A guy called Jamie was someone I had a relationship with for a number of years. I met him many years ago. It was his intention to withdraw from a spiritual community that he had been a member of for the last five years. Until I met him, I had no interest in becoming a part of this organization. Sometimes, when I was at a bookshop and I reached out to touch a book authored by their leader, my gut instinct would tell me that it was not what I needed. This individual was important to me, and because of that, I wanted to travel to the neighborhood and investigate it. Watching a video of the leader delivering a speech was something that we did while we were there. As she talked, I felt a tremendous amount of strength and energy emanating from the television. The video was emitting this tremendous charge of force as it was being played! After thirty-five years of experience in the field of massage therapy, I have come to the realization that I am a highly kinestetic person. Energy is something that I “feel” with my hands as well as throughout my being. To clarify, “energy” (Chi, Ki, Prana, or Orgone) is not the same thing as “WuWu,” but rather the life force that is responsible for keeping us alive. As time went on, I saw Jamie’s effort to quit the group, which he was attempting unsuccessfully. Because of his choice, he was subjected to humiliation and harassment by other members of the organization. It began to seem to me that he was a member of a cult. A fan of classical music, Jamie was a fan of both. His father was the owner of hundreds of recordings of classical music. The practice of repeatedly and rapidly repeating positive affirmations was a component of the philosophy that the organization adhered to. There was no longer any discernible difference between the terms of the affirmations. The sound was described by Jamie as being similar to a “buzz saw.” Not only were the concepts admirable, but they were also highly captivating. I received the impression that he had been subjected to mind control. He was in excruciating pain over his choice, and the other members of the group were verbally assaulting him on a regular basis. I had a lot of questioning. This woman’s video had given me the impression that she had an unbelievable amount of “power.” At the time, I was participating in Tai Chi lessons on a weekly basis, which are often referred to as “moving meditation.” I discussed my predicament with my Tai Chi instructor. “You sense her strength because she is powerful,” she stated on the other hand. Would you say that she is putting her authority to good or ill use? This was the explanation that I was looking for. It is possible for a great leader to be charismatic and seem to be all-powerful, similar to an individual like Jim Jones, Hitler, or Charlie Manson. Assuming that their spiritual leader is endowed with power by the Great Spirit is a common misconception among followers of spiritual leaders. When you ask yourself if they are utilizing their authority to do good things or wicked actions, you are taking a step toward exercising discernment. The messages that we take in from TV and movies are being altered in order to fit the agendas of those in positions of power. There are subliminal messages that have been inserted into the things that we encounter on a daily basis. The messages that are being sent to us are not those that we have sent ourselves. The “spin” that is being offered pertains to the interpretation that some individuals would want you to think. There is an ancient proverb that states, “Just because you are very paranoid does not imply that they are not chasing you.” Not everything is what it seems to be. People who have power are notorious for deceiving the general public. You can discern where others are coming from by making use of the intuitive capacity that God has given you. Take a look at their creations with your own eyes. Their works are what have made them famous. ©2017 Happy C. Battles, Inc. Biography of the Author: Merry C. Battles is the author and artist of the book “Christmas Meditations on the Twelve Holy Days December 26 – January 6.” This book is the culmination of her 26-year meditation journey with the 12 holy days of Christmas. As we go through the zodiac signs throughout the year, her book may be used throughout the whole year. Since 1976, Merry has been employed in the field of Healing Arts. The art of massage, cellulite massage, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Reiki, CranioSacral Therapy, and foot reflexology are all techniques that she has mastered through her work. Merry is an LMT in the state of Florida who offers continuing education courses. All individuals are welcome to enroll in her introductory classes in Jin Shin Jyutsu. The book written by Merry is available for purchase on both authorhouse.com and amazon.com. You may get autographed copies by visiting the website www.merrybattles.com. In addition, I am giving you a free ebook on my website since I believe that every day of the year is Christmas. Send Merry an email at the following address: merry@merrybattles.com Merry C. Battles Battles Copyright 2017