I have come to an understanding that angels are real. This has always been a peripheral part of my belief, but never as tangible as recently.
A rudimentary understanding
When I was young I often believed in angels and drew pictures of them, or prayed to them as other children learn to do if they ever went to Sunday school. The modified prayer I liked in particular was:
“Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the lord my soul to keep
May angels watch me through the night
And wake me with the morning light.”
Though comforting, this childlike understanding was just the beginning of what is possible in connecting with and being guided by the angelic realm. Learning that angels are actual beings and are always present can be a real eye opener as we grow in spiritual awareness.
Asking for guidance
In my adult years, I became interested in angels from the esoteric “new age” world through spiritual teachers like Dr. Doreen Virtue who published many varieties of angel cards to tap into our intuitive powers and ability to connect with the angelic realm and ascended masters like Jesus. I used these cards to guide me through some difficult times, and always felt loved and supported when all was uncertain and decisions more difficult. My heart would usually point the way through the symbolism and messages I received.
Advancing in understanding
Recently my understanding and access has expanded to include channelled messages directly through me, and other colleagues I work with like Elizabeth Rose of Diamond Lantern. Both of us had been channelling Jesus for some time, but something new happened.
In one moment, her head began to turn to the right as she saw with her inner vision a choir of nine angels that gave us distinct messages. Although I was skeptical at first, some of the content was too specific too discount. I too have begun channelling the angels and receiving both their energy and messages. It is always soothing, instructional and empowering.
Angels among us
On one occasion I was sitting with a young friend who had recently lost a loved one. She asked me if I could talk to the dead. I vehemently replied, no, I do not have that ability. Just as I spoke I felt a rush and the smell of roses came up all around me. I looked at her, astonished and asked if she smelled anything. She said she smelled them too. I asked the people around us, as we were sitting in a large theatre at the time, and the people around me said, no, they did not smell any roses. Nor were there any roses in sight.
I knew then they were a spiritual sign from the angels or deceased loved ones. This smell has returned numerous times to me and always takes me by surprise. Each time, I take a deep breath and say, “thank you.”
Opening to the Call
Becoming more open to their presence has occurred for me through my training in hypnosis and spiritual direction. As our channel opens and clears, we become better channels for true guidance. You can usually tell the difference because you may feel a heightened sense of awareness, relaxation and peace. The messages can be firm but are never forceful. They are always loving and of the highest purity. Our own selfish wishes and wants can get in the way, so it takes practice, willingness and surrender to become more aware of their presence in our lives.
Can you do this too?
If it is a part of your path and desire, you may be able to develop your own intuitive gifts to communicate with angels. Angels have a funny sense of humour. They have probably been communicating with you all along! Just look for the signs: a white feather, a repeating word or pattern, a feeling you cannot explain, a synchronistic meeting with someone who answers your prayer or question, a meaningful dream that points the way.
There are many ways to talk to angels. 
One way to connect with angels is simply to ask. Relax, go silent and listen. Or take up a paper and pen (or laptop). If you are in tune enough, you will receive an impression either in thought, word or perhaps a visual impression. Take some time to contemplate the message.
Regardless if you get a clear “message” or not, angels are always there providing guidance in ways you can receive, even if you are not aware of them.
Have you ever met someone you felt was an angel?
Some even believe there are angels in the flesh incarnate come to guide us more specifically at this time in human history. God uses many who are on the path of healing, and indeed, God sends his angels too. That I cannot prove. But, when it comes to matters of faith, is proof required? Faith is more of a feeling in your heart which moves you. And angels are very good at that.
Amen
P.S. Have you ever talked to angels or heard angelic messages? Have you ever felt their presence? How do they present themselves to you? Write in the comments below, or send me a message using the Contact page.