AYP Public Forum
AYP Public Forum => Yoga, Career and Money => Topic started by: Radharani on April 08, 2013, 11:09:37 AM
-
As mentioned previously, I will be teaching yoga on a non-profit basis when Lothlorien House opens in June. But, I still need a way to pay the bills, and jobs around here are very few, far between, low-paying and a long commute from my home.
I work as a telephone Psychic and have had sort of an ego problem over my lack of a "respectable job." After all, I'm supposed to be a Psychologist! That's why I got my M.A., but my licensing is not valid in Florida. So, the closest I was able to get was "Psychic." I've been a bit embarrassed about that, especially since where I live (in the Bible Belt) "psychic" is considered at best "entertainment," and at worst, satanic. When people ask "what do you do for a living?" and I say "psychic" they smile and roll their eyes, or else bite their tongue so as to restrain themselves from saying, "ok, you are going straight to hell!"
The cleaning & design business would have been more "respectable" simply because it is a "normal" occupation, but it failed despite massive advertising so apparently wasn't meant to be, and no other viable options have manifested.
Well, now I find myself finally coming to terms with my Psychic job. Although it doesn't pay enough, at least it IS a "job" of sorts, and many folks in my town are unemployed, so I am grateful to have something, especially working at home where I don't have to spend $$ on gas. This job DOES give me the opportunity to practice counseling, which is what I am trained to do, and I enjoy it. Although I get bored with the "fortune telling" aspect, apparently I have the gift and therefore can use it to help others.
I recently examined my ego objections and realized that I haven't been giving 100% due to this attitude that, "I ought to have a respectable career." I decided to let go of the resistance and put my whole heart into the job, rather than thinking of it as something embarrassing that I am doing in lieu of a "real job." Why should I care if people think I am "respectable" or not? The sense of "self importance" is so silly. [:I]
I went online the other day and read my reviews, which I had not done in a long time, and was just blown away by all the love and gratitude my clients had expressed. I love my clients and want to be there for them. [3]
-
That's really good, Radharani. As soon as we start using the mainstream or status quo as our benchmark of spiritual progress, or spiritual authenticity, then I think we're reverting to a limited framework of being. We're riding on the edge, or at least that what I've gathered from my experience.
You're story makes me think of the book "Many Lives, Many Masters", which is the true story of a materialistic psychologist (Brian Weiss) that unintentionally discovered the validity of past lives when he was hypnotizing one of his patients. The data he gathered was undeniable, and he completely transformed into a spiritual teacher and now gives workshops on past-life regression/healing.
Anyway, it just proves that the truth is not found in Ivy League credentials, but in direct experience with the mysteries of life.
Glad you are working with what you've got, and not worrying about "popular opinion". [/\]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Bodhi Tree
That's really good, Radharani. As soon as we start using the mainstream or status quo as our benchmark of spiritual progress, or spiritual authenticity, then I think we're reverting to a limited framework of being. We're riding on the edge, or at least that what I've gathered from my experience...
Glad you are working with what you've got, and not worrying about "popular opinion". [/\]
Dear Bodhi,
thanks for your feedback! I would just like to clarify that I was NOT "using the status quo as a benchmark of spiritual progress or authenticity." My concern was specifically in regard to social standards and judgements about career from a material or worldly standpoint, i.e. being 50 years old and not having a "respectable job." It doesn't bother me spiritually.
On the other hand, going through this process (letting go of concern about the status quo) has resulted in the spiritual blessing of not allowing my ego to interfere with the joyous performance of my (apparent) dharma. I hope that makes sense.
-
quote:
Originally posted by Radharani
I hope that makes sense.
Makes total sense. [8D]
What I should have said is that what may be socially/materially held in high esteem will not necessarily reflect upon any intrinsic spiritual worth. So, for instance, there could be a pyschiatrist who is making lots of money by prescribing anti-depressants, but the inner condition of the same psychiatrist may be spiritually bankrupt.
I didn't mean to imply that you were using such material standards as your spiritual benchmarks. I was just referring to the often glaring contrast between material rewards vs. spiritual progress, as you so skillfully clarified in your response. [/\]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Bodhi Tree
quote:
Originally posted by Radharani
I hope that makes sense.
Makes total sense. [8D]
What I should have said is that what may be socially/materially held in high esteem will not necessarily reflect upon any intrinsic spiritual worth. So, for instance, there could be a pyschiatrist who is making lots of money by prescribing anti-depressants, but the inner condition of the same psychiatrist may be spiritually bankrupt.
I didn't mean to imply that you were using such material standards as your spiritual benchmarks. I was just referring to the often glaring contrast between material rewards vs. spiritual progress, as you so skillfully clarified in your response. [/\]
oh, yes! well I completely agree when you put it like that, and it has never been an issue for me - i.e., my whole life I have focused on the spiritual and believed that the material was unimportant. BUT, paradoxically, that very attitude has been a big factor (although certainly not the sole factor!) in creating the material position in which I now find myself, namely, 50 years old, broke and without a "real job."
I sometimes wonder, in retrospect, whether perhaps I should have spent more time and energy on my career, versus spending so much time and attention on yoga/ meditation, and maybe I would not be in this position?!
BUT, on the other hand, as you and I both know very well, the ultimate purpose of human life is Liberation, Divine Union. Given that, I now have Everything I always wanted and would be foolish to complain. So what if I am broke and pathetic according to worldly standards?! As you have pointed out, had I taken a different route I might be a wealthy, successful psychologist but spiritually starving.
There is obviously no question, from where you and I stand, that it is infinitely better to have God, than all the material success in the world. "What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul?" Thanks, bro, for your encouragement. [3] [/\]
-
[/\]
-
LOL, Radharani. I share you pain. [B)] I majored in religious studies at FSU. I'm at romantic-mystical-poet-musician trying to make it in an industrial, profit-driven culture.
But, as the Grateful Dead said: "We will survive. We will get by. (Every silver lining's got a touch of grey)."
-
quote:
Originally posted by Bodhi Tree
LOL, Radharani. I share you pain. [B)] I majored in religious studies at FSU. I'm at romantic-mystical-poet-musician trying to make it in an industrial, profit-driven culture.
But, as the Grateful Dead said: "We will survive. We will get by. (Every silver lining's got a touch of grey)."
oh, dear. I majored in Philosophy at FSU! and I also attended my share of Grateful Dead concerts. well, there you have it. [:)]
-
Hi Rhadarani
I too have been wrestling with my 'role' in life too. Not feeling good enough, or that I do enough, or that it is 'credible' enough in societies eyes, and along with that, it is showing me how it's a reflection of my self worth, and where I need to do my personal work.
I wanted to share a link with you, that I found incredibly touching, but couldn't figure out how to do it.
It's called "I hate society, but love humanity". If you go to youtube you will find it, sorry couldn't figure out how to post it here for you
Namaste`
Maria
-
quote:
Originally posted by SparklingDiamond
Hi Rhadarani
I too have been wrestling with my 'role' in life too. Not feeling good enough, or that I do enough, or that it is 'credible' enough in societies eyes, and along with that, it is showing me how it's a reflection of my self worth, and where I need to do my personal work.
I wanted to share a link with you, that I found incredibly touching, but couldn't figure out how to do it.
It's called "I hate society, but love humanity". If you go to youtube you will find it, sorry couldn't figure out how to post it here for you
Namaste`
Maria
Dear Diamond,
For me it's not so much about "self worth" as being able to function successfully in society. My self worth does not depend on money, but my survival does. Like it or not, people do judge us based on our career or lack thereof, and the ego resents that. But, I've decided to let go of the resentment and make the most of the situation, even though in an ideal world I would be able to legally use my Psychology M.A. to make a very good living.
-
Hi Radharani,
Well those who roll their eyes or think you're going to hell are both rather silly and narrow-minded in my view, and it's a shame.
In other times and cultures, oracles and seers have often been the most highly valued and respected members of society.
I think that if you have a real gift for it, what you do is highly respectable. Psychic people (including, and perhaps most of all, my mom!) have been extremely helpful guides in my life.
Once a psychic had an intuitive sense to tell me to read Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle, which completely changed my way of relating to the world, for the better. It's effects are in me til this day.
It was psychic experiences (like my Mom knowing to call me when I'm upset, even when she is thousands of miles away in the UK) that first opened my eyes to the possibility that there is more under the surface of life than what our sense perceptions indicate.
I think it's a deeply healing, valuable work and I hope you will feel this way too.
-
quote:
Originally posted by mr_anderson
I think it's a deeply healing, valuable work and I hope you will feel this way too.
I agree. Logic and figures are often useful, but they're just simple tools and nothing more.
Little would ever be invented if everybody just followed suit, thinking the same way as everybody else.
-
Thank you, my dear friends, for your support and encouragement! Mr. Anderson, I had no idea your mom is psychic, that is so cool! No wonder you understand. HathaTeacher, of course you are right. I've been enjoying my psychic job very much since I put aside my ego concerns and also, since I quit my transcription job, which I used to do at the same time (typing medical reports in between calls). It was a bit tricky "switching gears" between calls and the oncology work really didn't put me in the best frame of mind for the psychic work. Now that I have devoted myself to it 100% it's going quite well. And I look forward to teaching yoga again when Lothlorien House opens in June!
-
Are you sure you need licensing to do all kinds of counseling there? Of course, I am in a different state, but I know someone who only has a bachelors in psychology and is allowed to do certain types of "family counseling", and she does that full time. She had to go through an internship.
-
quote:
Originally posted by Etherfish
Are you sure you need licensing to do all kinds of counseling there? Of course, I am in a different state, but I know someone who only has a bachelors in psychology and is allowed to do certain types of "family counseling", and she does that full time. She had to go through an internship.
Yes, I am quite sure. Florida is very strict on licensing. To do "family counseling" or any type of psychological counseling here I would have to go back to school, get a whole NEW M.A., and then 2 years of internship. I can legally practice as a "holistic wellness counselor" but as mentioned previously, nobody can afford to pay for my services.
-
In California I was a Licensed Ministerial Counselor on the basis of having a psychology M.A. and being a licensed minister. When I moved to Florida I was quite surprised to learn that L.M.C. was not recognized, AND in fact, in Florida it is ILLEGAL for ministers to practice counseling for pay! BUT, there is a loophole in the law which I can take advantage of, once I open Lothlorien House: Ministers are allowed to counsel in their own church building, but nowhere else, and while you can't "charge" per se, you can accept donations to the church. So that's what I plan to do.
-
I've been putting in more hours on the psychic line lately and it's really going well! Very enjoyable, and yesterday for the first time I was #1 on the list, a great honor. I've been on the first page frequently but never at the top of the list. This bodes well for my career.
I was reflecting on how my ability to do this job has changed over time with the evolution of my yoga practice, particularly since my entire reality shifted a couple of years ago, which was a quantum leap, although I've had a steady yoga practice since 1977.
When I began working as a professional psychic in 1994 I remember it being quite difficult and causing an energy drain/ strain. Although I did enjoy the job very much, I found myself being pulled into my clients' emotional "drama" and feeling drained at the end of my shift. I tried to be a "clear channel" for divine energy but was not really able to step out of the way sufficiently and it was quite exhausting at times. I would wear a crystal around my neck, usually a smoky quartz heart, to help ground the "crazy" energies from the clients and not get pulled in.
Now, this work has become nearly effortless and I no longer feel burdened in any way no matter how "crazy" the energy can get; nothing "sticks" to me. I don't have to "distance" myself from the clients' energy because there is no "me" to protect; the client and I are manifestations of the same One. I just feel compassion in the literal sense of "to feel/suffer together." I'm not drained by giving energy to them because it's not coming from me; Love pours through me.
These are the fruits of a lifelong yoga practice and I'm sure they are equally valuable in other fields of work, wherever we find ourselves, as we interact with our coworkers, the public, customers, etc. I am so thankful.
Also I am very thankful for those who have encouraged me in this work, especially when I was questioning, "but, it's not a REAL career?!" [like, being able to practice as a Psychologist, etc.] I feel really good about it. In addition, I am happy that this job will allow me to schedule around yoga students once my new studio is open, in the near future!
-
[/\]
-
Congratulations!!!! Radharani[:)]
Love,
Sunyata
-
thanks, Maha and Sunyata! [3] [/\]
-
That is really inspiring, Radharani, especially the part about how nothing sticks to you now. That is great freedom. I know how that feels sometimes...nothing to grab onto, nothing to hold you down...just being in the Oneness and playing my part in the comedic drama. Congratulations at excelling in your job.
-
I'm really glad it's going well for you. It's a valuable form of Karma Yoga that you are doing, and I'm sure you will help many people.
Much love to you Radharani,
Josh
-
Thanks so much, Bodhi and Josh!! Your encouragement means a lot to me.
Well guess what, a new development: I have FINALLY found a position as a Counselor, without having to pose as Fortune Teller - it is with an online counseling agency based in INDIA! ProvenTherapy.com. I must say I find this extremely amusing, that while our jobs are being outsourced to India, I have Indian friends who want to move to the U.S. for work (?!) and now here I am, as an American, having to go to India to find a job. [:p] Being in India they don't care about Florida licensing, they only asked for my degrees and certifications and background. I am not an employee; it is a contract position, and I have not gotten any calls yet. But, they are in the process of optimizing their new website on the search engines and I am optimistic that once this gets sorted out I can do really well on their team. Unlike the psychic lines, which pay a very, very tiny commission, this company will leave me with 75% of my earnings. The boss is extremely nice and has made me feel quite welcome. He also is a Christian (with Franciscan leanings) and a yogi. I'm really excited to have the chance to help people from all over the world! I am still doing the psychic line as well.
-
Bravo! [8D]
-
Well, my dears - what a long, strange trip it's been! This blog post pretty much summarizes what has happened since I first set out to "manifest" my new studio on the beach, and subsequent events since my last post here in August: Dharma, Desire and The Death of a Dream (http://blog.lothlorienyoga.com/2013/09/05/letting-the-dream-die.aspx).
Within a year of stating my intent, I managed to "manifest" about 8 new yoga studios on the beach - none of which is mine.
I've had to go back to my medical transcription job, along with my psychic and counseling jobs, and I have no time or energy to teach yoga. The good news is, my boss said I can have the Orofacial Surgery and Orthopedic accounts, so I don't have to do Oncology. I don't know if she had read any of my rants about how Oncology is a scam from hell, or if she was just sympathetic, knowing what I went through when my stepmother died from chemo last fall, but either way, I was relieved. I mean, sure, I can do all kinds of Jedi mind tricks on myself to be able to do it - like, using it as a meditation on the impermanence of the body, etc. - but I'd rather not have to. Plus, as I said, there are karmic implications to receiving money from involvement in it...
I also decided to go back to school to get certified in medical coding and billing, for which I'm told there is a big demand now with Obamacare being implemented and lots of new people getting insurance, plus we are upgrading our coding system in America and there will be a frantic rush to get everything converted over and they need a lot of people to do it. Learning the coding should be as easy as falling off a log since I've been working in medicine for 21 years and already very familiar with most of it - IF I can find time! I signed up over a month ago and I've been swamped with work and exhausted, so have not gotten to it yet. But I will.
As discussed in the above blog, I was shocked at first, and then angry, and went through the various stages of mourning when it became clear that not only would I not be able to make a living teaching yoga, and nor could I pay the bills doing anything else that I really enjoy, but also, I would be left with no time or energy to teach yoga! I had tried so many things - personal training, holistic wellness, psychic (reading tarot), counseling, house cleaning, painting and design, teaching horseback riding - all of which fell flat. I really didn't want to go back into mainstream medicine but I was left with no viable alternative. And guess what, contrary to what some people continue to assert, I am in fact not the one driving this chariot.
And since the only thing I really have any desire to "do" in this world is to teach yoga, I have no particular desire to go on living, and I just look forward to a happy death. Now, I know that sounds morbid but really it is very freeing. There is nothing holding me here.
Of course, this brings up the whole issue of, why must we spend the vast majority of our waking existence slaving away at a job that we don't enjoy (what Karl Marx called, "the alienation of labor") merely in order to survive, and to what end?! But that's kind of a whole 'nother topic, although certainly it is a common condition which I share with 99% of the souls on earth. So like I said, "it was never about me."
Now, as yogis we know that the point of human incarnation is the opportunity for "enlightenment" or "liberation" or whatever you want to call it, or as I as a bhakti/tantrika like to say, "to know God in this body." And so it is.
Because that is exactly what I am left with. Since resuming the medical job, while keeping the other 2 (I dropped the cleaning/design job), my health has deteriorated further. I am exhausted and in nearly continual pain. The cool thing about this is, it is incredibly liberating! It is difficult to put into words. It feels as though, as C.S. Lewis says in regard to purgatory, my "rough edges are being worn off." I feel like I am being totally worn down, or as the apostle Paul said, "I am being poured out like a drink offering." It has gotten to the point that my life is so impossible that it has become obvious that I am not the doer. There is no way that I could be doing this, working these 3 jobs, and continuing to function. I am a strong person but I'm not that strong, and presently I am quite ill. It is an incredible sense of surrender.
The sense of "translucency" of this self has become more and more apparent. And in the midst of the daily struggle to survive - even though I have no particular desire to survive, but it is simply what we do - the amazing thing is this deep, abiding Silence, this Peace, this ineffable Bliss and Love that is completely unrelated to external events, reminding me more than ever that the Reality is this eternal connection with the Divine which is why I am here. There is nothing else. Fortunately my yoga practice is long established for many, many years, so that even in the midst of illness and exhaustion, when I can't really "practice" much, it takes over for me. I can meditate in shavasana without falling asleep. Actually I slip into meditation pretty much anytime when I am not doing anything else in particular. This is the benefit of a lifelong daily discipline; in the beginning you do yoga, and then eventually yoga does you.
Anyway - now that I had given up on teaching yoga, and the whole Retreat Center and everything, I recently was contacted by a former yoga student who had moved to another city and her teenage daughter, who was also a student of mine, fell in with a bad crowd, is having a rough time, and needs "residential therapy." The police said it's either that, or juvie. Her mom was worried that she might try to run away to Cocoa Beach. I said, "Cocoa Beach? Hell yeah, I'll run away with her!" I would love to run away and the waves there are perfect. [:)] This is her last chance and her family has chosen to send her to me! At first I said, "oh, no, I can't, I'm so overwhelmed already...!" but when I prayed about it, I couldn't say no. I want to be here for her. So I will soon have a yoga student in residence. Even though I have essentially no "free time," since she will be living here AND she is on my same schedule (evening shift) we will be able to find time to do yoga when it is convenient for both of us. I am really looking forward to her arrival. She was supposed to come this weekend but with the impending hurricane might be delayed.
It's all completely crazy but like I said, I am not the one driving this chariot. LOVE to all of you. [3] [/\]
-
Wow! I'm glad I took the time to read your post as it touched me deeply. Truly inspirational. Thanks for sharing! [/\]
-
very inspiring post my dear...God bless you[3]
-
Very beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
The sense of "translucency" of this self has become more and more apparent. - I know what you mean here [3][3][3]
Love,
Josh
-
Thanks, friends! I love you guys SO MUCH. [3] I can't tell you what an incredible blessing it is to have you with me, and your encouragement, and being able to share on a deep level like this with people who truly "get it." LOVE. [/\]
-
[3][3][3]
Each person, each "self", is as translucent as water... Translucent waves on the crystal clear infinite ocean of consciousness.
Love you too Radharani :-) :-) :-)
Best wishes to you
-
So, here's the latest. It just keeps getting more and more "interesting." [:)]
Note, the title of this thread is "Making Peace with the Psychic Job" - which I did, and felt quite good about it. Unfortunately, as mentioned above, it didn't work out financially so I had to go back to the medical transcription job.
As it turns out, I've been getting more hours of medical work and with also going back to school for coding & billing certification, I finally had to accept the fact that I don't have the time/energy to keep up with the Psychic job and online counseling job as well. So, this week I resigned from my Psychic job, as much as I enjoyed it and love my clients. They were very understanding and told me that I am welcome to come back any time, if/when my schedule permits. Now I am down to only 2 jobs, the medical and the counseling (the latter has been slow, which is probably just as well, under the circumstances).
The medical job is quite demanding mentally and energetically, is physically painful and aggravates my illness. It can be very challenging but, as I stated above, this whole situation has been at the same time extremely liberating! I can feel the karma and attachment just burning off and it is a really great opportunity to "be present" and stay centered, conscious that I am not the doer and allowing the activity to flow through me. The other night I was in the middle of typing a long report and the doctor paused for a little while, saying, "um, er... [shuffles papers]..." and in that moment I just enjoyed absolute Silence, instant meditation, which happens whenever my mind is not actively doing anything else. you know that feeling? Like, Here we are. [OM]
Meanwhile, my young residential therapy client arrived on the 12th and she is great! Her mom was one of my best yoga students, before they moved to another city. She was raised agnostic (not atheist - so she has no prejudices either way) and she's been asking me stuff like, "I want to know about God. Like, is it possible to actually experience the presence of God??" Oh yes, my dear, you've come to the right place! She's a little bit into drugs, although not excessively, and I told her God is WAY better than drugs. She said, "Well, I can see the intense happiness you have, and I want that!" She is excited to learn yoga and meditation. I loaned her my Illuminations from the Bhagavad Gita book with all the pretty pictures and she is eating it up. I also gave her a Sacred Heart of Jesus candle which she has set on her desk. oh, Fun!
We had a discussion about how she just wants to be "free." I told her I felt exactly the same way when I was her age - wanted to be an adult so I could get a job and be "independent" and not have to listen to my parents. Well, guess what: now at age 50 I can tell you, there is no "freedom" in this world. It only gets worse when you grow up and get a job. BUT, the good news is, although Freedom doesn't really exist out there, you absolutely CAN have it in here, in your own consciousness - and Yoga is the way!
We haven't done a whole lot of yoga yet because of my work schedule and also she's been sleeping a lot, resting and recuperating from trauma, plus I don't want to push her at all. But she's definitely interested. It's been a great blessing having her here and being able to share with her. I'm really thankful how everything is working out.
-
And now in 2014 I am essentially back at square one, where I was in 2009 when the medical transcription work had become fickle and the pay had dropped to a third of what it was 20 years ago. Thus, I decided to open the yoga studio, believing that it would be a good way to make a living - which it probably would have, had our location been more optimal. After numerous and varied attempts at businesses to which I totally gave my best shot, and all of which fell through, here I am putting my energy into the transcription again and taking on more hours.
I am even going back to doing oncology (which I despise! [xx(]). And that's ok. [:)] It's a great exercise in balancing compassion and dispassion, holding the patient in my heart while at the same time not allowing myself to get sucked into the negative feelings around mainstream oncology. I'm pretty sure it's not what I am here on earth to do, and it really doesn't pay enough, but I've completely run out of other options, and I surrender to what is. Meanwhile I continue with the counseling agency and hope that job may eventually become fruitful. I also intend to pursue the medical coding certification which allegedly is in big demand.
So I'm actually living here in this gorgeous, perfect yoga studio (out in the boondocks) but have zero time to teach yoga anymore, even if there were students, which as it happens, there aren't any, which I suppose is just as well under the circumstances.
Ultimately it's all just "grist for the mill" as Ram Dass says.
As long as we have yoga, living in the incredible Love and Bliss of God, it really doesn't make any difference what else happens, right? [3] [/\]
-
Latest update: In October I had quit the psychic job in order to devote more time to the medical transcription, and the online counseling service based in India. But as it turns out, the low-paying medical work has not been steady enough even with the addition of more hours in the oncology department. And the counseling position, which in theory would pay very well, simply hasn't had enough clients. On the plus side, from a spiritual standpoint it's nice to see that I can do the oncology and not let it bring me down; it's a good exercise. But, it doesn't pay the bills.
So, as of tonight I went back to my psychic job part-time, and I am humbled and overwhelmed with gratitude! I had assumed my clients would have forgotten me, and that I would have to start at the bottom of the list and work my way up all over again. Instead, to my surprise, the company had put me back on the first page, where I was when I left, and I had non-stop calls tonight. My clients were actually waiting in queue to speak to me! I love them and I've missed them. They welcomed me back with open arms and said, "where were you?! thank goodness you're back!" [3] wow. I was really not expecting this.
My concern, of course, when I made the decision to quit the psychic job, was that I would not be able to handle 3 jobs, given my health. But what choice do I have? None of the 3 pays enough to be full-time (a common situation in America these days). I do think, however, if I can manage to keep up with this schedule, between the medical transcription and the psychic and the counseling, I may actually be able to make ends meet! As far as the medical coding certification, unfortunately I have not been able to attend to my studies at all, but remain cautiously optimistic that I will be able to do so in the near future. and if not, "oh well" - I mean, we can only do what we can do, right?
Happily, I had 2 yoga students here over the weekend, my former residential therapy client and her boyfriend, and it went really well and I think they "get it" in a deep way. It was great to be teaching again.
Meanwhile my husband and I have been working on our organic vegetable garden and enjoying our tantric practice on the weekends. [3] We don't have time during the week due to our conflicting work schedules, so we just do our solitary yoga/meditation Mon-Fri and then we cherish Sat-Sun together. We feel incredibly blessed.
-
I haven't had much time to spend on the AYP forum due to work-related stuff, including some exciting new developments, and I've had kind of a breakthrough, in part thanks to input from my friends, including some here at AYP.
As mentioned above, the medical transcription job, despite my best efforts and taking on 3 departments and as many hours as possible, was not enough to be full-time, especially at the current low pay rate. I was bemoaning to my friends the fact that this job, which in the 1990s paid about $35/hour fresh out of school, now paid just a little above minimum wage (on a good day). Some of my friends responded, "oh, I know, it's terrible how wages have fallen, how are people supposed to make a decent living anymore?!" But a few others replied essentially, "Quit your whining, your labor is worth whatever the Market says it's worth!" I objected, "Well then the Market is wrong! We're not talking about a 'do you want fries with that?' job, where if you mix up the order, someone will be pissed. If the medical record is inaccurate, somebody could die! Part of our job is to catch the doctors' mistakes. Surely such a job is worth more than minimum wage?!" One of my friends pointed out, "But there are so many people in the field now, the schools have been turning them out like crazy, there are advertisements for it everywhere." - which turned out to be a VERY useful comment, because when I investigated the medical coding certification for which I was studying, I learned that the same situation is happening there! I had begun the course at my father's suggestion based on a promotional article (form a coding school!) claiming that you could easily make $40,000. I already had the medical training and it would be a "respectable job." But, when I subsequently went on some discussion boards among coders, I learned that the pay is much lower, IF you can even find a job, which apparently is tough. And a few of the coders said, "There's no $$ in coding anymore, I'm going to go into transcription instead." ?! So I decided to cut my losses there. whew.
Anyway, one of my other friends turned the discussion around and asked, "How much do people pay to talk to you on the psychic line?" I replied, "$5.50 per minute (of which I only make around 40 cents)." She said, "That's over $300 per hour! So, THAT is your real 'Market worth.' You've just been focusing on the wrong job! Surely there is a way around the middleman where you could promote your psychic business and make a very good living."
She was right, of course. And apparently, social conditioning goes deeper than I had realized! As I read over the first entry in this thread, I have to admit that I was still holding onto society's standards, my dad's standards, of a "normal" and "respectable" job. I still had not fully allowed myself to think of "psychic" as a Real Job. But when my friend pointed out that $300/hour IS a "Real Job" according to The Market, I couldn't argue with that. I began looking into higher-paying venues and got a contract with a psychic company that waives their fees (so you get 100% commission) if you bring clients to them. I subsequently added a page to my website with the link to that company, and obtained advertising. That was last week. Tomorrow will be my first day of advertising. I feel really good about this.
Meanwhile, I was contacted by a local magazine that wants to feature my yoga studio and asked me to write an editorial for them! I haven't really been promoting the yoga anymore as a "business" because there's no money in it where I live; I only do it because it's my vocation, but I have to take time off of my other jobs in order to do so. It was nearly impossible to schedule for students with the medical job, but now that I am focusing on the psychic line/s I will have more freedom to schedule classes if and when any more students do show up.
Many thanks to all my friends whose encouragement has helped me in this process!
-
Wow, Radharani!!
What turnarounds you experience on your journey! This last post seems very positive and I really hope that you'll be able to do what you love and do something that you feel good with and that also pays.
Much Love and hope you have a good outcome with the psychic business. Please continue updating [:)] [3][3][3]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Yonatan
Wow, Radharani!!
What turnarounds you experience on your journey! This last post seems very positive and I really hope that you'll be able to do what you love and do something that you feel good with and that also pays.
Much Love and hope you have a good outcome with the psychic business. Please continue updating [:)] [3][3][3]
Thanks so much, Yonatan!
Today I had my first call on the higher-paying psychic line, went very well, she gave me a 5-star rating and booked another appointment. This client found me through a simple Google search.
Interestingly, I've gotten ZERO return on my advertising investments, so decided to drop the paid ads for a while...
The psychic work still does not pay enough to make a living, BUT I really feel GOOD about it and enjoy it so much! (in stark contrast to the medical work). I love my clients and it really doesn't seem like "work."
thx again for your encouragement! [3] [/\]
-
That's really great Radharani, continued growing success [:)]
Love
-
Well, here is my latest update:
The higher-paying psychic line, where I was #1 on their list (!) went belly-up about a month after I signed on. Meanwhile, the other famous-but-low-paying line, where I am on page one, apparently was either sold or farmed-out to another company, and the calls have been getting sparse since then. I've had a few clients on my private line but not nearly enough to make a living, and all of my advertising attempts have failed to generate any business. The online counseling service in India that I work for, which had seemed very promising, has also been extremely slow; I've only had a few calls in the last 6 months.
As a result, I made the difficult decision to return to medical work - IF I can find anything. I won't be able to do transcription because my typing skill has deteriorated and they only pay about minimum wage at best these days. I applied for a number of medical editing and writing jobs over the last few days and have not received so much as an acknowledgement that they got my resume'. I have been looking into medical records review jobs, only to discover that 90% of them are now in India (along with many of the transcription jobs since around the year 2000). The 10% that remain here in the U.S. require you to be a nurse (which makes NO sense, for reasons I can explain if anybody is interested).
In desperation, I even looked at jobs here locally although given my health it's really not a feasible option. I was not able to find anything that I would be qualified to do that paid more than minimum wage.
So, now I am getting ready to put my house on the market again. I had tried selling it a couple of years ago; it was on the market for over a year, without a single offer. At the time I had tenants with a vicious dog, the house was full of fleas and they had painted the walls a horrible dark brown color, making the house extremely unattractive. I have since repainted and it looks gorgeous, although the landscaping is a complete mess so there is lots of work to be done...
If I manage to sell the house I will be able to get out of debt and do the necessary repairs on the aging trailer so I can live there. I don't mind living in a trailer. I will keep the "dining room" and back half of the "living room" open for my yoga studio. I am only teaching private lessons these days, and that area has more than enough space for me and one or two students to do asana.
If I can't sell the house... well, I don't even want to think about that because I have no other options. Everything is totally in God's hands. From the material standpoint, my life is an abject failure. Although it is a depressing situation, at the same time it is liberating in a strange way. I am not this ego. I am not this body. I "own" nothing because everything belongs to God. If He wants to take it all away, that is up to Him. My yoga practice is very sweet. [3] I wouldn't trade my inner spiritual life for all the wealth and success in the world. [/\]
-
Blessings to you Radharani! It is like samyama in your every day life! I pray the buyers come in droves, drawn by your sheer spiritual presence!
My home was on the market three years (2008-2011) by three different realtors with over 80 years of experience and without a single offer. I was planning to buy my mother's home so she could downsize and I was holding her up. I gave myself the summer to sell it myself or back out. By giving my best effort and putting the outcome in God's hands, the perfect buyers materialized two months later.
Here's to wishing you the same fate! [3][3][3]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Radharani
Although it is a depressing situation, at the same time it is liberating in a strange way.
Dear Radharani,
Thank you so much for sharing this difficult situation. You are not a failure at all. I don't know the outcome of divine grace and human frailty (and we all have that), but this must be a gift. Personally, I can relate, as I am facing some potentially serious health issues, poor work performance, and strained friendships. Also, I seem to have a severe lack of perspective on many things.
My only suggestion is to keep moving forward with love in your heart.
Please let me share an annotation that I just read. I've had the book for over a year (a gift from my old professor, who translated it), but it alone just fell off the bookshelf today, face up. I read the comment just before finding your post. The book is called, Simone Weil's The Illiad or the Poem of Force: A Critical Edition. Weil was a French philosopher who wrote during WWII. In 1938, she had a mystical experience, of which she later wrote:
quote:
From Simone Weil's The Illiad or the Poem of Force: A Critical Edition
In this sudden possession of me by Christ, neither my senses nor my imagination had any part; I only felt in the midst of my suffering the presence of love, like that which one can read on the smile of a beloved face.... I had never foreseen the possibility of... a real contact, person to person, here below, between a human being and God. (p. 12)
All love to you, and prayers coming your way [/\]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Dogboy
Blessings to you Radharani! It is like samyama in your every day life! I pray the buyers come in droves, drawn by your sheer spiritual presence!
My home was on the market three years (2008-2011) by three different realtors with over 80 years of experience and without a single offer. I was planning to buy my mother's home so she could downsize and I was holding her up. I gave myself the summer to sell it myself or back out. By giving my best effort and putting the outcome in God's hands, the perfect buyers materialized two months later.
Here's to wishing you the same fate! [3][3][3]
wow, Dogboy, that is certainly encouraging! thx. [3]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Anima Deorum
quote:
Originally posted by Radharani
Although it is a depressing situation, at the same time it is liberating in a strange way.
Dear Radharani,
Thank you so much for sharing this difficult situation. You are not a failure at all. I don't know the outcome of divine grace and human frailty (and we all have that), but this must be a gift. Personally, I can relate, as I am facing some potentially serious health issues, poor work performance, and strained friendships. Also, I seem to have a severe lack of perspective on many things.
My only suggestion is to keep moving forward with love in your heart.
Please let me share an annotation that I just read. I've had the book for over a year (a gift from my old professor, who translated it), but it alone just fell off the bookshelf today, face up. I read the comment just before finding your post. The book is called, Simone Weil's The Illiad or the Poem of Force: A Critical Edition. Weil was a French philosopher who wrote during WWII. In 1938, she had a mystical experience, of which she later wrote:
quote:
From Simone Weil's The Illiad or the Poem of Force: A Critical Edition
In this sudden possession of me by Christ, neither my senses nor my imagination had any part; I only felt in the midst of my suffering the presence of love, like that which one can read on the smile of a beloved face.... I had never foreseen the possibility of... a real contact, person to person, here below, between a human being and God. (p. 12)
All love to you, and prayers coming your way [/\]
Dear Anima,
thx! I said my life is a failure from the material standpoint. There can be no denying that. But I'd far rather have it this way, than the reverse. That quote from Simone Weil is really sweet! [3]
-
Dear Radharani,
Thank you so much for sharing your story, there has been a very meaningful message in it for me. The way you've taken these difficulties in stride with such devotion and surrender to God first and foremost is really amazing, a lesson really. Your spiritual wealth outshines a pile of gold any day. [/\]
Wishing you the best. May you prosper and be relieved of your material burdens. [3]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Chaz
Dear Radharani,
Thank you so much for sharing your story, there has been a very meaningful message in it for me. The way you've taken these difficulties in stride with such devotion and surrender to God first and foremost is really amazing, a lesson really. Your spiritual wealth outshines a pile of gold any day. [/\]
Wishing you the best. May you prosper and be relieved of your material burdens. [3]
Dear Chaz, Anima and other friends,
THANK YOU for your kind words of encouragement! I want to share the latest update:
After posting my resume' on a medical jobs site in search of an editor or records position, I was aggressively pursued by one of the top medical transcription companies in America. They are a great company and only hire the elite among transcribers, so I was quite flattered by their attention and agreed to go through their stringent application process. They offered me a position but on careful reflection, I turned it down, simply because my typing skill has deteriorated to the point that I would not be able to keep up with the job and/or make enough $$ doing it. But I was honored that they offered! No other medical jobs that would be doable and/or pay enough have manifested, and that's fine because frankly I don't like mainstream medicine anymore and I'm actually kind of relieved... [:)]
Meanwhile, the psychic work has picked up quite a bit, AND I have been offered a contract with one of the biggest, best, most famous companies in existence! I had applied with them in the past but was told at that time, "we don't have any openings." I contacted them again a month or two ago and they put me through a very prolonged, intense application process, and have now invited me to be part of their team starting in about a month! So I plan to keep my other psychic job part-time and do this one part-time, as well as my occasional private clients.
The hours are flexible and the job is really ideal for my situation, working from home. I enjoy my "psychic" work very much and love my clients! The money could be better but it is improving, and I am extremely grateful to have a job that I love. Today, for example, I had a client who was spiritually seeking and wanted to know God, and I told her God loves her and encouraged her to meditate, and she was thrilled. [3]
I had applied to Vocational Rehab in the hope that they might be able to train me to do something more lucrative at home (like maybe IT?), but after interviewing me, they said actually they feel that the psychic job is perfect for my situation and encouraged me to stick with it! They said since I am already successfully working (albeit not making enough $$) there was really nothing more they could offer, as the purpose of Voc Rehab is to help a person get ANY kind of job.
I'm still drowning in debt. Decided not to sell the house after learning that it has lost nearly half of its value since it was built in 2008. Instead, my husband and I have renovated the trailer (subsequent to throwing out my rebellious step-son) and we are offering it for rent. The ad just went on Craig's list yesterday, and we are looking forward to the universe sending the right tenant/s our way.`
I continue to teach private yoga students from time to time. I am only taking the serious students who want the deeper aspects of yoga.
Through it all, there persists the infinite Love of God and the Bliss that is independent of external circumstances. On the rare occasions that I get out in public, like to the grocery store and hardware stores during the recent renovation process, I'm just blown away by the Love pouring through me. I feel so much Love for every person I meet, and I know they can feel it, and it's delightful interacting with people. Everybody is my dear friend, and I enjoy conversing with total strangers at the store about wine or produce or whatever. Feeling really blessed! [/\] [3]
-
quote:
Through it all, there persists the infinite Love of God and the Bliss that is independent of external circumstances. On the rare occasions that I get out in public, like to the grocery store and hardware stores during the recent renovation process, I'm just blown away by the Love pouring through me. I feel so much Love for every person I meet, and I know they can feel it, and it's delightful interacting with people. Everybody is my dear friend, and I enjoy conversing with total strangers at the store about wine or produce or whatever. Feeling really blessed!
My father, rest in peace, was always at ease chatting up and engaging strangers. As a youngster (way back when) this was a source of embarrassment and frustration for me, which only encouraged him I believe! Now in my fifties and a father, and well along 'my path', I have become my father! Interacting with humanity provides a huge boost for my being and always keeps him close in my heart.
-
quote:
Originally posted by Dogboy
quote:
Through it all, there persists the infinite Love of God and the Bliss that is independent of external circumstances. On the rare occasions that I get out in public, like to the grocery store and hardware stores during the recent renovation process, I'm just blown away by the Love pouring through me. I feel so much Love for every person I meet, and I know they can feel it, and it's delightful interacting with people. Everybody is my dear friend, and I enjoy conversing with total strangers at the store about wine or produce or whatever. Feeling really blessed!
My father, rest in peace, was always at ease chatting up and engaging strangers. As a youngster (way back when) this was a source of embarrassment and frustration for me, which only encouraged him I believe! Now in my fifties and a father, and well along 'my path', I have become my father! Interacting with humanity provides a huge boost for my being and always keeps him close in my heart.
My mother, RIP, was the same way! and yes, as a child I found it embarrassing. [:)]
-
Hi Radharani,
It's really good to hear you are doing well, staying busy, and enjoying your time and practices.
PS: My dad was the biggest "BSer" with people. His digressions are the stuff of legend [:)]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Anima Deorum
Hi Radharani,
It's really good to hear you are doing well, staying busy, and enjoying your time and practices.
PS: My dad was the biggest "BSer" with people. His digressions are the stuff of legend [:)]
thanks! hey, great news (you probably already heard it on FB, but for those who didn't): We have rented the trailer to a very nice family! They offered to pay me in cash, $100 more than asked per month, to make sure that they would get it. So this will be a HUGE help to us financially, in addition to my new gig with the Very Famous Psychic Company. Looks like our prayers are answered. thx, everyone, for all your encouragement! [3]
-
[:)]
-
Hi Radharani,
[/\] God is good. I'm very happy things are going well for you and the financial situation has improved. It's awesome to hear that you got a gig with such a reputable psychic company, you're certainly cut out for the work. [;)] It's really a great way to help people, maybe nonconventional but still a great service nonetheless. I have no doubt you'll be a trusted go to for many. [:)]
Much love!
Chaz
-
quote:
Originally posted by Chaz
Hi Radharani,
[/\] God is good. I'm very happy things are going well for you and the financial situation has improved. It's awesome to hear that you got a gig with such a reputable psychic company, you're certainly cut out for the work. [;)] It's really a great way to help people, maybe nonconventional but still a great service nonetheless. I have no doubt you'll be a trusted go to for many. [:)]
Much love!
Chaz
Thanks so much for your kind words, Chaz! I really appreciate your encouragement. See below, as the saga continues. Lots of Love,
Radharani
-
Latest update, for your amusement:
I was thrilled to get the contract with the Very Famous Psychic Company. They offered me a competitive rate (slightly more than I am making now) and a VERY generous sign-on bonus after the first 90 days! BUT, there has been a delay; I was supposed to start in mid October, but then they informed me that the call volume has not grown as much as they had hoped and they won't have an opening for me to actually go online until December.
The next day, my tenant informed me that she had lost her job because her boss suddenly left town to care for a relative in another state and will be gone until at least December, if not longer. She only had 3 days' notice! Fortunately she found another job last Friday, but she won't be paid for another week, so I will have to rob Peter to pay Paul in order to pay the mortgage, but that's ok, Peter and Paul are very used to it, as we've been doing this for the last couple of years.
My husband, meanwhile, is doing his best to prevent his intestines from escaping his abdomen due to the inguinal hernia he acquired when he got hurt at his previous job (construction) where he was not covered by Workers' Compensation or any kind of health insurance, and he is unable to get help from anybody. He will have to hang in there until January when he becomes eligible for Obamacare so he can get the necessary surgery. The hernia fortunately has not prevented our tantric yoga practice. His new job as a chef is going well, but they can only give him 4 days a week.
So, like many Americans, we continue to literally drown in debt. While I remain consciously aware of the urgency of the situation and that yes, it really IS "bad," I can't seem to get very worked up or appropriately worried about it the way I would have years ago. We're already doing everything we can possibly do and, as my mother used to say, "worrying won't help." There remains through it all this incredible fountain of Love and Bliss flowing up inside regardless of the external circumstances. We are thankful for what we have, for as long as it may last, and everything is in God's hands. [/\]
-
Good to hear of your happiness... I'm hoping things go well with your husband's operation.
It does rest with God, yes [8D]
[3]
-
quote:
she found another job last Friday, but she won't be paid for another week, so I will have to rob Peter to pay Paul in order to pay the mortgage, but that's ok, Peter and Paul are very used to it, as we've been doing this for the last couple of years.
I just used the "Peter/Paul" saying yesterday for the first time in a generation; it's practically synchronicity to see it here in print!
quote:
While I remain consciously aware of the urgency of the situation and that yes, it really IS "bad," I can't seem to get very worked up or appropriately worried about it the way I would have years ago. We're already doing everything we can possibly do and, as my mother used to say, "worrying won't help." There remains through it all this incredible fountain of Love and Bliss flowing up inside regardless of the external circumstances. We are thankful for what we have, for as long as it may last, and everything is in God's hands.
Ah, the lessons of our parents bubbling up as an subterranean spring...dear Radharani stay just as you are, purring like a well fed kitten. I will keep you and your husband in my heart and my samyama![3]
-
Thank you, my dear friends! I am so very grateful for the wonderful sangha that we have here. Much Love to you!! [3] [/\]
-
[/\] Radharani. Keeping you and yours in my prayers (aka samyama [:D]).
-
WOW. I am totally blown away and humbled. A person whom apparently I met here at AYP, although I cannot find their name in the Members list, has sent a very generous donation which will enable me to re-pay "Peter" [credit], whom I robbed to pay "Paul" [mortgage] for November, and also make the December payment on Lothlorien House! It couldn't have been more timely, as "Peter" needed to be paid back TOMORROW, and my new job won't start until some time in December. again, wow. At first I was reluctant to accept the gift, but then this kind benefactor pointed out, "Who is the Giver? and Who is the Receiver? Is it not the Hand of the Lord in all these?" true... My sincerest thanks to the Giver. [/\] [3]
-
update: Today I FINALLY began my new job with the Very Famous Psychic Company which can't be named for contractual reasons, yay! My first day has gone extremely well, the call volume is good, and it's just in the nick of time to be able to pay the mortgage next month. Oh, BTW, did I mention: My wonderful tenants haven't been able to pay rent since losing their job in mid-October. They also haven't been able to clean for some reason. So now the trailer is completely trashed again, even WORSE than it was when the teenage stepson lived there! hard to believe. and I have asked them to move out by the 1st. I am thinking about selling that part of the property because of the geological instability and sinkholes... Meanwhile, my husband got "Obamacare" and should be able to have his surgery next month. Very thankful for all our blessings!
-
Keep on smiling "As The World Turns"...happy holidays to you! [:)]
-
quote:
Originally posted by Dogboy
Keep on smiling "As The World Turns"...happy holidays to you! [:)]
Same to you, dear! [:)]
I am working on the new psychic line again today and it is going great. I can't even believe how many calls I am getting! SOOO thankful.
-
Dogboy, "As The World Turns," indeed! So here is the latest amazing episode: As mentioned above, my new job is going GREAT! I mean, certainly I would rather be a practicing psychologist for $100+/hour than reading Tarot cards for about $15/hour, but since that is not possible due to state licensing restrictions, I am very happy to have this opportunity to use my psychology education to help people. And, in our little impoverished redneck area, $15 is actually considered quite good; most of the jobs here are minimum-wage, so again I am VERY thankful! Plus I won't have to commute into town.
However, in the few months that passed after I was given the contract, prior to the position actually opening up, we had fallen deeper into debt, in part because our tenant had lost her job and couldn't pay rent. I really did NOT want to throw her and her adorable little son out on the street during the holidays, but I desperately needed income from the trailer - whether to rent out, or to sell, but either way I couldn't really afford to have them living there for free. I had told them they needed to be out by the 1st. Well, the same day I began my new job, Dec. 23, my tenant also found a great new job! But, it didn't actually start until this week. So we are both working towards our first month's paycheck. Meanwhile the tenant had lost her car insurance due to nonpayment and subsequently her driver's license as a result. She was driving home the other day and her car suddenly conked out just a few blocks away; a policeman stopped to help her push the car over to the side. He was almost ready to drive off when he came back and said, "I see that your license is suspended due to lack of insurance?" She burst into tears and he said, "Well technically I should take you down to the station, but since you are having such a hard time with your car being broken down and everything, I will let you go, but you MUST get your insurance a.s.a.p.!" Thank goodness he let her off! But now she has to purchase new insurance AND pay for car repairs - which will probably take her first paycheck.
Now, my husband FINALLY has health insurance ("Obamacare"), thank God, and he saw the surgeon today. The surgeon said the hernia he acquired at work but which was not covered by Workers' Compensation due to a loophole in FL law, is now life-threatening and he needs surgery immediately. He said, "You waited too long!" but my husband explained that he didn't have insurance previously so he could not do anything about it until now. The surgeon scheduled him for surgery next Monday! (It's unusual to get a surgical appointment that quickly.) Husband will be off work for at least a week, probably two.
So, we find ourselves still in an untenable financial situation for at least another month, especially with the ongoing repairs to the trailer and continued attempts to pacify the sinkhole before it swallows the trailer and other parts of the property. Well, when I got the mail today I had received another very generous donation from the same person who helped us a couple of months ago! This will definitely offset the lack of income from the tenant and husband's surgery. Just in the nick of time, once again! Wow. I am so humbled with gratitude at this person's kindness and generosity, not only in helping us to meet our immediate needs, but also, more importantly, to be able to keep the studio open for yoga students. I am looking forward to teaching again in the near future. We will use part of the donation to "tithe," i.e. contribute to charities that we support when we are able, such as the local homeless shelter. Very, very grateful indeed!
-
Wow! Thoughts, prayers, samyama coming your way!
-
So touched by your post Radharani. It's wonderful to hear of kindness and generosity, yours to your tenants, as well as your donor's charity.
I'm sending love and prayers your way too [3][/\]
-
Sounds like things are truckin' along!
[3]
-
[/\]
Sey
-
quick update: Need to be "quick" because my new job is going GREAT and the calls have been virtually non-stop! Today I am being "Featured" (special promotion) for the second time and I haven't even been there 90 days yet. Last week I came within one hour of reaching the threshold of talk-time required for a raise, and I hope to be there soon. Like I said above, I'd rather make a living in my profession, but since that's not possible, this is a great alternative and I am now actually making WAY more money doing this, than I could at a "real job" in town! I am SO thankful. Now today, as much as I love my job, I'm actually looking forward to being DONE for the night because my throat is getting sore and voice is wearing out. I have tomorrow and Monday off and plan to do some gardening. Thanks again to all my friends for your encouragement!! [3] [/\]
-
[:)]
-
[3] [/\]
-
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Jul 24 2015 : 01:46:19 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Well my dear friends, I have not been on this forum much for quite some time, and for a good reason: My job/contract with the Famous Psychic Line has been VERY busy! Since it began last December, I've received several promotions and raises, and to my great surprise and humble amazement, have quickly risen to near the top of the list and have so many clients calling that I barely have time to take a break to pee in between calls. I am truly blown away by this unexpected success. It's hard to believe, at age 52, I can FINALLY say, "I LOVE my job!" something I always thought was darn near impossible. It's almost too good to be true. I love the company, I love my clients, and I feel really good about being able to help them. I set my own schedule so I can still teach yoga on the side. And the icing on the cake is that with the raises I am now actually making pretty good money, especially relative to the jobs available in this little town.
The only problem now is I have to figure out a way to pay my taxes, being an independent contractor - I had not anticipated the huge jump in percentage when you go from "poverty level" to "just barely middle class" (which is, nonetheless, a lot of money to me!). It is ironic because now I can finally pay the mortgage, but if I can't pay the taxes, the government will take my house anyway. "They get you coming and going." But, I don't want to get political here...
Anyway, I am SO grateful for this wonderful opportunity AND for all the support and encouragement from you, my dears! I don't think I would have had the courage to go for this position, to believe that I could do it, without your help. Thank God for the sangha.
Also of interest, and very pertinent to AYP, there is absolutely no question that the ability to successfully do my job as a "psychic" is enabled by my yoga practice. I've been extremely busy with renovations on the trailer subsequent to evicting the Tenants From Hell (Lucifer had thrown them out because they were too messy for hell, a horror story for another time!) and putting in lots of hours on the Psychic Line, as well as my vegetable garden, so I admit there have been days when I don't get to devote as much time as I'd like to my practice. While Divine Grace gets me through those days and allows me to fulfill my duty to the clients, the fact is I feel a huge difference in the energy, I lack confidence, and it's somewhat difficult and draining to do my job. Whereas, on the days that I do make time for my full yoga practice, I totally feel my oneness with the Source, get out of my own way and just be a clear channel for Divine Love and Wisdom to effortlessly flow through me to the clients. So even though it sometimes feels a bit "indulgent" to enjoy a nice long ecstatic yoga session, in reality it is necessary and beneficial to my ability to help others. Funny how that works, huh?!
So I don't have time to be on here much, but will try to drop by from time to time, and regardless, I keep you guys always close to my heart! And you are always welcome to contact me by email any time. LOVE!
Go to Top of Page
yogani
USA
5145 Posts
Posted - Jul 24 2015 : 07:12:38 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit yogani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Go to Top of Page
Dogboy
USA
1547 Posts
Posted - Jul 24 2015 : 07:35:32 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Love you, Radharani, and so happy things have turned for the better! If you must work, there is nothing better than loving the job. Perhaps your tax situation will ease with an extra "Abundance" sutra (). As my practice has deepened, so has my belief in allowing and surrendering to "openness", yoga will assist in meeting all needs.
Go to Top of Page
jusmail
India
454 Posts
Posted - Jul 24 2015 : 07:57:51 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Blessings to you. Thanks for the update
Go to Top of Page
Beehive
USA
115 Posts
Posted - Jul 24 2015 : 6:24:26 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
I've loved following your story.... Thanks for sharing it! And I'm so happy for you!
Go to Top of Page
Bodhi Tree
2972 Posts
Posted - Jul 24 2015 : 7:02:08 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Bodhi Tree's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Keep on truckin', Radharani!
Go to Top of Page
Purohit
India
43 Posts
Posted - Jul 27 2015 : 12:22:14 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Dear Radharani,
NIce and refreshing to see your update as the first thing on a Monday Morning...
FILLS me with HOPE... as i too seek to claim " I LOVE MY JOB, MY WORK "
Amen..
Best Wishes..
Go to Top of Page
SeySorciere
Seychelles
1138 Posts
Posted - Jul 29 2015 : 04:21:27 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Doing a "I am overjoyed at your good news" dance
Sey
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Feb 06 2016 : 11:52:21 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Hello again my dears - well, it's been a little over 6 months since my last post, and now I will bring you the latest fascinating episode of this soap opera:
After the Tenants from Hell moved out, husband and I were busy at work on renovations to the trailer and made excellent progress. We had to remove garbage that covered the entire floor and all surfaces, kind of like on that "Hoarders" t.v. show except in this case it was "only" about a foot deep. The debris included large amounts of food waste, especially sweets, along with hypodermic needles and empty insulin vials in half-eaten boxes of cookies (tenant was type 1 diabetic, making the findings even more horrifying, and I suspect heroin as well). All the plates were covered w/ moldy food remnants and scattered throughout the home. Every surface in the kitchen was covered with maggots and the stench was unbelievable. While cleaning off the maggots I chanted japa (silently, or else the little flies hatching from the maggots would have flown into my mouth!) Also found a leaky pipe under the kitchen sink that apparently had been that way for months and nobody had bothered to tell me, leading to rotted wood and mold. In addition, there was a bedbug infestation. I'd never seen them before; what was this, a sort of tick? Had to look it up online. Upon closer investigation, the bed was so heavily infested that it had to be taken to the dump, and the bugs had spread throughout the trailer. It was an incredible challenge to get rid of them, and several people actually advised us that arson might be our best option... Cleaning and debugging the trailer was a truly Herculean task akin to the Augean stables, but we prevailed! By the end of the summer we had mostly restored the trailer to its former beauty and were ready to move in. The plan was for us to live there, while keeping the house as a yoga studio and retreat center. The floor of the master bath still needed to be replaced (that part was not rented out; we'd been using the master suite for storage), but since it would hold my weight we figured it was not urgent and could wait until we had more money for major repairs. So, by fall we moved in and were quite happy there. I got the house ready for yoga students and had several retreat guests lined up!
But, then I started getting progressively sicker. At first I assumed it was just a CFIDS relapse, to be expected after all the exertions of the renovation while trying to keep up with my job and the vegetable garden. But even with rest, I kept getting worse. Husband also complained of a cough and respiratory problems but as he is a heavy smoker, hard to tell. Then one night our cat was looking up at the ceiling fan meowing at a black rope-like thing hanging off one of the fan blades. We had so many other things to clean that I'd neglected the fan up until that point. The blades were covered in a fuzzy black substance - not ordinary "dust." Then I noticed the ceiling was also covered with the substance, especially near the HVAC intake, and I began to cough and sneeze convulsively, eyes burning, throat tightening. WTF?! It suddenly dawned on me: Black Mold! It explained the aggravation of my immune deficiency and all the other symptoms we'd been having. Unable to determine the origin of the Mold, and couldn't afford professional analysis and intervention, we had to move out. There was no alternative. We had to move into the yoga studio/ retreat center!
Meanwhile we had the worst plague of insects in memory which devoured 90% of our crops despite using all manner of natural, unnatural and toxic remedies including help from our many reptile and amphibian friends. And the sinkhole has progressed closer to the trailer, perhaps a moot point since it was now uninhabitable. Additional pretty but worrisome springs and streams came up on the property. Upon studying sinkholes on the internet, I learned some fascinating information; more below.
We moved into the house/yoga studio with all our animals and it soon became apparent that I could not teach yoga here because it would never be clean enough for students to lie on the floor unless I took lots of time off from my regular job to clean, in which case I couldn't pay the bills. Thought about trying to sell the parcel w/ the trailer on it to pay off my debts, but now with the sinkholes and Black Mold, that would not be possible (or even legal). After speaking with several debt counselors and attorneys, I finally decided to file for bankruptcy. This was a very good exercise in humility and ego detachment which took me a while to process. Once I'd agreed to take the attorneys' advice and began the filing process, a banking error turned up which required that I must wait a year to file bankruptcy! (The bank had for some reason shown me as a "joint owner" of my father's accounts, which I was not.) So as there was nothing further I could do, I left the matter in God's hands, hoping I would not be sued before the year had passed, and turned my attention to my work - my wonderful job as Spiritual Advisor for the Famous Psychic Company, which was now full-time, quite busy and demanding, and very rewarding! I would not be able to do this work were it not for the siddhis that come with a lifetime of yoga practice and exist for the purpose of helping others.
Meanwhile the rain, which had been unusually heavy since 2013 when the sinkholes began appearing, continued to come down and they grew, with new springs and streams bubbling up. Husband said it looked like the ground was sinking (technically, I learned, "subsiding") although it's difficult to tell without objective measurements, like probably satellite telemetry. I did some research and learned about the fascinating terrain of our property, which includes limestone "cliffs" and areas resembling the Grand Canyon on a smaller scale, with springs and streams. I never knew Florida had cliffs. Turns out, it does not; our "cliffs" are the side of an old sinkhole! The property, like much of Florida, has a substrate of limestone caverns and underground streams, which causes the surface of the land to collapse when the water table rises or falls substantially. The water table here is just about 3-8 feet below the surface, hence the shallow sinkholes that had been forming and the lovely clear springs rising to the surface in low spots and flowing down to the creek which borders the property sloping down on 3 sides. So basically, from what I have learned, the entire property is geologically unstable and the ground could open up under us at any moment and swallow everything up! It could take a century or it could be tomorrow. Certainly there has been significant progression since I moved here in 2001 and especially since 2013. I designed and built the house to be hurricane proof, with 10-inch thick cement walls and a propane generator. Wouldn't it be ironic if it fell into a sinkhole instead?!
It very well might, and there isn't a damn thing I can do about it. I don't really know how to "worry" anymore but it would do no good in any event. It's all in God's hands. If we are to be swallowed up by a sinkhole, so be it. I am more concerned about not having a place to teach yoga, but I suppose this will work out somehow. Maybe we can find other living arrangements in another year or so after the bankruptcy is done and we get back on our feet financially. Until then, I am sending potential students to the HOY free video series on YouTube and to AYP Lessons and advising them to practice at home, and call or email me with any questions.
And so the ordinary, or even extraordinary, drama of life goes on and everything is ok even when it isn't. It simply is what it is. Meanwhile as the Sufi saying goes, we just "do what needs to be done." Dig ditches, shovel crushed concrete, mend fences, reinforce the barn floor, haul buckets of water in there for the horses on cold nights, etc. Soon we will plant our spring vegetable garden in the hope of getting a crop before the summer insect onslaught. All the while, thanks to yoga, we rest in God's Love and Bliss in the center of the heart which remains the constant Reality amidst the movie.
Edited by - Radharani on Feb 06 2016 11:57:46 PM
Go to Top of Page
Ecdyonurus
Switzerland
479 Posts
Posted - Feb 07 2016 : 04:03:31 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Hi Radharani, nice to read you again! Your experience resonates with me because I am also having some special troubles in my life, and through yoga I feel/know somehow that everything is allright although by society standards one coild think that life is hard on me. Wish you all the best.
Go to Top of Page
Bodhi Tree
2972 Posts
Posted - Feb 07 2016 : 07:03:11 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Bodhi Tree's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
After reading your account of sinkholes, maggots, mold, etc., there is a sutra in the Samyama book appendix that comes to mind...it's "elements"...which results in "mastery over the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and inner space), enabling manipulation of all matter." In addition to the core set of sutras, I've been throwing it in the mix, and having some success. You may find it beneficial as well.
Keep on truckin', Radha.
Go to Top of Page
Dogboy
USA
1547 Posts
Posted - Feb 07 2016 : 2:09:35 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Oh Rahadrani, so sorry to hear of your misadventures. Your attitude is admirable and I hope the Universe provides for you and your spouse
Go to Top of Page
BlueRaincoat
United Kingdom
1462 Posts
Posted - Feb 07 2016 : 2:20:25 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Wow Rahadrani, what a saga! It seems to me you are passing this test with with flying colours
Go to Top of Page
sunyata
USA
1386 Posts
Posted - Feb 08 2016 : 11:02:15 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
That's a lot going on Radharani. Hope things get better soon. It's so true Yoga shows us the beauty in imperfection.
Edited by - sunyata on Feb 08 2016 11:03:20 AM
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Feb 08 2016 : 5:32:07 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by Ecdyonurus
Hi Radharani, nice to read you again! Your experience resonates with me because I am also having some special troubles in my life, and through yoga I feel/know somehow that everything is allright although by society standards one coild think that life is hard on me. Wish you all the best.
I'm right there with you, friend!
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Feb 08 2016 : 5:49:39 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by Bodhi Tree
After reading your account of sinkholes, maggots, mold, etc., there is a sutra in the Samyama book appendix that comes to mind...it's "elements"...which results in "mastery over the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and inner space), enabling manipulation of all matter." In addition to the core set of sutras, I've been throwing it in the mix, and having some success. You may find it beneficial as well.
Keep on truckin', Radha.
well Bodhi, I've never had any success w/ "manipulating" the natural world, other than my friendship with all living creatures including the wild and "dangerous" ones. In my youth I did put a lot of energy into trying to do that (material manifestation) over many years, without results, and more recently as well. But here's the thing - it's just Nature. When I bought this property I didn't know it was geologically unstable and sitting on top of underground caverns and streams. Water levels are rising in various parts of the world, including Florida, due to changing weather patterns. I may be cynical, but I don't think meditation/ samyama is going to fix that. Also from a philosophical or spiritual perspective, just how much energy should we put into mentally manipulating the elements? The maggots required simply cleaning by hand, no problem. The Mold legally would require professional treatment, as the State does not recognize samyama. Call me lazy, but I think I'd rather do what can practically be done (which isn't a whole hell of a lot) and then leave things in God's hands. I feel that focusing my energies on trying to change the external world to go against what Nature is doing would be a full-time job and also a step backwards spiritually. but, to each their own. If it "works" for you, go for it.
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Feb 08 2016 : 5:57:08 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Thanks Ecdyonorus, Bodhi, Dogboy, BlueRaincoat and Sunyata! Appreciate your kind thoughts. Everything will work out one way or another, or else maybe it won't, and that's ok too. Our needs are being met for the most part. My only real unsatisfied desire at this point is to have a place to teach yoga but I believe something will eventually become available. Meanwhile I suppose it's not an emergency. This little town is overflowing with yoga studios.
Edited by - Radharani on Feb 08 2016 5:59:11 PM
Go to Top of Page
Ecdyonurus
Switzerland
479 Posts
Posted - Feb 09 2016 : 12:24:42 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
You still are teaching yoga, Radharani - by writing such great posts about the art of surrender. Thank you.
Go to Top of Page
Bodhi Tree
2972 Posts
Posted - Feb 09 2016 : 12:54:48 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Bodhi Tree's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by Radharani
...the State does not recognize samyama.
Ain't that a shame? Don't worry, we'll infiltrate the Legislature in due time and re-write the laws to accommodate the reality of stillness in action via the release of sutras into silence. I worked for the Florida House of Representatives for a little while. It can be done.
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Feb 12 2016 : 8:56:34 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by Ecdyonurus
You still are teaching yoga, Radharani - by writing such great posts about the art of surrender. Thank you.
wow, thank you so much for pointing that out! very helpful.
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Feb 12 2016 : 8:57:55 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by Bodhi Tree
quote:
Originally posted by Radharani
...the State does not recognize samyama.
Ain't that a shame? Don't worry, we'll infiltrate the Legislature in due time and re-write the laws to accommodate the reality of stillness in action via the release of sutras into silence. I worked for the Florida House of Representatives for a little while. It can be done.
LOL! LOVE it! yes, please do.
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 : 03:03:52 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Cannot believe it's been over a year since I last posted here! Been super busy with work and lots of other "interesting" stuff. Funny, the title of this thread is "making peace with the psychic job," but the actual outcome has been way more than "peace." With the exception of the high taxes (contractor position, not employee), this has turned out to be an actual DREAM JOB! As you may recall, my original career plan had been to work as a counselor with my Psychology M.A., but that plan was derailed due to licensing changes that made it illegal for me to practice my profession.
I then switched gears and went into medicine, became a Medical Language Specialist, which got really OLD after 22 years, especially since I was working mostly in Oncology and the pay had dropped so much over the years that it wasn't worth the aggravation. I had opened my yoga studio but couldn't make a living teaching out here in the boondocks. I enrolled in a Medical Coding Certification program in order to make use of my prior experience and education based on advertising stating the job pays upwards of $40,000, which as it turns out, was untrue. I was about halfway through the program when I learned from people working in the field that they were lucky to make $10/hour, if that, and decided to cut my losses and drop out.
Meanwhile I had my resume' online hoping to find a job as a medical writer or editor. I was contacted by the Most Prestigious Medical Transcription Company in the U.S. who pursued me aggressively for months, but it was for a transcription position. Because I was flattered (they only hire the best of the best), I went ahead and took their entrance exam, which I aced. Then they pursued me even harder, but ultimately I rejected their offer, because it would mean being stuck in another low-paying, soul-sucking, dead-end job that I despised. My friends said I was crazy for rejecting the offer when I desperately needed a job, but my heart just wasn't in it. I wanted to make a decent income doing something halfway enjoyable. And it turned out to be the BEST decision!
Shortly after that I got a contract working as a Spiritual Advisor with the Very Famous Psychic Company on TV and, as stated previously in this thread, it has been AWESOME! The management is so incredibly NICE that it's hard to believe they are real humans. My clients are the best, most wonderful and interesting people including scientists, engineers, doctors, diplomats, military intelligence, celebrities, etc., really fun to talk to. I have ultimately realized that I actually enjoy this job MORE than Psychology, with its focus on pathology/ dysfunction and trying to "fix" people and make them fit into "normal" functional roles in society, whereas being a Spiritual Advisor is helping people gain deeper insight and grow spiritually through their life experiences. Since beginning this job I've received several promotions, the most recent of which I hope will finally enable me to pay all my bills and taxes. I'm now being paid nearly as much as I would have as a Psychologist.
And that's a good thing, because - I am bankrupt! Oh, it's been fun. I began the process in 2015 and then my attorney went out of business shortly after my last post here in February of 2016, taking my $1000 retainer payment with him. The State Bar says I am unlikely to get any money back. I had to find a new attorney and start all over with the payments. My new attorney is wonderful and has a great reputation, got an award for "Most Ethical Attorney" (is that an oxymoron, like "excellent airplane food," LOL?! no offense to any attorneys who may be reading this). My court date is this coming Friday and then hopefully it will all be settled. whew!
And then I will have to turn to my next legal case, namely, Eminent Domain. The State has informed me they are taking part of my land to widen the freeway and also to install a huge gas supply pipeline. This will require bulldozing of the strip of forest that serves as the only "buffer" between the property and the freeway, including the Sacred Grove which is a beautiful, magical healing place beside a waterfall where I used to meditate a lot. The State is supposed to pay me for the land, but attorney says they will try to condemn it instead based on the sinkholes, the uninhabitable trailer with Black Mold, and other concerns around the property.
Over the last couple of years my husband has gained and lost a couple of jobs and had an EEOC lawsuit with the last one, which he lost. Employers here in FL can fire you for nearly any reason or no reason at all. He has been unemployed since fall of 2016 and is in the process of applying for Disability on the basis of ASD (Autism Spectrum) which has interfered with his ability to get or keep a decent job his entire life.
So like I said, it's all quite "interesting"! And what does this have to do with yoga? A LOT, actually!
Between work and handling our various lawsuits, meetings with attorneys and tons of paperwork, and trying to keep up with taking care of the property including the veggie garden, it's been hard to find time to do my complete yoga practice. But I need to MAKE TIME because I've found that when I scrimp on my practice, things don't go as well, whereas when I give myself that extra half an hour or so to indulge in the Ecstasy, it improves my work and everything else. It helps me to be much more present as a channel of Blessing for my clients, and really IS worth putting the time into it even when things are hectic and there aren't enough hours in a day.
The other aspect of this in reference to yoga is that if the universe had handed me all this "stuff" prior to the Reality Shift that happened several years back thanks to a lifelong yoga practice, I would NOT have been able to handle it. As it is, the situation is certainly stressful and exhausting, but at the same time I am able to step back and find it amusing in a twisted way on some level, like a Monty Python movie.
I must say I find it quite amusing that so many people call me for advice when my own life is a freaking train wreck, LOL! But that's because I'm helping them on a deeper level that goes beyond material concerns, allowing us to better deal with life's endless worldly drama. The traffic noise is loud enough already even before the cutting down of the forest and expansion of the highway. But when I sit in meditation all the noise, like the drama, just flows right on by. It doesn't stick, and can't touch the silent Bliss in the depths.
Every day when I wake up I put my life in God's hands and pray that I may be a clear channel for Blessings of Love, Light, Peace, Grace and Holy Wisdom to flow to my clients and the world. And by God's grace and yoga, somehow it happens.
Will try to stop by here more when I get a chance. LOVE to all my friends here.
Go to Top of Page
jusmail
India
454 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 : 06:49:01 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Welcome back. We need you as much as you do us. Blessings to you
Go to Top of Page
Dogboy
USA
1547 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 : 8:48:06 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Wow, Rad, your practice truly is bearing fruit, with your witness into Monty Python and all ! Thanks for the update, you sound marvelous!
Go to Top of Page
lalow33
USA
929 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 : 9:02:53 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
There is another member with chronic fatigue. I can't remember who but was asking questions about it. Hopefully, he or she will see this post.
Good luck, Radharani. We are rooting for you.
Go to Top of Page
Bodhi Tree
2972 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 : 10:25:23 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Bodhi Tree's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Radha! Keepin' it real. Love it.
Your writing is superb. Seriously. Congrats on your ongoing success with the psychic company. Your clientele sound fascinating. Glad you are helping them navigate their life. They're in good hands.
Thank you for the thorough update, and keep shining.
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Jun 08 2017 : 11:17:17 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Thx so much, my dears! LOVE you guys. Will try to drop by here more often.
Go to Top of Page
dv2014
USA
91 Posts
Posted - Jun 11 2017 : 10:09:19 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Always nice to read your posts. Happy to learn that your new job is going great. In fact I am tempted to get consultation from you :-) You must be an excellent counselor.
Love to you and your husband. Wishing you luck in sorting out all legal issues.
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Aug 03 2017 : 02:22:42 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by dv2014
Always nice to read your posts. Happy to learn that your new job is going great. In fact I am tempted to get consultation from you :-) You must be an excellent counselor.
Love to you and your husband. Wishing you luck in sorting out all legal issues.
aw, thx!
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Aug 03 2017 : 02:29:30 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Latest update: Bankruptcy hearing went much more smoothly than anticipated, thx to my excellent attorney! what a relief.
You know, I've been saying all along that I can't teach yoga here in the house now that we are living here, myself, husband and all our animals. Just could not keep it clean enough, especially the floor. Also I really couldn't afford to take the time off my regular job to clean and teach, because I'd be losing $$ and I owe the IRS too much. Well, that may be changing!
A dear friend gifted me with a Bissell machine that vacuums and steam cleans the floor at the same time! It is truly amazing and will decrease the time required to get the floor clean enough for people to lie on. Also, I got a big raise at my counseling job so I may be able to set aside at least one day a week to teach yoga. Yay! I've really missed teaching.
Go to Top of Page
Charliedog
1528 Posts
Posted - Aug 03 2017 : 03:34:23 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Charliedog's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Good for you Radharani, happy teaching
Go to Top of Page
Dogboy
USA
1547 Posts
Posted - Aug 03 2017 : 06:10:53 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Go to Top of Page
BlueRaincoat
United Kingdom
1462 Posts
Posted - Aug 03 2017 : 07:14:10 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Great news Radharani.
Good luck with the teaching project!
Bodhi Tree
2972 Posts
Posted - Aug 03 2017 : 1:43:52 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Bodhi Tree's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Right on. You got this.
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Aug 04 2017 : 04:41:35 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
thx friends, I appreciate your support and encouragement!
Go to Top of Page
SeySorciere
Seychelles
1138 Posts
Posted - Aug 04 2017 : 07:23:54 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
You are amazing!
Sey
Go to Top of Page
sunyata
USA
1386 Posts
Posted - Aug 04 2017 : 08:08:14 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Happy to be hear the good news, Radharani!
Abundance, Love, Unity.
Go to Top of Page
Chard
239 Posts
Posted - Aug 04 2017 : 12:25:13 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Hi Radharani! Thanks for being so transparent here on the forum! I haven't read the whole thread in detail but I got the gist of bankrupcy and financial struggle. I can wholeheartedly identify with financial struggle.
I thought I would share what I have found a most helpful financial resource which is Dave Ramsey's work which I try my best to implement into my own life and its made SUCH a difference! My husband and I both have irregular incomes and I was pleased to see how Dave's monthly budget form can be used seamlessly in cases of both regular and irregular income. He also talks about bankrupcy and he, himself, has been experienced that. He has a wonderful 9 week Financial Peace University program. FYI, He is a born-again Christian and very Bible oriented (take it or leave it). What I love about his work is that he weaves the practicalities of handling money (in a very simple manner) into the realm of spirituality. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uygdUWoGFEI Plus he has a great sense of humor which I love!! I him!! He's kind of like Yogani- he keeps his concepts simple, user-friendly and has refreshing sense of humor!
Thanks for sharing! Blessings to you Radharani!
C
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Aug 11 2017 : 05:12:33 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by Chard
Hi Radharani! Thanks for being so transparent here on the forum! I haven't read the whole thread in detail but I got the gist of bankrupcy and financial struggle. I can wholeheartedly identify with financial struggle.
I thought I would share what I have found a most helpful financial resource which is Dave Ramsey's work which I try my best to implement into my own life and its made SUCH a difference! My husband and I both have irregular incomes and I was pleased to see how Dave's monthly budget form can be used seamlessly in cases of both regular and irregular income. He also talks about bankrupcy and he, himself, has been experienced that. He has a wonderful 9 week Financial Peace University program. FYI, He is a born-again Christian and very Bible oriented (take it or leave it). What I love about his work is that he weaves the practicalities of handling money (in a very simple manner) into the realm of spirituality. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uygdUWoGFEI Plus he has a great sense of humor which I love!! I him!! He's kind of like Yogani- he keeps his concepts simple, user-friendly and has refreshing sense of humor!
Thanks for sharing! Blessings to you Radharani!
C
Dear Chard,
Thx for your kind words! "Transparent" is how I prefer to be.
While we're being blatantly honest, re: that Ramsey video you linked, he does seem like a nice guy, but as someone who has worked hard and lived very simply my whole life, frankly it's hard for me to respect a guy who was a millionaire and managed to go broke 4 years later. I am very confident I could live off of a million $ for well more than 4 years.
In any event, Ramsey's program wouldn't have been helpful in our situation. For one thing, every penny I'd saved went to the IRS, so I couldn't do steps #1, 3 and 4. Ramsey's step #6 refers to "extra money," what is that? LOL. Thankfully, my mortgage was very nearly paid off. Step #2, the "snowball method," requires that you make extra payments to pay down one credit card, while continuing to pay the minimum on the other cards, which was not possible. Therefore the debt counselors at NFCC (https://www.nfcc.org/about-us/) and all the attorneys whom I consulted said that bankruptcy was really my only viable option.
The problem with financial self-help programs from advisors like Ramsey or my favorite, Suze Orman, is that if we had "extra money" to save and pay down credit cards or mortgage, we wouldn't be in the situation in the first place. Their premise is that we have an adequate income but are just making bad choices, spending our money unwisely and/or don't know how to do a budget, which was not my problem. I'm actually good at math, budgeting and money management. I already lived a simple life and had taken all the usual steps as far as cutting back on unnecessary expenses, etc., and it wasn't enough.
In order for it to work, your income minus your outgo needs to be a positive number. As financial advisor David Weliver (https://www.moneyunder30.com/get-out-of-debt-on-your-own) states: "If you want to get out of debt by yourself, you need to earn enough money to survive AND enough money to pay down your debts." Exactly! Thank you, Captain Obvious.
My problem was simply lack of sufficient income due to chronic illness and inability to work a regular job, while paying "self employed" taxes and at the same time trying to support my common-law husband and his children and keep a roof over our heads for the last 12 years. My mother warned me not to fall in love with a poor man, but I didn't listen. The one fatal financial decision on my part was becoming domestic partners, which although spiritually fulfilling, turned out to be a very bad choice from the material standpoint. I never would have asked him to move in, had I known then what I know now. Isn't hindsight wonderful?! LOL.
And despite a lifetime of yoga practice, I never did master the "pulling $$ out of your ass-ana." If I ever do, I will certainly share the technique here, as I'm sure many people would find it very helpful!
Although I will be losing $$ when I start teaching yoga again in the near future, I consider it a contribution to charity and part of my dharma. Thx again for your input, and blessings to you!
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Aug 11 2017 : 05:35:07 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Preparing to re-open the studio (in the house where we now live!) next month. I am getting excited even about the little things, e.g. the new entry mat and shoe rack by the front door, very cheap (and tax deductible!), courtesy of Ross Store. Husband finally got a weed whacker working after more than a year of trying. This is important so that students won't have to navigate through ass-high weeds as they walk from their car to the house.
Also we have a new outdoor yoga area! I enjoy sweating like a pig doing yoga on the little one-person tiled platform he built for me and wished I had a deck or someplace where I could offer "hot yoga" during the Florida 90+ degree and 100% humidity summer, or "pleasant yoga" during the winter, to students. The sandy area out in the pasture would be ok were it not for the fire ants. Well, I decided to cover the big 16 x 50' raised garden bed w/ black plastic and go back to growing veggies in containers, due to the poor soil quality and aggressive weeds, and it suddenly dawned on me while looking at it from my little yoga platform: That would be a great outdoor space for yoga! The ground under the plastic is soft and would be safer than the tile floor inside the house for more adventurous poses like headstand, handstand, etc. yay!
Yesterday I got a call from a prospective new student and also an invitation to renew one of my ads, very good timing. It's all coming together. BTW, in case anybody needs yoga teacher liability insurance, I recently got a policy with Lockton Insurance through IICT (http://IICT), International Institute for Complementary Therapists, at a great price. What I like about Lockton is that it covers all the different aspects of my work including not only teaching yoga and pilates, but also holistic wellness and spiritual counseling, tarot/ psychic readings and crystal healing.
Will keep you guys posted. Thx again for all your love and support.
Edited by - Radharani on Aug 11 2017 06:26:51 AM
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Aug 11 2017 : 05:58:47 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
oh and btw, I don't recall if I said this before (if so, please disregard) but - bankruptcy is a great way to humble the ego and reduce attachment to material things and worldly status.
Go to Top of Page
Chard
239 Posts
Posted - Aug 11 2017 : 5:05:30 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Hi Radharani! First of all, how funny! "Pulling $$ out of your ass-ana!" it! I shall use that line!
Thank you for your response and yes it makes sense...not so much how to handle money but more of an issue of underearning... I can just say, keep sharing here...Clarity and answers will come in time. sending you love and support, C
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Aug 16 2017 : 01:34:31 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
quote:
Originally posted by Chard
Hi Radharani! First of all, how funny! "Pulling $$ out of your ass-ana!" it! I shall use that line!
Thank you for your response and yes it makes sense...not so much how to handle money but more of an issue of underearning... I can just say, keep sharing here...Clarity and answers will come in time. sending you love and support, C
thx!
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Nov 25 2017 : 12:53:08 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Well friends, I have some potential good news: As I think I mentioned previously, the State had informed me that they were going to take part of my land, the part w/ the creek, the Sacred Grove, and the forest, to widen the highway and to install a huge gas supply pipeline. I received a letter stating that they were going to send out surveyors, and I called to find out when they were coming so I could meet w/ them to determine the property boundary and where I could plant new trees to replace the strip of forest that they are going to bulldoze to install the pipeline.
The chief engineer on the project looked up my address and said, "Looks like your property won't be affected." ?! I asked, "Are you sure? I keep getting these letters." She said, "Well the highway expansion will not actually touch your property line; it's on the other side of the railroad." "Yes, but what about the gas pipeline?" She replied, "Oh - ok, don't take this as gospel truth because it's not 100% for sure yet, but I think they are planning to put the pipeline somewhere else." I told her that would be a great idea, especially since the proposed location on my property is sensitive wetland, geologically unstable and riddled with sinkholes. She thanked me for that information, agreed with me, and made a note to the file. Yay!
Still not able to teach yoga here, though. My full-time job with the Famous Psychic Company has become kind of fickle due to some policy changes which benefit the company but lower the call volume for the contractors (Advisors). So right now I don't make enough to be able to take time off my regular job to clean house sufficiently and teach yoga. Meanwhile we are still doing some renovations. Hopefully in the New Year. We shall see.
btw, I am still accepting private counseling clients. Feel free to email me.
Happy Holidays to everyone!
Go to Top of Page
Radharani
USA
843 Posts
Posted - Nov 28 2017 : 11:39:39 PM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Radharani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
and more good news: My next door neighbor wants yoga for herself and her daughter! So if I can get time off my regular job, all I will need to do is walk over there and teach at their house, rather than having to frantically prepare our home for students. It will be nice to teach again!
Go to Top of Page
Chard
239 Posts
Posted - Nov 29 2017 : 12:30:16 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Thanks Radharani for updating us :) seems like things look promising. Wishing you the best in your endeavors in the new year. We are rooting for u hereC
Go to Top of Page
Dogboy
USA
1547 Posts
Posted - Nov 29 2017 : 11:55:58 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Go to Top of Page
lalow33
USA
929 Posts
Posted - Aug 01 2018 : 8:37:57 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Hi everyone,
I just found out that Jamie passed away. Thought you all might want to know.
Go to Top of Page
jusmail
India
454 Posts
Posted - Aug 02 2018 : 12:09:54 AM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Really shocking! May her soul rest in peace
Go to Top of Page
Charliedog
1528 Posts
Posted - Aug 02 2018 : 02:15:36 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit Charliedog's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Go to Top of Page
yogani
USA
5145 Posts
Posted - Aug 02 2018 : 11:21:56 AM Show Profile Email Poster Visit yogani's Homepage Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Go to Top of Page
Dogboy
USA
1547 Posts
Posted - Aug 02 2018 : 4:56:44 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply
Go to Top of Page
sunyata
USA
1386 Posts
Posted - Aug 02 2018 : 4:58:29 PM Show Profile Email Poster Edit Reply Reply with Quote View user's IP address Get a Link to this Reply Delete Reply