Obviously, this essay is a work of fiction. The author has no special training or expertise in theology, neurology, metaphysics, or any other field that would give him insight into the subject of this short essay. Neither does he claim to have any innate psychic powers to talk to the dead nor predict the future that would enable him to foresee what happens after we die. Lastly, God has not spoken to him and revealed what is in store for us in the afterlife. So the material covered herein is strictly conjecture and provided only to entertain and provide food for thought not to inform, affirm, or prognosticate.
This essay does not restrict itself to the teachings of any particular religion, denomination, or sect. It follows a basic belief in a supreme being and an afterlife common to most major religions. However, most of the examples and perspectives reference Christian teachings, since the author is most familiar with those. What the essay does try to do is reconcile the difference between religious teachings and scientific findings. For too long the concept of faith in a supreme being and the belief in scientific facts have been considered to be mutually exclusive with advocates for each point of view casting aspersions on, or outright denouncement of, the other point of view. The author of this essay believes that we can logically and intellectually believe in both without guilt, conflict, or confusion.
There are probably as many theories about an afterlife as there are people who have contemplated their own mortality. Some are based on scientific research, others on theological study, and most on what we’ve been exposed to over our lifetime. This essay is based on neither science nor theology and is just one person’s speculation about what might lie ahead. If anything, this essay should stimulate your interest in this subject and cause you to consider or refine your own personal theory.
