Chapter 1: The Curious Nature of Inquiry

Curiosity has always been a driving force in my life. As a child, I was known for my endless questions, often challenging my parents' knowledge. They fostered my inquisitive spirit, encouraging me to seek answers rather than simply accept the status quo. Our home was filled with resources, including a dictionary and a complete set of encyclopedias that lined our dining room shelves. When I struggled to spell a word, my mother would prompt, “Look it up.” My response was often a puzzled, “How can I look it up if I don’t know how to spell it?” This led to her suggestion: “Sound it out.” Thus, my passion for knowledge began.

My imaginative inner life was vibrant, enriched by my explorations in nature. I would spend hours digging in our garden, planting seeds, and distinguishing between weeds and desired plants. Riding my bike through the neighborhood, I felt the wind in my hair and listened to the rustling trees, wishing on stars and pondering cosmic questions while lying on the grass, contemplating whether the clouds moved or if it was the Earth that shifted beneath them.

One day, while lying in a friend's yard, I posed this question, only to be met with bewildered looks from my companions. Perhaps I was indeed from another world. I often joked with my parents that I was an alien left on their doorstep, eliciting laughter, especially when my mother quipped, “I know you’re mine because I hatched you.”

As I grew older, my inquiries became more profound and emotionally charged. I became fascinated with understanding human motivations, which led me to become a psychotherapist. In that role, I sat with individuals during some of their most difficult moments, helping them unpack painful memories and navigate complex life choices. My extensive experience in mental health provided me with a robust toolkit, one of which was the art of inquiry. I learned to ask questions that encouraged deeper reflection beyond surface-level emotions.

Throughout my day, I continually engage in self-inquiry, asking myself the who, what, when, where, and why.

In 1988, I turned my writing passion into a collaborative effort with my husband, launching a publication called Visions. As the lead interviewer, I had the privilege of conversing with influential figures in the transformational community, including Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, and Deepak Chopra. Even after selling the publication and facing personal loss, I continued my journey as an interviewer. In 2008, I had the honor of speaking with the Dalai Lama, delving into profound discussions on life and existence. My interviews steer clear of typical Q&A formats, as I seek to uncover the individual behind the public persona.

Intuition often guides my questions. Even with a prepared list, I prefer to follow the conversation's natural flow. I trust my instincts when working with clients, allowing my intuition to lead me in crafting relevant inquiries. This brings me to the concept of psychic ability. I refrain from labeling myself as psychic because my insights are sporadic and unpredictable.

Just yesterday, while enjoying lunch with my friend Sherry at a quaint restaurant called Bitchin' Kitten, I experienced one of these moments. The food was exceptional, with a generous kale salad and delicious vegan tacos, leaving me with enough leftovers for two more meals. Due to the bustling atmosphere inside, we chose to sit outdoors, next to a fire pit that filled the air with a delightful aroma. The server, the owner's daughter, had an intriguing tattoo on her arm that read, “Hi, Peggy!” When I asked about it, she clarified that it was actually “Hi, Poppy!” referring to her grandfather. This small moment encapsulated the beauty of connection and conversation.

Recently, I spoke with a colleague seeking to improve her professional skills. My advice was simple: master the art of asking questions. This approach can lead to answers and further inquiries, creating a chain of discovery. When I think I have all the answers, I shut myself off from new possibilities. It’s also a quirk of mine; I often slip into interviewer mode when meeting new people, posing unexpected questions to get to know them better.

An essential question remains: What’s going on beneath the surface?

Chapter 2: Harnessing Your Intuition

In exploring our intuitive abilities, we can learn how to cultivate them more effectively. The following video provides valuable insights into enhancing your psychic powers and setting energetic boundaries.

About Edie Weinstein

Edie Weinstein, MSW, LSW, is a vibrant journalist, inspirational speaker, and licensed social worker with a diverse background. She has authored several books, including The Bliss Mistress Guide to Transforming the Ordinary Into the Extraordinary. Edie has interviewed numerous notable figures and continues to contribute to various publications. As the founder of Hug Mobsters Armed With Love, she promotes kindness through spontaneous hugging events. More about her work can be found at www.opti-mystical.com.