NDEs (Near-Death Experiences)

Most of us would be very pleased if heaven really existed, or an afterlife if you prefer a different term.  Knowing that death is not the end and that our consciousness will continue on brings many people much inner peace.  But is heaven real, or just wishful thinking?  Is this something that was fabricated in order to calm our fears, and are NDEs mere hallucinations brought about by oxygen deprivation or some other common scientifically explainable neurological mechanism?  There are some really good books out there, and growing anecdotal evidence that strongly suggests that the NDE phenomenon is real.  It may only be a matter of time until science catches up with this understanding.  The answers may eventually be found in the fields of quantum physics and metaphysics.  Most religious folk believe in some form of the continuation of consciousness.  For the faithful, a scientific explanation is not required.

The NDE phenomenon is fairly prevalent in our society, and hard to explain away.  One of the most fascinating things about it, and proof to many that it is real, is when someone who is pronounced dead by medical personnel comes back to life with a very interesting story describing in detail what they perceived when their physical bodies were lifeless.   For instance, someone left their body and floated up to the hospital roof and saw a red sneaker.  Later, stories like this are confirmed, puzzling everybody who is not familiar with the phenomenon.  How could they possibly know that there was a red sneaker on the hospital roof if they were dead, or what was said or done in a different room at that time?  The fact that we can leave our physical bodies is known to many students of metaphysics and spirituality, so to those people, it is more readily accepted.  Other similar stories like this get reported.

Another thing that is common in NDEs is seeing loved ones who have passed.  They usually appear healthy and vibrant, not in any pain, and for the experiencer it feels very very real.  It is common belief to those that follow such things that this is a natural process intended to ease our transition into the afterlife.  I have read many different examples of what a person can experience when crossing over.  The majority of the time, if not always, a person will encounter a person or people who brings them peace.  There is no intimidation, no fire and brimstone hell, no chance for your soul to be permanently lost.

Also a seemingly stable aspect of the NDE, is the life review.  This is a dynamic process, not some big guy in a white beard reading a thousand-page book of all your transgressions.  It is said you are shown, in your mind and very core of your emotional being, many notable occurrences that took place in your life, good and bad.  You actually re-live the events, and using direct telepathic connection with your God or spirit guides who continually monitor your inner-condition, you are receptive to the lessons you are shown.  You even get to hear what other’s were thinking and feel what they were feeling at times to further enhance the learning experience.  The process will not cause you to shatter.  You are in good hands.  The best hands, actually.  God, the supreme being, the universe, knows exactly what you are experiencing and does not wish for you to feel excessive pain.  It is meant to be a learning process for greater understanding, and takes place on a level where the characteristics of time do not apply in the same way.  For instance, the life review is complete, but if you were to re-live every meaningful incident in your life in regular time, the process would take weeks if not months.  The phenomenon is more efficient than that.

Having had several OBEs myself (Out of Body Experiences), it is easier for me to believe in such things.  The topic may interest you whether or not you have had an OBE or NDE yourself.  These phenomena are almost always completely innocuous, so there is very little to fear.

I wouldn’t call myself an expert on such things, but I have been interested in this topic for years and have learned a lot.  I can recommend a few good books on the subject.  The one that started much of the modern-day research was Dr. Raymond Moody’s “Life After Life”.  He coined the phrase, “Near-Death Experience”.  Another book is my favorite on the subject, called “Lessons From The Light: What We Can Learn From The Near-Death Experience” by Kenneth Ring, Ph.D. It is a real page-turner if you are interested in the subject, and is a pleasant inspiring read, leaving you with a good feeling about life.

I would like to hear from you.  Feel free to share your thoughts on the subject.  Namaste.

Movies That Moved Us

This is where you can discuss movies that moved you.  Meaning movies that resonated with you, got you emotional, tugged at your heartstrings, struck a chord, inspired, captivated, thrilled, or motivated you.  I will go first…

The Truman Show

This movie got me pretty emotional.  I really felt for the main character, played marvelously by Jim Carrey.  Anyone else feel the same way?

Forrest Gump

“I’m not a smart man… but I know what love is…”  How poignant.  Another character to fall in love with.  Tom Hanks is the consummate actor.

A.I.

Haley Joel Osment does a wonderful job as a lifelike child robot.  Jude Law and William Hurt are in this movie as well.  I shed a tear to this one.  It helps if you like sci-fi.

The Rock

Action packed ultra-tight action film with loads of action.  Did I say action?  Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery kick butt.  Definitely one to own if you are a fan of the genre.

Armageddon

Another tight action film.  Not everyone agrees that this is a great movie, but with an all-star cast trying to save the world (gotta love that theme), it is worth checking out if you like action movies.  Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Liv Tyler, Billy Bob Thornton, Michael Clarke Duncan, Steve Buscemi, Will Patton, Owen Wilson, and William Fichner are here to name a few.

Independence Day

Not everybody likes this film either, but as a fan of sci-fi, Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Brent Spiner, and the theme of saving the world, I did more than give it a chance, I really liked it.  Great special effects and enjoyable performances got the point across that humans must defeat the alien threat or perish.

the X-Men series (I, II, III), X-Men Origins: Wolverine, X-Men First Class

As a big fan of superheroes, I was on board from the start way back when X-Men came out (2000) which paved the way for many comic book heroes to come out onto the big screen.  Hugh Jackman was perfect for the role of Wolverine, one of the world’s most favorite badass superheroes.  Patrick Stewart as Professor X wasn’t a bad choice either.  Being that I have a soft spot for superhero movies, I really enjoyed these five films.

the Star Wars series (I, II, III, IV, V, VI)

Oozing with sci-fi goodness and spiritual overtones, Star Wars is brilliant movie magic.  What a great concept.  Save the princess, save the universe, use the force, gotta love it.

the Spider Man series (I, II, III)(w/Tobey Maguire)

There were some people who criticized one or more of the three Tobey Maguire Spider-Man movies.  While they might not have been the absolute world’s greatest superhero movies, if you are a fan of Spider Man,  they probably fulfilled you on some level.  I enjoyed them.  There were many emotional moments, and I am glad that they made these films.

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)

Chances are even if you thought the previous Spider-Man movies were lacking, but wanted to give the character and his story another chance, you were fulfilled by The Amazing Spider-Man.  A powerful emotional reboot.

Batman (I, II, III)(w/Christian Bale)

The darkest Dark Knight yet, this trilogy gets Batman right.  The second film will always be special to me, as it was one of Heath Ledger’s last performances which he nailed as the Joker.  I especially liked the finale, The Dark Knight Rises.  If you are a Batman fan, try to see this trilogy.

The Avengers

Wow.  What more needs to be said.  A mindblowing action film.  A blockbuster hit.  A handful of some of your favorite superheroes in one place, fighting together as a team (and occasionally amongst themselves), trying to, once again, save the world.  That theme never gets old for me.  Definitely worth owning if you are a fan of the genre or action movies in general (but to get the most out of it, it helps if you know about the characters before you see this movie, for sure).

Captain America

This is one of the movies you should see before you take The Avengers plunge.  It introduces Captain America, played wonderfully by Chris Evans.  I really got a lot out of this film.  Captain America has a really good heart, and is very brave.  The ending is mysterious, making you want to see more.  A really good movie.

Iron Man

Another movie you should see before The Avengers, Iron Man stands alone as a super-sweet superhero movie.  Gotta love Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man.  Well done.

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

Also a good movie to see before seeing The Avengers, Edward Norton is convincing as The Hulk.  This movie provides enough to get a good feel for the character, his abilities, and his plight.  The Hulk is a formidable superhero.

Green Lantern

Green Lantern is in the DC Universe, not the Marvel Universe, so no need to see this movie to prep for The Avengers.  However if you are a Green Lantern fan, you really should check it out.  Many say it didn’t deliver.  But I really love the character, and how many other Green Lantern movies do you know of?  I ended up giving it a chance, and it was fulfilling, at least on some levels.  It helped to already be a fan of Ryan Reynolds.

The Matrix Trilogy

When The Matrix came out in 1999, it was truly groundbreaking and set the standard for other action movies to come.  It set the bar very high.  Another one of those “wow” movies.  All three films showcase some really out-there concepts and action, and I am glad to have them in my collection.

Swordfish

Another fine action movie with Hugh Jackman, John Travolta, Halle Berry, and Don Cheadle.  Very tight film.  Captivating from beginning to end.  Original.  A real winner.

Equilibrium

This action film may have slipped by you, but it is worth checking out if you are a fan of the sci-fi action genre.  Christian Bale is perfect for this role.  Interesting concept.

The Bourne Identity

The first film in the Bourne series is my favorite.  Matt Damon does a fine job here, and is convincing as a skilled agent caught up in a big mess.  If you like it, you may want to check out the others in the series.

Good Will Hunting

Another Matt Damon film, this one did wonders for his and friend Ben Affleck’s career, with good reason.  They even wrote the screenplay.  A very compelling, smart, and emotional movie.  Robin Williams is in it as well.  This is a must see drama film.

Minority Report

If Tom Cruise, sci-fi action, and mystery is your cup of tea, look no further, you have found greatness.  I really like the concept, which was new to me at the time, to end all serious crime by utilizing psychics that can see the crime before it happens and then a special team is dispatched to prevent the crimes from occurring.  Good movie.

Lord Of The Rings (I, II, III)

This fantasy trilogy filled my fantasy void in a big way.  I never read J.R.R. Tolkien’s books, but heard they were one of a kind, really good works.  Then the movie came out in theaters, and I went to see it.  Tremendously cool, big time.  I even shed a tear.  Not to be missed if you are a fantasy fan, all three are great epic films.

Gladiator

Russell Crowe delivers in a major way in this powerful spellbinding film.  You really develop an urge for justice to be done, and well, I don’t want to spoil it for you if you’ve never seen this movie.  It’s a bit gory, but most adults can handle it.

Crash

Definitely not for young children, this controversial mature movie is jam-packed with twists and turns as the story unfolds.  Very emotional throughout, it probably will excite something within you.  Just try not to get too upset.  It’s not for everyone.  But if you can handle it, it will probably be unforgettable for you.  I shed a tear during one of the more touching moments (what can I say, I’m a sensitive guy).  You may be emotional too.

The Last Mimzy

A stark contrast to the movie directly above (Crash), this movie IS for children as well as adults.  Surprise, I cried watching this one as well.  If you have children, or are a child at heart, I recommend this cute movie.  Some pretty interesting stuff, and some precious moments throughout.

Eragon

As a fan of dragons, I gave this movie a chance and I’m glad I did.  The CGI is amazing.  You really get the idea that the dragon exists.  Also some good ideas, like a telepathic link between dragon and rider, and if a rider dies, his/her dragon dies, so it behooves the dragon to protect the rider.  If you are an avid reader, you may like the book more, but for those without the time or patience to read the books, pop in the DVD and enjoy for a couple of hours.

Pitch Black

Vin Diesel stars in this dark sci-fi film.  What a badass.  He’s perfect for this role.  Kicks some threatening alien creature butt.  Is he a good guy, or a bad guy?  You’ll have to watch to find out…

Hellboy II: The Golden Army

While I do recommend watching the first Hellboy before part 2, I liked 2 a lot better.  It is a tight fantasy sci-fi adventure film with plenty of good costumes, set design, and special effects.  The story is engaging and will capture your attention throughout.  Hellboy, played by Ron Perlman, is an interesting somewhat dark character.  But there is love there.  Lots of uber-cool moments.  If you like this genre, check it out.

Next

Another fine Nicolas Cage film, this has a sci-fi flavor.  You might agree that his unique character’s powers and the mega-bad possible outcome are something worth making a movie about.  I was fulfilled with this movie.  Jessica Biel plays his love interest, and you may recognize Julianne Moore as an agent in this action packed film.

The Iron Giant

Don’t pass this up thinking it’s just for kids.  It is a very powerful cartoon.  Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., and Vin Diesel are voices of some of the main characters.  Another tearjerker.

The Fifth Element

Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, and Chris Tucker star in this sci-fi action treat.  Save the world with love and butt-kicking.  Never gets old.

Edward Scissorhands

This touching film and convincing performance by one of the world’s favorite actors, Johnny Depp, might make you cry.  It’s pretty odd, but has a heart.  Winona Ryder and Vincent Price are in it too (one of his last performances), along with some other well-known actors.

The Sixth Sense

Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment star in this now classic thriller.  One of M. Night Shyamalan’s best works.

Avatar

This HUGE film broke records at the box office, and deservedly so.  What a film.  Action adventure fantasy at it’s best.

The Patriot

Mel Gibson stars in this period piece about war and justice.  Some light moments, but mostly serious stuff.  You really want justice done here.  He is a hero, and it is impressive to watch.

Superman Returns

Now, before you bash this movie (it let down a lot of fans of the genre), consider how infrequently we have seen Superman lately on the big screen.  Christopher Reeve’s classic Superman’s (I, II, III, IV) can only tide us over for so long!  I was pleased to see a more modern rendition of Superman, and was moved by his displays of strength and will.  Sent tingles down my spine actually.  He’s a really good guy, one of the most powerful superheroes of all time, and deserves a certain amount of respect.  Maybe the next Superman movie will please fans that didn’t like this one.  I hope so.

The Abyss

Ed Harris (always a favorite) is the main character in this sci-fi film.  Interesting and suspenseful, moving and emotional, this is worth watching.  And it contains one of the best resuscitation scenes of all time.  Hang in there, you’re in for a surprising ending.

Contact

Did you ever wonder if there was intelligent life on other planets?  Do you like Jodie Foster, and the sci-fi genre?  If you answered yes to those questions, you must see this movie, based on the Carl Sagan novel of the same name.  “Wanna take a ride?”

Star Trek (2009)

Chris Pine is great as Captain Kirk in this new version of the famous series.  It was a pretty darn good movie, even if you don’t really follow Star Trek.  I’m not exactly a trekkie, but I loved it.  Good sci-fi action.

Star Trek Insurrection

I also checked out this Star Trek movie, and thought it was pretty kick-ass.  I haven’t been to any Star Trek conventions or learned Klingon, but I do like the cast of The Next Generation and Voyager.  Also really like Patrick Stewart.  If you are even remotely interested in sci-fi and Star Trek, give this movie a chance.

Transformers (I, II, III)

Many critics of the Transformer series, but ya gotta love the giant transforming robots and concept!  I played with Transformer toys as a child and liked the cartoon, so to have a beefed up megaversion on the big screen was fine with me!  Nothing wrong with Shia LaBeouf’s acting chops either.

Indiana Jones (I, II, III, IV)

Classic Harrison Ford action adventure, special to many people.  I really loved this as a kid.  Great theme song too.  The new one (with Shia LaBeouf) goes beyond the previous ones, and is a worthy addition to your collection.  It’s more sci-fi than the previous 3, but they make it work.

Daredevil

Ben Affleck is Daredevil, a superhero who is blind, but his other senses are exponentially heightened, making him a formidable superhero.  Worth watching for all superhero fans.

Monsters Vs. Aliens

With a large cast of star voices, top-notch computer animation, and a clever charming story with much humor along the way, this movie tries hard to entertain.  It’s qualifies as a moving movie, and kids can watch it too.

Happy Feet

Another CGI movie, this one has Robin Williams, Elijah Wood, and many other star voices contributing to the mix.  I never cared so much about penguins before.  This movie is informative, moving, and kid-friendly.

Tarzan (Disney)

A Disney classic that should not be missed if you like Disney cartoons.  A powerful and heartwarming movie.  Kid-friendly.

Aladdin (Disney)

Also a Disney classic, with Robin Williams’ voice as the genie, this movie is very entertaining throughout.  Lots of catchy tunes too, and a wondrous feel.

Monsters, Inc.

What a cute movie this is.  Boo is adorable.  This is one of my favorite computer animated movies.  John Goodman and Billy Crystal are the voices of the main characters, monsters, but good monsters, in a world filled with monsters.  Interesting story, suspenseful and emotional at times.  Good for all ages.

Lilo & Stitch (Disney)

I was going to pass this movie up when it first came out, then I heard a favorable review of it from a friend and ended up seeing it.  I was pleasantly surprised.  This is a really fun sci-fi Disney cartoon.  Well done.  Good detailed artwork that gets the point across beautifully without being overly decorative.  And a good story too, with lovable characters.  Fun for the whole family.

Reign Over Me

This is a very heavy movie.  Unlike much of the above, this is not for kids.  Adam Sandler, Don Cheadle, Jada Pinkett Smith, Liv Tyler, Saffron Burrows, and Donald Sutherland star in this heart-wrenching tale.  You will not see familiar Adam Sandler humor here.  This is serious.  Very well done.  It may move you to tears.

This concludes my “Movies That Moved Us” post.  I hope that it helped you discover something wonderful that you may have not seen before, or helped confirm your feelings about one or more movies.  I am aware that I have not included every excellent moving film out there, but wanted to contribute something.  Have you seen any movies that moved you?  Please tell me of your experiences!

Joel Osteen- The Best Preacher On The Planet?

I am a seeker of truth in all religions.  I don’t attend church much but I love to watch Joel Osteen preach on TV.  I also love Bishop T.D. Jakes.  It’s a real hard choice between the two if I had to pick a favorite, but I am more familiar with Joel Osteen’s work.  He is thoroughly knowledgeable about Christianity, never fails to deliver a powerful encouraging and inspiring positive message that is easy to understand, and he even tells a joke at the beginning of every sermon for our enjoyment.  Additionally, he is a family man who sets a good example for others to follow.  Is there anyone reading this who thinks that Joel Osteen is the best preacher on the planet?  I would like to hear other’s views on the subject.  What do you think?

Music To Dream To

Hello fellow dreamers.

I would like to tell you about some music that you might really like, if you like to take mental journeys, relax, and be uplifted in a peaceful way.  Music is one of my favorite things about life, and the list that I am sharing below consists of my favorite relaxing music.  I hope you will enjoy them too!

(Artist in bold/Albums standard text)

Robert Miles Dreamland, 23am

Dreamland is a classic dreamy club album.  23am is also very good if you like this style.  From the club to your car to your headphones at night, this is versatile stuff.

Enya Paint The Sky With Stars: The Best Of Enya, A Day Without Rain, Amarantine

Can’t go wrong with Enya.  Always a pleasure to listen to her beautiful voice and delightful accompaniment.  Very well known and popular artist.

2002 Chrysalis, This Moment Now, Land Of Forever, Emerald Way, River Of Stars, Across An Ocean Of Dreams, Wings, Damayanti

Quintessential New Age music, 2002 does not disappoint.  Very gentle and smooth.

Mythos Mythos, The Reality Of A Dreamer, Eternity, Purity

Really takes you on a journey filled with emotion.  Mysterious.  Exquisite.

Amethystium Aphelion, Evermind, Isabliss

These 3 albums are all gems, each track has something to offer.  Definitely worth checking out.

Blue Stone Breathe, Worlds Apart, Messages

Also mysterious, with 3 female vocalists, sure to enchant you.

Balligomingo Beneath The Surface

Silky smooth vibes activate your mind and soul.  Not very well known, but very good.

Sleepthief Dawnseeker, Labyrinthine Heart

An interesting quality production, filled with first-class assorted female vocalists.  A real treat.

Steve Roach Dynamic Stillness, Structures From Silence, Dreamtime Return, Mystic Chords And Sacred Spaces Part 1 & 2 (4 discs), Empetus, Magnificent Void, Stream Of  Thought, Sigh Of Ages, Soma, Strata, Immersion: Three, Light Fantastic, Body Electric, Arc Of Passion, Somewhere Else

The king of ambient music, this prolific artist has created many great works for us to enjoy.  At times quite calm, other times turbulent, Steve Roach sculpts sound and it is fun to relax and explore his albums.

Brian Eno Ambient 1: Music For Airports, Ambient 2: Plateaux Of Mirror, Ambient 4: On Land, Apollo: Atmospheres & Soundtracks, The Pearl, Thursday Afternoon

Also a famous prolific ambient artist, if you are looking to float along in a serene world, you have found the right artist.  These are arguably his best ambient albums.

Robin Guthrie Carousel

One of my favorites, Brian Eno-esque.  If you like Brian Eno’s ambient work, you’ll also probably like this album.

Himekami Moonwater, Snow Goddess

Pure sonic poetry with an Asian style.

Delerium The Best Of Delerium, Nuages Du Monde

Delerium offers their very own dimension of sound.  Visit it and enjoy the wonder.

Between Interval Secret Observatory, Autumn Continent, Edge Of A Fairytale

A bit dark, but still very enjoyable.  Good to mix it up a bit with other artists.

Hilary Stagg, Dream Spiral, Edge Of Forever, Sweet Return, Feather Light

Inspiring and lovely harp music.  If you like the sound of the harp, and like to relax, you will probably really enjoy these albums.

Genie Whisper

Heavenly, beautiful, and moving, with light peaceful religious content, one to savor for years to come.  A lullaby for your soul.

That about does it.  Some uplifting, some peaceful, some hypnotic, all worth a listen if you are into relaxing music.  You can listen to samples of many of these albums at Amazon.com .  What are your favorites?

Are Some Video Games Sacred To You?

Spiritual Seeker here.

I remember way back when Zelda came out for the original Nintendo.  I saw the demo at a popular toy store in NYC, but was too young at the time to have that kind of money and nobody would buy it for me.  Years went by.  Then luck would have it I broke my leg and my Dad bought it for me.  Well, the leg healed, and I still really enjoyed Nintendo.  There was something about Zelda that was remarkably captivating to me and my friends.  Yes, it was about saving the princess.  Always a good theme.  But it was more than that.  The challenge level was balanced so you had to concentrate to succeed but it didn’t take too long to learn how to advance.  There were some puzzles, but not too hard, and most people who were passionate about the game eventually tackled them and beat it.  The rewards were peppered throughout the game, and it was always satisfying to find that new weapon or tool, and collect rupees (money) along the way.  There was something about Zelda, and Zelda II for that matter, that made your problems take a back seat for the duration of your playing time.  Some games take place within a very engaging world.  Zelda is one of those games.  I guess a lot of games are like that.  Modern video games offer even more than ever, with more in-depth storylines, characters, and other complexities (but there will always be a soft spot reserved in my heart for some of the classics).  Many people work very hard to make games special, and on occasion, the stories and characters might really impact you in a big way.  Anyone out there care to share a video game story, of Zelda, or any other game that was special, dare I say, sacred to you?  Some may say that mere video games cannot be sacred, but if you are facing rough times in your life and a video game somehow makes it much easier to cope, it may be considered sacred as it lessened your pain.  To some, all things are sacred.  So, please share if you have had a similar experience.

More Games That Helped Bring Joy:

Metroid (NES), Contra (NES), Castlevania (NES), Ninja Gaiden (NES), Dragon Warrior I, II, III (NES), Super Mario Brothers I, II, III (NES), John Madden Football 92 (SEGA Genesis), Shining In The Darkness (SEGA Genesis), Sonic The Hedgehog (SEGA Genesis) Secret Of Mana (SNES), Nights Into Dreams (SEGA Saturn), Kingdom Hearts (PS2) and many many more…

Do You Believe In Enlightenment?

Spiritual Seeker here.  This is my first post.

I was wondering about other people’s thoughts on enlightenment.  It is a goal of some religions and many people, but how does one tell if one has “made it”, and actually is enlightened?  The PBS special, “The Buddha” (narrated by Richard Gere) shed some light on it, and other books I have read, but it is still a mystery to me and others as well.  Nobody really ever told me to seek enlightenment, instead I hear more about being mindful and cultivating inner peace, but that’s not exactly the same thing.  If something so wonderful really existed and was attainable, wouldn’t they be teaching it in elementary school?  Tell me your thoughts…