If you have been following my work for any period of time, you probably know that in 1985, at the age 13 (just shy of my 14th birthday), I suffered a traumatic brain injury when I was hit by a car on my way home from junior high. The accident was just a few short blocks from my school. Here in Yahoo Voices I have talked about some of the long term impacts of the accident; my life-long struggle with migraines and sight loss in particular. But what I do not talk about is the space in between the car striking my left temple and my waking up in the street. This is a personal subject, after all.
I am also aware of the experiences others have had when they have Crossed Over. We all know the stereotype of the light and tunnels and of seeing other beings that are interpreted as Jesus or God or deceased relatives.
My experience was very different, different enough that my social science education tells me that perhaps what others experience has more to do with their EXPECTATIONS of what they would encounter after their life ceases more than what they perhaps objectively did experience.
In none of my NDEs did I experience any lights, tunnels, or even beings I can interpret along religious lines. Instead, I remember a PRESENCE — not one that resembled anything in any world religion. It was beyond human understanding, human intellect, or labels. It was radically different than anything on this world – and did not mask itself in humanity for my benefit.
I remember being outside of Time and Space as we understand it. S/he/They showed me my path; past, present, and future were all one and the same out of my flesh. Communicating without language as we think of it, the Entity showed me things to help strengthen my resolve so I could overcome the many challenges coming to my life.
In my final experience, I resisted efforts the Entity made to heal my body; by then I was so filled with sorrow from my difficult childhood that I was ready for my part to move on. The Entity blocked those efforts and, I felt, ruthlessly and mercilessly healed my injuries – but because I fought returning, I could tell the Entity chose not to heal absolutely everything that time. I think it intended me to learn certain lessons that could only be learned with physical defects. Indeed, I think I am a better person because of the struggles I’ve faced since each of my NDEs.
Was that Entity a divine spirit of some sort? It didn’t match anything in any religious teaching. But it was there and it was beyond our humanity. I will not humiliate myself trying to guess its nature or name. Some things are better appreciated by avoiding speculation.
What I can say for certain is that each time I Crossed Over in my life, it was there, giving me wisdom and helping me overcome the challenges of life.
So mote it be!
