I have never known anything different in having this ability, so for me there were times when it was a struggle at school; I assumed everyone else could do this too. I was called a witch and some kids would try and spin their heads round like the Exorcist or turn crucifixes upside down. The nuns gave me a hard time too as I told one of them I had seen an old nun and accurately described her (down to the holy medals she wore). Apparently this nun had died in the area where I had seen her, which was previously a dormitory. I was basically ignored by the teaching staff after that, I was so glad to leave!
The only time this deserted me was when I was very ill last year. I kept trying to 'read' people (doctors, nurses) and asked for a sign that I would get better. I received nothing. I honestly thought I was going to die. Once I got better it came back with a vengeance, more like a slap in the face as I picked up on a lady who had recently lost a beloved dog. Sometimes I do pick up very strong emotions even if I am not tuned in. It's mainly people who have had a loss, particularly of a child.
There has been a lot of negative press and I wish the industry was more regulated. I abore psychics that frighten people, I have been on the receiving end of it too and it scared the life out of me. I don't look for the bad stuff, I don't tell people they are on their way out, and I don't claim to reunite lost loves. I don't get the lottery numbers either; it can only be used for the greatest good. It's a gift and I have to respect that.