Relationships - we love them... we hate them... but who can live without them? Everywhere we turn, they're in our faces. So why do we so frequently find ourselves in relationship hell?

The answer to that question and all the relationship mysteries and puzzles you've ever encountered is contained in one, five-letter word: karma. Karmic relationships are woven from the threads of past-life experiences with Souls that you encountered long ago and who again are players on your stage. In order to live with these people fully in the present and to eliminate those shadows that poison your relationships, you must resolve past traumas, dissolve the fears, and heal those invisible wounds. By using the tools offered by Dr. Richards to identify and explore the levels of karmic relationships, you'll take the first step toward becoming and remaining conscious of the influences that are building or destroying your friendships, marriage, business partnerships, or family situations.

See if you can recognize the basic karmic foundations of your most important relationships by answering these questions:

• Do you find yourself on an emotional roller-coaster of extreme highs and lows in this relationship?
  
• Have you ended this relationship more than once, only to get back together and continue the same dysfunctional patterns?
  
• Is the other person in this relationship willing to drop everything at a moment's notice to come to your assistance?
  
• Does the bond of this relationship remain strong and familiar even when you've been out of contact for long periods of time?

By answering yes to any of these questions, you are acknowledging one of several different types of karmic relationships in your life. Once you are armed with an understanding, you are able to effectively handle those damaged, demanding, and disastrous relationships. You will be able to heal your hidden wounds and release the very karma and emotions that are keeping your relationships in destructive cycles.