Unfinished Business: What the Dead Can Teach Us About Life

by James Van Praagh

“He helps a lot of people. He really is a healer. I think he’s basically on this earth right now at this time and place to heal. He is the real thing. I can’t tell you how many times he’s been right with me.” — Shirley MacLaine “It has such a hopeful message. Even though he’s telling stories of the dead, it’s really about living your life better and inspiring people to not have unfinished business.”
— Jennifer Love Hewitt James Van Praagh, world-famous medium, co-executive producer of the primetime series Ghost Whisperer , and author of the New York Times bestseller Ghosts Among Us , is back with Unfinished Business . Fans of Sylvia Browne and John Edward will find this a useful and reassuring guide for the living… from those who have passed on.

Genres: Spirituality, Nonfiction, Paranormal, New Age, Metaphysics, Ghosts, Memoir

256 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2009

About the author

His very natural, easy-going style would lead you to believe that James Van Praagh is chatting with a friend on the telephone, not communicating messages from the grave. James is a survival evidence medium, meaning that he is able to bridge the gap between two planes of existence, that of the living and that of the dead, by providing evidential proof of life after death via detailed messages. "I'm clairsentient," he explains, "which simply means clear feeling. I feel the emotions and personalities of the deceased. I am also clairvoyant," he adds, clarifying that, "the first is feeling, the second is seeing, very much like Whoopi Goldberg in the movie, Ghost." The true essence of the messages are the feelings behind the words. James is an expert on this subject, since he has been in touch with those feelings most of his adult life. "The spirits communicate by their emotions. No words exist in the English language, or any other for that matter, which can describe the intense sensations."

Personality traits come in as well. If a person was talkative while alive, he will come through with plenty to say. James also relays physical traits and death conditions as evidence. "If I convey recognizable evidence along with even a fraction of the loving energy behind the message, I consider the reading successful."

James' public popularity began during his appearances on the NBC talk show The Other Side. The show concentrated on paranormal issues, and James became the favorite guest and resident expert on the subject of life after death. Even Howard Rosenberg, the Los Angeles Times distinguished television critic, dubbed James "spectacular".

Through the years his message of hope has touched a great many more people due to his television appearances on such shows as Oprah, Larry King Live, Dr. Phil, A&E Biography, Maury Povich, 20/20, and 48 Hours. His unique paranormal experiences during the past twenty-five years have seen him author best-selling books, create meditation programs and development videos, teach mediumship classes, conduct seminars to sold-out audiences, and produce successful television projects.

Reviews

[Ayse_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a scientist and I find all of this very hard to believe. But if we are to believe that some of us can communicate with the dead; then what is being told in this book is wonderful. The anecdotes are about deceased ones wanting their living correspondents to be happy, to fulfill their dreams; get over all misunderstandings and faults and even their crimes. They are reaching out to help their loved ones to make the right choices and protect them. They want people to realize their short-comings before they pass to the other side, because apparently what you have here continues over there unless you understand and correct yourself.

The book focuses on the well known theme of 'nothing is what it seems and everything happens for a reason'. It also hints that one can change all the negative experiences to have positive outcomes, and suggests that actually is the idea behind all bad experiences (for people on both sides).

This was an interesting book that may help heal the saddness of having lost a loved one and encourage a brighter perspective for pessimists.

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not generally into "self-help" books...in fact, the only reason I picked this one up is because I was more or less forced to. My mom, after buying a copy on impulse when she saw it on clearance, deemed it "life-changing," subsequently bought every copy the local Barnes & Noble had in stock, and distributed them to friends and family.

I figured I'd wait until her enthusiasm died down, and then read it, but she was adament. "Start the book! Start it! Write notes!" Finally, I caved. I cracked open Unfinished Business and I was in for good.

You know how some people scan the Bible for inspiration? Or read their favorite quotations? THIS is that book for me. Certain passages rang out to me with truth.

James Von Praagh isn't preachy, or irritatingly positive, or condescending. He takes what he believes, condenses it into a book, and lets you decide. He doesn't seem terribly concerned with your opinion of his ideas, but he's putting them out there in hopes that they'll help someone.

I know that this book has changed the way I think about life. It's also an entertaining read, unlike most of these types of books. Skeptics...read it. Believers...read it. Reading it cannot hurt, and I can almost guarantee that it will help.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like to believe that James Van Praagh can really see the spirits of people who have died physically. When I read this book, I am persuaded that he does. Part of the persuasion is that his message is so positive. He is continually advising the reader to make amends for past mistakes, forgive wrongs, and understand that our thoughts create our realities. He is so good at explaining the power of our own thoughts and that we can change the experience of our lives through the choices we make about how we will think about and react to life. As a result of reading this book, I've resolved anew to be more aware of my thought patterns and to stop short when I find myself awfulizing about things with negative or worrisome or depressing thoughts. Being positive does make each day better. It doesn't remove the obstacles and difficulties in our lives, but a broader perspective helps lessen the impact of those obstacles and difficulties. The only aspect of this book that I disagree with is the concept of reincarnation. I know that Mr. Van Praagh is utterly convinced that we all go through multiple incarnations on earth to learn various lessons and balance out karma. I don't believe that. I'm quite certain that if he is talking to spirits on the other side of the veil, what he is learning from them is not translating well into a time-bound world. Eternal life is not a concept easily described by those living it and not easily grasped when living in a construct of measured time like we do on earth.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went to one of Mr. Van Praagh's spirit circles in Laguna Beach. He spoke about this book and I've waited eagerly for its release. I was not disappointed. He delivers a message of love and freedom; that every single day, every monent we have a choice to be loving, compassionate and happy or the opposite. Ultimately though, its much easier to be positive than negative and we reap the harvest of our choices in the end.

One of the most striking parts of this book was his claim that when we die we become more alive on the other side than here on earth. It was very inspiring and has shed light on how I can live a happier and productive life while I'm here on earth. Great book!

[Corinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really glad I read this book. It was a departure from my typical more literary reads, and at first I was a bit skeptical but by the end I was not only inspired, but had strong hope in an afterlife such as the one described by Van Praagh. I also could "hear" lessons that my very recently deceased father would be saying to me, if he could. Now I crave a psychic experience such as the ones Van Praagh describes. Additionally, in all my experience with yoga and meditation, I don't know that I've found meditation and the practice of emptying one's mind as well described as it was in this book. I recommend it! I especially recommend it for those who have recently lost someone.

[Andrea Samadi · Rating 4 out of 5]

James Van Praagh writes a powerful work with "Unfinished Business" where life lessons are apparent on each page of the book. I have not been able to put this book down, and am re-thinking my behaviors after reading these life-altering insights. I don't want unfinished business in my life, and do want to accelerate towards my goals, so why would I not listen to someone with such insight for a peaceful, successful life. I suggest that you not only read this book, but listen to the messages within, and make changes in your life so that you can live your life in integrity.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book I could read again and again. Here are a few things for me to remember...

page 3: "It's all about being responsible for your thoughts and actions. Your thoughts have power. The life you are living right now is the result of your thoughts. Thoughts are energy- they are real things."

page 27: "Our regrets may serve as wonderful opportunities from which we can learn, or they may become slayers of our self-esteem and hold us back from future opportunities. When we rehash our past decisions over and over in our minds, we can create regrets that corrode our present lives."

page 149: "You must think positively in every aspect of your life in order to attract positive things to you. Make a choice to find the good in everything, and you will create a much more positive life for yourself."

[Claudia Loureiro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always had an interest in stories about the afterlife and this book never has a dry moment also because it is written in the language of You and I.
The book talks about the gap between worlds, between what we call life and the illusion of death.
It puts us in touch with our loved ones who have passed and those here, and leads to a greater understanding of just how close we all are.
It is a wonderful book. It is full of profound and awesome new information from the other side.
This is a book that you will not want to put down, just like me, and will most probably keep to reread again and again.
So, If you are wondering "what can I learn from the spirit world"? Then pick up this book. Read it, learn from it, and live your life the way you need to live it - not based on misplaced guilt or anger.

[Lynn Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this book was very well written. It provided some excellent insight on how one can try to be a better person now. The concepts that James discussed were not anything new, but were written in such a way that I felt truly inspired. While I was raised Catholic, I don't subscribe to any particular religion now. James had a chapter (or maybe it was part of a chapter) about the difference between spirituality and religion which was right on the mark for me. I think everyone can learn something from this book no matter where your faith come from.

[Sandra Mckenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

very readable! i've been very depressed for four years after losing my love. I have read a little over half and this book has helped me start changing my attitude and I want to, for the 1st tme in four years I can honestly say "life is good"!!!

Finished it today.. sigh... Just to good and does pertain to more than losing a loved one, just tons of HELPFUL information in it for all in every walk of life. Life is still good!!! Thank you so much Mr. Van Praagh! You are loved and loving.

[The Lady Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I brought it home for the paranormal stories, but turns out I also needed the life advice. More self-help than ghostly, but exactly what I needed.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hi, it’s me. My name is Audrey and I read weird books all the time. I’m not sure if everything the author says is true but he has a good message. I’d recommend if you are also into “weird” books.

[Charmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

HIGHLIGHTS:
1. GUILT:
- All of our life situations happen in order for us to learn.
- The contents are uniquely designed for us.
- A soul goes through life’s most common and challenging emotional lessons in its quest for understanding and to move forward in its development.
- Guilt sets us up to feel completely responsible for the outcome of a situation.
- You never know the reason why certain things occur.

2. REGRETS:
- we must free ourselves of the emotional block and heal here.
- When regrets are not dealt with on earth, they become a part of our spirit psyches and haunt us into the other world.
- My best advice is to reconcile your differences now.
- Regret hangs out in our aura, it causes so many problems on so many levels.
- If we could see how regret clouds are reasoning, decisions, and spiritual insight, we would decide to release what we cannot change and make peace with ourselves.

3. FEAR:
- Fear damages you. It takes away your curiosity and your imagination to create.
- The power of love is the strongest healing force imaginable.
- When we live with love, it affects us with positive characteristics, such as joy, happiness, compassion, and laughter.

4. BLAME:
- There is always the internal struggle of trying to fit in and be accepted in the eyes of others.
- When you take a personal interest in every choice you make in every step you take on this path of life, you will feel more confident and unafraid.
- Individuals who take responsibility, attract other responsible human beings into their lives.
- The ultimate price we pay for not being true to ourselves.
- A healthy mindset: this is the only way to bring yourself up from the depths to a joyful level.

5. FORGIVE & FORGET:
- Besides love, forgiveness is the most powerful spiritual tool we possess.
- Forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves. It is a conscious choice, not to get caught up in the resentment or thoughts of revenge against another.
- Forgiveness frees ourselves of our own negative thoughts.
- If we want a relationship or situation to change, we have to be willing to express what we want.
- When we don’t forgive, our grudges become lodged in one or more of the three energy centers.

6. KARMA
- Karma has nothing to do with morality. It is a natural universal law cause-and-effect.
- What you give out you will get back.
- By constantly creating karma,, we have within us the ability to change the outcome of our future.
- We are responsible for our actions and the results they bring.
- If you break it, you pay for it.
- If you were on a path you were meant to be on, everything falls into place.
- We’ve come to earth to expand our souls, misunderstanding, and grow to be great spirits, so lessons are a must.
- If more of us are mindful that we have been with our family members over and over again, the lessons won’t be so difficult to comprehend, and certain behavior can be encouraged while other behaviors can be curbed.
- Our past lives experience is indelibly imprinted in our soul fabric.
- When accessed, the soul memory can reveal pivotal prior lifetimes and expose the, we are currently working through from a past life.
- Karma is not a punishment, but a way of managing our actions and reactions.
- Karma is an educational tool to help us evolve, spiritually, and into balance out the results of all the actions we have generated that are out of harmony with a lot of love.

7. OVERCOMING OBSTACLES:
- In life, there are always obstacles. Obstacles are opportunities to learn more about ourselves in the world in which we live.
- Learning to overcome them is what life is all about.
- Dealing with , we must generate a sense of self awareness and self belief, and choose the way to react from our truth. We can uniquely respond to a situation with our own mindful thoughts.
- When we know that we have such power to change our perspective. We feel in control of the situation, not that the situation is in control of us.
- When you perceive yourself more clearly, you will be able to recognize all those who love you as well.
- Fear directed toward anything other than survival is pure illusion that we have stored in our minds.
- Fear signal, escape or avoidance of an issue. It also makes for unnecessary worry.
- We need to honestly face our fears by writing them down and looking at them realistically, and that means not rationalizing them, minimizing them, or succumb to their power in our lives.
- A positive attitude opens you to the flow of life.
- You have the freedom to choose which attitude you want to adopt.
-Healthy stress occurs when we feel out of control of powerless over things that are affecting our lives.
- The universe gives us exactly what we think and expect about money.
- How do you handle money is a karmic lesson. The universe gives you back what you give out.

8. TAKING THE HIGH ROAD:
- Thinking positively, giving the other person, the benefit of the doubt, opens the door to miracles.
- One of the hardest things to learn is that you cannot control other people’s actions or motivations.
- Don’t try to control how the universe will bring your goals to you. Just let go and let God, knowing all she’ll be given to you and divine right timing.
- Beautiful things happen when we apologize, forgive, and take the highroad. That is when healing truly begins.

9. CLARITY OF CONSCIOUSNESS:
- Anytime the death of someone we know occurs, it brings to our awareness, the question of our own death and forces us to give serious consideration to who we are and where we are going.
- You are consciousness itself. You are conscious of being aware.
- Spirituality is how one expresses one’s spirit. Religion is a set of rules and limitations that are placed on an individual spirit.
- Those seeking God and desiring to have relationship with God need only to go within their hearts. Quiet the mind in prayer and meditation. (*)

- Prayer: Prayer is one of the greatest tools we possess. We can transcend the physical by connecting our minds to our hearts. God is anywhere and everywhere. God is limitless.

Praying for others creates good feelings inside us.
- Quiet the busy mind:
We acknowledge the distractions exist and let them go.
- The self imposed obstacles and unnecessary blocks that have been created by your ego.
- We clearly see the choices that would be better for our souls growth and the joy they would bring other others.
- Autopilot: When we live with a lack of awareness, the mind and body go on autopilot. We react to people and situations based on old habits of perceiving, feeling, and behaving.
- We go through life, thinking about something else instead of living in the present moment.
- Without mindfulness, we let our old, habitual behaviors, and emotions, cause us to wipe out in the tumultuous surf.
- As we see things with clarity of consciousness, we can evaluate situations without falling back on past impulse inhabits of thinking.
- Mindfulness brings us into higher states of consciousness they give us unlimited freedom.
- Our everyday problems and troubles can be understood from a new perspective, and the solutions will be easy to come by.

10. TRANSCENDENCE:
- When people make the appropriate changes within themselves to heal past strong doings, they are in a state of transcendence, and with that comes freedom to face any situation in life from an adult perspective.
- It is up to us to take responsibility for the choices we make.
- Our lack of self-esteem and self trust constantly get in the way of our self realization.
- Using your intuition is part of a learning to transcend your lower self.
- You must learn to effectively use your intuition, your God-given tool, and let it be productive in your life.
- So many people use fear to control others, but if we did not believe in fear in the first place, no one could control anyone.
- Heavy energy is caused by mental depression, worry, emotional pain, and from other people’s negative thoughts attached to the aura.
- You have to think of what you want and let God give it to you.
- Golden Rule: is the doorway to human understanding. They said if that if they could have seen others as themselves, their lives would have been less of a struggle, and they would have generated more love than hate.
- We have to relearn: We have to become as little children, but this time we must be our own teachers, so that we can live our lives anew with support and love.

11. LIVING YOUR LIFE:
- We accept that this world is real without question, and yet in truth, this world is merely a transient place for our souls to enter in order to gain greater understanding and to decipher the mini facets of love..
- Because we are soul beings, we’re individually equipped with incredible inner resources.
- Our soul nature allows us to manifest anything we desire as long as we put our minds and hearts into what we want.
- Spend more time on your inner selves rather than being busy with outer-self tasks.
- Take the five extra minutes to listen.
- Slow down enough on your way out the door to wave hello to neighbors.
- Don’t waste time focusing on material goals.
- Express love and small ways.
- Thoughts affect our lives and those we come in contact with.
- We have spiritual power.
- Live joyfully. A blissful life is already inside us.
- You will go through trials and tribulations in order to have better appreciation of and trust in yourself.
- It doesn’t matter what others think of you if you were fulfilling your life‘s purpose.
- Limitless spiritual power.
- Let your light shine for all to see.
Life goes fast. Make your mark on the timeline of your life.
- Start by smiling and laughing more often. Enjoy yourself and enjoy the ride.
- Don’t take life so seriously. It’s just a game.
- You have control over your will and your life. Do the mess with what you were given.
- Knowing yourself is the source of change for your life.
- We change our reality by changing what is within us.
- The more we take responsibility for reality, the quicker we will grow.
- As you consistently practice, aligning your intentions with divine light, your thoughts, your words, indeed will follow suit.
- Consistent, persistent thoughts, words and deeds are the key to change.
- You are guided by this creative, spiritual power, this is part of your soul’s makeup.
- It is easy to know when we are connected to our higher selves, because our thoughts and impressions are at a higher level.
- We see life from a loving viewpoint, an irrespective of its flaws and imperfections.
- We know our life‘s purpose is to contribute our talents and abilities to make the universe whole and complete.
- Your higher self will come through to you in various ways: intuition, coincidence, and synchronicity of all kinds.
- As you strengthen your connection with your higher self by following through on your hunches, as well as taking time to go within during meditation and prayer, your revelations and insights will increase.
- You need to spend less time worrying, making excuses, and procrastinating. Start doing the things you want to accomplish or make a new list.
- As you change your perspective, coincidences and synchronous states become part of your life, opportunity start knocking at your door.
- Make the changes necessary to feed your soul.

12. FINISHED BUSINESS:
- Try to see everything as part of the larger picture that includes both worlds.
- Choose to change your perspective: You are in complete control and clearly realize the impact you have.
- The victory of life well lived is measured, purely by the love you have created for yourself and others on the planet.
- Going through life with unfinished business slows down our spiritual progress.
- Start to have an honest and loving relationship with yourself is the best thing you can do
- When we begin to accept ourselves with all the flaws that are interval part of our design, we will discover how truly beautiful we are.
- Our self-acceptance will be radiated as an inner goodness that is evident to all who come into our space.
- Compassion and gratitude, go hand-in-hand. When you have compassion, you are grateful for the little things that bring joy to your life.
- Being grateful helps us to keep things in perspective.
- When you look back at your life, become aware of how the tough times brought you a measurable growth.
- Every day you have a choice of how you will behave, the mood you will give you out to the world, and how you want people to know you.
- Your attitude permits the space around you.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having been loaned this autographed book by the author's niece, I knew it would be a kick to read. It was extremely fascinating to hear his perspective on the afterlife. He provides numerous accounts of messages he shares from those who have crossed over to their family and friends. The details are so rich and specific, you've simply got to wonder. I can't wait to see him when he comes to lecture in Boston this Fall!

[Marcia Sheer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!

I not only loved the stories told of the spirits and resultant healing, but the explanations of spirit groups and how we choose to come to earth to learn lessons and do our part to provide good to the universe. I read several sections to my husband, who I thought might not be interested. To my surprise, he was very interested and has started thinking about what he can do to improve his family's karma.

[CarynJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A friend's 16 year old recently drowned. I loved this kid and have known her since she was about 3. I've always known (somehow) that death is not the end but another phase of life. This book confirmed all I've always felt was true. I loved it. It helped me tremendously at this very sad time in my life.

[Sherry R.N.N.P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down. I saw James Van Praagh in person once. He is a very interesting man and his mediumship defies logic. The stories he relates are compelling evidence of the possibility to finish one's unfinished business with loved ones who have crossed over.

[Claudia Cheyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recently I have found myself looking back on my life thinking of things I could have or should have done differently, wondering why I acted the way I did. One of my spiritual guides must have influenced my choice of "Unfinished Business" because it certainly addressed the questions I had been asking myself. There is so much information in this book it is difficult to summarize. James Van Praagh shares his professional readings as a medium and his own experiences as well as other people's to show us how our soul journeys through time and how we learn valuable lessons along the way. After a day is done we cannot re-live it. We must use the next day as an opportunity to do a better job of loving our self and others.

[Patricia Moore · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book is good for people beginning their spiritual journey. It contains very basic ideas and not much depth. Of course, there’s a place for those books and even long time searchers sometimes need a refresher.

My favorite part is when he’s taking about National karma and asks the question but did not answer, did George W. Bush start a war with the highest intentions? (Okay, I’ll answer that question with what I’ve been saying for decades: NO.)

If Unfinished Business were a TV series, it would be one like Touched By An Angel or Highway To Heaven. You know- a story with a moral or lesson and a feel good happy ending.

[Karen T · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick and easy read of some of VanPraagh’s experiences and short stories of emotional messages he's received from the Spirit World. James is a wonderful writer and has a way to bring you into the short stories that he shares. This is a great starter book for those just learning about the Spirit World. I feel that it could be very healing for people who are holding onto guilt, judgment or fear. I still recommend it for advanced readers, but don't expect a whole lot of new information.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly informative book!!
Reading this book confirmed my belief that our relatives on the other side are looking after us, helping us in our time of need. I have experienced that when I had encountered a problem or a difficult situation, I have asked for their help. And my angels, whom I believe to be my precious, dear relatives, are always by my side watching and enveloping me with their continuous love, care and protection. Thank you, Mr. Van Praagh for helping every one of us realize that our dear ones remain with us in spirit form when they are gone from this world.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read from James Van Praagh. The author offers a lot of insight for living a fulfilling life that he has learned from the dead (spirits). He is an acclaimed medium who has done thousands of "readings" and written several books. I really enjoyed reading"Unfinished Business". James Van Praagh shares many examples from his past readings of what spirit wants their living family members to know .

[Salma Par · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the recent passing of my father, I have been reading quite a lot of books on near death experiences, pre imminent death experiences etc. I had never heard of James Van Praagh, and don’t know much about mediumship. However, the points he makes in this book corroborates with the points made in the other books I have read. If all these people are right, then what a blessing it is to be alive!

[jill taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

I deeply appreciate the author's profound insights, which offer genuine comfort and understanding. His books provide solace, especially for those navigating grief and loss. After my mother's passing, I experienced a remarkable spiritual connection that brought unexpected peace. This book is a must-read, offering transformative perspectives on life, death, and the enduring bonds of love that transcend physical existence.

[Constance Jepsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!

This book will help anyone who is struggling with life or death issues. This book is very up lifting and has many aha moments! It spoke to my soul. Highly recommend this book to anyone young and old.

[Lindsay Flight · Rating 3 out of 5]

My first time reading a book like this. Pleasantly surprised- I do believe in spirits / mediumship in general but if you didn’t you could still get a lot out of this book. A live life to the fullest, be a good person type message.

[AshO · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beginning was slow to get through, but after halfway, I couldn't put it down. Really ended up loving it and the message it gives.

[Anna B. Ambrosen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life goes on.

Well written and soul affirming. I've read many books on this topic, but this is one of the very best.

[Wendy Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

very uplifting

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this at the right time. The book chose me. I am very grateful for those who connect us to the other realms. Thank you.