I had my own experience with an NDE (Near Death Experience) when I flatlined nine times in ninety minutes when I was 47 years old in 2008. My life hasn’t been the same since. This divine intervention forced me to shift my priorities and begin my “Great Midlife Edit,” which continues today.
Here’s a visualization exercise you might want to try when you have some time. Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed, then turn on some melodic music that will put you in a tranquil state. Close your eyes. Imagine you are near the end of your life. You’re at a party to celebrate your achievements and the difference you’ve made. Where is this taking place? What are your senses sensing? Imagine who is there with you and what gift they are giving you to say thank you.
Now, one at a time, five people come forward to talk about what impact you’ve had on their lives. Who steps up, and what are they saying? Breathe deeply and feel deeply in your heart. What are you hearing? Give yourself at least 20 minutes to do this exercise so that you can feel a sense of timelessness in the good feelings.
Now, let’s make this even more real. What if you and a few friends did this same exercise in real life? Maybe you can do this once per season (I recommend you do it in-person), focusing exclusively on one person every three months. Continue until all of you have gotten to experience this “dying before you die” ritual, which will hopefully make your life so much more meaningful.