My take. The only thing we can know for certain is that we, as individuals,
have no personal 'real time' experience, nor documented 'hard evidence' with
nor of the 'hereafter'. We may have had profound realizations, visions,
epiphanies, friends with 'near death' experiences (or one of our own), or
overwhelming 'faith' that we 'know' what comes next (or 'does not' come next
as some choose to believe) based upon a 'belief system' to which we've been
drawn (or in which we've been raised) and to which we've ultimately
subscribed. But, when all is said and done - it is conjecture (sprinkled
with faith) on a grand and significantly personal level. And, we should all
be allowed our personal realities about what is, or is there, a 'hereafter' -
and about who or what is god, or if god even 'is' - AND - we should be very
careful to avoid the pride and arrogance involved in trying to champion any
individual 'ism' as the universal truth. If for you it is the truth - then
brother or sister - run with it to your heart's content (as John Lennon says
"Whatever gets you through the night"). But please have the love and
tolerance in your heart to understand that any exclusionary or segregationist
'belief system' (namely any system claiming to be absolutely 'right') you may
have chosen to adopt - it is only your, or your group's 'reality' - and NOT a
universal truth - no matter how large your group may or may not be, nor how
old the 'belief system'. Remember, the history of the world shows that there
have been more wars, vile social injustices, and unspeakable human atrocities
carried out in the name of god and/or 'belief systems', than for almost any
other cause around which we mortals choose to rally. When dealing with your
fellow human, I feel it is a 'bottom line' imperative to think about and
understand what John really meant when he said, "Imagine there's no heaven".
If you can, then "all you need is love", and you'll get to your final
destination (whatever you may personally believe that destination is or is
not) as a truly inspired and 'holy' person. That's this one man's personal
spiritual 'reality'. Not sellin' it so ya's doesn't gotta buy - just sharin'
it fo free.
Peace and love to you all, Artheo.
