Each Saturday morning, I visit the grave of my son. It’s been over 1,000 days since Sam’s passing, and ever since that day, I’ve found myself contemplating the moment of our eventual reunion. Each of these early mornings, I find myself drawn to his headstone, where I had inscribed the words that now seem to echo through my very soul:
TIME IS FLEETING
OUR REUNION CERTAIN
A LOVING WIFE AND FAMILY AWAITS
These words, meant to offer comfort and hope, have become the foundation of my deepest introspections.
Poised beside his grave, I am often lost in thought, pondering the mysteries of life and death. I have always envisioned the living gazing toward the heavens, yearning for the ethereal peace and the profound preparation that comes in the time between lives, readying for our rebirth. But lately, a new perspective has taken root in my mind—a vision of the souls, like my beloved Sam, longing for their return to the Earthly realm. Could the dead speak of Earth in the same reverent tones we speak of heaven?
Do those residing in the soul world, between death and birth, hold the Earth as their shimmering vision of hope and aspiration?
I imagine Sam amidst the serene landscapes of the afterlife, where time flows differently, where the soul is free from earthly burdens yet filled with a different kind of longing—a longing for the tactile, visceral experiences of living. In this celestial interval, does the earth appear to him as a land of promise and potential, much like heaven seems to us who are still bound to this mortal coil?
Earth might be the desired other world for those who dwell in heaven, the destination they strive toward in anticipation of their next incarnation. Perhaps, in that realm, they speak of Earth with the same yearning we reserve for heaven, envisioning it as the place where they will again feel the warmth of the sun, the embrace of loved ones, and the thrill of life’s many adventures.
This thought brings a peculiar comfort. It allows me to imagine Sam preparing for his next journey, his soul embarking on an afterlife journey between death and rebirth. In this in-between time, what experiences does he gather? What wisdom does he accumulate as he prepares for his new purpose, life, and rebirth?
I like to think that Sam’s soul is engaged in deep introspection, much like I am. Perhaps he reflects on the life he lived, understanding his past joys and sorrows, learning from his experiences, and readying himself for the challenges and triumphs of his next existence. In this state, he is not idle but actively participating in a divine process of growth and preparation. Now unburdened by the physical constraints of his previous life, his soul seeks knowledge and understanding, preparing itself for the moment it will again take on a new form, a new identity.
The notion that Sam might be experiencing this profound journey fills me with a sense of connection and purpose. It transforms my grief into a contemplative space where I can feel close to him, imagining our souls intertwined in a timeless dance of learning and becoming.
Just as I yearn for the peace of heaven, I can now understand that he might yearn for the vivid reality of earth, where his soul will continue its journey, enriched by the wisdom of the ages and the love of those who have gone before.
As I leave, I whisper to his resting place, “Until we meet again, my boy. May your dreams of earth be as vivid and hopeful as my dreams of heaven.” In this moment, the boundary between life and death seems to blur, and I feel a profound connection to my son, knowing that our reunion is indeed certain and that we are both part of a greater journey that transcends time and space.
Between Two Gates
A Young Man's Quest Toward Birth
Between Two Gates is an enchanting odyssey that begins with the tragic demise of Samuel, a young man whose life is abruptly ended by a fentanyl-tainted Percocet. From the moment of his untimely passing, Samuel’s soul embarks on a breathtaking journey, driven by an intense desire to uncover the reasons behind his tragic end.
This profound and captivating tale, Between Two Gates, is structured into three mesmerizing acts:
ACT I: Samuel is welcomed into the soul world by his guiding grandfather. Together, they delve into Samuel’s past life, revisiting moments of joy and unraveling the challenging circumstances that led to his devastating downfall.
ACT II: Samuel’s soul family seeks his help to rescue his great-great-grandfather, who has been taken by the soulless creature known as the rasha. This quest propels Samuel through the perilous five realms of Gehenna, where he confronts his past misdeeds and undergoes a transformative purification of his soul.
ACT III: Samuel’s journey ascends to the awe-inspiring seven planetary spheres, where he encounters divine beings—angels, archangels, and fairies—who bestow profound insights upon him. These celestial encounters unravel the secrets of the universe, allowing Samuel to reconcile his karmic footprint and gain clarity about his life’s significant purpose.
Between Two Gates invites readers into a spellbinding exploration of the soul world.
Samuel uncovers the mysteries of existence and embarks on a transformative spiritual journey from death to rebirth. This narrative is a poignant reflection on the intricate tapestry of soul life, the redemptive power of karma, and the boundless potential for a new life filled with family, friends, and love.
Experience Samuel’s profound quest and be transported into a world where the boundaries between life and death blur, and the journey toward rebirth reveal the deepest truths of the human spirit. Between Two Gates is not just a story; it is an invitation to reflect, transform, and find hope in the eternal dance of the soul.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️FIVE STAR REVIEW⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In this fascinating narrative, the author deftly intertwines the tangible world we know with mystical dimensions beyond our comprehension. We follow the journey of Samuel, whose spirit is led by his wise grandfather, a figure reminiscent of a sage. They traverse through echoes of the past and navigate purgatorial underworlds, creating a story that is as much about self-discovery as it is about spiritual exploration.
Every chapter in this book is a testament to the author's command over storytelling. The narrative unfolds with such intricacy and detail that it captivates the reader's imagination. It's as if each word has been meticulously chosen to paint a vivid picture in the reader's mind, making the experience all the more immersive.
This is not just a book but a spiritual guide that takes readers on an unforgettable journey.
The author doesn't just tell a story; he takes readers on an emotional journey. The book dives deep into the human psyche, exploring emotions that range from fear and uncertainty to love and enlightenment. As readers, we are invited to share Samuel's experiences, feeling every high and low alongside him.
But what sets this book apart is its profound revelations. Each twist and turn in the story leads to deeper insights about life, death, and what lies in between. These revelations challenge our perceptions and provoke thought, making us question our understanding of the world.
In conclusion, this is not just a book but a spiritual guide that takes readers on an unforgettable journey. The author brilliantly combines elements of fantasy and reality, creating a narrative that is as engaging as it is enlightening. Whether you're a fan of supernatural tales or philosophical ponderings, this book will leave you spellbound.
BOOK LAUNCH AT BIG RED BOOKS JUNE 12TH, 6:30-7:30 PM
Join Neil Perry Gordon for the exciting launch of his latest historical fiction novel, "Eternal Patriots: The Crusade for a More Perfect Union," at Nyack's favorite literary spot, Big Red Books, located at 120 Main Street. This much-anticipated event promises to be a memorable evening for history buffs, fiction lovers, and anyone who appreciates masterful storytelling.
During the event, Neil will share captivating excerpts from his novel, bringing to life the gripping tales of love, valor, and the relentless pursuit of a more perfect union set against the backdrop of the American Revolution.
His vivid descriptions and engaging narrative style will transport you back to the tumultuous times of the Siege of Yorktown, offering a glimpse into the lives of his richly drawn characters.
Adding to the evening’s excitement, Neil will engage in a lively discussion with his friend and fellow author, William Spencer. William, known for his compelling travelogue "Far Sweeter Than Honey: Searching for Meaning on a Bicycle," will bring his unique perspective and storytelling prowess to the conversation. The interplay between these two talented authors is sure to provide fascinating insights into their writing processes, inspirations, and the themes that drive their work.
This event is not just about the launch of a book; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of historical fiction, explore the creative journeys of two accomplished authors, and participate in a spirited discussion on the art of storytelling.
Join us for an evening of literary exploration and spirited discussion! Enjoy light refreshments, mingle with fellow book enthusiasts, and perhaps even get your copy of "Eternal Patriots" signed by the author. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate literature and connect with the vibrant community at Big Red Books.