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What happens to the soul after death? Law #3

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 00:09:59 GMT

The quest for ‘personal transformation’

The journey of a hairy caterpillar must be an interesting one! I mean, to cocoon oneself without knowledge of the outcome would take some kind of leap-of-faith. Not knowing how things are going to turn out must put ultimate test to their cause of personal transformation.

It would seem as self-evident that we each, in life, undergo similar personal transformations. The numerous challenges we all face in life - grief, loss, love, et al provide fertile ground for our transformation into a ‘butterfly’.

This analogy leads me to the third of the ‘Laws of Heaven and Earth’ as discovered in my latest book, The Afterlife, a journey to ’, and in this blog, my aim is to provide you with a ‘pillar’ - a foundation-stone to enable you to make this life, and the eternal next, a much better place.

The fact of the matter is that life is very tenuous. At one minute all goes swimmingly, when the next moment can unleash a tsunami of trouble and strife. This, ultimately, means that we do not have moments to spare or squander. Nor should we wait until tomorrow because it may never come. Our effective use of time becomes relative to the unknown sunset of our ultimate passage to the eternal. But how? Where do we go to reveal this grail quest?

Seeking the answers to these seemingly innocuous questions leads us forward on the journey to personal transformation. To cast off that which we no longer need. To unshackle ourselves from the rock(s) that restrain us from the glorious flight of the butterfly.

I guess it comes down to this …

‘“Within each crocus is a power beyond all contemplation – the power to realise itself in its fullest bloom, and to express the wonder that is inherent within the core of its very being. Yet, it knows not its fullest potential, only that it must fulfil the divinity of its purpose. This, my dear Athar, is the grand power given to all sentient beings through the blessed love of our Father. Any effort to stymie the growth of the crocus is a sin that needs to be redeemed by the offending hand.”’ P.53

Let us therefore delve further into the text of ‘The Afterlife, a journey to’ in exploration of the answers to our quest for personal transformation.

Law # 3 – “What you have caused to effect in your fellow man is what declares your place in heaven.”

‘He had to shield his eyes, for the colour and luminosity of the being’s robe was as nothing he had ever seen before. It flowed like the shades of a majestic rainbow, only a hundredfold. (Name redacted) looked down in comparison to the dank greyness of his own attire and wondered how he had ever managed to clothe himself in such drabness to greet one so profound. He wondered why he hadn’t noticed before. Even with all that had happened, you would have thought I’d have noticed how I was attired, he mused sullenly.

“The colour of our robes is determined within the mists,” said the being of light in response to (name redacted)’s tacit thoughts. “It is a portent to the path you will soon follow.”’ P.18

“But how, how can I now atone for such transgressions? How am I to be redeemed in the eyes of God? My earth-bound life has passed,” he pleaded in fervent desire. The archangel turned slowly to point towards a meandering pathway that appeared silently from the ethers. It descended deep into an expanse that (name redacted) could not fathom. Although, he did notice that the pathway was of similar colour to the drabness of his attire.

“Go!” commanded the archangel. “Follow this pathway to its destination. There you will see a young man. You will find him much in need of respite from the pain and suffering of abuse under the eyes of your See. He has ears in need of the soothing elixir of the grace of God. Shine divine light into his eyes. Augment his happiness with the comfort of atonement. This, (name redacted), is the pathway to your salvation.”

With these words uttered, the archangel faded back into the mists. (Name redacted) could only turn slowly toward the designated pathway. But as he took the first step toward his destination, he turned and spoke into the fading mists.

“How long must I administer such truth towards this young man before redemption blesses my soul?” he inquired.

From the mists came a rumble, like thunder upon the clouds. Then a glorious voice spoke. “Eternity is a long time, my son. Eternity is a long time.” P.22

‘“Why am I here,” he screamed fitfully into the darkness. “God, why have you abandoned me? Why do you cast these stones upon me, your servant?”

Then, from out of the depths of the darkness appeared a light, a bright shimmering, pinpoint light that held him transfixed.

“I have never abandoned you. I love you more than you will ever know,” replied a beautiful voice from the depths of everywhere. “But you cannot escape the consequences of your deeds. Forgiveness is at the heart of your ultimate realisation. It is the cleansing of your soul.”’ P.43

In my following blogs, we will continue our sequential progression through our journey of discovery into the Laws of Heaven and Earth:

#4 – We are all one in spirit – what you have done to another, you do to yourself.

#5 – Sins in heaven imposed by others are not those that need to be borne by the self.

#6 – What you sow, so shall you reap.

Footnote: ‘The Afterlife, a journey to’ is due for release on 26 May 2023. Pre-orders are now available via:

- Amazon UK

- Amazon AU

- Amazon US

If you would like further information, or to book a speaking event or podcast, please contact me via my website on:

www.stephenchong.com.au

Abode of Reunion (part 1 of 2)

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 03:07:02 GMT

Excerpt From "The Afterlife"

Isaiah and I took pleasure in the others’ company. It was as if the recent experience with the Master had required us both to cast our spirit free upon the sands of restfulness. Not that we both felt in any way traumatised. Rather, it was as if we needed to assimilate the transformation. Sitting on the balcony of my abode as we were, we interspersed our recollections and conversations with giant pauses of, well, just sitting. It seemed to provide both the luxury of repose mixed with the elements of wonder and magnitude. We even took time to speculate about what we may achieve as we both evolved forward.

I was most eager to see my newfound knowledge used to its greatest effect for the many in need of its succour. Isaiah expressed the similar, but more to correct some of the errors and misdirection of religious and spiritual instruction for those with open ears. The reality was, however, that we were none the wiser as to how we could achieve such ends. I mean, to cross (back) over. To break open the veils between heaven and earth so that those with open hearts may hear. To cross the border and cast what we now know to be true to those in need was, for us, a grand undertaking. Yet one we knew not how to achieve.

‘I guess when the time is right, we will know what to do?’ he said as I nodded my agreement. ‘Isn’t that how it works? I mean, two eager disciples, as we are, will surely not be left to rest in repose as we attend future revelation.’

It was right about that same moment that we saw her approaching through the garden. A stranger by regard, but not by a smile. A person unknown to both Isaiah and I, yet not without the bounty of love that preceded her introduction. Her mastery evidenced by the blue and yellow radiance festooned within the glimmer of her robe. When we saw the variant colours, we knew instantly that her being was filled with both the wisdom of truth and the grace of charity.

‘May I join you?’ she asked with an open-handed gesture that spoke of a joyous welcome of its own.

‘By all means,’ I replied, as I positioned a chair such that she could join us in welcome communion on the balcony.

Both Isaiah and I rose in anticipation of greeting and thus had the opportunity to make first impressions of the delightful soul who joined our small gathering. Her flawless skin, though dark, seemed to radiate a lightness that bespoke of the purity of her heart. Her eyes were like pools of obsidian that seemed to find no depths in their well. Yet, despite her grace, her dignity seemed only a reflection of her humility and compassion.

She required no need of our introduction for she spoke as if old friends, but told us that on earth, many centuries ago, she was known as Olivia, but that here, her ‘nom d’heaven’ was Cassiel. Pleasantries were cast forward and the grace of our Father’s heaven was much discussed before she broke word to the purpose of her visitation.

‘I come bearing the gift of your desire. I am sent as the Hierophant to further guide your education about the laws of heaven. Blessed knowledge that will serve you well on your quest to bridge the gulf between heaven and earth - for such cannot be used with malice or misdirection. It is only with the blessed touch of divine reason that this wisdom is freely given.’

By glancing askance to quickly view the eagerness of my expression, Isaiah confirmed our earnest commitment to our task and implored her further elucidation of what we most needed to commence our journey.

‘Come then, let us be away. There is much that I need to show you,’ she said standing to gently extort us to do the same.

Within but the fleeting moment of Cassiel’s directive thought, we trio stood upon a small hilltop. The vista over which we laid collective eyes seemed but a short distance away, but far enough that we remained objective observers to the events as they unfolded. In amazement, what we saw impacted Isaiah so much that he could not restrain his exclamation of awe.

‘By the grace of God,’ he exclaimed. ’I have never witnessed such as that which now lays open before me. The closest I can resemble my observations to my previous life is that it is much akin to a train station of embarking and departing passengers.’

‘This analogy serves in close description to what is in effect happening,’ replied Cassiel.

‘Look,’ I said pointing. ‘There, besides that grand oak tree. There seems such a great reunion between separated kin. A mother and child perhaps? And look! What are all those silver cords leading from many hearts that stretch across the ethers and over the mists?’ There was so much going on that I could scarcely describe one scene without being distracted by another.

‘Watch as their story is told and I will do my utmost to describe events for you,’ said Cassiel as we stood in silent amazement as the proceedings unfolded.

The mother, having hugged her son in a loving embrace, now moved to sit under the grand protection of the oak tree with her kin, whereby she commenced speaking in earnest to his open ears.

‘What does she speak of?’ I asked.

‘Her son is much in need of guidance in his life and is sorely tempted to pursue a path that would not be in his eternal best interest. She seeks to instruct him in a manner that will secure him in the pursuit more fitting to his future progress.’

Isaiah turned suddenly from his riveted attention to stare fixedly at Cassiel’s declaration.

‘But how? Is he not … dead and already passed to our abode here in heaven?’

Her smile of knowing did much to relieve both our pent-up inquisitiveness and augmenting frustration.

‘By no means. He will soon return to where he may, or may not, express the wisdom he has learned. The gift of free-will is forever writ as law upon the flesh.’

‘But how …?’ I said in equal surprise to Isaiah.

‘This, what you witness, is the meeting place. It is where those that sleep on earth can renew acquaintance with that kin with whom they are connected in love. Do you see those many silver cords attached to those many hearts? Do you see how they arc over the mists?’

Neither Isaiah nor I could respond, being struck by amazement as we were, but our collective nod was enough for our guide to proceed in explanation.

‘These are visiting souls who, while in the depth of sleep, can join loved ones upon their request. Their spirit is attached to their body through the silver cord that you witness. It is only when this silver cord is broken that their journey to heaven is considered ‘one way’, and they pass through the mists of judgement.’

‘Do you mean to say that all souls, when asleep, can connect with those they love?’ I asked in earnest.

‘Yes, of course. Love is the bridge, and as long as it remains strong and true, then one may call upon the other to guide and assist.’

‘But this is extraordinary,’ replied Isaiah. ‘If only such were known by many on earth. That one could connect with those we love beyond the veil. It would change much about how life is lived and in communion with those that have passed.’

‘Yes, it would. It is for this very reason that I have brought you here. To witness the magnificence of our Father’s love for his children.’

‘Cassiel, do you mean to explain that the process of sleep whilst on earth is more than just a cause for the physical body to rest and recuperate from its travails?’ I hastened to inquire further.

‘Oh, yes, much more. Think about it this way. When the human body rests, so does the mind. In such quietude, the spirit is free to explore the pathway between that which is on earth to that which is in heaven. No coercion or control is exercised, rather, the key is love and a heartfelt earnest desire to seek remedy and wisdom for life’s burdens and hurdles that will enable the soul to bridge the veil by visitation.’

‘But how are they to know? How do they remember? How do they discern what is a dream and what is, well, real? If such connection is true, then much grief for loss would lessen in the knowledge.’

‘These are astute questions and observations, dear Athar. Let us, therefore, stroll amongst those that arrive. Perhaps then we can discern answers that as yet remain elusive.’

Chapter One (excerpt) - The Passage

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 02:53:50 GMT

Excerpt From "The Afterlife"

Rousing with a jolt, he felt chilled air streaming through the open window of his chamber. The gelid wind made the drapes sway in a silent apparition. I’m sure I closed the window before going to bed, he thought, as he threw back the blankets to rise and seal the opened portal to the outer world. His involuntary shudder when reaching to pull the window shut only reminded him to be more aware before going to bed. Despite the chill, he stood a moment, quietly in awe of the full moon, and silent flight of what appeared to be a large owl swooping around the trees just on the perimeter of his ornate garden. The ‘Hoot, Hoot’ of the owl sent another unbidden tingle down his spine. He seemed to remember reading something about an owl’s portent for wisdom, or was it a harbinger of death? He couldn’t remember which.

Despite the now firmly closed window, he tugged at the length of his bedclothes to avert the chill in his bones. It was then that he saw it from the corner of his eye, just as he turned to return to the warmth of his bed. Dark, with menacing eyes all lit up with red peril known only to another dimension. The black hood and flowing robe enveloping the otherworldly figure confirmed only that the fear that had arisen in the bishop’s chest was eminently tangible. He felt his heart turn to icicles when he noticed that the scythe held in the spectre’s left hand was even taller than its bearer.

The tic in his left eye, the one that he did most days exert influence over, flickered like it was on steroids, and he could feel his body tremble without volition before this unbidden manifestation from across the ethers. A soundless scream found a way to his strangled vocal cords, and he could do little to control the trembling of his chin. Then a stolen glance at his mitre placed strategically on his desk beside the wall, reminded him who he was, or at least what his title was. It succeeded little as he tried his best to straighten his spine and project a modicum of gravitas.

“Who, who are you?” was all the bishop could stammer as he leaned toward his side dresser for support.

The being merely lifted the bones of its right hand to point directly at the man of God.

“It is time. You must come,” was the only reply from a guttural depth, as if the words were wrenched from a furnace pit of black ooze.

The bishop’s mouth fell agape, and he pleaded with his eyes, trying to force words through his strangled vocals.

“Do you mean that death is upon me, and I go to heaven?”

The otherworldly being did not reply, merely stood silent, eyes aglow and fixed to its purpose.

A few eternal heartbeats passed as the bishop’s eyes then fired with growing realisation.

“I’m going home – to God,” he said in confirmation to his inner-urgings. “I am to be welcomed at the Gates by the Holy Hosts. My life as Bishop has seen me to the portals of heaven.”

Again, the guttural voice resonated like a thousand drumbeats of thunder.

“Bishop, you are a long way from home,” said the Reaper as he stepped closer to the still trembling man.

“But I don’t understand. I am a man of God. I have been His voice and hand as Bishop of my See. How can it be? I have brought many souls to His door. Given redemption to His flock …”

The reaper said nothing more, merely extended its bony index finger to touch the bishop fully between his terror-filled eyes. Suddenly his mind filled with a blinding light. He reeled backwards as a thousand images poured into his being, as a panorama in a moment describing a lifetime. With a slackened jaw and crumpled visage, tears exploded from the bishop’s eyes to flow in a cascade down his cheeks. Then, of the million images that etched across his soul, one seemed to repeat itself ad nauseam. “What have I done? What have I done?” he cried in abandon, to heaven and a fate now uncertain, but surely eternal.

What happens to the soul after death?

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 02:50:19 GMT

The bridge to the “Laws of Heaven & Earth”

After the writing of my latest book, The Afterlife, a journey to’, I have been asked by many people, ‘What happens to the soul after death?’ ‘Where do we go after death?’ My answer is to view this question as a ‘bridge’.

Love is a bridge for opposites - the mystical to the rational, the divine to the mundane. A bridge provides opportune to traverse between one side to the other. In our brief sojourn upon terra-firma, to manifest to our best ability, our soul’s purpose

for, what one suspects, will be a long sojourn in eternity.

In this blog, my aim is to provide you with this ‘bridge’. The foundational wherewithal, if you like, to enable you to ‘traverse between this life and the eternal next’… whatever you believe.

It should come as no surprise that THE AFTERLIFE provides fertile ground for the unexplained, the mysterious, or the downright speculative. Much knowledge of which can be directed to people who have sampled the ‘other side’ through a Near Death Experience (NDE). It has also much been the domain of the many religious orders to provide such a link (aka bridge) that our lives have meaning and purpose, and what we do matters. And, to be sure, it is not the domain of this author to tell you what to believe, nor cast aspersions on long-held beliefs. I merely make an offering of a point of view I was blessed to experience in the writing of, ‘The Afterlife, a journey to’. I received a gift of seeing and experiencing many of the things which lay-in-wait on the

other side, and I offer this gift to you.

But take it from me, I am a man of logical mind and rational processes that keep me attuned to daily life and its challenges and trials - just as we all encounter across life’s journey. Yet here we stand on the precipice of new understandings that, the begetting of which, will change life for the better - to a life well-lived and directed to purpose.

It was through this writing that I gained knowledge of the Laws of Heaven & Earth, of which I discovered fifteen throughout the text. So, let us begin sequentially by taking excerpts from the book that best describe these matters of importance.

Law # 1 – “Fear not, you are never without the love of the Father.”

‘“God’s love is endless, unbound by each soul's creed or profession. Every soul is a teardrop from His eyes. His love is eternal for all. He is the alpha and the omega. All will come to Him to be renewed. It is what you cause to affect in your fellow man that

so declares our Father's judgement.”’ P.25

‘As if then by some unknown hand, Atticus stopped abruptly, only to stand in attention to something unseen.

“Listen,” he said. “Can you hear it?”

The shake of my head was my only precursor to a higher calling of attention.

“Yes, yes, I think so. It is soft, like a lullaby. Only, only of more comfort.”

Again, Atticus could but barely restrain his smile when I strode towards the

crest of the hill to hear more clearly.

“Yes, yes, I hear it now. The music, it is so, so … beautiful,” I exclaimed in awe as my visage reflected the grace that fell upon my ears. I turned then away from the music to ask further of what I beheld, but Atticus was no more. He had gone.

The rise of fear that found course to my heart was only momentary, for the words of my guide spoke clearly through the ethers.

“Go forward, my friend. Follow the music. It will lead you to where you are meant to be. Fear not, you are never without the love of our Father.”’ P.72

#2 - The judgement of heaven is neither eternal nor vindictive, rather probationary and remedial.

‘“Mercy is not the necessity of your redemption, (name redacted). Rather, it is our Father’s purity of judgement that awaits you behind this portal. All beings, without exception must enter.” The being-of-light paused, with a look that bespoke of its great empathy. “Yet, I know fear weighs heavy on your heart. Know therefore that the judgement that awaits you is neither eternal nor vindictive, rather probationary and remedial. This is the manifest love and compassion of our Father.”’ P.22

‘Then, from seemingly nowhere, a divine Being stepped forth into the middle of the arena. Tall, calm, and majestic best describe the Being’s stature, but being branded by definition or form would only cause injury to the language that attempted such ineptitude. Rather, a sound refuge and shelter of God-like compassion more portrayed the grander sum of the totality of these best parts. The Being's robe radiated with what could only be pronounced by the glow of the sun, with streaks of green that flashed like lightning from within the folds, as if the colour was the essence of its purpose.

The angel-being then lifted his hands to the sky in a summons. By starting to chant in a voice of the divine, softly at first, then much louder. It sounded to (name redacted) like slow-rolling thunder. Then, as if by some divine magic, a ball of light appeared between his raised hands. Rolling his hands, as if kneading soft dough, sparks of energy formed into a ball of energy of augmenting power. Sparks flew like lightning from within the centre of the spinning magnetic ball. Then, when it was the moment known only to himself, the angel directed laser-like beams of light toward and into each of the occupants on the recliners.

(Name redacted) eyes stood awed in wonder as he witnessed the light enter and surround each of its subjects, to caress each one in a soft glow of immense power. Time seemed to bear no reference to the relevant as he watched all this magnificence unfold. Yet, it didn’t seem to matter. The only thing that concerned was what happened when the angel folded his hands. The glow of the magnetic laser

lights faded back into the magnetic ball. A soft sigh seemed to emanate as one from the multitude of the assembled. The sigh sounded like a communal expression of gratitude as the light returned to the grace of its source.

With the power of the magnetic having now been properly dispensed, the angel merely smiled gracefully and walked quietly from the arena. (Name redacted) felt fit to bursting. He could feel his heart pounding with a thousand drums as he could not stop staring towards what now unfolded.

Upon their awakening, each lounge seemed to release its gentle hold over its occupant. He gasped as each soul, without exception, gaped in awe at their surroundings as they opened their eyes. He could only stare in amazement when observing that each person, before sick or disabled, was now hale and hearty. They had been renewed. They had been cured. Their previous body of malady had

returned to one of strength and vitality. By the grace of God, they had been transformed. Straining to take his eyes from the unfolding events, (name redacted) could barely gasp for air. There were so many questions stuck in his throat, he could hardly turn to his friend, Elijah, to form proper words.

Luckily Elijah came to succour. “By the grace of our Father, souls are released from the burdens of illness, deformity or disability of spirit imposed by others into their eternal life in heaven. The burdens are relieved,” explained Elijah before he once again started to chant.‘ P.51

In my next blog, we will continue our sequential progression through our journey of discovery into the Laws of Heaven and Earth:

#3 - What you have caused to affect in your fellow man is what declares your place in heaven.

#4 – We are all one in spirit – what you have done to another you do to yourself.

Footnote: ‘The Afterlife, a journey to’ is due for release on 26 May 2023. Pre-

orders re now available via - Amazon UK

If you would like further information, or to book a speaking event or podcast, please

contact me via this website

The Ministry of Children

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 01:04:27 GMT

Excerpt from 'The Afterlife'

At Evangeline’s behest, we took a turn down a hallway, one of the many, and stopped at a large hall of study. It was a room filled with many tomes, not dissimilar to the great library of my previous visitations. The room was full of eager young learners fixed in attention upon the master, amidst instruction at the front of the room.

“All children who have left the earth-plane in the early stages will continue their education and wellbeing. All shall receive proper instruction to the ways of heaven. No child shall be left behind in their education of the divine laws of heaven and earth. They are all, without exception, given the knowledge required to progress through the stages of the divine.”

“But what of a parent’s responsibility in such regard? Does not the bond between parent and child continue to blossom and hold fast to love and attachment?”

“Indeed it does, Athar. The bond of love between a parent and child will extend across the eternal if only it is strong and true. No bond of love is ever broken. It is the cord that seeks to sustain one and the other across the vast expanse of our Father’s heaven. Yet, if no such bond exists, if the strains of earthly relationships have soured such fulfillment, then, as you see, no child will suffer for its absence. Their well will be replenished by many loving hands so that the child knows not any privation.”

I stood in awe perhaps a while longer than supposed - until Evangeline broke the spell of my fixation.

“Come,” she said gently, “there is more for you to see.”

We were led further along the numerous hallways, each resplendent in fine decor and colourful design, until we arrived at another chamber that, even as we approached, seemed to resonate with a chorale of beautiful voices in quiet chant. The atmosphere held a faint tint of blue colouration which radiated through a window portal in the ceiling. It seemed to fill the very air with an elixir of life that held the potential for all love to flourish.

Inside the room, as we enetred, I could not help but notce the glow of the number of souls in attendance to the many children. Each of their robes seemed to be alive with a radiance not before seen to my eyes, and their attention to the little babes under ther care was evident to behold. Many young fledgelings lay in repose in the soft down of the vessel holding their comfort.

“Each child is a teardrop from the eyes of our Father, dear Athar. Each child is nurtured until they reach the fullness of their spirit. Their attainment of the prime of life is by no means hindered by their early passing to this heavenly realm. Our Father’s love shines brightly upon each soul until it is of an evolvement to determine its future progress in the spirit of the divine.”

As she spoke, without warning and of its own volition, my mind strayed to the many challenges and hurdles of my own upbringing, and I could barely hold fast to my currency and to the love to which I now bore witness. Within but a beat, Evangeline seemed to know my thoughts in revelation.

“Your road has been difficult, dear Athar. This is known to us of the higher realms. Yet, the cross of your harsh learning is now akin to the alchemist’s cauldron. What was before leaden, is now turning to the gold and joy of celebration to the task laying before you.”

I couldn’t help myself. I could no longer stand on any further ceremony. The joy in my heart was full to overflowing, and I reached out my hands to hers and fell to my knees as tears tumbled in heavy droplets upon my shimmering chemise.

“You are most welcome, my dearest, Athar,” she said helping me to rise. “But know that what I am - like these children - is what you too will become. And more so will it be.”

Abode of Reunion (Part 2 of 2)

Sun, 09 May 2021 23:52:50 GMT

Excerpt From "The Afterlife"

Without further need for prompt or invitation, we each took the crook of the others’ arm and made our way down the hillside and strolled amongst the throng of souls in various degrees of earnest conversation and/or embrace. As we strolled in grip of our agog, it was Isaiah who stopped suddenly in observation of someone standing alone and separate from others. The stretch of his silver cord evident reaching back over the mists, and his stunned bewilderment to his surroundings most evident.

‘Brother, Brother Isaac,’ cried Isaiah as the startled visitor recognised the voice of attraction.

Isaac seemed so surprised at first that he could barely fall to his knees before his old friend without toppling over. ‘Bishop, I, I …’ he stammered as he was lifted to his feet and embraced heartily by Isaiah. Turning to look at Cassiel, I could tell from her finger poised to her lips that she desired that I stay mute and in awe of the unfolding events.

‘It is so good to see you, your Grace. You have been sorely missed by those that have mourned your passing. But how, I mean, where am I? I have not passed over myself, have I? I mean, I am not … dead? And what are these robes you wear? They are beautiful …’

Isaiah, through his kind look of compassion, was able to at least calm somewhat his friend’s anxiety.

‘No, my friend, you are not dead. It is not yet your time. Look! Do you see the beautiful silver cord attached to your heart that stretches back over the mists? You merely sleep but come seeking answers to some dilemma you face in your earthly abode. It is for us to determine what that problem is.’ As he spoke, Isaiah cast a hastened glance towards us as we watched in observation. It was a glance that at once told us that he was sure to his purpose but would call upon us if the need arose to a point of his impasse.

Isaac’s frown did much to describe his inner turmoil as he at first struggled to articulate his conundrum. Then it was as if a dam broke open and the words came tumbling forth without restraint.

‘Oh, my Bishop, my heart is sorely troubled. I can no longer hold to the rigid doctrines of our church and the expression of its sanctity. I have heard much in the thralls of confession that has so troubled my faith that I no longer know whether God’s grace resides in my ability to minister His word. My lips have been sealed by the confessional, but my heart is rendered by holding its misdeeds within. In short, Bishop, I think I am losing my faith …’.

Isaiah took firm hold of Isaac’s shoulders and led him to repose under the welcome of a nearby elm that seemed to offer solace and support to the occasion.

‘Isaac,’ he said as he sat next to his charge, ‘know that I am no longer your bishop, rather, that here, in heaven, I am known as Isaiah. I have been de-robed by the wonders I have both observed and experienced here within heaven’s realm.’

‘But, by the grace of God, you were our bishop. How is that possible?’

‘Fear not, my friend, the experiences by which I will now assist you have been sown by His divine hand. My eyes have been opened to the wonder of His laws of love and which guide my voice to assist your suffering.’

At once Isaac looked down at his chest and it was evident that his time at heaven’s gate was shortening, for his silver cord became more vibrant and was tugging softly at his chest.

‘Our time is short, my brother. Your human form reclaims its’ spirit’s presence. Know therefore what is most important before you leave.’ Isaiah inhaled deeply before continuing and seemed to offer a silent prayer to He that held his hand. ‘Lose not your faith in God, my friend. The consequences to be borne by those that give scant regard to those precious souls under their care are destined for harsh judgement in the halls of heaven. I know, I have been there. Follow the love in your heart. Treat all His children under the guidance of your care as if the children were your own. Protect and serve those that come to you for spiritual nourishment and NOT the bastions of the church that demand only fealty to its doctrines. I have seen much anguish here in heaven as caused by conformity to misguided orthodoxy and self-righteous obeisance.’

At once, Isaac could withstand the calling no longer. The urge from his awakening body was much stronger in its beckoning.

‘May I come again, my …, I mean, Isaiah? Your words have been as a balm to my wounded spirit. Yet, I think there is much more I must learn.’

Standing and waving farewell, Isaiah, spoke truly, ‘By the grace of God, I will be here for you whenever you need me. I stand to no other law but the law of love. My heart will tell me when it is time for us to meet again. Go with God, my friend.’

He watched with a gentle smile as Isaac felt the pull of the silver cord in beckoning to his return.

‘Oh, oh, and one more thing,’ implored Isaiah as his friend started to drift away. ‘Never confuse chastity with purity. It is only the pure in heart who can see God.’ He watched as Isaac waved acknowledgement with a smile just as he was moving across the mists. Isaiah prayed it was enough.

Upon Isaac’s departure, we moved together with smiles of gratitude and wonder, before again seeking answers from Cassiel. Questions that had started to form as a huge logjam in my burgeoning bag of unknowns. We strolled for a time, our silence filled with the surrounding chatter of conversations of the many souls and their companions, some in earnest, some in tears. But this time it was I who stopped suddenly in my tracks only to have the others turn in surprise at my reticence.

‘Cassiel is it….? Would it be …? Could I …?’

‘Speak your heart, dear Athar, and if it is within my power, I will surely open my heart to your inquiry.’

‘My mother … Could I …,’ I managed to mumble further. ‘We were much estranged in my previous life. This is a burden I have carried for too long. Could I, I mean, is it possible for me to have visitation. To express now my, ah, forgiveness for that which has passed between us.’

Cassiel thought deeply upon my request for a moment. It was a moment that seemed to evoke a flash of light transmitted to another sphere or a higher realm. Yet, in a moment, her answer was upon her lips.

‘Yes, my dear friend, such a reunion is indeed possible. Yet, be aware that sometimes forgiveness is not readily received in the same spirit which it is given. Sometimes the denial of responsibility is a stronger elixir than truth.’

I looked at her with an understanding that transcended my anxiety and nodded my confirmation which she acknowledged with her eyes.

‘Walk, then, over the hillside yonder,’ she said pointing in the direction. ‘It will be seen what your heart yearns to unfold.’

Walking in the direction of her finger, my steps started to falter the closer I came to the crest over which I could not see. It was as if my heart was fixed strongly to its purpose, but my mind found falter the closer it came to its realisation. That’s when I saw her. I knew it was her even though her back was turned to my presence. She could neither see nor hear my approach, but I knew it was her. The slant and slope of her taut shoulders and hands fixed firmly to her hips was something I recognised from many years of her overbearing.

‘M, moth, mother’ I croaked over vocals that did not wish to function without rasping over burning coals. ‘It is I.’

‘What, who, leave me alone,’ she said without turning and with venom dripping from her tongue. ‘I don’t know where I am, I have no wish to be here, and I certainly do not wish to speak with anyone. I want to return home. Leave me be.’

Despite my ill-at-ease, I took a further few paces forward in persistence.

‘Mother, it is I, your son …’

Her quick turn to face me made me stop fixedly in my tracks. Her face, full of the fire of malice, made her already stern visage even more difficult to admire in recollection. There were so few precious moments.

‘I am glad you are here,’ I said holding my hands forward to bridge the gulf between us. They were hands that remained empty of touch for she could only look at them as if they were foreign objects from an alien being.

‘I just wanted to say, I mean, I sought this meeting to tell you that I forgive you. To tell you that despite the harshness of my life, the many trials that I endured by your neglect, I am happy. Here, now, in heaven, I am at peace with who I am. I came to thank you. For without you, I would not be in the exalted place in which I now abide. If it had not been for your self-centred intent, I would not be where I am today. I could not have risen so high in God’s holy order.’

In the eternal moments after I had finished speaking and before she could utter a reply, I could but wonder where and why all those words just tumbled forward in presentation. My heart lay open in expectation of their gift of giving but quavered in fear as to what may be her reaction. I could not say that I was surprised, but I confess to a sense of disappointment in her response.

‘Forgiveness? What are you forgiving me for? I did nothing wrong. I did what I thought best for you. I was your mother, you were my child - you were meant to obey me. That’s how it works, isn’t it! I stand no sense of regret for what I have done. My only disappointment is that I did not send you to that boarding school sooner. That way, I could have realised my true calling - without being hamstrung by the apron all that time. I mean, your father was never there, was he? Why don’t you go to him with your forgiveness?’

I could barely keep my knees from buckling and struggled hard to hold fast to the truth about myself I had recently discovered. Yet somehow, I found the way to speak my heart before she was called back by the glare of her silver cord. ‘Go with God, Mother. He will be forever a light in your darkness. I stand steadfast in His glory but see that your eyes are closed to His brightness. I wish you could see what I see, but I fear your eternity will be a long one.’

The urge from her silver cord was now one she could not refuse, and it was only her scowl that remained to pierce the darkness she had left behind after she flew back over the mists.

After she had gone and as I strode back over the hill and across the vale with leaden feet, I was never so pleased to see my two friends awaiting my return with arms open.

The Return

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 23:58:10 GMT

Excerpt From "The Afterlife"

‘Would that I could go back, to return and make right that which I had previously misdirected,’ said I, as we both reclined on the banks beside the vast expanse, the cool water into which we dangled our toes in delight. ‘I carry a heavy burden of trouble for that which I have done in ignorance to the truth.’

By rummaging around, the small, flat pebble wasn’t hard for Elijah to find. He clasped it gently, then tossed it into the still waters to watch it skip many times across the surface. So many times, in fact, it was impossible to count. I could only stare aghast, remembering as a lad only conjuring at most six skips before my stones were lost to the depths.

‘Those deeds committed in ignorance or without intention are not weighed to balance in heaven, my friend. Only those who have erred with deliberate intent, or for determined self-interest to another’s detriment or negligence, are committed for their rightful consequences. It’s like peering at your face through a window and baring the results of a lifetime.’

‘Yet, it is so that my errant deeds and insouciance to others now effects my eternity. My glance in the window of reflection speaks to me with unease. Is it possible to return to undo that which I have done?’

‘To return is indeed possible, but the circumstances upon which the journey is to be constructed require consultations from those higher above.’

‘Yet it can be done?’

‘Yes,’ replied Elijah with a smile hidden behind the frown of his brow. ‘But first you must pass a great test. Then, and only then, can you make such a supernatural return through the mists.’

My eagerness was akin to a small child about to visit a fairground. The very thought seemed to lift the weight of burden from my shoulders whereby my animation could barely be constrained. ‘What do I have to do. I will do anything. Anything you wish.’

‘So be it,’ said Elijah solemnly. ‘First you must find a flat stone, much the same as the one I made dance to eternity across the waters.’

It wasn’t hard to find, and I proudly held my stone forth for examination. ‘Will this suffice to purpose?’ I asked admiring its symmetry and to which I received a cursory nod.

‘Now, see how many skips it will make.’

I felt the weight and flexed my arm in preparation. Recollections from my youth came flooding back to the art of the practice. I knew what to do. It was like riding a bike. I tossed the pebble into the water and stood in anticipation and expectation of the many skips of its journey. Alas, I fell most notably from my crest when the pebble could only manage five skips before descending into the depths.

Elijah’s mirth at my disappointment was barely contained under his gruff exterior. Yet his eyes told an alternate story.

‘Does this mean I have failed?’ I asked in abject disappointment. ‘Does it mean that I cannot return to mend my mistakes?’

‘My friend, the showing of our misdeeds can only delay, they cannot prevent, the ultimate realisation of the truth. The truth does not care what you choose to act upon – it remains unchanging.’

I watched carefully as Elijah bent down to pick up another flat pebble. He seemed to hold it in his hand with loving care. He even whispered words to it that I was unable to interpret. Without so much as a practice swing, he tossed the pebble into the water and watched with a quaint smile its multitudinous skips across the water well out of sight of eye’s reach.

‘But how? How did you do that?’

‘Find another pebble,’ he said adamantly. ‘But this time, speak to it with love and devotion. Acknowledge its’ beauty. After all, it too is a reflection of the divine. Praise it as worthy and equal to the task of its journey.’

I, at first curiously, then with the dawning of wisdom, did so speak to the pebble held lovingly in my hand. Then, with a motion as fluid as the water into which it was cast, did I toss the pebble and watch with joy as it skipped upon the water to join its friends on the other side of eternity.

‘Good,’ said Elijah as he clasped my shoulder. ‘Now we can see to the next part of your journey. The return.’

‘Lead thou me on,’ said I with a mind still skipping across the water like a flat stone.

stephen-chong-author

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