By Marjorie Young

The quest for a ‘soul mate’ can prove a driving force (or distraction) for many. Some believe without this almost mythical -- and frequently elusive -- ‘other half,’ our lives can neither be fulfilled or fulfilling. Clients frequently bring up the topic during psychic readings, often with a measure of frustration, demanding when he or she may be expected to make an appearance.

I think the concept itself may be misleading. Is there truly only ONE ‘destined’ for each of us? I’m hardly convinced (though some romantics may heatedly disagree). The world is filled with amazing individuals, and if we alter our path (where we live or work), we are not doomed to ‘miss out’ on encountering someone extraordinary.

Furthermore, true ‘soul mates’ may be cloaked in a variety of guises…including close friends, children, siblings -- certainly not confined to an amorous role. There are those who have enriched my life immeasurably, with whom I share a marvelous, moving kinship; not having them in my life would be unimaginable. Yet, romance plays no part in the matter.

Undeniably, there exists a breathtaking, even uncanny affinity between human beings which may materialize, almost as if summoned by magic. I vividly recall arriving in India from Sri Lanka, and going to a café for tea. Almost immediately, a young American girl approached, asking if she might take a glance at my guidebook. Within moments, it seemed as if we’d known one another forever. We traveled together for a month until she had to return home, and we’ve maintained our bond for several decades.

On that same trip, in Nepal, I ran into an acquaintance from India who was traveling with a Swiss youth on his first solo adventure. Though I was a good deal older, and we seemingly had little in common, we hit it off instantly and as friends, trekked the Himalayas, journeyed to Burma and Thailand, and have maintained our memorable, vivid association in all the years since. Now married to an exceptional woman, with three stunning daughters (I am godmother to one of them) I experience the same unique, life-enhancing kinship to the entire family. We often marvel at this, having no ‘explanation’, yet without doubt the connection has altered our lives and we ponder the fact with wonder.

Another example is my young great-nephew Sam. Almost since birth, we have shared a striking affinity, causing him to occupy a somewhat baffling place in my life -- eventually even inspiring my fantasy/adventure series “The Boy with Golden Eyes.” It is undeniable that, without him, I would never have become an author.

Thus, ‘soul-mates’ may come in a multitude of guises, but will undoubtedly enrich our reality, while we nurture the best in them in return. (Never confuse an abusive or debilitating relationship for the genuine article). And whatever or whomever is behind the ‘matchmaking,’ we should give heart-felt thanks while remembering never to put our own lives and talents on hold until they are fated to appear.

I look forward to your comments and questions. Please email me at: ballardpsychic@gmail.com

Marjorie is available for readings at the Ballard Sunday Market, her Ballard home, or by phone. Please visit her award-winning fantasy/adventure series website: http://www.theboywithgoldeneyes.com/

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