Beyond

What happens when we breathe our final breath? Do we cease to exist? Or do we continue on in another form? Do we become angels? Do we have a consciousness? If we continue on, then where exactly do we go? These are questions that have been asked since the beginning of human history. Now, in our modern era there is evidence that there is another world that is beyond our senses. It is a place where people live and go about their business just as we do here on Earth. There, the occupants are aware of us, but we cannot discern them. This world is known by many names such as, “Heaven,” “Paradise,” “The Other Side,” “the Afterlife” and many more.

The Afterlife
           

“Afterlife” is a general term used to refer to the continuation of existence after the physical body has permanently died. It is also referred to as “life after death.” It is believed by most religions and cultures to be the place where people go after dying. Says Bruce Moen, Author of the book series, Exploring the Afterlife, “There are specific areas of the nonphysical world that are inhabited by human beings who are no longer physically alive. These are the areas known as the afterlife.” The after life is a place of learning and growing. To dwell there, is a busy existence, with the goal of each spirit to evolve and grow spiritually. The more one grows spiritually the further one will evolve in the spiritual realms. Arriving in the afterlife means a time of rest for the spirit before journingy back into life. Others suggests it is a time of anaylizing one’s spiritul development and journey. While still others believe it to be a time to return home and decide rather or not to continue incarnating on Earth (or another world) or move on into the higher realms. Concepts as well as descriptions of the afterlife has been extrapolated from a number of sources including: 1) those who have had near death and out of body experiences, 2) religious figures, holy people and mystics who are believed by many to have special knowledge of life after death. 3) Those who have had visitations from enlightened beings, angels and from friends and relatives that have already passed on into the afterlife.

Religious Beliefs
           

Nearly all religions past and present believe in a spiritual realm. In fact, accounts of people visiting this realm and returning to tell about it have been told for over a thousand years. Stories of such experiences can be found in the Bible, the Tibetan Book of the Dead and the Koran. One such account is even given by Plato in his work entitled, Republic (written 360 B.C.E.), in which he tells the story of Er, a soldier who on the twelfth day, while his body still lay on the funeral pile, awakened and relayed the things he had seen in the spiritual realm. The account says: “Er the son of Armenius, a Pamphylian by birth, was slain in battle and ten days afterwards, when the bodies of the dead were taken up already in a state of corruption, his body was found unaffected by decay, and carried away home to be buried. And on the twelfth day, as he was lying on the funeral pile, he returned to life and told them what he had seen in the other world.”
           

Today, because of mankind’s technological advancements in medicine, some clinically dead people are being revived by resuscitation techniques. Therefore, there are more of these accounts than ever before. There is even a name for them, “near death experiences.” Through these many stories coupled with writings from ancient prophets, scriptures, modern day psychics and afterlife experts, we get a look into what the great writer Shakespeare referred to as “the undiscovered country.”

The Subject of Death

The subject of death is one that most people are uncomfortable talking about. Unfortunately, we live in a world where people have been conditioned to think of death as “the end.” No matter how religious or spiritual they profess to be, no matter how much they say they believe in Heaven or an afterlife, the fact is, that few people really carry this idea in their hearts. Most people only give this thinking lip service. People regularly visit cemeteries and gravesites with the idea that their loved one is in the ground. If they really believe what they have been taught in most of the world’s popular religions, they wouldn’t believe for a second that their loved one is lying “in rest” (as they say).
In a vision I was saw what it is like for someone to die. It was a clear, sunny spring day, and a friend and I had decided to drive to Skyline Park in Virginia. I had been doing a lot of metaphysical studying during that time in my life and had many questions about life and death. I was sometimes shown things in what I now know to be visions in my “minds eye” given to me through my spirit guides. In the vision I saw a car driving along a road and then suddenly smashing into a brick wall. As the car hit the wall going at a very fast speed, it crushed the front of the car and the driver was killed instantly. I saw the spirit of the driver come out of the body. I then witnessed the driver of the car in spirit form hovering in mid air along side of the car watching as it was engulfed in flames. I knew as I watched that scene that the driver was not in the car. He was not in the body of the person in the car. Therefore, he wasn’t suffering and in pain.
           

Years later after studying near death experiences, I read several similar accounts of people leaving their bodies and watching the events of their death unfold. I came to realize that that vision was a way of telling me that we don’t die and not to fear death.

Death

Death is the departure from physical life. It is the process of liberation of the spirit from the material body. After death, the spirit preserves its individuality, that is, all the psychological features that characterized it as the living person before. It is important to emphasize that death starts with the ending of physical process in the material body and not as an initiative of the spirit. According to the numerous accounts of near death experiences, there are certain elements of death that most people experience. There is first the leaving of the physical body. The person may either find themselves up high overlooking the body and the goings on surrounding it. Or they may be standing along side of it. The may see a tunnel or find themselves traveling up and away from the Earth. At the moment of death, the soul of an individual leaves the physical body. If the soul is older and has had experience from many previous lives, then it knows immediately that it has been set free and is going home. These advanced souls need no one to greet them, because they then remember the way to the other side. However, guides just outside Earth’s astral plane meet most souls. A young soul, or a child who has died, may be a little disoriented until someone comes closer to ground level for them. At the end of the journey they often find relatives or a being of light or religious figure. In the near death accounts they are sent back, often under protest because of the pure love found on the other side, many do not want to return to physical life. For those not returning, they will find themselves in a place with people that are very much like themselves in temperament, energy and vibration. In addition, the state of mind that one is in during the time of death may require the person to take a rest to become rejuvenated. People dwell in the afterlife according to their vibration. The higher one vibrates the higher and more beautiful the realm the person will ascend to. For those that have lived selfish, unjust lives they will find themselves with others like themselves in a realm that fits their vibration level. Author’s Note: As people approach death, many sense they are coming not to the end of existence but to the beginning of another journey.

Physical Body

The physical body is a temporary vehicle used for the spirit to dwell in a specific place. In our case that would be Earth. It can be likened to an astronaut wearing a space suit to fit the environment to which he/she travels. The saying that “we are spiritual beings having a human experience” applies here. Our spirit self, the one that dwells in the afterlife realms upon leaving this life on earth, currently inhabits the body in which we find ourselves. When that body wears out, grows old and finally dies, our spirit self is released and free to return to the spiritual world also referred to as the afterlife realms.

In order to live a more joyful and productive life, one must acknowledge who they are really are; a spiritual person from another often-higher dimension here to experience life in the physical and learn from it. It can be viewed as a trip into another place just as when one travels and consider it a great adventure. Albeit, one that someday, will end and then the spirit part of you, the “real” part will return home.

Personality
           

Our personality is the makeup of all the characteristics (mannerisms, temperament, emotions, mentality etc.) that differentiates us as individuals. Upon death, a person takes their mind, personality and experiences with them. After the death of the physical body one dwells in their etheric or spirit body, which is a duplicate of the earth body.

Life Review
           

After death, when we enter the physical realm, we receive a life review. It is a review of our entire life where we re-experience events in our life. We look at all aspects of it, the good and also the bad. During this review, we are also able to experience how our actions affected others. This review can be likened to watching a movie about ourselves. Some have even gone as far as saying that it is seen on a screen or imaging machine. Others see it as images swirling around them. And, unlike many beliefs that God judges, we actually judge ourselves. We learn that it is the small things, the things we paid the least attention to, moments when we showed pure and unconditional love. Love being the optimum word. Because love as it turns out, is the most important thing in life and in the entire universe. This life review is the only judgment that can be found in all of my research. It is the judgment of one’s self. And from that is where it is determined where the person will go in the spiritual realm. On a side note, when experiencing the affect ones actions had on other people, one actually feels the hurt and pain or joy and pleasure that person caused in life. Therefore, it is thought that if you did something extremely painful and even heinous, you will experience that hurt as well. Having a life review enables each person to determine just what they accomplished in life, and if they had improved since their last incarnation. It helps a person to determine where they should go from there. If they are a light being that incarnated to earth to aid in the uplifting of the planet and the evolution of souls, or to teach and spread love through either larger or smaller acts of kindness, the life review helps a person to determine if they achieved those goals and fulfilled their missions.
See What to Do When You are Dead, pg. 66.

Astral Body (Spiritual Body)

The non-material counterpart to one’s physical body also called the soul, spirit and in some cases the “double.” It has been called “The Vehicle of desire that gives personal feelings images, and emotions.” The astral body is capable of leaving the physical body and traveling independently to portions of the spiritual realm as well as other dimensions. This travel usually occurs during sleep. These travels are referred to as out-of-body experiences, astral projection and astral traveling. Occasionally during an out of body experience a person will be conscious of the experience. There are those that regularly practice astral projecting. The astral body is composed of astral material that is made up of energy. It is an exact energy duplicate of one’s physical body. It is attached to the physical body at the naval, by a silver-like cord. It is said to be extremely brilliant in appearance with colors of indescribably beauty. The astral body permanently separates from the physical body at death and returns to heaven or the spiritual realms. Other terms for the astral body include Linga-Sharira (Hindus), Ka (Ancient Egyptians), Pneuma (Ancient Greeks). Additional terms include, the Etheric double, doppelganger, spook, Ghost and Phantom.

Astral Cord
           

The cord that connects the astral body to the physical body. It is said to be made of a fine substance connecting from the naval. Other reports state that it is connected from the top of the head. Some people who have experienced astral projecting phenomena claim that they have seen the cord; still others didn’t witness it at all. It has been described as a kind of ethereal umbilical cord. The cord is believed to be severed at death. It is thought to be used so that those projecting have easier access to travel back to the body and make a connection. It is thought that everyone astral travels at some point during dreamtime to the spiritual realm and even other dimensions of consciousness. Also referred to as the Silver Cord.
Apparitions
           

An apparition is the act of becoming visible unexpectedly by a person, persons or an animal that has previously died. It can also be an account of an actual past event. In general an apparition is that of a deceased person. However, there have been cases where due to astral travel and bi-location that people still alive on the planet can also appear as an apparition. In addition, the term apparition may also be applied to visions of angels, and religious figures. An apparition can appear lifelike or be see through (sort of a part of this world and the next) and generally vanishes suddenly. If the person has crossed over recently, then the apparition will appear more solid, if they have been away longer, it is more translucent. For people that are earth-bound, the apparition will appear somewhere between being solid and translucent. According some channeled reports from those on the other side, it is not always easy to materialize. It requires a slowing down of their vibration. The longer they have been away, the more difficult the task of appearing becomes. Apparitions can be of the whole body are even parts of the body may be seen. Apparitions generally last less than a minute. In addition, apparitions may come from people who have crossed over to the other side, but who are Earth bound often because of not being able to let go of the physical or because they feel the need to be here due to their loved ones. These people are sometimes seen more frequently and some do not even realize they are dead. These apparitions are often thought to be ghosts. Collective Apparition. An apparition that is seen by several people at the same time. Crisis Apparition. A phenomenon in which a person appears at a time of crises or death to a love one. An appearance of a person in spirit form either in a life-threatening circumstance or on the verge of death. The visit is normally made to a loved one or a person with whom there is a close connection just before the crisis occurs. This is done by projecting consciously or unconsciously their astral body to the location of the person to whom they want to appear. Author’s Note: Since most people are not aware that they can project themselves, this is probably done to the the great stress the person is suffering. It may also be done while the person is physically unconscious but aware in the astral form and then can consciously go to see their loved one. Some apparitions have also been seen before or on the anniversary of a the person’s death. Other terms for apparition include: Agenerate (a term used by Allan Kardec), vision.
After Death Communication (ADC)
            An after death communication is a message from a loved one who has crossed over. It is normally the intent of the loved one from the other side to comfort the bereaved or bring closure to unfinished business. The term was coined by Bill and Judy Guggenheim, authors of Hello from Heaven! and after death communication researchers. Bill and Judy Guggenheim as well as others such as Raymond Moody (near death experience researcher) have studied these experiences for years, compiling thousands of stories of near death communications from people from various countries, who have different religious beliefs, cultures, and life experiences. Research shows that the communication can come in a number of different ways and may occur in the waking state, the meditative state, the dream state, as well as others. The after death communication may come in the various forms some of which include:

Auditory Communication (Hearing a voice): The communication through the usage of a voice may come in two ways, outwardly (hearing through the ears) or inwardly as a thought in the mind.

Visual Communication (Seeing the deceased): This can occur to an individual or to more than one person. It is spontaneous and can occur anywhere at anytime. The person is seen either fully or partially in appearance. When appearing fully that usually appear solid often with light surrounding them. Usually, the person appears younger and in better health than before they crossed-over. Beside visual visitations are common. They often appear beside the bed or at the foot of the bed.

Visions. Here the experiencer may see a picture or image of the deceased usually smiling back at them in the form of a vision or film either outside the eyes or inward as a thought or daydream.

Dreams (or sleep state): The deceased person may appear in a dream. It is believed that this is one of the easier methods used for an afterlife communication for the spirit. Usually, the person who has the dream is certain that the contact was made and is able to rest easier in their grief and worry over the individual. The dreams are often experienced as real events, as if the person were there with the deceased (in fact they are astrally) and sometimes a message is given. In addition, the deceased may also interrupt an ordinary dream. This can be likend to watching a movie and the deceased suddenly appears in it. Again, often the deceased is bringing a message, usually that they are OK and not to worry.

Feeling a Presence: In this case the experiencer feels the presence of their loved one. There is the feeling that the person is there in the room with them or that they are being watched. This feeling is often accompanied by a feeling or sense of tremendous love and tranquility. Touch: In some instances people can sense the individual’s presence and may even feel a touch such as a caress or a kiss, or even a hug; often bringing the person comfort in their grief over the individual:

Favorite Items: Another means of communication is through usage of items loved by either the individual or the person who has crossed over. Perhaps that person loves roses, or butterflies, the person making contact may use a favorite totem or article to let them know they are there. This may be shown in a vision, a smell, a symbol or even something solid.

Smell: Here the experiencer smells a fragrance that is related to the deceased loved one. The scent of a favorite flower is common; or perhaps perfumes, soaps or other such fragrances may be used. In some cases the “personal smell” of the deceased is used to convey that they are near.

Telephone Calls: Sometimes a deceased person will use the telephone as a means of communicating a message or just a hello with a loved one or loved ones left behind. This usually startles the recipient who sometimes quickly hang up. Usually the person sounds far away.

Electronic Manipulation (i.e. lights going on and off; television turning on, books falling open to certain pages with a message etc.): Another common means of communication comes in the form of electronic manipulation. It seems rather simple for those on the other side to make their presence known through the use of electronic equipment such as flashing lights; computers, televisions, radios and the like going haywire. In addition, they may also leave an audible message on a tape recorder, answering machine or even computer! In some cases a loved one may receive a telephone call from the deceased loved one.
People respond in a number of ways to this contact. For some people this is perfectly normal if they have had experience with such phenomena or are at least aware of it and the possibility that the loved one who has crossed over may contact them. For others it may come as a shock and may even be a frightening experience for them, as this is truly a journey into the known. In addition they have years of Hollywood’s stigma of ghosts to contend with. The after death communication is usually a gift to the recipient and is viewed that way by those who experience it. Usually, the person who has crossed over is trying to comfort their loved one and convey the message that they survived death and that they are OK. They are trying to convince their loved ones to not worry about them, to not grieve for them and reassure them that they are in a better place. The return communication tends to be problematic for many people. Often people find the need to contact a third party such as a medium to relay a message. Professional mediums can be beneficial to those who wish to make a validation that there is life after death and to receive a message back. However, a third party is not needed to relay a message to the deceased person. The person is still alive in every way in spirit. His or her hearing and seeing and personality are all in tact. They are still able to see, and hear everything physical. The spirit leaving the physical body can be likened to a butterfly exiting it’s cocoon. Most people hear this and know this, but don’t personally believe it until they have an after death communication. Furthermore, the communication is not contingent on wheter or not the person believes in life after death or not. Those of us living in the physical realm (or earth) cannot see and hear everything spiritual. Because most people’s spiritual senses are not developed we cannot perceive those existing in the spiritual world. This makes an exchange of communication between those in spirit and those in the physical virtually impossible. However, the person in spirit can still hear and understand the messages from their loved ones that are spoken out loud. Therefore, if a person has a message for a loved who has crossed over, talking to them aloud is a simple way of conveying the message. In addition, if you have a question, an answer may come in the form of one of the given communications above. However, one must be receptive, keep watch and have an open mind to the possibility of communication from the afterlife. In addition, research suggests that the experience sometimes changes the recipient. After having one of these occurrences, many people begin to question life and death and in their search for answers experience spiritual growth and enlightenment. Therefore, the experience is productive in two ways.
There have been some cases when after death communication was experienced before the news of an individual’s death. It is evident in some cases that the deceased made an appearance in spirit to the loved one before word of the death actually reached the person.

What It’s Like Over There

There are different levels of dimensions in the metaphysical-spiritual world. These dimensions are also referred to as realms and spheres. They range from the lowest vibration, to the highest. It is our own physical vibration that determines which of these dimensions that we will exist in. The higher we go, the more beautiful the dimension. The dimensions with the very lowest vibrations are believed to be the darker and more terrifying realms. The entities that exist in these realms are not allowed or able to ascend to the higher realms. Afterlife Dimensions. The afterlife is made up of many different realms. These realms are beyond our perception and scope because they and the people that dwell there vibrate at a higher frequency than those in the physical realm (earth). It has been likened to radio waves; we know they exist however we cannot see or discern them. Other terms used for dimensions include “realms,” “planes,” “levels” and “heavens.” According to sources the realm that our soul exists in after death depends largely on our spiritual development that we received on earth. According to many who have had Near Death Experiences, Love and service is what our spiritual development is based on. The more love and service we have shown to others, the higher we vibrate, the brighter our light, the higher we ascend in the afterlife dimensions. When entering the spiritual dimensions one cannot go while in the physical body. Only the spirit body can pass into them. Author’s Note. Many people believe that Heaven is located somewhere above us. However, this is not the case. Heaven is not located “up in the sky.” Neither is there a hell under the Earth. Different dimensions overlap. The spiritual plane overlaps the Earth plane. We exist together in different realms in different time. The spiritual dimension is a higher dimension than that of the earth plane and vibrates higher than the earth plane. In the dimensions also referred to as realms, the lower planes vibrate slower and as we climb through the realms the vibration is higher. Eventually, all will progress into the higher dimensions, though it may take Aeons.

The Light
           

We see it portrayed often in pictures relaying heaven, on metaphysical books with people journeying towards of, and we’ve heard of it many times in near death accounts, people that have seen angels and loved ones who made appearances often speak of a special glow or light. This light is believed to permeate the spiritual realm and grows ever brighter as we travel up through the spiritual realms. This is the light of God, filled with love. Anyone who has traveled into this light and lived to tell about it has relayed the feeling of warmth and love while being engulfed in it. Spirits are said to be surround by this bright light. The more spiritual the person the brighter is the light around them. We also carry this light of God inside of us. Nurses have been known to see a white glow as a patient crosses over. Père Lamy once wrote, “Their garments are white, but with an unearthly whiteness. I cannot describe it, because it cannot be compared to earthly whiteness; it is much softer to the eye. These bright Angels are enveloped in a light so different from ours that by comparison everything seems dark.” –Enc. Of Angels, Briggs The light of the afterlife seen at death is a light that is brilliant and found throughout the afterlife. It can be found around departed souls, angels and brilliant beings of light. At the moment of death, the more spiritually developed a person is, the brighter is the light they see. In the afterlife this applies as well. The more spiritual a person is, the brighter is the light they radiate. Brilliant beings of light are so brilliant that it is difficult to see a form. They can take on a human form for a newly departed soul who may find the light either too brilliant to take or in need of some sort of human recognition. This may be the same light that reportedly we carry within ourselves while on earth. Nurses have reported seeing a light glow suddenly as a person dies (this may be the moment the soul exists the body). In some beliefs this is the light of God. In ancient Jewish lore it was believed that God’s light radiated through the heavens and downward to the earth. The further away from God, the dimmer the light was. This light is also representative of God’s love, which also is said to radiate downward. It is also believed that the white light is symbolic eternal peace. White and light are associated in many cultures with goodness. The white light is therefore interpreted by some to mean eternal good. To others, it is a symbol of God.
Love
           

Love is said by those who have had near death experiences to permeate the spiritual realms (the higher ones). God’s unconditional love is felt everywhere. It is through showing love and service to others that raises our vibration that we enable to ascend into the higher more beautiful realms. The main aspect of the afterlife in fact is love. Those that have gone there and returned to tell about their experience speak of a light filled with love as being one of the first experiences upon entering the afterlife. In addition, God’s love is unconditional. The only judgment going on comes not from God, but from one’s self. It is through our life review that we can see how much love we showed to our fellow humans. And how much more work we need to obtain a level of love so high that we will never have to return to the physical realm again. Love dominates the afterlife. This love emanates from God and spreads down and throughout the cosmos. Those who have found themselves in the light after death and have returned to tell about it, relay a feeling of love emanating from the light. They often express that it is more love than they have ever felt before; so much so that they don’t want to leave it. Many who have experienced this love in the light say that love is the reason for our existence; the reason we came into being, the reason we are alive. In addition, it is thought that the higher we go in the heavenly or spiritual realms the more love we feel. Also, the higher our vibrations which are connected our spirituality which is connected to the love we feel for others, the higher our vibrations are. If we have very high vibrations, we will not end up anywhere in the afterlife but the heavenly realm will live. Says Margaret Tweddell, “Our moral obligation to help others continues after death. Death does not eliminate our obligations. We are still given opportunities in spirit realms to freely serve others. “) In addition, one of the main reasons that we enter the physical reality is to learn more about experiencing and expressing pure unconditional love.

Living in the Afterlife

The kind of life lived in the afterlife is one of peace, light, beauty and love. This is the life that awaits “honest, loving, kind” people who cross over into the afterlife realms. The beauty of the other side is said to be unimaginable. According to credible mediums and people that have had near death experiences and out of body experiences, the afterlife is really is "the Other Side" of our existence on Earth. There we are said to live out real lives, busy with all the various activities that people enjoy in the physical realm, in terms of growth. In the afterlife, there are similar living conditions, such as homes to dwell in. We have places to go and friends. There are many places for learning and mental and spiritual growth.

Appearance
           

The appearance of oneself in the afterlife is very much like that of the physical life because we exist in our Etheric (also astral) body which is a duplicate of the physical body. According to some credible mediums and higher intelligences, those that have had near death experiences and those that have had visions of loved ones on the other side, the person’s appearance can regress to our best stage. For most people this is anywhere from the mid-twenties to the early thirties.

Age of People in the Afterlife

According to some metaphysical and religious beliefs, souls (spirits) were created at the same time and are all the same age. All are believed according to metaphysical beliefs as well as many cultural and religious beliefs, to be eternal, living forever as God does. There is a scripture in the Bible that many believe supports this. It is found at Job 38: 6-7, there is reads: “Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone- while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?” It is believed that the term morning star is another name for angels or spirits who were gathered in Heaven watching as God created the earth. It is therefore believed, that the spirits were created before the earth. The theory is that these same spirits are the same souls that incarnate into physical lives on earth as well as other physical planes. The term old souls or advanced souls are the spirits that have incarnated into physical life many times gaining wisdom, knowledge and experience through their lessons. Young souls are the ones who are new to incarnating. Age of souls in heaven. According to some psychics and people who have had near death experiences as well as those who have experienced after death communication, people on the other side are many years younger in their appearance. This age is generally believed to be around 30 or even younger. Often when the spirits appears to someone on the earth plane they seem younger, more vibrant, energetic, peaceful and happy. According to Geologist Arthur Yensen, who had a near death experience in 1932, “As soon as they saw me, four of the players left the game and joyfully skipped over to greet me. As they approached, I estimated their ages to be: one, 30; two, 20; and one, 12. Their bodies seemed almost weightless, and the grace and beauty of their easy movements was fascinating to watch.” [17 Near-Death Experience Accounts from Beyond the Light - Arthur E. Yensen] Says Diane Cannon’s book, Between Life or Death, “All souls have been around for the same degree. Some of us have chosen, for our own personal reasons, to incarnate into the body more than others. That is where they get the term “old or young soul.” In an interview in the Internet Magazine, The New Times, Rosemary Altea talks on the subject. She states, “It's different for each soul. Each soul chooses. I have seen young men 20 or 30 years old who had died at five or six. I've seen little girls who died when they were two months old who are now seven or eight. In the book; I tell a story about a man who died when he was four days old. His twin sister was 56 when I met her. He had followed her in growth all along. If you're talking about physical form, it's not the same. We choose the form. I often see people who have died very tragically of illness that had aged them looking ten years younger they were "alive." I've also spoken to children who died many, many years ago, who are still children." In her book, Conversations with the Other Side, Sylvia Browne writes, “We work, socialize, learn, and enjoy our existence. It’s interesting to note here that we’re all 30 years old on the Other Side.”

Children
           

In the spirit world, there are no babies. This is because all souls have been in existence from the beginning of time. The spirit becomes a baby when it chooses to enter life in the physical. In the Christian religion there is the belief of baby angels called Cherubs (or baby Cherubim). However, according to scripture this is inaccurate. Babies do not become angels. The word Cherub is short for Cherubim which are great and powerful angels believed to dwell in the highest heaven near God. In the spirit world, souls have the choice of appearance once they are on the other side, and may for a time choose to remain in the same form that they had on earth. This means that if they died as a child perhaps they may choose to remain in this form for a while. There are young and old souls in the spirit world. But this categorizing of souls is based on their experiences on earth (or other worlds). Therefore a young soul is someone who has not had much experience incarnating and old or advanced souls have incarnated several times gaining experience, knowledge and wisdom along the way. Babies Who Die. In metaphysics it is believed that souls sometimes incarnate back into a physical body, for a short period of time in order to aid in teaching a lesson to the parents or siblings to help them grow spiritually. They may also incarnate for a short period in order to complete a karmic task. They may need to complete a karmic time-line because of a life cut short due to committing suicide in a previous life. It is believed that souls make these decisions based on their free will and are fully aware of the mission before incarnating. Therefore, miscarried babies or babies who live for a short time are teaching a lesson or fulfilling a purpose that those around them are not aware of. Their deaths provide lessons and challenges that help the people around them to grow. The Afterlife. Once a soul leaves it’s physical body or fulfill it’s purpose on earth it returns to the spiritual realm where it will immediately return to maturity. Children. Small babies and children who die are believed to grow and mature on the other side. The aging process there is different than on the physical plane. There the aging process depends on the wants and needs of each individual soul. Over there every soul is said to be around 30 years old. There are no babies or small children except by choice. There is no procreation there as all souls were created at the same time (before the physical universe). Each soul chooses its path and age on the other side, once it returns from living in the physical world. In an article in The New Times by Candy Cribbs, English Psychic Rosemary Altea (also known as the “voice of the spirit world”) comments on the subject of children on the other side. “I have seen young men 20 or 30 years old who had died at five or six. I've seen little girls who died when they were two months old who are now seven or eight.” In addition, she comments, “I've also spoken to children who died many, many years ago, who are still children.” Near Death Experiences. A 1992 Gallup Poll survey estimates that thirteen million people in the United States have had at least one near-death experience. That equates to about a third of those adults who are resuscitated from the throes of death in a clinic or hospital environment. The figure for children, however, is over seventy-five percent, as established by Melvin Morse, M.D. and his associates, in a landmark study done of child near death experiences chronicled in his first book “Closer to the Light” (Morse). See also Spirit Children.

Loved Ones
           

Newly arrived loved ones, usually within three months of transition, are permitted to transmit visually. This means through dreams, apparitions, visions and other means, in order to give proof that they are still alive.
           

On the other side, when someone is about to die in the physical world, the loved ones of that individual are informed. It is then their responsibility to welcome their loved one into the spirit world. This makes the transition for the newcomer easier. People in the physical world, have this to look forward to when their time is over here. In addition, those on the other side are at more of an advantage than those of us here when we loose a loved one. Those on the other side can still see us and here us. Loved one on the other side continuously travel back and forth between heaven and earth to check on loved ones. They have the power to visit the loved ones left behind in the physical realm. Unfortunately, we in the physical cannot (in most instances) perceive those in the spiritual realm. Most people are not aware of the fact that their loved ones visit them and keep track of the events and happenings in their lives. Most people have no knowledge or awareness of the spiritual world at all. Those on the other side often try fervently to let their loved ones over here know that they are alive and well on the other side. In some cases they are able to manifest in a way so that their loved ones see them (although this is temporary and often only for a very short period). Other ways that loved ones let us know that they “survived death” is through dreams, bedside visions, moving objects, manipulating electrical equipment is a big one (at least it is with my father), visions and a number of other innovative ways they find to reach their loved ones. The really are in a better position than us because they can still see us and come and visit. They are often around without us having any indication they are there. I remember in my father’s case, he went through several means of trying to get through to me and let me know that he is OK. He finally got my attention when he pulled a plug of a lamp right out of the wall. Since that time, I have been more receptive to his ways of letting me know he is around. Usually, they are very blatant and really interesting for me.

Activities in the Afterlife

The activities in the after life depend on the realm the soul ascends to after death. The higher realms of the spirit world are vast said to be unimaginably beautiful. They are also worlds of enjoyment and recreation. There, people are involved in activities that they take pleasure in and associate with people whose company they enjoy. The skills, interests, and abilities developed on Earth are reflected in the roles chosen in eternity. People in the afterlife go about their activities much as we do here in the physical plane. In the afterlife, there are opportunities for growth spiritually as well as in art, science, music, creative arts and a number of other interests and activities. The prophet Enoch once visited the other side and saw many great things. Among them were spirits whom he called “angels” studying and working. 1 Enoch states, “the men (angels) brought me to the sixth heaven, and there I saw seven groups of ‘angels.’ Some of these ‘angels’ study the movements of the stars, the Sun and the Moon and record the peaceful order of the world. Other ‘angels’ there, undertake teaching and give instruction in clear and melodious voices. Others are responsible for recording the fauna and flora in both the Highland and the Lowlands. There are ‘angels’ who record the seasons and the years, others who study the rivers and the seas, others who study the fruits of the lowlands and the plants and herbs which give nourishment to men and beasts. And there are ‘angels’ who study mankind and record the behavior of men and how they live. Other types of activities found on the other side have been witnessed by people who have had near death experiences.

• Individuals sitting at easels painting (Jan Price)
• The playing of musical instruments including the flute…(Jan Price)
• Dancers moving with “ethereal grace.” (Jan Price)
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Beings of Light

Beings of Light are spiritual beings that give help in the afterlife. In many near death experiences beings of light have been reported. These luminous entities have been described as beings made with beautiful, vibrating or shimmering light. The light is said to be similar in appearance to the colors, and transparency found in crystal. Others are said to have the appearance of a shimmering pearl or of being composed of white or yellow exuding an unearthly radiance. Often, the being asks the person to reflect on their life and aids in the life review. During this experience the being of light acts as a guide to the individual all the while showing kindness, concern and compassion. In some cases the being of light is identified as God, Jesus, Muhammad or some other religious figure. In some cases it is the being of life that instructs the individual that they must return to the physical realm, that it is not their time. Some give the choice of returning to their life and loved ones or remaining on the other side.
Council of Elders
           

A group of highly advanced emissaries of God that exists in the spiritual realm. They are essentially God’s spokespeople. The Council of Elders help individuals to adjust to their return to the spirit world. They aid in their spiritual growth, showing them which lessons they need to work on if and when the soul decides to return to earth. In addition, they aid in our deciding how we are to progress further into the spirit realm and in our decision to progress spiritually in our next incarnation. They are instrumental and effective in the advancement of all souls entering life on earth and in the advancement of their spiritual eternal life. The council of Elders are said to perform their duties in the beautiful Hall of Justice. According to Dr. Michael Newton in his book Journey of Souls, “One of the last requirements before embarkation for many souls is to go before the Council of Elders for the second time. The spirit world is an environment personified by order and the Elders want to reinforce the significance of a soul's goals for the next life.” In addition, he states, “One of the last requirements before being born is that we went before the Council of Elders or the Council. The Elders reinforce the significance of our goals for life. Once we were ready for entering the physical realm, we were like battle-hardened veterans girding ourselves for combat. This was our last chance for us to enjoy the omniscience of knowing just who we are before we adapt to a physical body.” They are also known as The Council and Master Teachers. World famous Psychic Medium Sylvia Browne also speaks of the Council of Elders in her book, Life on the Other Side: A Psychics Tour of the Afterlife, “The Council, also known as the Elders or the Master Teachers, is its own phylum of eighteen highly advanced male and female beings who essentially act as God’s spokespersons on The Other Side.” “The Council presides in a vast white marble room in the Hall of Justice, at a gleaming white marble U-shaped table.”

Animal Souls
           

It is believed that there are spirit animals from the entire spectrum of the animal world, particularly those animals that are closest to humans in friendship such as dogs, cats, horses, and even birds found in the afterlife. Those who follow the teachings of the Bible cite certain scriptures to support the idea that animals indeed cross-over. Psalms 36:6 says, “Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animal alike, O LORD.” 2 Kings 2:11 where God takes the prophet Elijah from earth into heaven in a chariot drawn by horses states, “As they continued walking and talking, a chariot of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them, and Elijah ascended in a whirlwind into heaven.” It is believed that the horses entered heaven along with Elijah supporting the idea that animals as well as humans go to Heaven. This idea is supported in metaphysical/mystical thought as well. Although some believe that animals do not reincarnate it is generally believed that beloved pets move into the astral realm after death. Loved ones who pass are said to be greeted by pets as well as family members on the other side. It is believed that it is the bond of love that allows the spirit of the pet to live on in the other side. In her book, The Other Side of Death, Jan Price documents her near death experience in which she is greeted by her dog that had died earlier. There, her dog communicated to her and even showed Jan her home. From that story we learn that animals not only reside on the other side but also carry their memory and feelings from this world. It also gives hope to those that have beloved family members in the form of animals, that they too can survive death. It is believed that it is the bond of love from human to animal that allows the spirit of a pet or animal to live on in the other side. Dorothy Cannon substantiates this thought in her book, Between Death and Life. On page 96, it states: “Humans showing love to an animal gives it a personality. Love helps it to separate and makes it more individualistic. This raises their consciousness. This is why you should always be loving to all creatures.” Author’s Note: Once source indicates that during the life review, the thoughts and feel the feelings of our pets can also be heard. According to Linda Madrid who specializes in communicating with people and pets that have passed on to spirit, animals have a different version of a soul than humans, but it’s the same concept. When an animal crosses over, their experience is no different than what people experience. They float up and they go as far as they want to go…anywhere they want. There is flexibility for the to choose where they want to go. Usually they stay close to their masters for a time before they leave. After they cross over, they come around (the same as our friends and relatives) from time to time when they want to visit us. Sometimes they can be heard making noises, like a meow, or a bark. They may visit you in your dreams, or come through another pet that is alive to communicate with you. In the afterlife, animals are on a different level than human souls. They can communicate with one another and with us. The animals are happy on the other side. They meet old and new friends. There are no physical restrictions in the spritual realm. Nothing binding them to any place or thing. In addition, animals are able to reincarnate to the same owner, or to others. Animals, just a people have the ability on the other side to visit their former owners and loved ones in the form of a dream. They can also, like other spirits communicate telepathically. When visit their former owners they may come around leaving physical signs. The animal may show himself or make its present known in some other way, such as moving something, making a sound, etc. in an effort to make its presence known.

City of Light

A city of light (also referred to as the celestial city, crystal city and heavenly city) has been reported in near death experiences and from those under hypnosis who have had out-of-body experiences, from well-known psychics such as Sylvia Brown and various others. The heavenly city has been described as a crystal or glowing city in which everything was made of light, including the souls within. Within this city is said to be an extensive library, a receiving station, an ice palace, temples, various places of worship, and a temple of wisdom, temple of records. The city is very much like the cities of the earth. There are buildings, socializations, work, activities, gardens, homes etc. However, the materials in which the buildings are made resemble, gold, silver, marble and other materials that we consider valuable on earth.
Author Dannion Brinkley died and returned to life recounting his experience in his best-selling book, “Saved by the Light.” During his visit to the afterlife, Dannion saw this beautiful city. He states: "As wingless birds we shot into a city of cathedrals. These cathedrals were entirely made of a crystal-like substance that glowed with a bright light from within.
Descriptions of the city can be found in scripture and near death experiences. In her book, Rebecca Springer spoke of a mighty city that she had seen after her journey to heaven. “I caught my breath, then stopped abruptly and covered my face with my hands to shield my eyes from the glorified scene. I looked upon it as one but half awakened. Before us spread a lake as smooth as glass, but flooded with golden glory caught from the very heavens that made it look like a sea of molten gold. The blossom and fruit-bearing trees grew to its very border. Far, far away across its shining waters arose the domes and spires of what seemed to be a mighty city.” The city of heaven is the ultimate and eternal place of rest and safety.
It has been variously described as brilliant, crystalline, heavenly, golden and beautiful. It is usually filled with light, music and love. Others see it as being made of crystal or glass and filled with beings of light. The city is said to radiate God’s love which is filled throughout. The light of the city is believed to be divine. It has been compared to and many feel it is God’s heavenly city. Within this city are beings of light, places of worship, crystal cathedrals, towers; and specific buildings where aid is given to the newly arrived to heaven. Here the residents are busy going about their lives, but have been known to stop and aid a lost new comer. In his best-selling book detailing his first near death experience, Saved by the Light, Dannion Brinkley writes, “ “Like wingless birds, we swept into a city of cathedrals. These cathedrals were made entirely of a crystalline substance that glowed with a light that shone powerfully from within. I was awestruck. This place had a power that seemed to pulsate through the air. I knew that I was in a place of learning. I wasn't there to witness my life or to see what value it had had, I was there to be instructed.” “ The Bible book of Revelation states, “And the city has no need of the sun nor of the moon to shine upon it, for the glory of God lighted it up.” (Revelation 21: 23)
            The part that strikes my attention the most is the fact that there are buildings in Heaven. I had never imagined such a thing before. It took me years to understand that this is possible. I first had an idea of this when I first discovered the chronicles in Enoch in which he mentioned seeing angels in classes. Later, as you will soon discover here, there are other mentions of buildings, homes, schools, halls, palaces etc. in some of the writings of others that have visited the spiritual realm. It may come as a shock to some. The reality is that other dimensions feel very much “solid” while we are there. Everything vibrates, the other realms as I have said a   before vibrate at a higher frequency. However, while visiting that realm, while in that higher state which occurs when we are out of the physical 3D body, that realm then feels real, solid even physical, to us.

Hall of Justice
           

Within this heavenly city are said to be many beautiful buildings. One of the most famous is the Hall of Justice. Here is where we meet with the great Council, the “Council of Elders” once we crossover. Note: Psychic Sylvia Brown mentions the Hall of Justice in her book, Life on the Other Side: A Psychics Tour of the Afterlife, pg. 108.

Hall of Records
           

The Hall of Records has been seen in many near death experiences. It is said to be a place of supernatural beauty. It is pure white, designed in what looks like Greek architecture, with large pillars of different heights, resembling a library. It is also known as the Temple of Wisdom, Temple of Knowledge and Hall of Wisdom. It is the building that contains the Akashic Records (or books of life) are also found here. These records hold the details of the past lives of all incarnated souls. After passing, once a person has gone through the tunnel and been reunited with loved ones, they are taken to the Hall of Records for their life review.

Chamber of Colors and Light

A place where the spiritual body is healed after crossing over to the Other Side. The chamber is filled with brilliant colored lights and energy designed to heal pain, soothe and energize. The light comes in through gem windows on the ceiling of the chamber. Every color is represented except black and white. These rays of light pass through the gem windows and reach all the way down to the floor. In waves of this color and energy the person feels renewed. It is said to be especially good for those who suffered illnesses in the physical body just before crossing over. The lights cleanse the individual and destroy all of the negative energy the person may have been carrying. The light chamber is not only available to those who are no longer in the physical body, but is also for those who are still in the body, but are traveling in the astral state.

Clothing
           

Traditionally people on the afterlife as well as angels have been portrayed as wearing long white or light colored robes. In her book entitled, Embraced by the Light in which she relays her near death experience, and her trip to Heaven, author Betty J. Eadie wrote of seeing large “ancient-looking looms,” on which material was spun to clothe the new arrivals coming in from the earth. Eadie says, “It's appearance was like a mixture of spun sugar. As I moved the cloth back and forth, it shimmered and sparkled, almost as though it were alive. The material was opaque on one side, but when I turned it over I was able to see through it.” When appearing on earth angels sometimes dress in the cultural clothing of the person they are visiting. “Most of the time they are clothed and sometimes appear in floor-length, hooded robes of unusual opalescent-colored fabrics.” In her book entitled Between Life and Death, Dorothy Cannon interviews one of her subjects under hypnosis as they regress back to a memory of their life in the spirit world. She asks the individual, “How do the people look? I mean, do they have clothes? The subject answers with the following, “Here they wear robes, but not always. Basically the way we look over here is ectoplasm in its various forms. Sometimes you will see someone with the shape of a body and they’ll appear to have clothing on, but they’ll be rather white and transparent looking. Or sometimes if they wish to look more solid, they do. And whatever type of clothing they want to project as wearing, they’ll do it as being part of the type of image they want to project at that particular time.”