me on social media, and of course, read me on this very blog (welcome to 54 countries and counting!). If I could convey one message to all of you, it would be this: I'm not a "sex comic" because I'm looking for sex. With men or women. Though frankly, I'd go both ways in the right situation with the right people....

I have men come on to me all the time. Women, too. Can't go to the gym without having some dude muscle up on the cardio equipment next to me and start talking away, "So, um, do you like blowfish? Cuz I know this great blowfish place."

Do you now??? Outside of the fact that you're giving me a line from the 1990's (think it was Regarding Henry with a young Harrison Ford), I'm at the gym to work out, not to be asked out. And, I don't care if you look like a 25-year old Chris Hemsworth or 28-year old Keanu Reeves...it ain't happening, y'all. And yeah, dudes in their 30's, 40's, 50's and 60's talk to me, too. Even had an 80-year old in red sweats give it a whirl once. But, regardless of age or gender, the answer is still "No."

It's the same for social media....

If you #Follow me, you will see me engage in similar comedy routines with various friends. While I always appreciate the people who support me, I don't appreciate it when someone sends me a message, asking for pictures of my feet. Yeah, that happened.

This blog is no different. Everything you read is an original. It's my work. A piece of me. But it's not always literal. A great example is an essay I wrote in January called "The Wolf." The piece is about an encounter I had the month before with a real, live wolf in the wild while hiking. Yes, it was in an isolated area. And, yes, it was almost dark. No, I don't hike at that time of day anymore. At least, I try not to. No promises!

"The Wolf" talks about how the encounter made me think of a "black wolf" from another lifetime, a lost soulmate. I was surprised when a man I once knew when we were both teens, over 25-years ago now, contacted me when I published the piece. Because he once had dark hair (though today, I understand he's completely bald), he somehow equated the "black wolf" to himself. We haven't seen each other or spoken in well over 25 years...why on Earth would I be talking about him??? I wouldn't. And, more importantly, I wasn't. Writing is literary, not always literal. My twin-soul is actually a blonde.

Another guy I went on one date with 26-years ago found me on social media this year. He started talking about that movie with John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale, Serendipity, and that's when I told him, unequivocally, "No."

That's what I'd say to anyone who approaches me for romantic reasons through social media, my website, or any other internet venue. Even if you're spinning next to me on a bike at the gym, I have a big bag of N. O. for you. What's that??? You're a friend of a friend? The answer is still, "No."

And guess what??? It will always be, "No."

I haven't dated many men. The number of intimate partners I've had doesn't even require the use of both hands to count them. Know why? Because I know who I am. More importantly, I know what I want. I don't have to compromise either. No one does. But sometimes, it can sure feel like it.

People get lonely, desperate, confused. I've been there; it's not an easy place to be. While I have more compassion than I should for certain souls, I'm not here to reinvigorate your marriage. I'm not here to make you feel better about that tire you're sporting around your middle. However, I am here to make you laugh, make you think, make you feel more positive about your life. And, I don't have to fuck you to make you do or feel those things.

Shocker, I know....

A piece of advice for anyone out there who thinks they're somehow different or special, that, you'll be the man to make me say, "Yes," when everyone else gets a, "No":

To get the attention of any worthwhile human being, make good choices. Don't cheat on your spouse if you're unhappy. And don't ask me to cheat with you. No, I'm not interested in having a threesome with you either. Get a divorce. Live an honest life. Do good for yourself and others. Basically, don't be a dick.

Picking up what I'm putting down??? Users and abusers are the snake-oil salesmen of the 21st century; I've met more than my fair share. Thanks, but no thanks. Asshats need not apply. And, more importantly, I'm not accepting applications anyway.

Say #GoodNightGracie....

This is for you. And, only you. The "you" who needs a friend. Someone to say, "Everything will be okay," and mean it. You need to know you are not alone. Especially now.

You're not....

The sadness comes in waves, sometimes filling my lungs. Burning my chest. Other times, there's a tightness. A deep pain in the center. Like a hook embedded in my heart, mercilessly being pulled so hard, it feels as if the heart were literally going to break in two. The fear that there is too much to overcome and not enough time to overcome it is present. That, even matching, merging, mirroring numbers are somehow not enough. But love is always enough. The numbers are just there as a reminder. A reminder to not give up. Never give up.

Hope is but a dream. While Faith is strength in the knowledge that what we feel is real. Believe. Life always finds a way. And, so does love....

Look ahead, beyond today. What do you see? You see that future, don't you? The one backlit by the Sun. Hand-in-hand, the smell of ocean air, old brick buildings on cobblestone streets, waves lapping at boats bobbing in the harbor. Can you see the sunset, too? Over the bay??? Sea grass waving in the cool evening breeze. Toes in the sand. The tide, ebbing and flowing, sparkling with dappled orange and yellow in the setting Sun. A house full of light, love, life, and the laughter of children. Productive, peaceful days followed by passionate, playful nights. Home-cooked meals. Sighing in relief as you step across the threshold, knowing you're home. Finally, home.

Getting from here to there seems almost impossible at times. But remember the love. Remember the laughter. Remember the joy. Let that light fill your mind, your heart, your spirit. Breathe. We are miracles. You and I. Across space and time, we speak. There is no distance too great. The fear of it can consume. But it is only fear. Not real. The numbers are real. Numbers never lie. Neither do hearts.

Let your soul sing. And the sky will speak. You hear my voice, don't you? Calling you. Telling you to be safe. To heal. Sending you love each and every day.

I give up sometimes, too. So scared. So alone in my grief. But you...you have these words. You are never alone. You can read them every day and remember. Remember that what you feel is real. As real as I am.

One day, you will decide to see for yourself. To not just remember, but to experience those memories all over again. And, make new ones. Even better than the old.

Obstacles are only illusions. But my smile is real. The smile that will greet you like it did in that first perfect moment. A moment that forever tastes like candy canes and smells of roses, orange blossoms and the fiery abandon of a Phoenix rising.

What stands between you and your second chance at another perfect moment? One person? More than one person??? People are always going to stand in the way. They're only human. That's why Angels exist. Angels cannot pick us up, put us in a vehicle and drive us forward. But they can inspire us to drive ourselves. To reach out. Pick up the phone. Or, a pen.

Angels are messengers...have you received mine?

This is for you. Feel strong in that knowledge. When faced with the impossible, think of my eyes, my face, my smile...know I am with you. Know you are loved. Know that together, we move mountains. We turn 0.02% chances into 100% guarantees.

We have not yet finished our dance. Every effort to hurt you--us--will be answered. Those who believe in the power of Heaven would be wise not to try to rip the Wings from her Angels.

You were once quick to remind me that a chance is still a chance. Let me do the same for you now. Even half a lifetime of perfect moments is worthwhile. And, every moment is perfect. Like the bluest of clear blue eyes, silken blonde curls, rough hands on soft skin, and two bodies moving together in a space no one has ever visited before or since.

Yeah, it's worth it....

#Air

#1111
#TwinFlames

Today is April 7th (4+7=11), an "11" day for all the #TwinFlames out there. Actually, it's a double "11" day: 2+0+1+6=9, and when you add that "9" to "11" (9+1+1), you get another "11."

Happy #1111 day!!!

I could feel it the moment I woke up. The positive energy. The sense that things are better than they seem and everything will actually work out at some point. I suppose you could say that I woke with renewed faith. In myself. In life. And, in my journey. It helps that the cosmos is doing its part: The New Moon is in Leo and Venus is in Aries. While Uranus starts in Aries, it ends the month in Leo. Uranus is bringing the Venus in Aries and Leo #Twins together this month, helping us both shine and tap  into our creative potential. And, of course, Mars, in fiery Sagittarius, is retrograde through the end of June. Mercury goes retrograde this month, too. But Venus in Aries will conjoin Uranus in Leo toward the end of the month, and that is what is known as a true #TwinFlame union.

Aries is the water of the three fire-signs, while Leo is the fire of all fire signs. Which is good; the two balance each other out. Aries has a natural rhythm, like the waves of the ocean, while Leo shines like a diamond in the Sun, dancing and swaying with her willing Aries partner to a tune only their two hearts can hear. Both are fiery, passionate lovers who bring out the best in each other and enjoy healthy "play," but Venus in Aries tends to be more impulsive, child-like. Known as the "baby of the Zodiac," Aries often asks a lot from their partner without actually asking. Luckily, Leo is stable and loyal and will put up with Aries mischief because Leo is mischievous, too...just in a different way.  Any #Twins born with Venus in Leo and Aries have the potential to at least reconnect, or, start moving toward physical reunion, as long as patience is generously applied to the unconditional love you both share. Remember, of all #TwinFlame unions, yours shines like no other. Everything is large, even the grief....

The biggest obstacles for #Twins with Venus in Aries and Leo is communication. Leo likes to be worshipped, and Aries can sometimes become insecure because of the water element, or what is referred to as the "right column" in #kabbalah. It's confusing for many Venus in Aries, not understanding why they love their partner like no other but may want to run away at the same time. Venus in Aries is wonderful because they are perpetual kids, innocent in some ways, demanding in others--but like all children, they are often unsure of themselves. Which is why compassionate Venus in Leo is their perfect match, a patient, kind and understanding proprietor of unconditional love. Venus in Leo and Venus in Aries prize love above all else. These #TwinFlames are true partners-in-crime, sharing the same sense of adventure and excitement not only for each other, but for a lifetime of loving one another the way only a Venus in Aries and Leo can. But Venus in Aries should beware not to push their loving Venus in Leo too hard. Rash, abrupt, impulsive, or reactive choices (all fear-based responses), like Aries infamous promiscuity, will read as disrespectful to a Venus in Leo. And that's when glasses will begin to hit the wall.

Honesty is always the best policy with your #Twin. Because, even if fuzzy on the details, they know when something is wrong, But #Twins should be wary of not reading into their own fears and mistaking it as #Twin communication or telepathy. You may think you "see" something that isn't really happening. I'm talking to you, Venus in Aries! Always communicate openly with your #Twin and verify what is real and what is just fear bending your ear, and, your heart. You may be mirror images but you are two distinct people with distinct souls. Be kind and generous and compassionate and patient with each other. That is all any of us can do, no matter what. 

Just remember, we are all born under certain stars to break away from that karma. It's part  of our soul's journey. So a Leo who is used to having things be very definitive would need to take on more Piscean traits in order to evolve, and a Pisces that lives in the watery world of mystery, secrets and the unseen, needs a healthy dose of Leo realism to be truly complete.

Good luck on  your #TwinFlame journey this month! May you come into reunion quickly and smoothly, and live very long, very happy lives together until your souls ascend in unconditional love.

The road may be long, winding, rocky, even treacherous at times, but don't give up! And never, ever back down....

#TwinDay!

#1111
#TwinFlames