The expectation is that spirits speak to us as someone would converse with us on the telephone. On occasion it happens, but most often spirit communicates to us through all our senses of sight, sound, smell, feel or taste.

They may use one sense to communicate with us, or all five at once. Additionally, each spirit has a way of communicating that will differ from another. It's a matter of understanding that just as people communicate differently, so does spirit. Spirit just uses more senses.

The most important thing to remember is that spirit always speak the truth. It's the interpreter and their perceptions of what they're picking up from spirit that can make mistakes in interpretation. Your own association with images and symbols are most important.

As you begin to try to make these associations, you may wish to keep a journal of what sensations, words and images you get, as it's very helpful. Sometimes we are so close to things that we can't see the forest for the trees and hindsight is always crystal clear.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the spirits that come to you might not be family members. Or they might be family members you have never met …a great aunt… or a great-great-grandfather. Spirit will give you indications of who they are, but you might have to do some research. They also might be spirit guides who guide you through life that you've may have not known in this life, but from another life.

There are different ways to open up to spirit. You can ask spirit for some indication they are with you. More often than not, spirit is delighted to do so in any number of ways.

Or, you can try sitting in a quiet room. Dim the lights and take a few deep breaths. Relax and allow your mind to become quiet. As you sit, ask spirit to send you some sensation so that you can feel them around you. For example, a slight pressure, tingle or warmth on your shoulders would indicate that spirit is putting their 'hands' on your shoulders.

As you begin to recognise spirit, ask them questions. Make them simple yes/no questions at first and most definitely ask them their name. You might only get an initial at first, but as you become more open you will get names.

As you progress in understanding spirit, you will learn your own set of symbols and sensations. A good dream dictionary might be of help in deciphering the information sent to you.

As you move forward you will learn that even if you are by yourself you are never alone. Spirit is always with you.

Susan USA