I believe gratitude is the key to happiness. No matter who you are or how difficult a time you might be having, acknowledging all the things you’re grateful for can shift your attitude in seconds. I count my blessings every single day, noting small miracles like a flower in bloom or a hummingbird in my garden, and the fact that my gift of mediumship allows me to live a life I love—helping and healing people every day.
In addition to my daily practice, I make it a point to set aside time toward the end of December for a personal ritual that is very meaningful to me. I call it my “Gratitude Review.”
A trip backward through the year…
This year, I started my gratitude review with a short meditation. As I sat in a quiet space in my garden and focused on my breath, the years’ events unfolded in my mind’s eye like a slide show. I was a little surprised when I realized just how many significant events occurred over the last twelve months.
I’d like to tell you about some highlights of my journey through 2022
Sharing the stage with warm, wonderful, gifted friends:
The first special memories that came to mind were two live workshops and demonstrations that were made even more meaningful by the friends who joined me on stage.
The amazing Gordon Smith flew here from his home in Scotland early in the year, bringing with him kilts for us to wear onstage together. We hosted a workshop and teamed up for a live Evening of Spirit at the Seaside Center for Spiritual Living. The kilts were a big hit, and so were the readings!
I can’t wait to return the favor and visit Gordon in 2023. In August, we’ll be traveling around Europe hosting events and combining our mediumship gifts to deliver healing messages from beyond. More details to follow, so be sure to check my event page over the next few months.
I also had the pleasure of hosting a workshop in Carlsbad with Lynn Probert, where we spent five enlightening days with a small group of mediumship students. It was so gratifying to see the progress these mediums made and the strong soul-connection they formed with us and each other! Lynn is such a dear friend and gifted teacher, and I’m so fortunate to have her in my life.
A New Platform for the JVP Community
Year after year, The James Van Praagh School of Mystical Arts continues to be a source of tremendous gratitude to me, as it allows me to accomplish my dream of sharing techniques and wisdom I’ve gathered over three decades.
This year I launched live sessions of some favorite courses like the JVP Life Coaching Certification, Mediumship Level 1, The JVP Spiritual Healing Certification, and Spiritual Animal Friends. Best of all, we hosted these online courses on a brand-new web site! The new JVP School of Mystical Arts site was totally revamped in 2022, and is not only more beautiful, but easier to navigate. Check it out and see for yourself – and while you’re there, download a free course!
Animal Friends are Always by my Side
Early in 2022, my dear dog Maisey passed over. I’m forever grateful for the gifts of unconditional love and companionship she gave me throughout her life. Even thought she is no longer with me in the physical sense, her soul is by my side for all eternity!
There’s no doubt in my mind that Maisey led me to adopt Pearl, my new furry companion. I am so grateful for these two sweet, loving girls!
Big happenings In the JVP backyard.
As I bring my virtual journey to a close, I open my eyes and see my beloved garden. The joy and grounding working with the earth and plants provides is priceless, and it might just be the next step in my spiritual journey. I made some changes to the inside of my house too, and I’m thrilled with how everything came out! I believe we all owe it to ourselves to turn our homes into a space that helps us feel safe, comfortable, and that reflects who we really are. I feel so grateful to live where I do, and to be able to surround myself with beauty!
Taking a few minutes to reflect shines a light on so many beautiful memories, and I am filled with joy and gratitude for the many blessings I experienced in 2022.
I hope you’ll create your own gratitude ritual. It’s the perfect way to elevate your mood, and attract more positive things into your life.
Last but NOT least – Thank You to my wonderful community!
Can you feel it? I’m sending loving thoughts and healing energy to EVERYONE reading this….Thank You, Thank You, Thank You, for your enthusiasm, support, and dedication to developing your gifts and spreading your beautiful light to the world – Happy Holidays to all!