I'm still getting comfortable with the idea myself. I have been a bit reticent regarding anything remotely metaphysical based on personal experiences but it's something that keeps coming up for me so I guess I need to work through it
I've been trying to follow the prayers that Chris' messages have shared. I've been meditating (almost) daily now for about 5 years, but have not been so disciplined about visualizations, shielding, and the like, although I've incorporated building a shield into my morning meditation recently. I ask for the assistance of my TA and guidance team.
I think if we're trying to gain something from this relationship, it won't bear the fruit we're expecting - again, sincerity is the key. A big message for me is to "let go of control" and quit trying to plan everything lol.
Another few prayers that I started using a few years ago that I think have made a big difference in my life:
My will is that Father's Will Be Done, by all things, through all things, and in all things.
Pray for values - like strength, courage, to be able to discern the truth, for doubts to be converted to belief.
I also gave my TA express permission to work on my behalf. - This one's a doozy! You're essentially giving your TA permission to be a self-acting adjuster.
And now, two years later, my life is COMPLETELY different. I've been trying to let go and Let God. It hasn't been easy, but it has been a blessing (even if it takes me a bit of time to FEEL that truth). I've learned a lot about myself. While a lot of things have fallen away for me, my new path isn't completely clear yet, so I'm still in the mist.
I've been thinking of my relationship with my guidance team using perhaps a rough-around-the-edges metaphor, but it makes sense for me. When I moved to my current home, the first floor has tile everywhere, which one of my dogs HATES. He's got these long legs and a bit of anxiety, so for the first few days he refused to come downstairs away from the carpet - he'd stiffen up, lose his grip, and freak out. To help him adjust, we would put a leash on him and walk him through the first floor to the back door (well, we dragged him the first few times
). Eventually he gained enough confidence to walk with a purpose through the house if we led him with the leash. Then, we were able to let the leash go, and he could walk on his own - but the leash was necessary for him to trust he was safe. After a week or so he no longer needed the leash.
A few days later, it occurred to me that my guidance team is probably working in similar ways with me! It's a matter of building trust, learning to discern the truth (having a desire for the Truth vs. wanting whatever it is that you want will save you from disappointment), and building patience and faith. Our guidance teams have an interesting challenge trying to get our attention without scaring us, or getting us obsessed with material benefits of such a powerful relationship. Take care of your spiritual life and your material life will be taken care of for you.
My two cents anyway!