With the recent influx of paranormal shows, such as Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures, just to name a couple, people from all walks of life have taken interest, not only as fans of these shows, but as investigators. There's probably not a single town that doesn't have at least one resident paranormal group .
When I hear that we are 'chasing the devil' or 'conjuring evil', I get really offended, especially when I have a hard time just watching a movie that contains an evil plot. (I think I'm the only Paranormal Investigator who has never seen The Exorcist.) There is a vast difference in searching for answers to paranormal phenomena and worshiping the devil. Most respected and professional Investigators only research, document, and analyze paranormal phenomena. That's it. We do not hold séances, use a Ouija board, or do anything else that may intensify activity or be classified as conjuring. If the activity is really bad, clients may be referred to someone who can do a cleansing, but even this is a debatable topic. I, personally, don't see how burning sage will make a spirit leave your home. Burning hair, on the other hand . . . now that will clear a room.
I don't think that people who have never experienced unexplained activity will ever understand why we do what we do. Having lived in a home where we did experience unexplained activity (i.e. things moving, noises, whistles, etc.), I wanted answers. What is causing this? Is it a ghost? Is it energy? What is it? And I know that this is the main reason other Paranormal Investigators do what they do—they, like me, want answers.
So, the next time someone you meet tells you they 'hunt ghosts', don't be so quick to judge. You may some day hear a voice when no one is there, or find your things moved when no one was home, and we will be the first ones you call.
