We were lucky to catch up with Michelle Marie recently and have shared our conversation below.
Michelle, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
Despite the immense challenges and adversities, I’ve faced throughout my life, I persist because I refuse to let the darkness of my past define my future. Growing up in a toxic environment, with parents who were more concerned about power and money than their own children’s well-being, taught me resilience from an early age. Despite enduring unimaginable abuse, both physical and psychological, I held onto a glimmer of hope that there was something better waiting for me beyond the confines of my family’s dysfunction.
When I reached my breaking point and realized that my life was in danger, I made the difficult decision to leave everything behind and start anew with a new identity. It wasn’t easy, and the road to recovery has been long and arduous, but I refuse to let the trauma of my past dictate the course of my future.
Establishing my own business as an astrologer, tarot consultant, digital marketer, and cybersecurity professional was a way for me to reclaim my power and autonomy. Despite being in hiding, I found the courage to pursue my passions and build a life for myself that is filled with purpose and meaning. My experiences have given me a unique perspective and empathy for others who have faced similar hardships, which is why I am so passionate about empowering women who have suffered domestic violence and discrimination.
My credentials and accomplishments as a college graduate, teacher, and business owner have carried me through the darkest moments of my life. Despite the doubts and criticisms of others, I remain steadfast in my belief that every individual has the power to rise above their circumstances and create a life that is authentically their own.
I am currently grateful for the support of my loving husband and the opportunity to share my story with others who may be struggling. With each day that passes, I am reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless potential that lies within each of us. Despite the haters and naysayers, I am determined to continue shining my light and empowering others to do the same.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As an avid practitioner of Vedic Astrology and Tarot, I’ve dedicated my life to helping others navigate the cosmic energies and find empowerment in their journey.
With a B.A. in English and M.A. in Education, coupled with certifications as a Tarot and Oracle Card Reader, as well as being a member of prestigious organizations like BAVA (British Association for Vedic Astrologers) and a graduate of the Komilla Academy of Vedic Sciences, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice.
What sets my work apart is my deep commitment to using Vedic remedies and processes for handling trauma. I’m currently in the process of getting my first book published, along with an oracle deck specifically designed to provide healing guidance rooted in Vedic wisdom. It’s an exciting venture that I believe will be a valuable resource for those seeking to heal and transform their lives.
In addition to my writing and deck creation, I’m passionate about teaching. I offer courses in Vedic Astrology and regularly present at international conferences. My dedication to sharing knowledge extends to my social media presence, where I host live readings every Wednesday at 7PM Eastern with fellow professionals, and I also have a weekly podcast called Psychic Soiree.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to expand my offerings further. After the release of my deck, I plan to launch an online store and introduce membership perks to my YouTube channel, providing even more value and support to my community.
One of the aspects of my practice that I find particularly rewarding is my daily planetary mantra practice, which incorporates breathwork and yoga asanas for healing. It’s a holistic approach that honors the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
In essence, my mission is to empower others to embrace their innate potential and find harmony amidst life’s challenges. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve and support others on their journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Perseverance – Perseverance was absolutely crucial. There were countless moments when giving up seemed like the easiest option. Instead, I chose to persevere, and push back. My advice to those early in their journey is to cultivate a mindset of resilience. Understand that setbacks and challenges are inevitable, but they do not have to dictate the course of your life. Embrace the power of perseverance and let it guide you through even the toughest of times. 2. Meaning through trauma – One of the most transformative aspects of my journey has been finding meaning behind the trauma I experienced. Instead of allowing myself to be consumed by bitterness or resentment, I made a conscious decision to search for lessons and growth opportunities within my pain. This shift in perspective allowed me to reclaim my agency and turn my experiences into catalysts for personal and spiritual development. To those who are early in their journey, I encourage you to explore the deeper meaning behind your own struggles. While it may not be easy, confronting your pain with curiosity and compassion can lead to profound insights and healing.
3. Increased Empathy – As I navigated through my own hardships, I developed a heightened sense of empathy for others who have faced similar challenges. This newfound empathy became a guiding force in my work, driving me to advocate for and empower those who have been marginalized or oppressed. My advice to those at the beginning of their journey is to cultivate empathy and compassion for both them and others. Recognize that everyone is fighting their own battles, and by extending empathy, you not only enrich your own life but also create a more compassionate and supportive world.
If you knew you only had a decade of life left, how would you spend that decade?
Yes, indeed, I am currently facing a significant challenge, and it’s one that hits close to home – domestic violence. However, my experience with it has evolved from being a victim to becoming an advocate for others who are still trapped in abusive situations.
My primary concern now is ensuring the safety of both myself and the women I work with. Sharing my story and providing guidance on how to leave abusive relationships often puts me in the crosshairs of their abusers. To protect myself, I’ve taken extensive precautions, such as using a PO Box and participating in a protection program for voting. These measures help minimize the risk of physical harm and invasion of privacy.
Moreover, I’ve bolstered my security by obtaining credentials in cybersecurity, making it more difficult for individuals to track and locate me. I’ve also opted not to own a home and instead move frequently, especially when I sense a potential threat from one of my clients’ abusive partners. It’s a constant game of cat and mouse, but it’s a necessary step to ensure my safety and that of those I aim to help.
Despite the dangers involved, advocacy against domestic violence is a cause I am deeply passionate about. Every instance of violence directed at me only fuels my determination to continue fighting for the rights and safety of survivors. Unfortunately, the reality is that enforcement of laws against domestic violence can be lacking, leaving advocates vulnerable to retaliation from abusers who feel threatened by their efforts to empower survivors.
In 2023 alone, I faced five instances of violence targeted at me, all stemming from the actions of clients’ abusive partners or ex-partners. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the very real dangers inherent in advocating against domestic violence.
Nevertheless, despite the risks, I firmly believe that the work I do is worth it. Every woman who finds the courage to leave an abusive relationship and rebuild her life is a testament to the impact of advocacy and support. My mission is to continue providing guidance, resources, and a voice for those who need it most, even in the face of adversity and danger.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://astrologicaltarot.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astrologicaltarot/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedicastrologyandyou/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AstrologicalT
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/Astrologicaltarot
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@astrologicaltarot https://www.twitch.tv/astrologicaltarot https://www.pinterest.com/SpiritMessages/ https://www.facebook.com/AstrologicalTarotReader
Image Credits
Michelle Marie
