Crossing Over Summary by John Edward

Name: Crossing Over
ISBN: 9781588720023

Core Idea

John Edward's "Crossing Over" argues that talking with the dead is a natural human ability, open to everyone. Using stories from his work as a psychic medium, Edward explains that death is just a change, not an end. He says our loved ones still exist and can interact with us. He believes we all have hidden psychic abilities and shows how to recognize and develop these senses to feel the presence and messages from those who have passed. This helps us better understand life, death, and lasting love.

Difficulty: Easy
Read it if: You are curious about psychic mediumship, believe in life after death, or are seeking comfort and connection with deceased loved ones. Also recommended if you want to explore your own intuitive abilities.
Skip it if: You are a staunch skeptic of psychic phenomena, prefer scientific explanations for all unexplained events, or are uncomfortable with spiritual discussions that lack empirical evidence.

Key Takeaways from Crossing Over

The Peaceful Transition

Crossing over is a natural and loving reunion, not an end.

Edward says death is not a scary void but a gentle, expected move to a higher state. He believes 'crossing over' is peaceful, without suffering, and marked by love and recognition. This view aims to ease the fear of death by showing it as a homecoming, a happy reunion with souls from past and present lives. It changes death from an end to a continuation of consciousness in a different form. This idea encourages a more accepting and less anxious approach to death, for ourselves and those we mourn.

“Crossing over is a natural, peaceful, and loving experience that will serve as a wondrous reunion with your loved ones from this life and other lives.”

In the book: Edward's entire premise is built on his experiences as a medium, relaying messages from those who have 'crossed over,' who consistently describe feelings of peace, love, and recognition rather than pain or fear.

Try this: To diminish the fear of death, practice visualizing the passing of a loved one (or your own eventual passing) as a peaceful journey towards a loving reunion. Focus on the idea of continuation rather than cessation. Engage in discussions about the afterlife with an open mind to normalize the concept of a benevolent transition.

Related ideas: afterlife, spirit-world, transcendence

Everyone is Psychic

Unlock your innate spiritual perception through practice and permission.

Edward believes psychic abilities are not just for a few people. They are a natural part of human energy, often unused. He champions the idea that everyone can sense and receive energy beyond the five physical senses. To use these gifts, one must consciously acknowledge them, allow oneself to use them, and practice. This means actively opening to subtle energies and trusting intuition, instead of dismissing them as chance. It is a call to reclaim a basic human potential that society often discourages or dismisses.

“Everyone has psychic gifts, but most of the time they have been locked away in the recesses of the mind and need to be developed and recognized. You must give yourself permission to perceive and receive energy.”

In the book: Edward frequently cites instances where individuals, initially skeptical, begin to experience their own intuitive insights once they start actively engaging with spiritual practices and giving themselves 'permission' to be psychic.

Try this: Start by paying attention to your gut feelings or 'hunches' in daily situations. Practice mindfulness and meditation to quiet the rational mind and create space for intuitive thoughts. Keep a dream journal to track symbolic messages. Actively tell yourself, 'I give myself permission to perceive and receive energy.'

Related ideas: intuition, empathy, clairvoyance, psychic-development

Angels vs. Guides

Understanding your celestial and incarnated spiritual support system.

Edward separates spiritual helpers into two main types: angels and guides. Angels are pure energy beings who have never lived physically. They exist only to protect, inspire, and support humanity. Guides, on the other hand, are souls who have lived physical lives, gained wisdom, and then choose to help people on their earthly journey. This difference clarifies the roles and origins of various spiritual helpers, suggesting a multi-layered support system for everyone. Understanding this difference can help people better connect with and interpret messages from their specific spiritual allies.

“An angel is an energy that has never had a physical incarnation... A guide may have a physical body at one time, and works with you when you choose to incarnate into the physical.”

In the book: Edward's readings often involve identifying specific 'guides' (e.g., deceased relatives, historical figures) and referring to the general presence of 'angels' providing comfort and direction.

Try this: When seeking spiritual guidance, differentiate between asking for universal angelic support (e.g., for protection or inspiration) and specific guidance from a personal guide (e.g., for career choices or relationship advice). Meditate with the intention of connecting with either your angels or your guides, and pay attention to the type of wisdom or comfort you receive.

Related ideas: spirit-guides, guardian-angels, spiritual-helpers

Tools for Connection

Meditation and visualization as gateways to the Other Side.

Edward suggests using meditation and visualization as key tools for talking with the spirit world. Meditation helps quiet the mind, creating a state where subtle energies and messages can be felt. Visualization is a strong technique for actively creating mental paths and intentions to connect with angels, guides, or deceased loved ones. These are not just passive activities but active ways to train the mind to expand its senses and intentionally link the physical and non-physical worlds. They are the basic practices for developing one's psychic potential.

“John also shows you how to use tools such as meditation and visualization to contact your angels and guides.”

In the book: Edward's workshops and advice consistently include guided meditations and visualization exercises designed to help participants feel the presence of their spiritual helpers or connect with loved ones.

Try this: Dedicate 10-15 minutes daily to meditation, focusing on your breath and clearing your mind. During this time, set an intention to connect with your spiritual guides. Practice visualization by imagining a clear, loving connection to a deceased loved one or an angelic presence, seeing and feeling their energy around you.

Related ideas: meditation, visualization, spiritual-practice, mindfulness

Overcoming Fear of the Unknown

Knowledge and understanding dissolve anxieties about death and the afterlife.

A main point of Edward's work is to explain death and the afterlife to reduce human fear. He argues that much of our anxiety comes from not knowing what happens when we 'cross over.' By giving detailed accounts of the transition, the spirit world, and the ongoing existence of consciousness, he aims to replace fear with knowledge. This openness about the unknown parts of death allows people to face mortality with peace and readiness, rather than dread. It emphasizes that fear often grows from not knowing, and spiritual insight can be the answer.

“Edward tells you how to communicate with those on the Other Side, what to expect when you cross over, and how to vanquish any fears you may have.”

In the book: The entire book serves as evidence, as Edward systematically addresses common fears about death (e.g., loneliness, pain, eternal nothingness) by offering alternative, comforting perspectives derived from his extensive mediumistic experiences.

Try this: Educate yourself about various spiritual perspectives on death and the afterlife. Engage in open conversations with others about their beliefs to normalize the topic. When a fear about death arises, consciously replace it with a comforting image or understanding of a peaceful transition or reunion, drawing from Edward's teachings.

Related ideas: death-anxiety, spiritual-understanding, comfort-in-grief

Permission to Perceive

Consciously allowing yourself to receive spiritual energy is the first step.

Edward emphasizes that the biggest obstacle to developing psychic abilities is often self-imposed: refusing or being unable to allow oneself to recognize and interact with subtle energies. Society often teaches us to ignore intuitive feelings or 'coincidences,' which suppresses our natural perceptive abilities. By consciously giving oneself permission, a person opens an energetic flow, allowing previously ignored information to come in. This act of self-authorization is important, as it changes the internal state from doubt and blockage to openness and receptivity, setting the stage for all future spiritual growth.

“You must give yourself permission to perceive and receive energy, and then use spiritual tools to enable you unleash your potential as you embark on your psychic and spiritual journey.”

In the book: Edward often recounts stories of individuals who, after years of dismissing their own intuitive experiences, begin to have profound spiritual awakenings once they consciously decide to 'allow' themselves to perceive.

Try this: Before attempting any psychic or intuitive practice, verbally state or mentally affirm: 'I give myself full permission to perceive and receive all beneficial spiritual energy and guidance.' Repeat this regularly. Challenge any self-doubt or societal conditioning that tells you these abilities aren't real or are only for a select few.

Related ideas: self-permission, energetic-blockage, spiritual-receptivity

The Continuity of Love

Bonds of affection transcend the physical boundary of death.

A comforting part of Edward's message is that love lasts beyond death. He consistently says that loved ones who have passed stay connected to us, able to watch, guide, and even communicate. This lasting love means relationships are not broken by physical death but change into a different kind of connection. This understanding offers deep comfort to those grieving, suggesting their departed loved ones are not truly 'gone' but are in a different state, still sharing in their lives from another dimension. It reinforces the idea that love is an eternal spiritual bond.

“Crossing over... will serve as a wondrous reunion with your loved ones from this life and other lives.”

In the book: Edward's entire career is built on delivering messages from deceased loved ones, often containing specific details and expressions of love that resonate deeply with the living, proving the continuity of their bond.

Try this: When grieving, speak aloud to your deceased loved ones, sharing your thoughts and feelings, knowing they can hear you. Look for signs and synchronicities that you might interpret as messages from them. Cultivate a belief that love is an unbreakable energetic connection that transcends physical death.

Related ideas: grief-healing, eternal-love, spiritual-connection

Embrace Your Spiritual Journey

Actively engage with your psychic potential for personal growth.

Edward views developing psychic abilities not just as a trick, but as a part of a larger spiritual journey and personal growth. Using one's potential means actively engaging with and developing these natural gifts. This leads to a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe. This journey involves self-discovery, spiritual growth, and becoming more aware of the subtle energies that affect our lives. It is a call to move beyond a purely material life and embrace a holistic view of being, where spiritual insight helps navigate life's challenges and find one's true purpose. This is an active, lifelong commitment.

“Use spiritual tools to enable you unleash your potential as you embark on your psychic and spiritual journey.”

In the book: Edward's own life story and the transformation of many individuals he encounters demonstrate the profound personal growth that comes from embracing and developing one's spiritual and psychic gifts.

Try this: Commit to consistent spiritual practices like meditation, journaling, and intuitive exercises. Actively seek out resources (books, workshops) that support psychic development. View every intuitive hit or spiritual experience as a step forward on your unique spiritual path, fostering a sense of curiosity and openness.

Related ideas: spiritual-growth, self-discovery, consciousness-expansion

Crossing Over Quotes

“I’m not in the business of proving anything to anyone. I’m in the business of helping people.”

Edward's perspective on his work and the skepticism he faces.

“Death ends a life, not a relationship.”

A core belief that underpins his work as a medium.

“Sometimes the most important messages are the ones that are the hardest to hear.”

Reflecting on delivering difficult or unexpected information from the other side.

“My job is to interpret, not to judge.”

Discussing his role in relaying messages without personal bias.

“The energy of love never dies; it simply changes form.”

Explaining the enduring nature of love beyond physical existence.

“If you open your mind, you open your heart to possibilities you never imagined.”

Encouraging readers to be open-minded about spiritual experiences.

“It's not about what you want to hear, it's about what they need to tell you.”

Highlighting that messages from the deceased are often for their own closure as well.

“The greatest gift you can give someone who is grieving is to listen without judgment.”

Offering advice on how to support those who have lost loved ones.

“We are all connected, whether we realize it or not.”

Emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings, living and deceased.

“My ability is a tool for healing, not a parlor trick.”

Distinguishing his work from mere entertainment and asserting its serious purpose.

“Trust your intuition. It's often the universe speaking to you.”

Encouraging readers to pay attention to their inner feelings and guidance.

“Grief is a process, not a destination.”

Discussing the ongoing nature of processing loss and healing.

“Every person has the potential to connect with the spiritual world, even if they don't realize it.”

Suggesting that spiritual connection isn't limited to mediums.

“The other side doesn't use our human clock. Their timing is different.”

Explaining why messages may not come through instantly or on a specific schedule.

Quiz

10 questions on the main ideas. Each answer comes with a short explanation.

Question 1
According to John Edward, what is the fundamental difference between an 'angel' and a 'guide' in the context of spiritual assistance?
1. Angels are always benevolent, while guides can sometimes be mischievous.
2. Angels are higher-ranking spiritual beings than guides.
3. An angel is an energy that has never had a physical incarnation, whereas a guide may have had a physical body at one time.
4. Guides only help with practical, earthly matters, while angels assist with spiritual growth.
Show answer
C. An angel is an energy that has never had a physical incarnation, whereas a guide may have had a physical body at one time. John Edward explicitly states that an angel is an energy that has never had a physical incarnation, while a guide may have had a physical body at one time and works with you throughout your life.
Question 2
What is John Edward's primary message about the experience of 'crossing over'?
1. It is a challenging journey that requires extensive preparation and training.
2. It is a natural, peaceful, loving experience and a reunion with loved ones.
3. It is an unpredictable event that varies greatly from person to person.
4. It is a solitary journey where one confronts their past actions.
Show answer
B. It is a natural, peaceful, loving experience and a reunion with loved ones. The book explicitly states that 'Crossing over is a natural, peaceful, and loving experience... that will serve as a wondrous reunion with your loved ones from this life and other lives.'
Question 3
What is one of the key tools John Edward suggests for contacting angels and guides?
1. Astrology readings
2. Hypnotherapy
3. Meditation and visualization
4. Dream interpretation journals
Show answer
C. Meditation and visualization John Edward shows you how to use tools such as meditation and visualization to contact your angels and guides.
Question 4
According to John Edward, what is the initial step required to begin developing one's psychic abilities?
1. Attending specialized psychic development workshops.
2. Seeking guidance from an experienced psychic medium.
3. Giving yourself permission to perceive and receive energy.
4. Intensive study of ancient spiritual texts.
Show answer
C. Giving yourself permission to perceive and receive energy. John insists that everyone has psychic gifts and that 'You must give yourself permission to perceive and receive energy' as the first step.
Question 5
How does John Edward characterize the current state of most people's psychic gifts?
1. They are nonexistent and must be created from scratch.
2. They are fully developed but often ignored.
3. They have been locked away in the recesses of the mind and need development.
4. They are only accessible to a select few individuals.
Show answer
C. They have been locked away in the recesses of the mind and need development. He insists that everyone has psychic gifts, but 'most of the time they have been locked away in the recesses of the mind and need to be developed and recognized.'
Question 6
What role does a 'guide' play once a person chooses to incarnate into the physical world, according to Edward?
1. The guide acts as a judge of their earthly actions.
2. The guide serves as a constant companion and helper throughout their life.
3. The guide only appears during moments of extreme crisis.
4. The guide's role is primarily to test the individual's faith.
Show answer
B. The guide serves as a constant companion and helper throughout their life. The text states that a guide 'works with you when you choose to incarnate into the physical. This energy stays with you throughout your life to help you in every way.'
Question 7
Beyond simply perceiving energy, what further action does John Edward advise for unleashing psychic potential?
1. Ignoring all external spiritual advice.
2. Relying solely on innate talent without effort.
3. Using spiritual tools to develop and recognize these gifts.
4. Avoiding any discussion of one's abilities with others.
Show answer
C. Using spiritual tools to develop and recognize these gifts. After giving yourself permission to perceive and receive energy, the next step is to 'then use spiritual tools to enable you unleash your potential as you embark on your psychic and spiritual journey.'
Question 8
How does John Edward address the common fear associated with the concept of 'crossing over'?
1. He acknowledges it as a valid fear that cannot be overcome.
2. He suggests it is a necessary part of the spiritual journey.
3. He aims to vanquish any fears by describing it as a natural, peaceful, and loving experience.
4. He encourages ignoring the fear and focusing on positive thoughts.
Show answer
C. He aims to vanquish any fears by describing it as a natural, peaceful, and loving experience. The book states John Edward tells you 'how to vanquish any fears you may have' by assuring readers that 'Crossing over is a natural, peaceful, and loving experience.'
Question 9
What specific aspect of a guide's existence distinguishes it from an angel, beyond its potential for physical incarnation?
1. Guides are exclusively focused on helping individuals find material wealth.
2. Guides are assigned to an individual from the moment they choose to incarnate and stay with them throughout their life.
3. Angels are earthbound, while guides reside on higher planes of existence.
4. Angels offer general protection, while guides provide specific warnings of danger.
Show answer
B. Guides are assigned to an individual from the moment they choose to incarnate and stay with them throughout their life. While both assist, the text specifies that a guide 'works with you when you choose to incarnate into the physical. This energy stays with you throughout your life to help you in every way,' highlighting a continuous, life-long connection specific to the individual's incarnation.
Question 10
When John Edward speaks about 'unleashing your potential as you embark on your psychic and spiritual journey,' what is the implied prerequisite for this journey?
1. Achieving perfect physical health and vitality.
2. Acknowledging the inherent presence of psychic gifts within oneself.
3. Renouncing all worldly possessions and desires.
4. Undergoing a formal initiation ceremony.
Show answer
B. Acknowledging the inherent presence of psychic gifts within oneself. John insists that everyone has psychic gifts, but 'most of the time they have been locked away... and need to be developed and recognized.' The journey begins with recognizing these gifts and giving permission to perceive energy.

Crossing Over FAQ

What is 'Crossing Over' about?

John Edward's 'Crossing Over' is a guide to understanding the transition to the Other Side, offering insights into communicating with spirits, the experience of death, and how to overcome fears associated with it. It emphasizes the natural, peaceful, and loving nature of crossing over, portraying it as a reunion with loved ones.

Does John Edward provide methods for communicating with spirits?

Yes, John Edward shares various techniques for connecting with those on the Other Side, including the use of meditation and visualization. He also discusses how these spiritual tools can help individuals contact their angels and guides.

What is the difference between angels and guides, according to John Edward?

John Edward explains that an angel is an energy that has never had a physical incarnation, serving to assist, protect, and inspire humans. A guide, however, may have had a physical body at one time and works with an individual throughout their life after they choose to incarnate.

Does 'Crossing Over' suggest everyone has psychic abilities?

Yes, John Edward strongly asserts that everyone possesses psychic gifts, though they are often undeveloped or unrecognized. The book guides readers on how to unlock and develop these innate abilities by giving themselves permission to perceive energy and using spiritual tools.

How does this book differ from other spiritual or psychic development guides?

'Crossing Over' uniquely blends John Edward's personal memoir and experiences with practical advice on communicating with spirits and developing psychic abilities. It places a strong emphasis on the peaceful nature of death and the reunion aspect of crossing over, offering a distinctive perspective on grief and the afterlife.

What can readers expect when they 'cross over'?

According to John Edward, crossing over is a natural, peaceful, and loving experience. He describes it as a wondrous reunion with loved ones from both this life and previous lives, free from fear and filled with a sense of homecoming.

How can one overcome fears about death, as discussed in the book?

John Edward addresses fears about death by reframing the experience of crossing over as a peaceful and loving reunion, rather than an end. By understanding the natural process and the continuous connection with loved ones, readers are encouraged to release their anxieties.

Does the book offer practical exercises for developing psychic abilities?

Yes, 'Crossing Over' guides readers on how to use spiritual tools like meditation and visualization not only for contacting angels and guides but also for unleashing their potential and developing their inherent psychic gifts. It emphasizes giving oneself permission to perceive and receive energy.

About the author

John Edward

John Edward is an author known for his work in the field of spirituality and the afterlife. His book "Crossing Over" explores themes of communication with the deceased and the experiences of those who have encountered near-death situations. Edward is recognized for his contributions to the understanding of psychic phenomena and has gained a following for his insights into life beyond death.

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