does anyone believe in those types of shows where a man claims to talk to dead people while picking out someone in the audience. I thought that it could be done when i was little and thought it was cool, but then i heard how the shows have some people stand outside and ask others about there story and then when the show actually started the host would call out to the other people who told there story to the the scouts from the show.

I must admit, years ago I used to go to Spiritualist Churches, Mediums would do readings just like the show you are talking about. Some of the messages were things like "I have a Harry here" if the person they were addressing didn't know a "Harry" the Medium would just say "hold that, maybe it will come to light later on".

After several weeks of this, I got bored and realized that maybe everything was not as it seemed. I do however, believe that messages can come from the other side, but I really think if people do go to see Mediums they need a message that is not just a row of names, but something a bit more substantial and carries more weight, otherwise they are no better off than when they started.

What you are saying above about scouts standing outside and gleaning info from the audience is a shame, because if that is true, it does a lot more harm than good and ruins any sincerity and genuine talent that some Mediums really do have

thats what i heard im not sure though how credible it is.

those shows are dispicable.......B

My wife and I saw John Edwards live here on LI a couple of years ago. Not a TV episode, just a "concert".

If it's a trick it's a darn good one.

(we didn't get picked)

I wish I had a link for this. I saw a show on TV a while back that had people in the audience. The Crossing Over show was a lot of great editing and a guy with mediocre cold reading skills at best.

My dad's friend died suddenly, and one day, about a month later, his wife discovered a used cigeratte in the garbage. She doesn't smoke and she didn't have friends over. BTW he use to throw used cigerattes in the trash can.

messages do come across.

I agree, Nick. I've experienced things like this. I'm curious to know what you think about people like John Edward and James Van Praagh? Do you think they're legit? And do you think they should be making money off their gift?

i think there are times when messages seem to come over...what is the purpose?...hard to say except each has to be taken on it's own merit...as far as the mediums on t v...there may be some truth to some as history records people who have had the ability to conjure up spirits of the dead and to receive messages but my personal opinion is that the vast majority is a load of bull...just like some (i am a believer and i know there are some lying preachers out there) t v preachers, some want money and will use any means to get it....i'm sure some of these mediums do the same thing....

randomhit10