| Since the early 1980's we've explored metaphysical | | | | *Being a "best-selling" author |
| and | | | | *An appearance on Oprah |
| New Age offerings. We've compiled a list below to | | | | *Appearing on other national TV/radio shows |
| helpyou navigate the metaphysical marketplace. | | | | *Having testimonials/endorsements from other |
| The following is an extended list of characteristics | | | | "spiritualauthorities" (i.e., often self-proclaimed) |
| that,although perceived by much of the population as | | | | *A powerfully effective communicator/stage presence |
| inherently | | | | *Having "cured" themselves of a terminal disease |
| "spiritual," do not automatically make someone a | | | | throughtheir magic powers that you can have too if |
| goodspiritual teacher. | | | | you would justpay their fees and buy their products |
| *Membership to a sect/religion based in a foreign | | | | *Guaranteeing success in manifesting what you want |
| country | | | | (especially if it contrasts with who you really are |
| *The appearance of a wise, old sage; older doesn't | | | | yourtrue path) |
| alwaysmean wiser | | | | *Cheer-leading ability |
| *Musical/artistic ability | | | | *Denying reincarnation and karma (usually because |
| *The ability to offer an authentic-looking, heartfelt cry | | | | acceptingthese basic spiritual concepts would negate |
| oncue | | | | some or a lot ofwhat they preach) |
| *Having attracted a lot of money/contributions through | | | | *"Never" saying anything "negative" and always smiling |
| theiradherents | | | | *Written communication that appears to sound |
| *A foreign accent | | | | profoundlydeep, is difficult to decipher, and that leaves |
| *Enigmatic looks | | | | you thinking, |
| *Lots of press | | | | "What does that mean?" after the feel-good feeling |
| *Expensive fees | | | | fades |
| *Expensive seminars and retreats | | | | *Poetic ability |
| *Mention of having studied under a "guru" in an | | | | *The ability to make you feel warm and fuzzy inside |
| exoticforeign country | | | | *Claims of having communicated directly with God, or |
| *Specializing in mysterious disciplines that are difficult, | | | | guides,or other spiritual beings--especially when the |
| ifnot impossible to pronounce | | | | "communications"are sometimes biased-sounding. |