It's about a man named Lance who had an accident, and while in an induced coma for weeks, has an outer body experience, between here, and Paradise/The Spirit World. There, He is met by his family that has already passed. Particularly his cousin Randy who died of cancer, and his Grandfather. This is a true story. It may sound far fetched for some, but for me it hit so close to home, and I believe it.
While I was moved to tears numerous times, and touched deeply again and again, there is one part in particular that I wanted to share. This is a conversation between Lance and his cousin:
Randy smiled again. "You never know how much your family means to you until you are separated from them, do you." I nodded in agreement.
"I remember when I left to come here," Randy continued. "I had suffered so long that it was a welcomed rest to leave my bodily pain, but, oh how I missed my family at first. I wondered if it was right for me to have died. Then I was shown what is about to happen in your world. And it was explained to me that certain members of each family chose, long ago, before this life, to die and come to this realm that they might better help their families endure the challenges to come."
Randy's expression changed to one of reverence. "There are many powerful, wonderful spirits who are being called home right now, that they can better help their families prepare for that which is about to take place in your world. One of the major reasons many of us are here is to serve and help those in mortality. Remember that word "serve" for it is a vital part of our world, and can change yours." His eyes did not move from mine. I knew what he was saying was deeply important.
"Lance, do you understand what I am saying to you?" I have helped you many times in your life. I have been given assignments on several occasions to assist you and inspire you."
Randy then shared several stories of times when he had helped me. Each was a time I could remember, and I became deeply thankful to God, to know He had sent someone whom I loved so much to help in those times when I had needed help so desperately. Again I gained a greater appreciation for family and eternal function.
Uncle Howard had approached as we were talking. He had listened to Randy explain what he had done to help me.
"I, too, have similar assignments," he explained. "There is other work I must do, as well, but I am often called upon to help my wife and children who are yet in mortality."
I have thought this and expressed this before. I have so many close friends, including myself, loose a parent at what seemed to be too soon. An early good-bye if you will, and I have always believed that there must be something going on on the other side that they are needed for. I have wondered if these righteous people are being gathered as an army of missionaries. To teach to those spirits who never had a chance to learn of Gods truths here on earth. I have at times felt grateful to think that my Dad's strengths must be needed, and at times cheated; feeling like I need him more. I love the thought that he is there because he can help me more there, than here. It's comforting to think that maybe I am not being cheated, but in reality, being strengthened. I am not saying I understand it all. If I had my choice, I would have him here with me in a heartbeat. To be here to see and love my kids would mean the world to me. Now that I am grown and have a family of my own that is the hardest part. He is irreplaceable and my kids will never have that Grandpa figure in their lives. I hate that. But there is more to it. I don't know what that is. But I know that my Dad believes that he can do things for us where he is now, that he couldn't do before. How I know this is another story, too personal to share. But when I read this part in the book, I had a moment where I could relate. I KNOW that our loved ones are still around us and here for us. I have had one very personal experience in particular where the veil was thin, and through the power of the Priesthood, I was able to witness personally that my Dad is still here, and very much with me.
There is a plan for each of us. We are all capable of so much good, and are all so greatly needed to do our part. I look forward to the day I can converse about the times my Dad has been by my side, with, or without my sense of awareness. I'm curious if I will be able to say, "oh, I remember that!"
To all of my family, please read this book!
I believe the time has come for us to choose how we want to stand. I also believe it's never too late, and hope that we as a people can unite individually, and together, with God; to strengthen our relationships with him, with our families, and with our neighbors.
