Hi everybody,

 

At this time of year, I believe it is important for all of us to reflect on the message of Christ's death on the cross and his later resurrection. I am a Buddhist, not a Christian, but we also believe in a life beyond death, although our vision is somewhat different.

What we share is our belief in the enduring value — and survival — of human life beyond the grave. This belief gives to our lives a meaning that is missing from those who have no such faith.

 

We do not fear death, nor do we believe that those we love will disappear forever. They too will endure in another shape, another form — perhaps no longer human, but within another body that must be lived to its inevitable end. And so we shall die and be born again many times, until we learn the lessons that we must learn and are finally released from the endless cycle.

 

One of my favourite people is Michael Hanson, a former detective at London’s famous Scotland Yard. Michael and his wife, Pat, have been married for more than 65 years and are probably deeper in love with each other today than when they were first married. So deeply does Michael love his wife that he simply cannot imagine being without her after death. He believes they will both meet after death and will  return later to a another life together, joined for eternity.

 

Michael’s belief is similar to both the Buddhist and Christian versions of life after death, but is unique to himself. And he expresses this belief in a wonderful new book of poems that he has written and published, “A Circle of Light.” In one of his poems, Hanson poignantly imagines how the long relationship with the greatest love of his life might come to an end.

 

    Your hand in mine relaxes gently and tells me now,
    That breath and heart are stilled.
    Tears fall unashamed as you begin the journey,
    That we all must take,
    To find what lies beyond this earthly realm.

 

But he is confident they will meet again.

   

    When I go, I will meet others on the other side.
    But I know you will be there to greet me,
    And to be my guide.
    Should I go first, though, remember this,
    For then I will be there for you,
    Together, once again as we always were,
    And will always be again.

 

There is much more in this collection of poetry to enjoy. Hanson writes marvellously of the world of nature, the passing of the years, the sadness of war and the wisdom that comes from both joy and sadness.

 

Michael has asked me to share his book with everyone I know and so I am pleased to share it with you. All you need to do is click on this link to be taken to Amazon online, where you may download this book for yourself, at no charge. You may also wish to visit Michael's Amazon Author Page to browse his other books. As well, you may wish to visit Islander Memoirs, the website of my husband, Ry, who has helped Michael publish all seven of his books.

 

I sincerely hope that Michael’s book will bring you great joy and rewards at this sacred time.

 

Sincerely,
Kallayanee

 

P.S. If you do like Michael's book, please give him a positive review on Amazon.