A short story about what the author believes happens to us after death.
The author is a man of faith, leading to the incidents in the story.
This story is steeped in my faith which has been the subject of half of my novels. It deals with death and reconciliation with Our Father in Heaven. The plot of this story came to me in a dream. Most of my books have been based on thoughts and concepts from my muse. I believe I know who my muse is, but that is the topic we need to delve into at this point.
If you choose to believe differently, this story is likely not one you would accept, and that's okay. We all make our choices that define our present and our future.
Please remember this is a work of fiction. I do not claim the experiences in this tale occurred or match our futures. Still, it is a tale of God's love and our redemption. I hope many will agree that is a worthwhile topic to fill these pages.
I have been moved by several books and television programs that explore this train of thought by talking to people who have had near-death experiences. What I have learned from those individuals led me to create this story. I hope you enjoy it and find a kernel of truth within this tale that can give you joy.
Excerpt
I drove home on North 805. The two rightmost lanes were packed, so I moved into the number two lane to pass them. An ominous feeling overcame me. I glanced to the right and saw another vehicle veering toward me. It seemed his left front tire had failed. I pressed the brake just as it collided with my car. The impact pushed me toward the center concrete median. I closed my eyes and prayed.
I felt nothing as I looked down on my own body, lying limp on the hospital bed. “Is this really me?” I wondered. If so, how can I be looking down on myself? That scenario would seem to be impossible unless what I saw was some kind of reflection in a mirror. I heard the doctor say, “The time of death is . . .,” and then nothing. At that moment, I felt warmth on my back. Without moving, I now faced a tunnel of changing colors, like a kaleidoscope. I glanced back to find only darkness. I could not understand why my hospital room was suddenly missing. The sound of a chorus turned my attention back to the tunnel. Without effort, I began to move into the tunnel of light. I hoped this journey would end better than the trip that landed me in the hospital in the first place. I tried to recall the accident, but the details eluded me. I was certain I had lost what remaining faculties I had. I closed my eyes and hoped for the best.
Seconds later, I felt my feet on solid ground. I opened my eyes to see a large valley filled with trees and meadows of wildflowers. I remember my train trip through the South of France long ago. There, the flowers were generally lavender or sunflowers. Here, the flowers were in every color. Several rainbows floated in the sky high over my head. I immediately thought this would be a great location for a vacation home. I glanced down at my feet and found I was standing on a cobblestone path, so I began to walk forward, still yearning to understand what had happened.
Professional Reviews
A sweet glimpse into Heaven
What is heaven like? In this inspirational short story about a man who finds out, the author gives us a glimpse into what might happen when a person of faith enters the afterlife. Although fictional, the picture he paints is full of love, joy, and unexpected delights. I’ve always believed our pets go to heaven, and that our loved ones will be there to greet us. My heart warmed when Karl’s aunt and uncle greeted him, followed by a reunion with his beloved dogs. What follows adds humor and assurance that all will be well.
I know two people who crossed over and returned. Both met and spent time with Jesus, and both returned with a deep, life-altering faith and a total lack of fear of death. I highly recommend this story!
A poignant reflection
Mr. Morgan brings a perspective of hope and faith within the pages of this short story. The journey from life to the afterlife is steeped with foundation convictions for each person and varies based on beliefs. Karl's experiences are told in first person based on his Christian beliefs in Emannuel and the possibilities in the afterlife when individuals do their best.
He used his dogs, often considered man’s best friend, as a stepping stone to other family members, making the unknown less scary. The descriptive world Mr. Morgan created, and the easy dialogue pulls readers into the story to feel, see, smell, and taste the experiences of Karl. The reflection on his life and relationships with others was delightfully highlighted with a jury of his peers. Executed with an outstanding surprise ending you’ll want to experience firsthand. Congrats, Mr. Morgan.
Sweet Story
This was a beautiful short story about what a person's experiences might be when he dies. The author blends his Christian faith into a fictional story about a man's journey into the afterlife. I loved how he created a path through heaven that led him to reconnect with people and pets from his past. His interaction with the angels, Jesus, and "Manny" were humorous at times and very touching. I thought it quite clever and endearing when he had to face a "jury" of his peers. And I loved the choices the main character was given and his ultimate decision. This is a wonderful story of the afterlife that anyone can enjoy no matter what his/her beliefs are.
Helpful
Report
John
5.0 out of 5 stars A great read
Reviewed in the United States on October 8, 2023
Verified Purchase
What a great read! The author takes us on a fictional journey through the afterlife after an auto collision puts him in the hospital. There may be some truth in the authors' vision as this story was developed after interviewing patients who experienced 'near-death' episodes.
What I liked the best was that all the dogs that he ever owned or knew were the first to greet him on this special journey; escorting him to the first gate. Afterward, past relatives and peers bring him comfort while facing tribunals. The ending is unexpected but a fitting completion of his journey. Highly recommended.
Helpful
Report
Thoughts and opinions
5.0 out of 5 stars A beautiful vision
Reviewed in the United States on July 12, 2023
Verified Purchase
Written in the first person, this story takes the reader on a journey of faith. Karl is a Christian, who has no doubt that Heaven is real. When an automobile accident lands him in the hospital, dreams and reality overlap, and not only for Karl.
The characters’ personalities come through and they are believable. Karl’s emotions are palpable and his love for his dogs made me smile, His interactions with his ex-wife are refreshing and his relationship with Jesus is heartwarming. Well done, Mr. Morgan!
Helpful
Report
Shirley Slaughter
5.0 out of 5 stars Passing: Intriguing!
Reviewed in the United States on April 2, 2024
The author's concept of heaven was very interesting. He explained it in an easy to read style of writing that made it equally enjoyable. But Karl Morgan has a vivid imagination so I didn't expect any less from him.
It's hard to explain it so I encourage you to read it for yourself. I guarantee it will get you talking.
I give this author 5 stars.
Helpful
Report
Maureen Twomey
5.0 out of 5 stars "I hope you enjoy it and find a kernel of truth within this tale that can give you joy” :)
Reviewed in the United States on March 20, 2024
See? Dogs DO know how to talk! This short story is a delight ... really! Thanks Karl Morgan for this story! :)
Her grandma always said she had “the blessing”, and to always use it for good, but sometimes there is shame in fame if a person can’t handle it. Don’t let the Boo Hag ride ya
Jason Donovan has a secret.
The Clere's Restaurant's drama has been unfolding in front of his eyes. If he can see it, so can the restaurant's other guests. But there's something the servers aren't telling him, and he will get to the bottom o
