Importance of an Energy Exchange

Contributor: Michelle Smeby

There are those who have offered skepticism that if a teacher truly has a key to enlightenment, or a tool to help us on our path, if they were truly spiritually motivated and enlightened, they would offer their services for free.

Not so.

Not all people who practice alternative teachings are charlatans with their hands out; there are limitless opportunities for inner and outer development through meditation, Reiki, yoga, tai chi, coaching, and other methods. Asking for money is not the same thing as begging on a street corner, provided that the person who is performing the service is acting with sincere intent to help others. There are so many people offering to help us on our paths, providing insights and shining light on the areas that most need development and where we should focus our attentions.

Provided that we have not cloistered ourselves somewhere, we need to abide by certain societal norms, such as paying rent, paying bills, buying groceries, etc. All of these services are provided for a fee. Enlightenment too, should be offered for a fee. Paying our teachers, in whatever form we mutually agree to do so, enables them to earn a living while expanding the reach of their teachings.

In order for someone who is living on Earth to truly value the service that they have received, that service should cost some form of energy exchange. Money is often the easiest choice, but I have provided Reiki treatments in exchange for food, web site development, and other services that my clients valued as worthy of exchange.

The most important aspect of this transaction is the "exchange;" that each person participates according to the boundaries in which he/she feels comfortable. This also limits the development of karma, or an imbalance, where either person feels as if she/he "owes" the other, or feels as if an unfair or unworthy exchange has transpired.

For consideration:

All transactions should be joyous, happy events, where each party benefits to a greater extent than the exchange event itself. Often, in esoteric practices, the effects of these events may not be felt at once. But, as the inner soul work is done, the external world around the person will also take on a new, changed shape. It is important to keep in mind that our inner thoughts, feelings, and emotions dictate our outer world. As we practice what we have learned, and develop into greater, more loving persons, our world changes too!

So, embrace the exchanges! You’ll be glad that you valued yourself enough to embrace a new opportunity for growth!