Symbols and symbolic systems fascinate me. They led me through studies of art, psychology, anthropology, mythology, world religions, Kaballa , astrology, numerology and Tarot, to become a Reader. For over 25 years now I've given Readings at Renaissance, Psychic, and Metaphysical Fairs, private consultations, and charity benefits, and held classes and workshops.

For years I've been a Regular at Miami 's renowned Coral Castle's fairs. I have seen how Readings help us to sort out our lives and keep us following the yellow brick road of our intuition. Now I've lived long enough to look back at my path and appreciate the variety and richness of my life. It's taken an apparently meandering path that is still right on course. It led me to join an enthusiastic, talented, and definitely unbusiness-like group to create a repertory theater in Detroit, and against all odds, we kept it going for a few years. It steered me to a study of medieval art for the design of my Contemporary Gothic Chess Set that won a featured spot in Lord & Taylor's "Salute to American Designers" promotion in New York City.

I followed its lead to design textiles and ceramics in New York City and the south of Spain . My study of weaving in London resulted in commissions for one-of-a-kind fabric lengths for fashion designers and boutiques. Some of the drawings used as illustrations in this book were made for a series of whimsical, serene universes for Greeting cards sold through museum stores and boutiques throughout the country. My path led me to design jewelry in Mexico, teach in a real one-room schoolhouse in Spain, and become a certified Yoga teacher in Florida. Today, I balance my studies and my Readings by creating WindStars – woven fabric hangings that combine vibrant color yarns and dangling beads, with decorative and symbolic objects to stimulate our sense of wonder, and delight our senses.

Readings have helped me appreciate how essential it is to follow the path of our own, very unique yellow brick road. I wrote my book to offer you a way to use Readings for yourself, your family and friends, to avoid detours from the path that leads to your best expression of your unique self.

I'd enjoy hearing about your experience using this process. Your suggestions can make it clearer or better in future editions. They are most welcome. My e-mail address is: 4fredi@gmail.com. or fredi@fredischwartz.com. I'd like to hear about your journey.

Fredi