My goal has always been to make my entire living as a working musician, with the main thrust of my work being writing and recording. I have always been a responsible contributor to my family’s income; when working as a musician wasn’t making us enough, I worked in computers, I taught, I’d take on side work to afford the things we needed for us and our children. But, after many years of the juggle, I lost track of myself and my goals. I had no time to myself, I was angry and depressed. On my 38th birthday I spent most of the day weepy and waiting for it to be over because I was disappointed that I wasn’t where I wanted to be, and knew I had the talent to be wherever I wanted. Even my health was compromised. I racked up medical bills which, mixed into the juggle, just got me down. My friends stuck with me, my husband stuck with me, my bandmates stuck with me, but I was not with me.

My music had always gotten stellar reviews but sales were mediocre. My concerts have always been received well, but my calendar was not full. The congregation that I served part-time as their musical spiritual leader didn’t have enough money to offer me the amount of work I needed to make ends meet.

Then I made a decision that something had to give. In the spring of 2006 I quit my teaching job, I started entering some of my music in contests and competitions, and just concentrated on being positive. I WON THE AMERICAN IDOL UNDERGROUND FAITH BASED COMPETITON in July 2006. Just about the same time my congregation offered me my dream contract that allowed me to serve them, write, record and tour as well. The win also attracted new management who is going to help me get into new venues. My time is much more manageable, my kids see more of me now than when I taught in their school. My relationship with my husband is the best it has ever been.

Then, after seeing The Secret, I realized I had begun to tap into the law of attraction without knowing what I was doing. Now that I have watched the DVD and read the book, I can truly channel my energy to reach more of my goals.

For example, in the American Idol competition, two of my songs made the top ten. (I placed 1st and 2nd in the competition). I spent a lot of time marketing the 1st place song ‘Still Small Voice’, but the 2nd place song, ‘Love Multiplies’ had always gotten more critical acclaim among my peers. With its message and THE SECRET in mind, I started submitting it to radio stations and PR organizations. Out of my first 5 submissions, 3 have already been accepted and lauded. I have always questioned who the optimum audience is for the song, ‘Love Multiplies’. After reading THE SECRET, I now know that it is anyone who ‘gets’ the law of attraction.

What’s next? Next is getting my song ‘Love Multiplies’ out to anyone who will listen. It will only be a matter of time before my message of peace and love is living on lots of ipods. Itunes downloads are already increasing. I am the happiest I have ever been.

Beth Schafer
UNITING PEOPLE OF FAITH THROUGH MUSIC