The Dangers of Online Dating: Scams, Red Flags, and How to Stay Safe - Rachel Devine

Online dating has become increasingly popular over the last decade, with a growing number of people relying on the internet to find love or meet new people. However, we will explore the dangers of online dating that users need to be aware of. This article will explore online dating scams, red flags to look out for, and online dating tips to stay safe. We will also examine the pros and cons of online dating, as well as its success rates for different age groups. Is online dating worth it? This article will answer this question along with most online dating questions most people have. So, let’s dive right into it.

I. Dating Scams

One of the major dangers of online dating is falling victim to scams. Scammers often create fake profiles to lure unsuspecting users into giving them money or personal information. Some common online dating scams include:

1. Romance scams: Scammers pretend to be interested in a romantic relationship to gain the victim's trust and ultimately ask for money or personal information.

2. Catfishing: Scammers create a fake online persona to manipulate and deceive people into emotional or romantic relationships.

3. Phishing: Scammers use fake profiles to send messages with links to malicious websites that try to collect your personal information.

4. Scammers: A scammer will gain your trust, hook you emotionally with a lot of romantic talk, and then create a scenario where they are stranded somewhere and in need of money. Scammers typically ask you to send them an i-tunes or google gift card and ask for the numbers on the back.

5. Email fraud: If someone immediately wants your email, don’t give it to them. They can hack your email and take over your account. They will usually say, it’s more convenient to email. You are on a dating site and that communication is a lot safer than giving your email out.

II. Dating Red Flags

To avoid falling victim to scams or manipulative people, it's important to be aware of red flags when dating online. Some warning signs include:

1. The person's profile is too good to be true or lacks personal information. Or they are oil diggers, engineers or overseas on a job. Scammers are typically widowed with a child or two.

2. They ask for money or personal information too quickly.

3. They avoid meeting in person or video calls.

4. They express strong feelings for you very early in the relationship.

5. They have poor grammar and spelling, which may indicate a scammer from a non-English speaking country.

6. If you do talk on the phone, usually a scammer will have a foreign accent.

7. If you get the scammers phone number and do an online search and it doesn’t come up with any

   name, chances are it’s a google phone number that is not traceable.

III. Dating Tips to Stay Safe

1. Protect your personal information: Don't share your full name, address, or phone number until you feel comfortable with the person. If you get their phone number, call back with a private number, by dialing *67 before your number. To get the last callers number use *69.

2. Use a reputable dating site or app with robust security features.

3. Research your match: Look for them on social media or use a reverse image search to verify their identity. If you put their photo on google, you might get some information on that person.

4. Meet in public places for the first few dates and tell a friend or family member where you're going.

5. Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it's better to be cautious. Your instincts are always right.

   IV. Dating Sites that may be safer:

   1. eHarmony: eHarmony uses a comprehensive personality test to match users and employs a dedicated team to monitor and remove suspicious profiles. Although the pool of daters is very small on eHarmony.

   2. Match.com: Match.com has a robust reporting system and employs a team of moderators to review reported profiles and take appropriate action. Although I have come across scammers on this site.

   3. Bumble: Bumble requires users to verify their profile with a photo, and it allows only women to initiate contact with matches, which can help reduce the risk of scams.

   4. Hinge: Hinge encourages users to share more personal information through its prompts, which can help weed out fake profiles. It also has a reporting system for suspicious accounts.

   5. EliteSingles: EliteSingles uses a detailed personality test and manual profile verification to ensure its users are genuine and serious about finding a relationship.

   Some platforms have experimented with additional verification methods, such as using a driver's license or other government-issued identification, to confirm the user's identity. However, these methods are not yet widespread due to privacy concerns and potential legal issues.

   While no dating site can guarantee complete protection from scammers, using platforms with strict security measures and being vigilant about potential red flags can help you have a safer online

V. Is Online Dating Worth It?

Pros:

1. Access to a larger pool of potential partners.

2. Ability to connect with people who share similar interests and values.

3. Convenient and efficient way to meet new people.

4. Allows people with limited social circles to find potential partners.

Cons:

1. Risk of encountering scams and manipulative people.

2. Profiles may not accurately represent the person.

3. Can lead to superficial connections based on appearance.

4. Time-consuming and potentially addictive.

VI. Success Rates of Online Dating

Some hopeful information is the success rate of online dating:

1. People under 40: Online dating tends to be more successful for younger people, as they are more likely to be tech-savvy and open to meeting people online. Research has shown that approximately 40% of couples aged 18-39 met online in recent years.

2. People over 40: While online dating can be successful for those over 40, it may be more challenging due to a smaller pool of potential matches and possible technological barriers. However, studies have found that around 20% of couples aged 40 and older met online, suggesting that it can still be an effective way to find love for this age group.

VII. Free Dating Sites:

Free dating sites are infested with scammers. It is difficult to provide a precise percentage of scammers on Plenty of Fish (POF) or any other dating site, as this information is typically not publicly available and can change over time. The number of scammers on a dating platform can vary depending on factors such as the site's user base, security measures, and overall popularity.

As a free dating site, POF may attract a higher number of scammers than paid platforms with stricter verification processes. However, POF has implemented security measures, such as photo verification and automated systems to detect suspicious behavior, to combat scammers.

To minimize your risk of encountering scammers on POF or any other dating platform, it's important to be vigilant and follow safe online dating practices. Be cautious about sharing personal information, be wary of profiles that seem too good to be true, and report any suspicious behavior to the platform's moderators.

Keep in mind that no dating site can completely eliminate the risk of encountering scammers, but being aware of potential red flags and using reputable platforms can help you have a safer online dating experience.

One terrible example of online dating scam is this story. Deborah Montgomery Johnson was a widow, looking for new love after the death of her husband. She logged onto a dating site, then fell head over heels for an international man of mystery and was tricked into sending him north of a million dollars.

She thought the new boyfriend was British, a world traveler, a Christian of great integrity. Turned out, "he" was never real and a team of computer savvy Nigerians was pulling her strings the whole time.

In conclusion, online dating can be a valuable tool for meeting new people, but it's important to be aware of the potential dangers and red flags associated with it. By following safety tips and using reputable platforms, users can reduce their risk and enjoy a more positive online dating experience. A

Rachel Devine is the author of Lesson from the Needle in a Haystack & The Third Road.

Rachel’s online course, How to Attract your Soulmate, gives extensive details on attracting the person of your dreams.

Dating After 60: Navigating the World of Romance

While dating after 60 may seem daunting, it is becoming increasingly common as life expectancy increases and societal views on relationships evolve. This in-depth article will discuss the success rate of online dating after 60, the barriers and benefits of dating at this stage of life, and how to make it easier to connect with someone. We'll also share some heartwarming examples of people who found love after 60. Please note, your chances of finding love at 60 can be just as high as being 40, with a positive attitude and knowledge. Falling in love at 60 is possible.

Success Rate of Online Dating After 60

Online dating for individuals aged 65 and older has a significantly lower success rate than for younger age groups, with only 4% finding a long-term partner or spouse. However, 13% of this demographic have tried online dating, indicating that there is still interest in finding love later in life. Specialized dating platforms, such as OurTime and SilverSingles, cater to this age group and may increase the likelihood of finding a compatible match.

Barriers to Dating After 60

1. Smaller social circles: As people age, their social circles often shrink due to retirement, relocation, or the passing of friends and loved ones. This may limit opportunities to meet new people.

2. Health and mobility issues: Aging can bring health challenges and decreased mobility, which can make it difficult to attend social events or engage in activities where one might meet potential partners.

3. Emotional baggage: Many older individuals have experienced the loss of a partner, divorce, or other significant life events, which may create emotional barriers to starting new relationships.

4. Ageism and stereotypes: Society often holds ageist beliefs and stereotypes about older adults, which can discourage them from pursuing romantic relationships.

5. Technological barriers: Some individuals aged 60 and over may feel less comfortable using technology, including online dating platforms, which can hinder their ability to connect with potential partners.

Benefits of Dating After 60

1. Greater self-awareness: With age comes wisdom and a better understanding of oneself, making it easier to know what one wants in a relationship.

2. Emotional maturity: Older individuals often have greater emotional maturity and better communication skills, which can lead to more stable and fulfilling relationships.

3. Financial stability: Many older adults have achieved financial stability, allowing them to focus on finding a partner without the stress of financial concerns.

4. Focus on companionship: Older adults may be more interested in companionship and emotional support, which can lead to more genuine connections.

5. Greater appreciation for time: Older individuals often have a greater appreciation for the time they have left, leading them to prioritize meaningful relationships and experiences.

How to Make It Easier to Connect with Someone After 60

1. Be open to new experiences: Attend social events, join clubs or organizations, and engage in activities that interest you to increase your chances of meeting like-minded people.

2. Embrace technology: Learn how to use online dating platforms, and consider reaching out to friends or family for assistance if needed.

3. Be honest and authentic: When creating an online dating profile, share genuine information about yourself and your interests to attract compatible matches.

4. Practice patience and persistence: Understand that finding a compatible partner may take time, and don't be discouraged by setbacks or rejection.

5. Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your experiences and gain encouragement.

6. Become active at your place of worship or even start a singles group there for support.

7. You can try a meetup group online for singles in your age group.

8. Try speed dating. Do a search online to find one near you.

9. Consider traveling with a singles group in your age range.

   Examples of People Who Found Love After 60

1. Susan and Richard: Both widowed, Susan and Richard met through an online dating platform. They bonded over their shared love of travel and eventually married in a small ceremony surrounded by close friends and family.

2. Carol and Paul: Carol, 62, and Paul, 65, met at a dance class. After dating for several months, they took the plunge and got married.

3. A friend of mine was in his late 60’s when he met the woman of his dreams on, OurTime, and they have been happily married for almost 10 years.

   In conclusion, don’t give up on love at any age. My philosophy is if it is meant to be you will connect with somone to fall in love with. Just go with the flow, keep all options open, and move forward with a positive and happy attitude.

4. Rachel Devine is the author of, Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack & The Third Road.

How to Attract Money

Attracting money can be a daunting task for many people, but it doesn't have to be. I will show you how to attract money by harnessing the power of affirmations, intention, visualization, and the law of attraction to manifest abundance and wealth into your life. With a little guidance you can attract money into your life. This is how to attract money using mind power.

Affirmations:

Affirmations are positive statements that we repeat to ourselves to reinforce positive beliefs and thoughts. By using affirmations, we can shift our focus from lack to abundance and attract more money into our lives. Examples of affirmations for attracting money include "I am worthy of abundance and prosperity," "Money flows to me easily and effortlessly," and "I am open to receiving wealth and prosperity." By repeating these affirmations regularly, we can program our subconscious mind to attract more money into our lives.

Power of Intention:

Intention is a powerful force that can help us attract money into our lives. By setting clear intentions and focusing on our desires, we can create a vibrational match for the abundance and wealth we seek. Examples of intentions for attracting money include "I intend to create wealth and abundance in my life," "I intend to attract financial opportunities that align with my values and purpose," and "I intend to use my money to make a positive impact in the world." By setting clear intentions and focusing our energy on our desires, we can attract the resources and opportunities we need to manifest abundance and wealth. Dr. Wayne Dyer has a book called, The Power of Intention, that I recommend for attracting anything into your life.

Power of Visualization:

Visualization is a technique that involves creating a mental image of the desired outcome. By visualizing ourselves as already having the abundance and wealth we desire, we can create a vibrational match for those desires and attract more money into our lives. Examples of visualization techniques for attracting money include creating a vision board with images of our desired outcomes, imagining ourselves receiving large sums of money, and visualizing ourselves living a life of abundance and financial freedom. By regularly visualizing our desired outcomes, we can program our subconscious mind to attract more money into our lives. It is especially effective if you visualize what you want before you fall asleep and resonate with the feelings of already having financial security.

Law of Attraction:

The law of attraction suggests that we attract into our lives whatever we focus on, whether positive or negative. By focusing on abundance and wealth, we can attract more money into our lives. Examples of using the law of attraction to attract money include practicing gratitude for the money we already have, focusing on the good in our lives, and surrounding ourselves with positive influences and experiences. By aligning our thoughts and emotions with abundance and wealth, we can attract more money into our lives and create the life of our dreams.

Examples of how these methods have worked for others:

Many successful entrepreneurs and business leaders attribute their success to the power of affirmations, intention, visualization, and the law of attraction. For example, Oprah Winfrey has spoken extensively about the power of intention and visualization in her success. She has shared that she regularly sets intentions for her goals and visualizes herself achieving them. Additionally, Jim Carrey has spoken about the power of visualization in his success. He famously wrote himself a $10 million check for "acting services rendered" before he had made it as an actor. Within a few years, he had earned $10 million for his role in Dumb and Dumber.

What authorities say about attracting money into our lives:

Many authorities in the personal development and spiritual communities speak about the power of attracting money into our lives. For example, Louise Hay, author of "You Can Heal Your Life," suggests that we can create abundance and prosperity in our lives by practicing gratitude, affirmations, and visualization. Esther Hicks, spiritual teacher and author, suggests that we can use the law of attraction to manifest anything we desire, including money and wealth. She encourages us to align our thoughts and emotions with our desires and trust that the universe will provide us with what we need.

In conclusion, attracting money into our lives is possible by using affirmations, power of intention, the power of visualization, the law of attraction, and putting the work behind the intention to attract money. All of these ways to manifest money are powerful, however, one must have a game plan to attract money into your life, in order to assure it will happen for you.

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

How to Achieve your Goals

Achieving your goals is a challenging but rewarding process that requires discipline, focus, and perseverance. Whether you want to succeed in business, sports, or life in general, there are proven strategies that can help you reach your desired outcome. In this article, we will explore specific examples of how to achieve your goals in business, sports, and life. Here are ways on how to achieve your goals.

Achieving Business Goals

1. Set Clear Goals: The first step in achieving your business goals is to set clear, specific, and measurable objectives. This will help you focus your efforts and track your progress. For example, if your goal is to increase your revenue by 20%, set a specific target and timeframe for achieving this goal.

2. Develop a Plan: Once you have identified your goals, develop a plan of action that outlines the steps you need to take to achieve them. This could include creating a marketing strategy, hiring new staff, or developing new products.

3. Prioritize Tasks: Prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. Focus on the most critical tasks first and allocate your time and resources accordingly.

4. Monitor Progress: Regularly monitor your progress to ensure that you are on track to achieve your goals. Make adjustments as necessary and seek feedback from others to improve your performance.

5. Celebrate Success: Celebrate your successes along the way, no matter how small they may seem. This will help you stay motivated and energized throughout the process.

Achieving Sports Goals

1. Identify Your Goals: To achieve your sports goals, you need to identify specific, measurable objectives. For example, if you want to improve your marathon time, set a target time and work towards achieving it.

2. Create a Training Plan: Develop a training plan that is tailored to your specific goals and needs. This could include endurance training, speed work, and strength training.

3. Track Progress: Regularly track your progress to see how far you have come and what you need to do to achieve your goals. This could include monitoring your times, distances, and other metrics.

4. Get Expert Advice: Seek advice from experts in your sport, such as coaches, trainers, and other athletes. They can provide valuable insights and help you improve your technique and performance.

5. Stay Motivated: Staying motivated is critical to achieving your sports goals. Set small, achievable milestones along the way and reward yourself when you reach them. Also, surround yourself with supportive people who encourage and inspire you.

Achieving Life Goals

1. Identify Your Values: To achieve your life goals, you need to start by identifying your values and priorities. What is most important to you, and what do you want to achieve in life?

2. Create a Vision: Develop a clear and compelling vision of what you want your life to look like. This could include your career, relationships, health, and personal development.

3. Set SMART Goals: Set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals that align with your vision. This will help you focus your efforts and track your progress.

4. Take Action: Take action towards your goals every day, no matter how small the steps may seem. This will help you build momentum and stay motivated.

5. Learn from Setbacks: Setbacks are a natural part of the process, but it's essential to learn from them and keep moving forward. Reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth and use them to refine your approach and strategy.

The last and most important thing is to visualize the outcome you want. Visualization can be an amazing asset in helping one achieve your goals. Just visualize what you want the outcome to be and resonate with those thoughts. Before you go to sleep at night, see yourself at the end of your goal and resonate with the feelings of acomplishment and success. Go to sleep with these thoughts and feelings of success. These thoughts will be in your subconscious thoughts for 8 hours. Positive visualization, along with the other steps, is a powerful way to help you achieve your goals.

In conclusion, achieving your goals requires discipline, focus, and perseverance. By following the strategies outlined in this article and adapting them to your specific situation, you can achieve your desired outcomes in business, sports, and life. Remember to set clear goals, develop a plan, track your progress, visualize what you want, and stay motivated. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve any goal you set your mind to.

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

Positive Visualization (step by step guide)

Positive visualization is a technique that involves creating mental images of desired outcomes and using those images to stimulate positive emotions and motivation. It is a powerful tool that has been used for centuries to help people achieve their goals and improve their lives. In this article, we will explore the origins of positive visualization, explain how to perform it step-by-step, give you positive visualization examples, explain how to do positive visualization meditations and examine the benefits of using positive visualization with statistics on its success. Positive Visualization techniques can help you achieve your goals and dreams.

Origins of Positive Visualization

The practice of positive visualization can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Egypt, where athletes would use mental imagery to enhance their performance. In the 19th century, the concept of visualization was popularized by the New Thought movement, which believed that thoughts and emotions could shape one's reality. Today, positive visualization is widely used in sports psychology, personal development, and spiritual practices.

How to Perform Positive Visualization

Positive visualization techniques can be performed in several ways, but here is a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Identify Your Goal: The first step is to identify what you want to achieve. This could be a specific goal, such as running a marathon or getting a promotion, or a more general desire, such as being happier or more confident.

2. Create a Mental Image: Once you have identified your goal, create a mental image of yourself achieving it. Visualize yourself in detail, using all your senses to make the image as vivid and real as possible. For example, if your goal is to run a marathon, imagine yourself crossing the finish line, feeling exhilarated, and hearing the cheers of the crowd.

3. Add Emotion: To make the visualization more powerful, add positive emotions to the image. Imagine how you will feel when you achieve your goal, such as joy, pride, or satisfaction. Focus on these feelings and let them intensify.

4. Repeat: Repeat the visualization regularly, ideally every day. The more you practice, the more effective it will be. You can also vary the image or add new elements to keep it fresh. Also, practice positive visualization before you fall asleep. You will be marinating with the visualization in your mind for 8 hours.

Benefits of Positive Visualization

Positive visualization has numerous benefits, including:

1. Increased Motivation: By visualizing yourself achieving your goals, you can increase your motivation and drive to succeed.

2. Reduced Anxiety: Visualization can help reduce anxiety by creating a positive mental state and reducing negative thoughts.

3. Improved Performance: Athletes and performers have used visualization to enhance their performance by mentally rehearsing their actions and reducing anxiety.

4. Better Health: Visualization has been linked to improved health outcomes, such as lower blood pressure and reduced stress.

5. Enhanced Creativity: Visualization can help tap into your creativity and generate new ideas and solutions.

Success of Positive Visualization

There is a growing body of research on the effectiveness of positive visualization. A study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that visualization improved the performance of basketball players, while a study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research found that positive visualization before surgery, reduced stress in patients. Another study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who visualized their goals were more likely to achieve them.

In conclusion, positive visualization is a powerful tool that can help you achieve your goals, reduce anxiety, improve your performance, and enhance your overall well-being. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article and practicing regularly, you can harness the power of visualization to create a brighter future for yourself.

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

Devine Intervention Website.

How to Manifest your Dreams

It’s important to reach our highest potential in life to give us meaning. We want to wake up each day and be happy about our dreams. You can manifest the life of your dreams. Manifesting your dreams and goals is not hard. Learning how to achieve your goals and dreams is important. It is part of everyone’s journey in life. Manifesting your dreams into reality will bring you fulfillment and much happiness. I will show you 5 steps on how to achieve your goals. You can achieve all your dreams with awareness and a little guidance.

You might ask yourself, what are my goals examples? Your goals might be to become healthy, lose weight, write a book, start a business, break an addiction, build a business, do volunteer work in a hospice, buy a house, find faith, meet your soulmate, run a marathon, etc. The first step is decide what your goal is. Whatever your goal or dreams are these 3 important questions can help.

Please write these questions down.

1.     Where are you right now with your goal?

2.     Where do you want to be with your goal in a year?

3.     What do you need to do NOW to achieve your goal?  

There are 5 steps that will help you manifest your dreams.

• Positive Affirmations

• Positive Visualization

• Written intention

• Prayer & Meditation

• Game plan

 Let’s dive right into each one.

1.  Positive Affirmations:

Positive affirmations are words and thoughts. The key is to strive to say as many positive affirmations as you can each day. It’s a way to undo negative thoughts that creep up on us from our past. A list of affirmations is designed to motivate us and put out good energy into God’s world and that energy will come back. I have affirmations posted on my refrigerator as a reminder to say them. On the other hand any negative words and thoughts will have the oppositive effect, so try to be mindful of your thoughts and if a negative thought enters your mind replace it with a positive one.

3. Positive Visualization:

There is a book called the power of positive thinking by Norman Vincent Peale. He was a pastor and an advocate for visualization. He has a ton of stories of how positive visualization works.  Simply closing your eyes before you go to sleep at night and visualizing what you want will help you resonate with those thoughts for 8 hours. The subconscious mind will pick it up. Again, we navigate in life with our subconscious mind, just as I did when I went to church after that faint prayer, so visualization is a powerful way to manifest our dreams. If you want to lose weight see yourself at that point where you lost weight. Visualize all aspects and remember to incorporate what you feel like with your success. The feelings count a lot in visualization. If you want to meet your soulmate, create that person in your mind as you fall asleep, see every aspect of that person and feel how that love is resonating for you. You can go back to a time in your life when you were totally in love and recreate those feelings in the visualization. Open your heart and feel that love and how it resonates for you. When you wake up in the morning, those wonderful positive thoughts will start your day off on the right foot.  

4.  Written intention:

A written intention is a mental state that represents a commitment to carrying out an action, or actions, for a future goal and is written out on what you want to obtain. It’s powerful beyond anyone’s imagination in helping us obtain our dreams.  Your written intention goes out into God’s vast universe and that energy does come back. Write out a letter of where you see yourself with your dream in a year. Put all the details into the letter, along with thoughts and feelings. Then put the letter away. You put your intention out there and now you will create a game plan.

4. Prayer & Meditation:

I believe in the power of prayer and meditation. Pray for what you want to manifest in your life. After all, God put that dream in your heart. Prayer is also putting positive energy into God’s ears. Meditation is getting quiet enough to hear God’s whisper within. That whisper within is your higher power speaking to you through intuition. The learn more about this power, my book, The Third Road will guide you.

5. Game plan:

Of course, you also have to have a game plan, a way to map out how you will achieve your goals and dreams. It’s important to really sit down and think about the road that will take you to a successful outcome. Look at how other people achieved their goals and try to learn from their road map.

Try to be grateful for everything you have, and everything you want. Do a gratitude list daily. Make a list of at least 5 things you were grateful for in that day. And also make a list of things you are grateful for that you want in life. Being grateful will bring more goodness into your life.

In closing, remember, you are never too old to have a dream. Louise Hay started a successful publishing company at the age of 58. Judi Dench, famous British actress didn’t achieve fame until she was over 60. At the age of 62 James Parkinson identified Parkinson’s disease. Getting older is like a fine wine, we get better as we age.

If you follow these steps you can manifest your dreams into reality.

Rachel Devine is the author of The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

Devine Intervention website has online courses, guides, books and more resources.

Create Your Future - Attract Money, Love & Success

Wouldn’t it be great if you could create the future of your dreams? It would be amazing to attract money, attract love and success. Well, what if I told you it is possible, using the law of attraction techniques and positive visualization, to create your future. The future is in your hands. You do have the power to attract money, attract love and success. Creating your future is a multifaceted process that involves a combination of mindset, action, and strategy. Here are some ways you can use the law of attraction and positive visualization to attract money, love and success into your life, which reaps happiness, and fulfillment.

1. Set clear and specific goals: Clearly define what you want to achieve in each area of your life, and set specific and measurable goals to work towards. This will help you focus your energy and efforts and create a sense of direction. It’s important to know exactly what you want so you can put that request out into the universe and attract it into your life.

2. Use positive visualization: Visualization is a powerful tool for manifesting your desires. Take time each day to visualize yourself already having achieved your goals, and imagine what it feels like to be successful, wealthy, loved, happy, and fulfilled. When you fall asleep at night, resonate with the feeling of being successful, or wealthy or having love in your life. The thoughts before bedtime marinate in your subconscious mind, which is the part of the brain that is the commander. We navigate with our subconscious mind, so filling it with positive visualizations at bedtime is priceless in obtaining what you want in life.

3. Law of Attraction: The law of attraction is a simple concept. The law of attraction is a philosophy suggesting that positive thoughts bring positive results into a person's life, while negative thoughts bring negative results. Putting out positive energy on a daily basis through affirmations and words is powerful. Just write out some affirmations and say them out loud daily as often as possible. This is the law of attraction technique to draw good and positive things into your life. Here are some affirmation examples:

   Money is constantly flowing into my life

   My income is constantly increasing

   I am in a loving soulful relationship

   Love flows into my life effortlessly

   My business is successful

   My website is flowing with traffic

4. Practice gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can help you attract more of what you want in your life. Take time each day to express gratitude for the things you already have and the progress you've made towards your goals. Also, be grateful for the things you see yourself having in the future and act as if they are already in your life. Being grateful for future goals is one of the keys to attracting them into your life.

5. Take inspired action: While visualization and positive thinking are essential, taking action is also crucial for creating your future. Take small, consistent steps towards your goals every day, and stay open to opportunities that come your way. Have a game-plan to make your dreams a reality and create the future you deserve.

6. Surround yourself with positivity: Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who encourage and uplift you. This can help you maintain a positive mindset and attract more positive experiences into your life. Negative people who complain all the time will bring you down. You want to be around friends and family that lift you up.

7. Let go of limiting beliefs: Often, limiting beliefs and negative self-talk can hold us back from achieving our goals. Identify and challenge these limiting beliefs and replace them with positive affirmations that support your vision for the future. Positive affirmations are essential to igniting the law of attraction into your life.

Remember, creating your future is a journey that requires time, patience, and persistence. By adopting a positive mindset and taking inspired action towards your goals, you can attract money, love, success, happiness, and fulfillment into your life.

Rachel Devine is the author of

The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack

Rachel is also a life coach

How to find my Purpose in Life Test

Finding a test to bring awareness to attributes that will help you decide what you want to do in life, or how to find your purpose, is priceless. It gives one a better understanding of who you are and what you want to do with your life. This is important at any age. You might ask yourself, what is my purpose in life test? The Carl Jung test is designed to help you discover what your purpose is in life. So let’s explore who Carl Jung was and a little about the Carl Jung typology test. The test will help you answer that age-old question, what is my purpose in life?

Carl Jung (1875-1961) was a Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who founded analytical psychology. He was a student of Sigmund Freud but eventually developed his own theories, emphasizing the importance of the unconscious mind and the role of spirituality and mysticism in human psychology. Jung's work focused on understanding the complex relationship between the individual and the collective unconscious, and how this relationship shapes our personalities, behaviors, and motivations.

One of Jung's most enduring contributions to psychology is his theory of personality types. According to Jung, every individual has a unique psychological makeup that can be classified into one of several broad categories. These categories are based on the ways in which we perceive the world and make decisions, and they are thought to be relatively stable throughout our lives.

Jung's typology is based on four main dimensions:

1. Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)

2. Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)

3. Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)

4. Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)

The first dimension, Extraversion vs. Introversion, refers to the source of an individual's energy. Extraverts tend to draw energy from social interactions and external stimuli, while introverts tend to find these things draining and prefer solitude or quieter activities.

The second dimension, Sensing vs. Intuition, refers to how we perceive information. Sensing types tend to rely on their five senses and prefer concrete, factual information, while intuitive types tend to rely on their instincts and prefer abstract, symbolic information.

The third dimension, Thinking vs. Feeling, refers to how we make decisions. Thinking types tend to rely on logic and objective criteria, while feeling types tend to rely on subjective values and emotions.

The fourth dimension, Judging vs. Perceiving, refers to how we approach life. Judging types tend to be structured, decisive, and prefer to have a plan, while perceiving types tend to be flexible, spontaneous, and open to new experiences.

By taking the Carl Jung typology test, you can discover your own personality type and gain insight into how your unique traits and tendencies might fit into your life's work. Understanding your personality type can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, as well as the types of tasks and activities that are most likely to be fulfilling and energizing for you.

For example, if you are an introverted, intuitive, feeling type, you might be drawn to creative pursuits like writing, music, or art. If you are an extraverted, sensing, thinking type, you might excel in more action-oriented fields like business, law, or sports.

Ultimately, the Carl Jung typology test can help you understand yourself better and make more informed decisions about your career, relationships, and life goals. By recognizing your own unique strengths and weaknesses, you can build a life that is more aligned with your values and passions, and ultimately, find greater happiness and fulfillment.

The link to Carl Jung typology test

Rachel Devine is the author of The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

Devine Intervention website

Rachel is available for coaching

Discover the Power of the Moment - Manifest your Dreams Retreat

A retreat is designed to help you recharge your life and to put focus on your dreams and goals. The benefits of a retreat are priceless, from inner peace and relaxation, to self-discovery, to spiritual growth, to a connection with nature, a chance to meet new friends to improved mental health. A retreat can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to improved overall mental well-being. We can move forward from the state of the world to one of a deep feeling of peace, support and purpose. Our lives become more meaningful, with purpose and clarity, as we navigate our lives in a more enhanced way. A retreat is also a way to step outside the box and do something different and adventurous in a safe environment, surrounded by people of like-mind. Please also keep in mind this is a spiritual affordable retreat.

With all that said, below are full details on a retreat I am directing the weekend of April 14-16 2023:

Our retreat will take place at Our Lady of Grace, that is centrally located in Manhasset 1.9 miles off the Long Island Expressway at exit 35.  

April 14-16 2023, Our Lady of Grace Retreat Center, 29 Shelter Rock Road,Manhasset NY 11030

Discover the Power of the Moment - Manifest your Dreams

This special retreat is designed to be relaxing, fun and enlightening, as we explore ways to manifest our dreams & goals. You will have plenty of free time to walk the beautiful, serene grounds, as we take in the spring season at this enchanting retreat house. This reflective journey is designed to help you discover the incredible power of the moment, which brings fulfillment & happiness. 

Weekend begins Friday at 6:30 p.m. and ends Sunday at 2:00 p.m. There will be 5 delicious meals, lodging for 2 nights and a program that includes a series of talks, a fun game night and an optional mass. Give yourself the gift of time. Full details on my website.

There are only 6 spots left.

Register here:

Devine Intervention website

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

Finding Purpose in Life after 50

For many people, turning 50 marks a significant milestone in our lives. Additionally, finding purpose as an empty nester is essential to creating a rewarding life. We usually have a lot more time on our hands at this stage of life. Life after 50 for a woman and life after 50 for a man can bring change and challenges. It’s a time when we may start to question our purpose and meaning in life, and wonder what the next chapter of our lives will look like. Finding purpose and meaning in life is rewarding. Finding purpose in work and hobbies is a fun challenge. Finding purpose in retirement is crucial to our state of mind. However, the good news is that finding purpose and fulfillment after 50 and in retirement is entirely possible, and can be a truly rewarding experience. Finding your passion and purpose is the key to a happier life. Here are some tips and examples to help you find your purpose in life after 50.

1. Explore Your Passions and Interests: One of the best ways to discover your purpose in life after 50 is to explore your passions and interests. What do you love doing? What brings you joy and fulfillment? It could be anything from volunteering, travel, writing, gardening, or even learning a new skill or language. Take the time to try new things and rediscover old hobbies. You may be surprised at what you enjoy, and it could lead to a new sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Example: Mary, a retired teacher, discovered a passion for painting after taking a community art class. She now spends most of her time creating art and selling her paintings online. Painting has given her a new sense of purpose and joy in her golden years.

2. Reflect on Your Values and Beliefs: Another way to discover your purpose in life is to reflect on your values and beliefs. What is important to you? What do you believe in? This could be anything from family, community, spirituality, or social justice. Think about how you can incorporate your values and beliefs into your daily life and find ways to make a positive impact.

Example: John, a retired engineer, discovered a passion for volunteering at his local soup kitchen. He realized that helping others was an important value for him, and he now spends several hours a week serving food and connecting with those in need. Volunteering has given him a new sense of purpose and fulfillment.

3. Connect with Others: One of the most important ways to find purpose and fulfillment in life after 50 is to connect with others. This could be through volunteering, joining a club or organization, or simply spending time with friends and family. Connecting with others can provide a sense of community and belonging, and can help you discover new interests and passions.

Example: Sarah, a retired nurse, joined a local hiking group and has made many new friends through the group. Hiking has become a new passion for her, and she now organizes hiking trips for the group. Being part of the hiking group has given her a new sense of purpose and connection in her golden years.

4. Embrace Change: Finally, it’s important to embrace change in your life after 50. This could be anything from moving to a new city, starting a new career, or simply trying something new. Change can be scary, but it can also be an opportunity for growth and discovery. Step outside the box and be adventurous in embracing change.

Example: Tom, a retired accountant, decided to move to a new city to be closer to his grandchildren. He was nervous about starting over in a new place, but he quickly discovered new hobbies and interests, and even started a new consulting business in his field. Moving to a new city gave him a new sense of purpose and adventure in his golden years.

5. Purpose over 50: Louise Hay started her Hay House a successful publishing company at the age of 58. James Parkinson was over 60 when he discovered Parkinson disease was a neurological syndrome. Laura Ingalls Wilder began writing the little house series at 65.

In conclusion, finding purpose and fulfillment in life after 50 is rewarding and fulfilling. By exploring your passions and interests, reflecting on your values and beliefs, connecting with others, and embracing change, you can discover new meaning and joy in your golden years. Remember, it’s never too late to start a new chapter in your life and find purpose and fulfillment in the process. There are plenty of books on finding purpose. I write a book called, The Third Road, and I have a chapter called, Your Purpose. It explains in more detail how to discover your purpose, at any age.

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

Devine Intervention Website

Scriptures on Purpose and Destiny Rachel Devine

The question of why we were created is one of the most fundamental questions that human beings have asked throughout history. What is the purpose of life according to the bible? What does the bible say about divine destiny? What does the bible say about destiny? And what about scriptures on purpose and vision, what does the Bible say about that? We will explore different types of destiny in the Bible. Many people, including myself, believe that we were created by God, and that the Bible provides insight into why we were created. In this article, we will explore the reasons why God created us, as well as some Bible scriptures on purpose and destiny that shed light on this topic.

Firstly, it is important to note that according to the Bible, God created us for His own purposes. In the book of Isaiah, God declares, "I have created you for my glory, I have formed you; you are mine" (Isaiah 43:7). This verse suggests that one reason we were created was to bring glory to God. In other words, God created us to reflect His goodness, love, and power to the world.

Another reason why God created us was to have a relationship with us. In the book of Genesis, we read that God created human beings in His own image and likeness (Genesis 1:27). This suggests that we were created to have a special connection with God, one that is different from any other created being. The Bible teaches that God desires to have a close relationship with each one of us, and that He loves us deeply. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13). This verse suggests that God's love for us is so great that He was willing to sacrifice His own son for our salvation.

In addition to these reasons, the Bible also suggests that God created us to fulfill a specific purpose. In the book of Ephesians, we read that God "created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago" (Ephesians 2:10). This verse suggests that each one of us has a unique purpose that God has planned for us, and that He has equipped us with the gifts and talents we need to fulfill that purpose.

Overall, the Bible teaches that God created us for His own glory, to have a relationship with us, and to fulfill a specific purpose. As we strive to understand our place in the world, it is important to remember that we were created with intention and purpose by a God who loves us deeply.

Some additional Bible verses that shed light on why God created us included are bible verses about purpose and direction:

• Psalm 139:13-16 - "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."

• Colossians 1:16 - "For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him."

• Isaiah 45:12 - "It is I who made the earth and created mankind on it. My own hands stretched out the heavens; I marshaled their starry hosts."

• Jeremiah 1:5 - "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

  In conclusion, having a purpose in life is not just a lofty idea, it is based on scripture and God’s will for us. You might say, God’s will for us, is our purpose in life. Many pondered, what is God’s will, and I think the better question to ponder is, what is my life’s purpose. In order to live your life on purpose, one has to sit and ask two questions. What do I love doing? And will what I love doing help humanity or the earth in some way? Once you can answer these two fundamental questions therein lies your purpose and destiny in life, for your purpose is something you love doing, that brings passion and helps mankind.

  Rachel Devine is the author of Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack & The Third Road.

  Devine Intervention website

Defining Purpose in Life: Unraveling the Meaning of Life - Rachel Devine

Throughout the ages, individuals have pondered the age-old question what is the meaning of life, seeking answers to the question of why we exist and what our ultimate purpose might be. Why is it important to find your purpose in life? The answer lies in your personal thoughts and motivation. The quest for understanding the meaning to life and purpose has led to a multitude of philosophical, religious, and scientific explorations. This article seeks to explore the concept of purpose in life, shedding light on the meaning of life and offering suggestions for how one might find their own purpose.

I. The Many Meanings of Life

While there may not be a single, universally agreed-upon meaning of life, various perspectives offer differing interpretations. These interpretations are shaped by individual beliefs, cultural norms, and life experiences. Some popular perspectives include:

1. Religious or spiritual meaning: For many people, religion and spirituality provide a framework for understanding the meaning of life, often revolving around themes of connection, love, and service. Having a connection to a higher power brings much meaning to people’s life and gives them an anchor when life doesn’t go their way. It gives one a sense of security to know there is a supernatural being that guides and supports them on their journey.

2. Existential meaning: From an existentialist perspective, life has no inherent meaning, and it is up to each individual to create their own purpose.

3. Hedonistic meaning: This perspective posits that the meaning of life lies in the pursuit of pleasure, happiness, and personal fulfillment. Finding purpose is one of the key ways to find fulfillment in life.

4. Humanistic meaning: According to humanistic thought, the meaning of life is found in our connections to others and our ability to improve the human condition. One of the central idea behind a purpose in life is to help humanity in some way that improves life or the planet.

5. Biological meaning: From a purely biological standpoint, the purpose of life is to survive, reproduce, and pass on our genetic material. Although it sounds simple, this is one of the true meanings to life.

6. Buddhism: Buddhism recommends that the meaning of life consists not in restricting desires so as to achieve happiness in this life; rather, the Buddhist claims that life has meaning only if it is understood as a mere stepping stone to an enlightenment in which the self escapes from worldly concerns. Being in a state of bliss, outside of the world of chaos, is part of this journey.

7. Jesus: Jesus taught his followers that those who live good lives and follow his teachings will be rewarded with eternal life in God's kingdom. Another important teaching of Jesus’ is to love God with all our heart and soul and to love our neighbor as we love ourself.

8. Dali Lama: The Dali Lama’s philosophy is that the basic source of all happiness is a sense of kindness and warm-heartedness for everyone we encounter. We are all the same as human beings. We are born the same way, we die the same way, and we all want to lead happy lives.

II. Finding Your Personal Purpose

Given the diverse range of perspectives on the meaning of life, it's important for individuals to explore their own values and desires to determine their personal purpose. You have to scrutinize your own feelings on the meaning of life. Sitting in a quiet room and contemplating what you enjoy doing and what gives you passion in life, is a great start to having your purpose unfold. Sometimes our purpose comes in unexpected ways and sometimes it comes from an intuitive thought. You could be driving and all of a sudden a thought comes to mind and your purpose surfaces like a ray of sun. Don’t try to force it, just go with the flow.

Here are some steps to help with this process:

1. Self-reflection: Spend time contemplating your passions, values, and what brings you joy. What do you love doing? What activities make you feel most alive and fulfilled?

2. Identify your strengths: Understanding your unique skills and talents can help you determine how to make a meaningful impact on the world.

3. Consider the impact you want to have: What legacy do you want to leave behind? How do you want to be remembered? What mark do you want to leave on this world?

4. Set goals: Break down your overarching purpose into smaller, achievable goals that can guide your daily actions. Take small steps to achieve these goals and be steadfast in going in the direction of your purpose.

5. Remain open and adaptable: Understand that your purpose may evolve over time as you grow and learn more about yourself and the world around you. Stay open to present and new possibilities as our lives are always moving and growing. It is really important to put some thought into this, even meditate on what you want to achieve in life.

III. The Role of Purpose in Well-Being

Having a sense of purpose can positively impact overall well-being. Studies have shown that people who have a strong sense of purpose in life are more likely to experience increased happiness, better mental health, and a greater sense of satisfaction. Purpose can also contribute to resilience in the face of adversity, providing motivation and direction during challenging times.

In conclusion, while the meaning of life may be a complex and ever-evolving topic, developing a personal sense of purpose can provide direction, motivation, and fulfillment. By engaging in self-reflection, identifying strengths, and considering the impact one wants to have on the world, individuals can create their own unique path toward a life of purpose and meaning.

And to simplify the process of unraveling your purpose in life, think about what you love doing and if it helps humanity in some capacity, therein lies your purpose in life; the reason you were created. It really is that simple. It’s all about what you love doing and how it will help humanity in some way, like helping people or the planet.

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road your Secret Journey Home & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack - Become a Magnet for True Love.

Devine Intervention website

Examples of Life Purpose Rachel Devine

Your purpose in life is the reason you were created; the meaning behind your very existence. You might ask yourself, why is it important to find my purpose in life? The answer is, that your purpose is the driving force that propels us forward, gives us direction, and helps us achieve our goals. Our life’s purpose gives us fulfillment and a reason to get up in the morning. Our life’s purpose brings untold joy and happiness. However, a life purpose is unique to each individual and can evolve over time as we grow and change.

Here are some examples of life purposes, that people have discovered for themselves:

1. To Help Others: Many people find meaning and fulfillment in helping others. This could be through volunteer work, charity work, or a career in a helping profession such as nursing, teaching, or social work.

2. To Create: Some people feel a deep desire to create, whether it be through art, music, writing, or entrepreneurship. They find joy in expressing themselves and bringing new ideas into the world.

3. To Learn: For some, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding is their life purpose. They may be lifelong learners, always seeking to expand their understanding of the world and themselves and then sharing that knowledge with others.

4. To Connect: Many people find meaning in building and nurturing relationships. They may focus on connecting with family, friends, or their community, and find fulfillment in creating strong bonds with others and the world around them.

5. To Serve: Some people feel called to serve a higher purpose, whether it be through a religious or spiritual path or a dedication to a cause. They may feel a sense of duty to make the world a better place. To perhaps serve our country in the military or serve our society in law enforcement.

6. To Innovate: Others find purpose in pushing the boundaries of what is possible. They may work in science, technology, or other fields where they can use their creativity and intelligence to solve complex problems and make groundbreaking discoveries.

7. To Heal: For some, the desire to help others extends specifically to the realm of health and wellness. They may work as doctors, therapists, or alternative healers, or focus on promoting wellness through fitness or nutrition.

8. To Explore: Finally, some people feel called to explore the world around them, whether it be through travel, adventure, or scientific exploration. They find meaning in discovering new places, cultures, or knowledge and they also share this with the world.

Of course, these are just a few examples of the many life purposes that people can have. The key is to discover what gives your life meaning and pursue it with passion and dedication. Ask yourself, what do I love doing and will it serve humanity? Therein lies the answer to your very purpose for being created. By living a life aligned with your purpose, you can find greater fulfillment, joy, and a sense of meaning and contribution to the world.

Rachel Devine is the author of The Third Road - Your Secret Journey Home & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack - Become a Magnet for True Love.

Devine Intervention website

First Date Tips

Dating can be an exciting and fulfilling experience when approached with the right mindset and strategies. Staying positive is the key, no matter how many first dates you may have had. Dating advice can help you connect to the right partner. Your next date can potentially be with, the one. Therefore, you want to put your best foot forward. The best date ideas are those that help you feel relaxed and safe. With all that said, here are some first date tips to help you navigate the world of dating and create meaningful connections:

1. Be yourself: Authenticity is key in dating. People are generally attracted to those who are genuine and true to themselves. Embrace your uniqueness and don't try to be someone you're not. I usually view a first date as an opportunity to meet a new friend and see where that goes. Let your date know some important aspects of who you are without dominating the conversation.

2. Confidence is attractive: Believe in yourself and your worth. Confidence can make a significant difference in how you present yourself and how others perceive you. Practice self-love and self-acceptance to boost your confidence. Embrace the idea that you are a worthwhile person who deserves to be in a good relationship.

3. Make a good first impression: When meeting someone for the first time, be well-groomed, punctual, and polite. A good first impression sets the tone for the rest of the interaction. Research shows that a person already forms an opinion of you in the first few seconds of meeting, so use those crucial seconds in a positive way. The best advice I can say is to smile warmly when you meet your first date.

4. Engage in active listening: Pay attention to your date and ask follow-up questions to demonstrate your interest. This helps build a deeper connection and shows that you value their opinions and experiences. Listening is a good character skill that is valuable on a first date.

5. Choose the right environment: Pick a suitable location for your date, such as a quiet café, a scenic park, or a fun activity you both enjoy, so you have the opportunity to talk. I would stay clear of bars that have loud bands, where you won’t be able to have a conversation. This ensures that both of you feel comfortable and can focus on getting to know each other.

6. Be open-minded: Keep an open mind and be willing to learn from others' perspectives. People have different experiences, beliefs, and values, and appreciating these differences can enrich your dating experience.

7. Be respectful: Treat your date with respect and show consideration for their feelings and boundaries. Always communicate openly and honestly about your intentions and expectations if the other person wants to cross a boundary.

8. Take your time: There's no need to rush into a relationship or make hasty decisions. Allow the connection to develop naturally and at its own pace. And if you are interested, give it three dates before you decide what you want to do.

9. Stay safe: Prioritize your safety when meeting someone new. Meet in public places, let a friend know your plans, and trust your instincts if something feels off. I would also say to never get into a stranger’s car on a first date. You want to assure you are keeping yourself as safe as possible.

10. Learn from each experience: Every date and relationship can teach you something about yourself, your preferences, and your communication style. This date is an opportunity to recognize what you like and don’t like, so you can take that into your decision on your next potential date. Reflect on your experiences and grow from them. Of course, if you both liked the first date experience, then you can move on to a second date and see where that takes you.

Remember that dating is a process, and it may take time to find the right person. Stay patient, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.

Rachel Devine is the author of, Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack - Become a Magnet for True Love. This is a book about dating and how to use the law of attraction to connect with your soulmate.

Devine Intervention website

The Benefits of a Spiritual Retreat Rachel Devine

A spiritual retreat offers numerous benefits that can lead to personal growth, self-discovery, and a deeper understanding of one's place in the world. It is a special opportunity to embrace serenity. It allows one to put focus on long withheld goals and allow time to manifest your dreams, giving you the opportunity for growth and change.

Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Inner peace and relaxation: A spiritual retreat provides a serene environment that allows you to disconnect from daily stressors, find inner peace, and focus on self-reflection. You leave your daily routine and put focus on yourself, giving you the benefits of having this time for growth and relaxation. It allows you the opportunity to recharge your batteries and focus on what really matters in life. It allows you to put focus on yourself, which is hard to do in our regular daily routine, as most lives are spinning from the moment we wake until we go to sleep at night. This is focus time just for you.

2. Self-discovery: Retreats offer the opportunity to explore your inner self, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and gain a better understanding of your true desires and aspirations. A retreat offers you the gift of time; time to get in touch with your heart and uncover some long-awaited goals. Time to dream, as you allow yourself to connect with your inner heart, desires and goals.

3. Personal growth: Engaging in spiritual practices, such as meditation, yoga, the law of attraction, or prayer, can lead to personal growth and the development of emotional resilience. It empowers one to get in touch with their inner-self, as they journey through life, which gives power to our lives. Connecting to our inner-power is something most will not know in their lifetime. Knowledge is power, and it is empowering to connect to that inner wisdom, which leads us in the direction of our destiny.

4. Enhanced mindfulness: Spiritual retreats can help you develop mindfulness and improve your ability to focus, be present, and develop self-awareness. This benefit allows us to go back to your daily life with a clear and focused mind, which will enhance your life with productivity. It will also give one the sense of new meaning, that can carry on for a lifetime, as we can sometimes shift from the world’s shallow mentality to one of spiritual clarity.

5. Connection with nature: Many retreats are located in beautiful, natural settings, which can provide a deeper connection with nature and help you recharge. This is time to focus on the moment, where dreams manifest and take flight. Walking in nature, without the cares of everyday life, can be a gift of great benefits. It will help you get in touch with goals that are buried in the deep recess of our minds and bring them out into the light. The serenity of a quiet walk in nature could provide answers to long held problems and direct your future to a shift in consciousness with clarity in what direction you want your life to go in. It can help you decide to start a new chapter in your life. The benefits of quiet time in nature is unlimited.

6. Building community: Spiritual retreats bring together like-minded individuals seeking similar goals, fostering a sense of community and the opportunity to make new friends and connections. Most retreats foster life-long friendships, which is a great benefit in our lives. It helps us connect to others in a deep and meaningful way, which lasts a life-time.

7. Improved mental health: A retreat can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to improved overall mental well-being. We can move forward from the state of the world to one of a deep feeling of peace, support and purpose. Our lives become more meaningful, with purpose and clarity, as we navigate our lives in a more enhanced way.

8. Deepening spiritual practice: Retreats offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in spiritual practices and teachings, leading to a deeper understanding and stronger connection with your beliefs. It is an opportunity to get closer to the Higher Power of your understanding, nurturing that relationship with your spiritual side. Reconnecting to the power within is the greatest gift you can give yourself. The benefits are unlimited. The support and comfort in knowing we are not alone on our journey, is priceless.

9. Developing new habits: The structure and discipline of a spiritual retreat can help you develop new habits, such as regular meditation, that can be incorporated into your daily life. Or perhaps put you on a healthy eating regimen. Or perhaps help you realize some dorment goals and dreams you want to explore. Again, the benefits are unlimited.

10. Emotional healing: A spiritual retreat can provide the space and support needed to process and heal from past traumas or emotional pain. It is a way to look at deep issues that have played havoc in your subconscious mind and bring the issue to light, where it will lose its power over you. You will do this in a safe and supportive environment where others will be supportive. A loving team will be your guide as you journey into other areas of healing and comfort. It’s always your choice.

Overall, a spiritual retreat can be a transformative experience that provides physical, mental, and emotional benefits. It offers a chance to step back from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to focus on personal growth, self-awareness, and spiritual development. A retreat is a gift of peace and serenity for yourself, where the benefits can be life transforming. You can walk away with a sense of purpose and clarity as you journey through life with more tools for living your best life.

Rachel Devine - Author of The Third Road - Your Secret Journey Home & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack - Become a Magnet for true love. Both books are on Amazon.

We are having a spiritual weekend retreat April 14 - 16, 2023. The theme, Discover the Power of the Moment - Manifest your Dreams. Full details on my website.

Characteristics of a Healthy Relationship Rachel Devine

Healthy relationship qualities are those built on trust, mutual respect, and understanding. It is a partnership between two individuals who work together to build a life filled with happiness, love, and fulfillment. Characteristics of a healthy relationship cover several key factors that contribute to a successful relationship, and understanding these factors can help to strengthen your own relationship. Putting a little work into your relationship, will reap amazing rewards.

These 8 relationship characteristics are important to create a healthy and happy relationship:

• Communication

• Trust

• Shared Values

• Independence

• Emotional Support

• Flexibility

• Intimacy

• Sense of Humor

Let’s get started and explore each characteristic.

1. Communication

   Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship. It is important for both partners to be able to express their feelings, thoughts, and needs in an open and honest manner, without criticism or judgement. This requires active listening, empathy, and the ability to compromise. Exploring the way you love and communicate through the 5 Love Languages is something you can do to improve your communication skills. We love in different ways from words of affirmations, to gift giving, to physical touch, quality time together and to acts of service. Learning how you and your partner communicate is key to having a healthy relationship. The 5 Love Languages, sheds light on 5 ways we communicate in relationships, which helps us understand our partner.

2. Trust

   Trust is an essential component of any relationship. It is important for both partners to be able to trust each other with their deepest thoughts and feelings. Trust is built over time through consistent, honest behavior and can be strengthened through transparency and vulnerability. When you can be trusted in little things, trust in big things becomes easy. Trust is a major part of a relationship and forms the foundation. Being able to be in a loving relationship that embodies trust is crucial to a healthy relationship.

3. Shared values

   Relationships are most successful when both partners have similar values and beliefs. This includes everything from political views to religious beliefs and even lifestyle choices. When both partners are on the same page, it is easier to navigate challenges and make important decisions together and there will be less time for conflict. Having the same faith-based values really brings a couple to a new level of bonding. It deepens their love in a soulful way. I believe the basis of a soulmate relationship is having shared values of faith.

4. Independence

   While it is important to have a strong connection in a relationship, it is also important for both partners to have their own interests, hobbies, and friends. Having a strong sense of individuality can help to bring new perspectives and experiences to the relationship, making it stronger and more dynamic. So, have a girl’s night out, or a guy’s night of poker, and stay independent. Being independent of each other is a crucial part of a healthy relationship and one both parties can value.

5. Emotional support

   Relationships are most successful when both partners are emotionally supportive of each other. This means being there for each other in both good times and bad, offering encouragement and understanding, when sick or feeling down and being a source of comfort and stability. It is important to be there for each other, no matter what. Having a partner that emotionally supports you is an amazing feeling of comfort and safety in a healthy relationship. And couples want to feel safe with their partner.

6. Flexibility

   Relationships are dynamic and constantly changing, and it is important for both partners to be flexible and adaptable. This means being open to new experiences, trying new things, and being willing to compromise when necessary. Keeping an open mind on what your partner wants is important and vice versa. Being open to new adventures keeps a relationship alive and thriving. Having the excitement of new experiences in a relationship keeps it alive and venturesome.

7. Intimacy

   Intimacy is an important aspect of any relationship, and it encompasses both physical and emotional closeness. It is important for both partners to feel comfortable with each other and to be able to express their feelings and desires in a safe and loving environment,without judgement. Intimacy is the glue that holds the relationship together. Both partners should be on the same page with intimacy and if you are not, communication comes into play to try to compromise. Intimacy has so many different levels of compartments to explore. However, trust and communication play an important role in being able to express what you want with your partner. Be open to what your partner communicates to you and really listen.

8. Sense of Humor

A sense of humor is a blessing in any area of life. Taking life too seriously can result in a lot of stress and anxiety. Seeing the humor in the absuridities of life can turn a heated argument into a loving communication. Having a good sense of humor brings a relationship to one of joy and happiness. So, the next time there is a heated argument over something trivial, perhaps you can see the humor in it and move on. Being able to let go of the small stuff is important to keeping your relationship healthy.

So, there you have the 8 characteristics of a healthy relationship. With these guidelines, being in a great, healthy, loving relationship is inevitable. Keep in mind, it takes two to have a relationship, so both partners need to be on the same page and in the same book, working towards one common ground of establishing a healthy partnership.

In conclusion, a successful relationship requires a combination of trust, communication, shared values, independence, emotional support, flexibility, and intimacy. By focusing on these key factors, couples can build a strong, loving, and fulfilling relationship that will last a lifetime.

Rachel Devine is the author of, Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack - Become a Magnet for True Love.

You can find resources like online courses, events, an upcoming retreat and my books on

Devine Intervention website.

Please subscribe to my youtube channel.

5 Types of Love Language - Rachel Devine

How we communicate in a relationship is crucial. Communication is the key to any successful relationship. The five love languages are five different ways of expressing and receiving love: words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. Not everyone communicates love in the same way, and likewise, people have different ways they prefer to receive love.

The concept of love languages was developed by Gary Chapman, Ph.D., in his book, The 5 Love Languages - The Secret to Love that Lasts, where he describes these five unique styles of communicating love.

The first step is identifying your own way of expressing and receiving love and then evaluate your partners way of expressing and receiving love, in order to have a better understanding of each other’s love language.

5 love languages

• Words of affirmation

• Quality time

• Receiving gifts

• Acts of service

• Physical touch

Let’s get started with the first love language.

Words of Affirmation

This first love language is words of affirmation. This means you express love with affirming, loving words in a relationship that expresses your love, respect, and admiration. You like to express yourself in a way that is verbal and positive and you like when your partner expresses himself in that way, because you are easily connected to this form of love language.

Words of affirmation examples:

• I love you so much

• I am proud of you

• Thank you for ______

• I am lucky to have you in my life

• You are beautiful

• You are the love of my life

Quality Time

This love language is one of spending quality time together. Spending time together makes you feel loved and you enjoy that time with your partner, as it is your way of feeling loved. People who speak the love language of quality time want to be the object of their partner’s undivided attention. They want to feel cherished and prioritized, spending meaningful time together.

Quality time examples:

• Taking a walk together

• Snuggling on the couch

• Praying together

• Cooking together

• A weekend getaway together

• A candlelight dinner

• Enjoying a cozy evening of romance

Receiving Gifts

Some people express love by showering others with gifts. This is their way of showing love. It probably stems from childhood holidays and getting and receiving gifts. Some people just love to show their love with wonderful gifts. And some people love to receive gifts as a sign of their partner’s love and affection.

Receiving gifts examples:

• Giving Flowers for no special occasion

• Extravagant gifts

• A special night on the town

• Getting concert tickets

• Buying a favorite snack at the store

• Small trinkets of hearts or love gifts

• Buying chocolates

Acts of Service

Acts of service is doing for the other partner as a way of showing love. If your partner's love language is acts of service, they feel loved when you do specific activities for them, whether they ask for this support or not. You're giving them your energy and time by doing something that makes their life easier or more enjoyable.

Acts of Service examples:

• Cleaning the house

• Your partner gets your car washed

• Gives a foot massage

• Pack them a lunch with a love note

• Plan a picnic and make the basket

• Make dinner

• Watch the children when you nap

Physical touch

Physical touch love language is expressing and receiving affection through touch, physical closeness, and other forms of physical connection. Kissing, hugging, are some ways of showing love through the physical touch love language.

Physical touch examples:

• Holding hands when in public

• Kissing and hugging

• Initiating and having sex

• Snuggling on the couch

• Giving a massage

• A warm sensual embrace

• Stroking your partners hair

  So there you have the 5 love languages. In conclusion, learning these 5 love languages gives you an edge in communicating with your partner and is the foundation for a successful and long-term connection together. I wish you much happiness in your love life.

  If you liked this blog, please pass it along to someone you think can use it, or pass it along to your partner, in order to discuss all the wonderful aspects of the 5 love languages.

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road - Your Secret Journey Home & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack - Become a Magnet for True Love.

For more amazing resources please check out my website where you can find online courses, events, an upcoming retreat and my books.

Please subscribe to my youtube channel

Finding Happiness

By Rachel Devine author of, The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack

5 Secrets to Happiness

Finding happiness is the key to a successful life. Finding joy in the journey is rewarding. Most people want to be happy and live a fulfilling life. Happiness is really an inside job. As Abraham Lincoln once said, “Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be.” What a great way to view life, knowing that you have the ability to be happy by changing your mind. One can be in the midst of an external war and still make up their mind to be happy. It’s comforting to know, that we do have control over our thoughts and our thoughts do navigate what direction our life will go in. If one has a lot of negative thoughts, their life will go in a negative direction. On the other hand, if you resonate with positive thoughts, your life will go in a positive direction. That is the law of attraction. Our thoughts are powerful and what we put out into the universe, with thoughts and deeds, comes back to us. That old adage, “what goes around comes around,” is not just empty words of wisdom. It is the foundation of the law of attraction.

Let’s get started. These are my 5 Secrets to happiness:

• Money

• Faith/Spirituality

• Relationships

• Good Health

• Having a Purpose

Secret #1 - Money

Studies show that having enough money for basic living expenses, and some extra money for vacation and other pursuits, was on the list as one of the secrets to happiness. Financial stress is a major issue and causes a lot of unhappiness. And let’s face it there isn’t any fun in struggling financially. On the other hand, studies show that those who win the lottery do not achieve happiness either. In fact, they achieve quite the opposite. Studies show that lottery winners typically wind up squandering their money. Furthermore, some have had marriages fall apart and became estranged from family members who wanted to get a piece of the lottery winnings. Once their money is squandered they are back to their old way of life, which usually is not one of great prosperity. Having had a real taste of being financially well-off and then the money running out could be quite devastating. Therefore, it is important to know that winning the lottery is not going to make you happy in the long-term scheme of life.

One way to increase your income would be to do daily affirmations. Affirmations are an incredible way of letting the universe know that you want to increase your income. This falls under the law of attraction practice.

 Here are three of my favorites:

·      My Income is constantly increasing

·      I am a magnet for money

·      I deserve all the prosperity coming my way

Say these affirmations often every day. Add some of your own. I love Louise Hay’s audio book, “You Can Do It.” She has tons of positive affirmations that truly work

Secret #2 - Faith/Spirituality

Studies reveal that having faith or spirituality in some capacity made people happy. Whether it is a religious faith or a spiritual faith it is a proponent to happiness. Being able to rely on a power greater than yourself is one of the keys to happiness. There is a comfort in knowing that you are not alone on your journey and there is a higher power that is always within you to guide you through life. That guide comes as a whisper from our intuition and a myriad of other ways. The vast universe has an intelligent force that creates mountains, brings about miracles and helps us in life. That power is within you. If you want to learn more about this power within, my book, The Third Road, is a great guide to connect you with that incredible power.

Prayer and meditation are positive ways to feel joy. It also reduces stress and has a ton of health benefits. Getting on a daily routine of meditation will help you feel peace and happiness.

A firm connection to your higher power is crucial to having a fulfilling and happy life. Typically, what goes hand in hand with faith is fellowship, either in a 12-step program, a church, a prayer group, synagogue or other groups. Being in a fellowship with like-minded people is important, especially in this day of age of uncertainties. It’s important to be around people that you can communicate with and to have as a support system in adverse times and good times. A good community of people who are faithful is amazing.  

Secret #3 – Relationships

Family is an integral part of being happy. And I do realize most families are dysfunctional in one way or another and family gatherings are not always happy. There are degrees of dysfunction in all of us, some are less dysfunctional than others. And some family members are just extremely difficult to be around.  However, being in a family unit helps people feel less isolated, alone or like an outcast. Setting boundaries is key if there are dysfunctional issues you might have with a family member. In the best of families, family helps us get through the most disastrous times and is there for us in the best of times. Family can be a source of comfort when there is a death in the family and can help each other through the grieving process. Family is important because they can offer support and security coupled with unconditional love. Family traditions around the holidays, birthdays and other life-changing events are a sure way to socialize. Furthermore, these traditions are a way to keep us connected so we are not isolated and alone. Friends are crucial to being happy. Surround yourself with positive friends who lift you up. Friends that complain and are negative will bring you down.

A Universal need: To love and to be loved.

Being in a healthy, loving relationship is like having gold in the bank. It can be an amazing experience and bring much happiness.

However, I want to point out that single people can be happy just like those who are married. It really is all about how you view it. Of course, if you are single and long for a happy relationship, then there will always feel like something is missing. Some people prefer to be single and are very happy with that lifestyle and find romantic love in dating or other ways.

If you are not in a loving relationship, look at the people around you in your life. What are you doing with their love? One cannot wait for a soulmate to come into their life to be loved. The people around you, your children, parents, co-workers and friends are here in the present moment, which is all we really have; give your love to them. People are starving for love and remember in giving we receive. What are we doing with their love? Let’s focus on what we have rather than what we want and remember those people around us want love as much as you do.

Secret #4 – Good health

It’s so important to live a healthy life-style in order to keep us in a happy state. That old adage, “if you have your health you have everything,” is so true. And think about it you can have all of the above-mentioned secrets for happiness and if you don’t have good health the rest seems a little trivial.

A few suggestions to improve health:

•     Eat healthy – get rid of sugar

•    Add more fruits & vegetables

•     Exercise daily

• Give up any foods with preservatives

•     Moderation with alcohol

•   Reduce red meat & fatty fried foods

• Stay completely away from fast-food

• Stop smoking

And it’s so important to wake up each day and be thankful for your health. The more we are grateful for anything in our life, the more that will continue to be in our life. So being grateful for your health is a great idea. It’s never too late to start changing our health habits to one of positive and wholesome ways.

Secret #5 – Having a Purpose

Having a reason to get up in the morning is so crucial to our happiness. Having a purpose in life is one of the great secrets to happiness. Discovering your purpose is essential to happiness. Sad to say, most people will live their whole life without ever knowing what their purpose is. Those who know at a young age are blessed. Look at the artists, musicians, & athletes who are all living their best-life on purpose.

Now anyone can discover their purpose at any age. Louise Hay did not start forming Hay House, her publishing company, until she was in her late 50’s. So please do not think that you are too old to discover your purpose. You can find your purpose at any age.

Rabbi Harold Kushner said, “Our souls are hungry for meaning, for the sense that we have figured out how to live so that our lives matter, so that the world will be at least a little bit different for our having passed through it”

I just love that quote.

The following are three ways to connect with your purpose. Ask yourself these three questions:

·      What do you love doing?

·      What brings you happiness & passion in your life?

·      Will this help humanity in some capacity?

Take time to contemplate these questions. If you want to do some journaling that usually helps bring out inner desires. Or meditate on these questions. Do not ask someone else to help you. Your purpose is a deep and personal thing to ponder and will arise from your inner-self. Write down your answers.

Your purpose is whatever you love doing, and whatever brings you passion and gives you a reason to wake up in the morning. It also has to help humanity in some way.  

And please do not let self-doubt cloud your thinking. Whatever you love doing, that brings you passion, and helps humanity is what your purpose in life is, so go for it. Gravitate towards your purpose and live the life you deserve.  

Your purpose might be coaching little league, or writing a book, or starting a youth program, or cooking meals for the poor or taking up art, or volunteering at a hospice, or a slew of other things.

Follow your bliss and take a few moments to think about what you love doing. And once you decide then do some research in that area to see how you can bring this to fruition. Go on-line and see how other people are doing it. Start a meetup group to network your passion. Join a club that is related to your passion. There are so many ways to get started. The best advice is to go within yourself and sit and listen to what you feel is the best direction to go in. No one can tell you this direction, it is navigating from your inner-self. Finally, whatever you love doing can be turned into a way to make money. Making money from your purpose in life can be financially rewarding and could very well help with having extra money for vacations, etc.

In conclusion, I want to reiterate the importance of gratitude. Studies have told us that gratitude is essential to being happy. Try to write a gratitude list daily of at least 5 things you are grateful for.

So, there you have it, my 5 secrets to happiness. If you enjoyed this blog, please pass it along to someone who can use some happiness in their life.

My website has resources to help you find more happiness on your journey in life. I have several seminars, events, retreats and online courses and my books, The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack are available on Amazon. I am also available for coaching.

Devine Intervention website

7 Ways to Find Purpose after the Pandemic

Why are we here? It is a big and defining question. Perhaps our inner yearning makes us come back to this question from time to time. Asking questions like this allows us to step back and come to a better understanding of what matters in life. They give us perspective on our own lives — and our mind becomes focused on the choices we must make on fulfilling our destiny.

The world seemed to tilt on its axil during the pandemic. Some people, throughout the pandemic, worked, socialized and kept their lives the same, while others wallowed in the fear that a pandemic of this magnitude causes. Many found themselves depressed and unsure of the future.

How do we find some purpose and start to live again? After many life experiences and research, what I learned is there is always good that comes out of tragedy. There are always lessons that emerge from crisis. Good always eventually prevails over bad situations.

Here are 7 ways to find purpose in life:

• Gratitude

• Connection

• Faith

• From Negative to Positive

• Set Goals

• Love over Fear

• Live in the NOW

Gratitude

Many of us are feeling a sense of gratitude for all we have after the pandemic. We appreciate our family in a whole new way, since many holidays for the last 2 years may have been spent alone or in an unconventional way. My whole family, except for me, had covid during Christmas of 2021, and I remember meeting my son by his car and exchanging a few gifts, for fear that I would catch covid. Even though it was a sad time, I appreciated seeing him for that short period. I had a renewed appreciation for my family. My family and I wound up celebrating Christmas in February. Gratitude helps us in a myriad of ways. If we are in a state of gratitude our lives become more positive and we are more likely not to complain and to see the glass half full.

In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.

I suggest writing a gratitude list of at least 5 things you are grateful for at the end of the day.

Connections

It’s so important to stay connected to friends, family, and co-workers, as you did before the pandemic. Stay in touch with positive people who lift you up. If you are still wearing a mask and afraid to be around people, or you are just starting to become social again, you want to remember that covid has decreased in its strength to harm people, and there are theraputics out there that offset covid. We have to live our life in the moment or we will squander minutes, into days, days into months, months into years and before long we realize that we are still standing still while the world is going on. We only have today and most of us lost 2 years of our life in doing normal activities, so start living now. As Wayne Dyer put it, “Life is not a dress rehearsal.”

Faith

Places of worship were closed down during the pandemic. Many of us watched our services online, at home, all alone or not at all. Getting back to in-house services is crucial to help you start living again. Research shows that faith benefits us in so many ways.

For example, researchers at the Mayo Clinic concluded, “Most studies have shown that religious involvement and spirituality are associated with better health outcomes, including greater longevity, coping skills, and health-related quality of life (even during terminal illness) and less anxiety, depression, and suicide.

Faith is the foundation of our lives in order to have support during crisis and also hope with everyday life. Build that strong faith around you, like a tent that will shield you, if and when a crisis happens in your life. Being in the company of people, in a church, or synagogue, or mosque, or any place of worship, will help you move on in a positive way. It will bring you much joy.

From Negative to Positive

Look inward and see what transpires from some deep contemplation. Additionally, being positive will help your life go in a positive direction. Being positive will also help you find your purpose in life. When we are wallowing in negativity and complaints, well, more negativity will come your way. It is the law of attraction. The energy you release out into the world, will come back to you. Picture an echo chamber, when you yell the word love, love comes back. If you yell the word fear, fear will come back. When you start to feel negative and think negative thoughts, change the thought immediately to a positive one. With some effort you will be able to shift to thinking and speaking in a positive way. This is where gratitude comes into play. The more grateful you are, the more positive you will be.

Set Goals

It’s so important to have goals and dreams. Detail your goals in writing and make a game-plan to achieve these goals. Our purpose lies in those goals and dreams. Whatever you love doing, that is your purpose in life, provided it helps humanity in some way. I love writing and I use my writing to help society and in doing so it has become my purpose. However, it didn’t happen overnight. I have been writing for years. The fun has been in the journey of getting to where I want to be. This has given me purpose. When I found my purpose of writing, I was in a very dark place without any direction, once I started writing and living my purpose, the light came on and the darkness dissipatated. I felt a passion and joy that was so amazing. I find happiness in the work I do, regardless of the outcome. So, sit down and think about what you love doing and see how that would benefit society and start to take steps to achieve your goals. Just contemplating on what you love doing and therein will lie your purpose in life.

Love over Fear

Love is the opposite of fear. When you are resonating with God’s love, fear is impossible. Fear and love cannot co-exist. So, whenever you feel fear you know you are disconnected to your Higher Power. I use the word God; however, you have to resonate with the Higher Power of your understanding. Fear is an illusion and in twelve step programs the acronym is, False Evidence Appearing Real. When you think about it, fear is an illusion perpetrated by our brains that continually go back and relive nightmarish past experiences. The past is also an illusion, since it is just thoughts of things that already happened. Try to stay in love and when fear rears its ugly head, say a loving prayer or think about the love you have in your life. The main thing is to shift your thoughts from fear to love.

Live in the NOW

This moment is all we will ever have. The past is over and the future is not promised to anyone. This moment is all we have; this day is all we have. Many people squander time, which in my opinion is tragic. If we are not going to live now, when will we start living? Now is all we have; this moment you are living in is it. This is a quote I created for my book, The Third Road, Your Secret Journey Home.

This moment is all we have. Don’t believe me? Try to capture the previous moment or the future moment and change it.

I love this next quote too. I have it posted on my refrigerator, as a reminder to stop putting off travel, goals and dreams.

“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And if I am only for myself, what am I?

AND IF NOT NOW - WHEN?” Hillel (A Jewish religious leader and sage in 40 BCE).

When we come to the awareness that this moment is it, this is all we have, most people try to make the best of the moment and naturally want to start living on purpose and reaching their goals, which they may have been putting off for a while.

Try to resonate with the moment when you go on a walk, deliberately look at the trees and the birds and the sky. Listen to people who are talking to you, really listen to them. Be present in the moment; the only time there is. And one important factor is that God or our Higher Power is only in the moment, not in the past or the future, but in this moment.

And you are never too old to realize your purpose in life. Louise Hay was 58 years old when she started Hay House Publishing Company. Samuel Jackson was 46 years old (and in recovery from addiction to cocaine and heroin) before he starred alongside John Travolta in Pulp Fiction.
And you are never too young to realize your purpose. Elizabeth Taylor was 12 years old when she started her acting career. And Sally Field got her first role as an actress at 16 years old.

In conclusion, I want to reiterate the importance of moving forward in a positive and productive way after the pandemic, since most of us already lost over 2 years of our lives since, March of 2020. Let’s move on with confidence, grace and a feeling of purpose. Be courageous as you live the life you deserve. If you want to fulfill your destiny, which was determined before you were born, realize your goals and plan to achieve them. You were created for a reason, discover that reason, as we move into a new era, one with much clarity, focus and joy.

Rachel Devine author of, The Third Road - Your Secret Journey Home & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack - Become a Magnet for True Love.

Please check out my online courses, events, retreats & more on my website.

A Holy Pause to Discover your Purpose

When we are forced to pause in life we can take a moment to discover so much about ourselves, especially finding our purpose in life. The only way to find meaning to your life is to pause to discover your purpose. It’s in the silence of the pause that we can be awakened to many different aspects of our purpose. It is in the silence between the notes, that we find a treasure of wealth. Remember, the meaning of life is to find your gift. This true story is a testimony to a holy pause, which brings so much clarity.

It was a rainy morning in New York City. The rain was pounding against my apartment window, as I was rushing around to get ready for work. I glanced out the window to see the water from the rain had flooded the parking area, including my car. The water was past the exhaust pipe. I gasped as I went to find my knee-high boots. When I went downstairs it looked impossible for me to move my car, since the area was flooded all around the parked cars. I went back upstairs, took the boots off and summoned an uber car. The uber would be downstairs in 6 minutes.

I made my way down to wait for the uber car. I called work to tell them I was delayed. I kept glancing down at the uber app and it kept saying, 1 min for the arrival. Finally, several minutes had gone by when I saw a message on the uber app that said, “I am here.” I glanced towards the circle of my building and there was the uber driver. I was in the front of the building and he was in the circle. I motioned to him and he drove over to where I was standing. The driver said, “I was waiting around 8 minutes, I was going to leave.” I responded, “Thank you so much for waiting for me.” The app kept saying 1 min, even though you were here.”  He replied, “These apps are not always reliable.” As he pulled out, I told him to take the Cross Island Parkway, it was about a 20 minute ride according to my app. He wanted to take the Clearview Expressway. The uber driver reluctantly got onto the Cross Island Parkway. He drove for approximately ½ a mile when there was a dead stop on all cars going both ways. There must have been an accident up ahead. I apologized for urging the driver to get on the parkway and he said it was fine, he just wanted to get me to my destination. I felt like he probably wanted to kill me for the delay. I was so distraught over forcing him onto the Cross Island Parkway, which felt like a big mistake. I sat there telling myself I should never direct an uber driver, especially when they have a navigator.

We sat in silence and I texted a friend, Barbara, to pray for me because my car got flooded and I was hoping it was not permanently damaged. She texted me back that she would dedicate her rosary to me this morning. I was so grateful for her prayers. At that point I sat in the uber car feeling responsible for the delay we were in and quite miserable. The traffic was at a dead standstill. As I sat there feeling bad that I persuaded him onto the parkway, I searched my phone to see what happened. I found information that there was a bad accident right before the Northern Boulevard exit and one person was killed. I couldn’t help thinking that texting and driving can cause these types of accidents. There was a helicopter hovering overhead. The rain was beating on the window as the windshield wipers were going on overdrive. I sat there thinking to myself, here I was so upset about my car getting flooded and someone just died on the parkway. I found myself blurting that out loud and the uber driver, Mo, said, “If we weren’t delayed the 8 minutes for this ride, we could have been right in the middle of the accident. I am convinced we were delayed for a reason.”

I suddenly was thrust into a, holy pause. Everything stopped in the real world and I was thrust into a spiritual realm outside of this world. It was like a cloud had cleared and the almighty sunlight was shining into the uber car like a hallow of love from God. I could see, in my mind’s eye, a metaphoric bright light shinning through the miserable rainy day. The silence was welcoming. My thoughts stopped tormenting me about the direction we were going in. I started to realize that Mo was right. We were delayed for a reason and had I seen the uber driver by my house, we would have headed out 8 minutes earlier than we did. I sat there in this sudden holy pause where life seemed to standstill for quite sometime and what appeared so important earlier was trivial in this holy moment. I suddenly felt safe and the 90-minute delay didn’t seem annoying anymore, rather, it felt like holy time allotted by God for reflection. All I knew was that we were safe and not in the midst of that horrible accident. I felt incredibly grateful. We were safe, sitting in this uber cab in traffic on a rainy Monday morning. I took a moment to pray for the person who was killed that morning and thanked God for protecting Mo and I.

I initially thought Mo would be so angry at my insistence of going on the Cross Island Parkway and now we were talking like old friends. Mo was a man very much connected to God. He told me he felt a supernatural protection with the 8-minute delay this morning and I agreed with him. I told him I have seen these synchronized God-moments in my life in the past. It was God’s way, at times, of getting our attention. We were both having a spiritual God-given moment, that only we could both fully understand. We continued talking and he told me he lost his business due to covid. He had a textile business that went under because the China company he was affiliated with closed. He was grateful he was able to support his family by driving an uber cab. He was genuinely happy and grateful. We discussed the impact of covid on businesses. He had a daughter in college, although he looked too young to have a daughter in college. Mo was originally from Egypt. However, he lived in the US for 25 years. We talked about covid closures on businesses. I told him our power was at the voting polls and he semi-agreed and said, “I do my part.”

After a 90-minute delay the traffic cleared and we were on our way. When we reached my destination, I handed him $20. He actually said, “no that isn’t necessary it was nice just to meet you.” Wow, that was incredibly kind. That holy pause was at its very high point and I said to him, “This is the right thing to do. God bless you and stay safe.” I excited the cab as the $20 bill laid by the cup holder of the car.

Two strangers met under what seemed liked regular circumstances, however, God created what I call the, holy pause, in bringing light and love to what appeared to be a dreadful morning. God reminded us both of the power of gratitude and being thankful for the blessings all around us and the protection of God.  Our lives touched one another and we would never be the same. I was also fortunate when I got home later on to know my car was okay, just needed to be dried and cleaned out. Another reason to be so grateful.

That is the end of the story.

So, what are the lessons we can take-away from this story? I think the main thing is that, God is in charge, and that life can change on a dime. Why we were spared and the other person was killed is a mystery that no one can determine. Sure we can speculate, but the reason why things happen as they do will always be just that, a mystery of life.

So where does our purpose come into play. Our purpose comes into play with the holy pause. This incident changed my day and my life in a profound way and gave me another reason to be grateful. Pausing is the most important thing one can do to determine their purpose in life. In our everyday frenzy of life, when our lives seem to be on a rollarcoaster ride in a fast-paced world, taking time for a holy pause is crucial to contemplate our journey in life. Some of us do find purpose in tragic circumstances. For instance, if a family member is killed by a drunk driver, a loved one may opt to start an organization against drunk drivers. Or if someone died of a drug overdoes, a loved one may want to rally to change drug laws in their state. And on a positive note, when we are so moved by a holy pause in life, it could jolt us into our purpose or at the very least give us time to think about the meaning to life as it relates to each one individually.

Life is a beautiful, amazing, mystical experience and only you can determine what you were created to be. Take a little time to contemplate your life and what you would like to do to make it purposeful and a way to give to society. Your purpose is something you love doing that will benefit humanity in some way.

It could be singing in a nursing home, or doing art classes with children in hospice. It can be volunteering at dog kennel or perhaps writing a book. You might want to coach little league or read stories in a library to children. For younger people, you may even want to join the military or find a job in a non-profit helping the homeless. There are so many opportunities in life to do what you love doing and in the process help others. Remember, your purpose is something you love doing that helps society is some way. Take a holy pause to contemplate what direction you want your life to go in.

Rachel Devine is the author of The Third Road, Your Secret Journey Home & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack, Become a Magnet for True Love.

My website has resources for finding your purpose in life, as well as events, books and online courses.