Happenings Newsletter

My analytical mind which enjoyed reading scientific abstracts more than novels, couldn't resist the conclusion that the aggregate voices speaking at NDERF,  were forming what some might call a new sacred text. Except these witnesses to the divine realm were contributing a dynamic and living narrative taking shape right before our eyes in a manner that was scientifically testable (falsifiable). In a very literal sense, you might say these revelations represent the scrolls of how the dead see. I was shocked to find such strong consistencies between the elements in NDEs (in aggregate) and core religious beliefs that pointed to the nature of self-consciousness separable from the body (the "soul") and, by deduction, a creator ("God") and the afterlife. Yet, what I soon discovered confused me.

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Surely such evidence would inspire a high-level collaboration of research academics, near-death experiencers (NDErs) and religious institutions. Wouldn't it? Yet, I was surprised and, at times, challenged by the bias both within the community of NDErs and, paradoxically, within the religious community itself. On several occasions during interviews with NDErs, it was evident they were trying but had difficulty avoiding religious language and so I found myself repeatedly having to give them permission to use any word or phrase, religious or otherwise, that they thought best described their experience. In other words, if reincarnation, yamadutas, guides, angels, God or Jesus fits within the framework of your experience, then use those terms that most accurately represent what you encountered. My mantra became, "do not avoid truth to avoid religion." Good researchers will be able to parse an accurate well-placed use of a religious term, name or phrase within the context of an experience versus one used as a placeholder or proxy/title that could have taken multiple derivations in name. What followed was an amazing succession of individuals who opened up, sometimes amidst tears, revealing content of a religious nature that, at times, they did not disclose in their narratives to NDERF. They held back, as I learned, out of fear.

In many circles, there exists a palpable bias against religion, and Christianity in particular, which seems at odds with the inclusive and universally profound nature of NDEs. Conversely, the religious community often shows a marked reluctance to embrace or participate the formal study of NDEs, viewing them through a lens of skepticism or outright rejection (as many NDErs can attest to after unsuccessfully approaching religious leaders). This was puzzling considering not only the supreme ethic and commandment of love but also the long-standing rigorous research history that effectively demonstrates the existence of what can be described as the "soul" (self-consciousness separable from the body). The history which gave birth to religious beliefs, often rooted in historical fact, is rich with cultural and experiential knowledge that helps inform and frame the content of modern day NDEs. Nonetheless, the combined facts of NDE research and the voices of statistically millions of people are inescapable. Such knowledge should help clarify theological concepts, much like modern-day scientific discoveries refine the lens of previous findings.

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Both worlds have much to offer each other and any attempt to mute or otherwise instruct NDErs to use different language risks insulting the integrity of individuals sharing their experience and betrays the very nature of the process of scientific inquiry. It is no different than a religious claim held so rigidly in an attempt to protect it, that it ends up strangling it due to the inability to acknowledge the impact of real evidence. Our dialog together holds amazing potential to reawaken ancient voices. It engenders a promise to tear down cultural walls, wipe out geographic boundaries and transcend life itself. The reality of all of our lives as well as any spiritual component within it is no longer outside the scope of formal research. At the heart of my work here lies the conviction that these conversations between the research, NDE and religious communities need not be in conflict but can, in fact, inform and illuminate each other in ways that deepen our overall comprehension of humanity and each other.

At NDERF, we are committed to fostering an environment where these discussions can occur freely and without fear as we respect and honor all people's beliefs while, in the roll of scientific research, diligently focusing on wherever the evidence leads. The reality is that evidence generally tends to be exclusive by it's nature and thus leads us down one road and not others but strict scientific debates and discussions need not be imposed onto those who are simply struggling to reveal and integrate such profoundly moving experiences as best they can using whatever language is comfortable to them. By opening our hearts and placing them on the table, we not only invite an open, heartfelt dialogue, but we demonstrate wisdom in our intellectual and spiritual maturity showing that we are not so rigid a people as to be shattered by the weight of new ideas that challenge our beliefs. Rather, we are awestruck in joy at the wonders and mysteries of life giving room for us to learn and others to grow by the respect show for each other. It is through this exchange that we overcome the biases that separate us, convey the primacy of love that unites us which both sides affirm as central to their message and build bridges to epiphany between the religious and NDE communities.

We call upon all who have experienced the profound, the skeptics, the faithful, and the curious, to join us in this dialogue. With open hearts and minds, let us explore the vast landscape of human spirituality and consciousness, embarking on a journey of discovery that transcends the boundaries of belief and experience. Together, we move to uncover the truths that lie at the intersection of NDEs, science and spirituality, forging a path towards a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of what it means to be human. In a very real and profound sense captured in both the golden rule and NDE life-reviews, I believe such a journey holds the potential to yield some of humanity's most significant breakthroughs because it is ultimately a journey towards each other.