Death, Afterlife and Near Death Experiences

Hello everybody,

Trusting you are all well.

I am going to share another article that was published a month or two ago in the Guardian Express newspaper.



Death and Near Death Experiences.

The question of death has puzzled people's minds all the time. It seems impossible that the existence of strong, powerful, rich, healthy, and notable people can stop in an instant. Our primary normal human instinct is denial. Our minds cannot change in an instant to the thought of a person we have known intimately to be gone forever. We can experience disillusionment, sorrow, regret, and ask, is there something beyond this life?

Death will happen to every human being, there is always the real risk of illness, and car accidents, criminal activities, attacks, natural disasters, wars, and terrorism are some of the actual events that we cannot control. Afraid of the unknown and the idea of leaving behind your loved ones, or the idea of not completing your life cycle could cause untold stress and draw unnecessary fear.

Events such as war or other timely escapes from disasters can trigger our minds to dwell on issues relating to death and life and find some valuable significance. Death remains a daunting issue but one that we will all have to meet one day. We seek answers and consolations in the inevitable happening, we want to stay in control, our natural human instinct to survive, and we use the resources we have to make informed decisions. We look at after life and search for the truth.

Afterlife, and near death experiences have often been reported by people who are on the verge of dying. Typically the reports of floating above their body as they follow the doctors perform live saving procedures have been recorded. Alternatively, travelling through tunnels toward intense light, the feeling of being separated from the body, and sighting a hint of the afterlife. Meeting with angels or long departed loved ones. The experience of a life review of some kind of judgement.

The reality of near death experience may be more straightforward than reports received from the public. Research has now concluded that the experience of the afterlife feeling is a mere charge of electrical movement in the dying brain.

Experiments performed on rats whose hearts had stopped beating had shown that there was the pattern of activity similar to when the animals were fully conscious. This has now sparked the reasoning for the reports of near death experience as a rush of brain motion in the dying rats seem to confirm signs of a conscious perception. With no blood flowing from the heart to the brain, it appeared the signals were eight times stronger. There is the assumption that the brain is highly active in the seconds after the heart stops and this suggests a more physical activity taking place rather than a spiritual one.


Arguments have signalled that the dying brain is incapable of such complex activity, and that is the reason for the near death experiences originating in the soul. Suggestions have been noted that on the verge of death, the conscious brain is aroused to a higher than normal level, and this would trigger the hallucinations and feelings associated with near death experiences.

People who have survived cardiac arrests have reported having had other worldly experiences while been certified clinically dead. Some have emerged from this experience as changed characters with entirely altered outlooks on life or a different perspective on religion.

Scientists believe the near death experiences are nothing more than illusions driven by the effects of the shutdown of the brain.

Dr Jimo Borjigin from the University of Michigan said the study relates to the reduction of oxygen during a cardiac arrest, and this causes the stimulation of brain activity that is associated with the conscious process. The research recorded the nerve impulses of sedated rats whose hearts were artificially stopped. This test concluded that within thirty seconds of the heart arrest, all the animals showed a sharp surge of rampant brain movement.
The researchers were astounded by the extraordinary levels of activity recorded from the brain after the cardiac arrest and they have suggested that the brain’s capability of organized electrical action during the early phases of clinical death.
Their findings are reported in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

In the past, it was presumed that the brain activity immediately stopped when the heart no long functioned and this study concluded that the decrease of oxygen and or glucose during a cardiac seizure can fuel the brain activity. This study provides the basic scientific structure for further analysis of near death experiences described by survivors of cardiac arrest symptoms.

Other scientists have been cautious in the study regarding the human form near moments of death. Dr Chris Chambers, Senior Research Fellow at Cardiff University admitted that it was tempting to draw a link between the surge of neutral activity and consciousness and said there were two barriers limiting this conclusion. The first being that they do not know to what extent the rats experience consciousness and the researchers do not know what the activity actually means. Secondly to conclude from the brain movement alone that the bursts of activity reflect consciousness would be a logically mistake. He continued and said the experiments would have to be run on humans in order to relate to the changes in activity and thus overcome the limitations of the recent study.

That is the most honest opinion rising from this recent research, it is a possibility that the near death experiences are actually a sudden surge of electrical nerve impulses from the clinically dead person’s brain as the studies on rats indicated. Or the chance of relating to a true after life experience as documented by neuroscientists who have survived the near death experience and forever remain totally changed by their ordeal. Science is an on-going recognized resource for the benefit of all mankind, and we should accept the research and not limit our perceptions but remain open minded.

Summarizing the above research, with the words uttered by Paulo Coelho would have the best practical meaning. “'We have to stop and be humble enough to understand that there is something called mystery.”



Anyway, I do suppose, we can all draw our own conclusions.

All the best,
Your friend,
Laura

New South African Stories

Hello Everybody,

I am going to share the links of 4 articles that have been published in the Guardian Express and hopefully you will have a chance to read.

1. South Africa: Following the 2014 Elections

Link for article 1

2. South Africa:Official Language and Racial Reconstruction

Link for article 2

3. South Africa Can Learn from History of Germany

Link for article 3

4. South Africa – It is Madness to Repeat the Same Action

Link for article 4

All the best, and have a super week.

Your friend,
Laura

The Anglurian Story - Book 3 - Sipho's Journey to Dragons Triangle

Hello again,

I have decided to write another book in the series and take Sipho and the hybrid children on another journey. I am not sure if I will change the title at this stage, probably will. I will introduce new characters and most of the original characters will be part of the story. I have completed Chapters 1 to 6 and will share chapter 1 with you. Remember this is the first draft and there could be some changes, not sure yet.

Chapter 1 - God's Future

The bright moon shone down the pathway, emitting a heavenly light. Zanu stood at the top of the stairway, and wondered why he was summoned so urgently to the holy temple. Doubtful thoughts clouded his head and trying to apply reason to the disturbed thoughts, Zanu continued to doubt his ability as a leader. Conflicting thoughts ran through his mind, and he could not understand his anxiety.

He knew God Most High was pleased with him, and he knew he was fortunate to be the governor of this magnificent planet. His brisk walk was short, and soon he stood outside the huge door, hesitant to enter. He opened the door and immediately felt an overwhelming peace flow into his heart and then he knew God Most high had a plan.
Zanu began to feel more comfortable and at ease as he walked up the aisle to the front of the temple, listening to the soft soothing music that filled the whole building. He breathed in deeply and expecting to wait a few minutes was surprised to hear an angel greet him.

"Ah good morning to you," he said.
"Zanu, I'm not going to waste time, God Most High wants you to embark on another journey."
"I thought as much, so what country will we be visiting this time?" He inquired.
"Its different this time, the journey is not to earth." The angel replied.
"Not to earth, then I am confused, surely we are not expected to travel through space and visit unknown planets." Shocked at the news he had received Zanu asked.
"Oh no, its not outer space, its will be under the ocean."
"What, that's impossible we cannot venture into the depths of the sea, we are spirit aliens shaped in the form of humans, and will not survive in water." Still shocked from the plan.
"God Most High is thoroughly annoyed with the selfish human race and how destructive they have become. We are talking about God's future, not yours." The angel reminded him.

Zanu terribly confused listened to the angel explain how GMH in His mysterious nature had devised a plan to outsmart Satan for the last time. While listening to the angel, Zanu almost fell over when he heard the commanding voice of GMH say.
"It is my intention to unite. I have the final authority over the chaotic world of danger and despair."
"Zanu, please remain vigilant and enthusiastic to do the bidding of GMH," the angel said as he noticed how fragile Zanu looked.

Zanu did not have time to answer, it was only the second time in his entire life that GMH had addressed him directly. He remembered the first time, just before their first departure to earth, and that was an extraordinary event. The angel reminded him of how zealous GMH was about the force of evil on earth and the division of death and misery.
Zanu wiped his brow and gained his composure.

"I'm here to do the bidding of GMH and will endeavor to work through the plan you have." Zanu said, his voice still ringing out fear.
"Good, now we will get together again and discuss finer details, but in the meantime I have left a scroll at the entrance which you might like to read." The angel told him.
"Thank you, I will do as told." He said and turned around to leave.

Zanu walked down the luminous passage more frightened than when he arrived. He picked up the scroll and left the temple.

It was still dark outside and the full moon started waning before the new daybreak. He walked home and realized the reason for the urgent request was not to instill fear into the Anglurians.

At home, he quietly went into his office and switched on the lamp. He sat down and placed the scroll on the desk.

He breathed a sigh of relief and got up from the chair and walked over to the drinks counter and poured a glass of water. He took a large gulp and looked at the unopened scroll.

Almost hesitant to go back to the desk he stared vacantly at his desk. He felt a sudden tap on his shoulder.

This he knew were the guiding angels prompting him to get on with the work ahead of him. Zanu sat down and sipped on his water, staring at the unopened scroll. He took a deep breath and reached out to open the scroll. Untying the gold cord, he envisaged a journey of immense danger.

He read the beginning of GMH's plan and sighed. Continuing to read the contents, he felt a hot flush moving over his body and he lifted his hand and wiped his brow.
"This is impossible," he told himself.

Zanu put the scroll down, stood up, and walked toward the window. He drew the curtain and looked outside, the sky was beginning to light up, and he could see the bright red and pink colors of the sunrise edging up slowing over the planet.

Not sure how long he was staring at the colors change in the sky, he did not hear the door open. Randia, his wife walked over to him and tapped him on his shoulder. Zanu got a terrible fright, turned around with a fast speed, and almost knocked Randia off her feet.

"Zanu, what is the matter, you have been up most of the night." She asked.
"Randia, I was called to the temple and received instruction on a new mission."
"Come on now, you have succeed in the past and will again." Assuring she said.

He walked back to the desk and picked up the scroll and holding it closely he told her that this new mission was actually dangerous. Randia saw the fear in his face, walked up to him, and hugged him, trying to reassure him. She left the office, within minutes returned with steaming hot coffee, and freshly baked muffins. Pouring his coffee, she questioned him about the mission.

"Randia, we execute the mission from here and delve into the fearsome Devils Triangle deep within the sea. It is even more disturbing than the last trip in Israel." He said.
"I'm not sure I understand the entire concept, but I am confident that GMH has complete confidence in your ability to overcome the worst."
"Randia, always so positive and encouraging." He smiled at her.
Zanu spent most of his morning in the office pondering the task presented to him. Zerydo entered and greeted him.
"Randia said I would find you here, what's happening?" He asked.
"Well we have a new mission to fulfill and I consider this one the most dangerous so far."
"So far - are there more?" Puzzled Zerydo asked.
"We had the difficult Hades one, the tense Israel one among the smaller dangerous ones and now we have a massive one to complete."
"Do tell."
Zanu told him that they would enter Hades from the bottom of the sea. Satan had kidnapped GMH's faithful servant, King Nepulus, and it was up to them to free him. Zerydo displayed shock and folded his arms while Zanu continued to tell him about the potential dangers they could meet.
"Zerydo we will start the mission from here and I think the Aquarium will be the perfect place to learn to deep sea dive and swim under water."
"It is impossible, these kids cannot swim, and we should first teach them the basics."
"Well I will delegate that responsibility to you and a word of caution, be cautious don't let Lindiwe know that we will embark on another mission."

The two brothers drank coffee and extensively discussed the best way forward with the instructions received. They knew there would have to be a certain element of surprise presented to the family before confessing the complete responsibility.

Zerydo left the office and went outside. It was a warm day, and he was grateful the weather was still warm enough to manage swimming lessons. Pondering how to stimulate the children his head drew in the entrance to Hades and a meeting with Satan the master deceiver of all times. He thought about how the devil had managed to capture King Nepulus the warrior of the deep sea. He shook his head and wondered how such a misfortune took place. Questions raced through his mind, and he was lost in the madness of his thoughts.

Sipho, Emma and Olomos all came running up the stairs and greeted him. Still lost in his thoughts he glanced over to the children and nodded his head.
"Zerydo, where are you?" Asked Emma.

"I apologize, I was thinking of applying a new activity to keep the youngsters entertained." He said walking up to her and hugged her. He greeted the others, moved toward the top of the stairway, and sat down.

"Come sit with me and let me throw some of my ideas at you."
The children sat beside Zerydo, and he questioned them about their swimming skills. Eager to let him know both Sipho and Olomos told him how talented they were. They even told him they were thinking of joining the school's team.

Cheerio and take care.
Your friend,
Laura

Zuma - How Many Wives Are Enough?

Trusting your are all well and had a decent week.

It is wonderful here in Johannesburg, South Africa. Really good weather and just such a great week for me. I love peace.

Today I am sharing an article about president Zuma and his wives. This article was published in the Gardian Express during August this year. Here is the link if you would like to visit that page.

Guardian Express link

South Africa – Polygamous president Jacob Zuma has wed six times during his lifetime and we ask how many wives does a president need?
A recent survey concluded that 83 percent of women were not in favor of polygamy. Although polygamy is still legally recognized in South Africa, it is becoming less common as the western and modern lifestyles continue to forgo cultural and traditional beliefs.

President Jacob Zuma has married six times and has twenty-one children. One of his wives has died and one divorced him.

Wife number 1 - Jacob Zuma met Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo during 1959 and married her after his release from prison in 1973. She lives at Nkandla, Kwazulu Natal. This marriage did not yield any children. This woman is regarded as a quiet and shy person. The matriarch of Nkandla.

Wife number 2 – Everybody knows Nkosana Dlamini-Zuma, a cabinet minister since 1999. During his exile years, Zuma married Nkosana Dlamini whom at that time was a medical officer working in a Swaziland government hospital. The couple has four children, and she divorced him in 1998 and cited the reason as 'irreconcilable differences'. She is still active in politics and a senior member of the ANC party.

Wife number 3 – From Mozambique, Kate Matsho, who worked as an airline staffer, became the third Mrs. Zuma, the couple had five children. Sadly, she committed suicide on December 8 2000 after apparent strained relations within the marriage. A tragic death that gave an insight into life as a Zuma wife. She left behind a suicide note and virtually banned Jacob Zuma from attending her funeral. The note was a reflection of her distress and she pleaded with Jacob Zuma to take care of their children and remember his obligations as a father. Kate was a victim of a traumatic and painful marriage.

Wife number 4 – A young women born in 1975 married Jacob Zuma in January 2008. The couple met through social circles a few years before legalizing their relationship. Nompulelo Ntuli the fourth wife and has three children with the president. She admitted does not like the hype surrounding his public life.

Wife number 5 - Thobeka Stacie Madiba married Jacob Zuma on January 4, 2010. The couple had a baby in 2007 and the same year in which Zuma paid lobolo to her clan, thereby securing his permission to marry the young woman. It is said that before the traditional wedding, she had another out of wedlock child living with her.

Wife number 6 – Just over a year ago, during April 2012 Jacob Zuma splurged out on an extravagant wedding with wife number six. Gloria Bongekile Ngema married her prince at the Nkandla homestead with his three wives attending this lavish wedding.

A son named Edward was born out of wedlock from his relationship with Minah Shongwe, the sister of Judge Jeremiah Shongwe, who was recused from the Zuma rape case because of the association.

His relationship with Pietermaritzburg businessperson Pricilla Nonkwaleko Mhlongo produced two daughters born in 1998 and 2002 respectively.

There are reports that he has another four children from affairs with different women from Johannesburg and Richards bay. Twenty-one children from six marriages and numerous affairs.

There are no specific responsibilities for the wives, and they have benefits of traveling and secretaries attending to their individual requirements. They are expected to support the president at the state and official functions. The state had to double its spousal budget after he took office with his large family.

During 2010, Zuma splurged out on a ZAR65 million upgrade to his Nkandla homestead. Recent reports of the legal expenditure of another ZAR200 million are being questioned.
The financial consequences of the polygamy of Jacob Zuma are borne by the South African taxpayers. A heavy burden indeed. From his six marriages, he had fourteen legitimate children.

Jacob Zuma is a traditionalist and has acknowledged all his wives and a few years ago told a television interviewer, "There are plenty of politicians who have mistresses and children that they hide so as to pretend they're monogamous. I prefer to be open, I love my wives, and I am proud of my children."

Wishing you a wonderful week and a big thank you to Mallie, you are a star!
All the best.
Your friend,
Laura

MANDELA, MANDELA NO MORE.................

Hello Everybody,

Trusting you, are all doing well?

I think I will quietly go crazy and soon be banished to a mental institution. All of this is from the vast amount of people wanting to know why the Mandela story has stopped. It is simple the man is dead let him rest in peace.

Common sense should prevail, according to reports he was sent home to recuperate in a comfortable environment and that the house had been rebuilt to provide an Intensive care unit. That is the story, we must accept, it is the version given by the government and the Mandela family.

On September 1, Mandela was discharged from the hospital and sent home. It was on September 5, Zuma told the nation Mandela was doing fine and made another announcement on September 25, saying that Mandela was responding well to treatment. Not a word from him since then, I wonder why.

October 6 Winnie said he was doing fine. After than nothing, so in two months, we have been told he is doing fine, and by saying that they are telling us, he is well, okay, excellent, satisfactory, and that is from the only people who are allowed to see him.

Well like Zuma said this week, when addressing a meeting in Johannesburg regarding e-tolling "we must not think like Africans," then let us believe him, he is our president, the man who tells the truth and after all the Mandela people are an honest bunch of people who would never harm this country. If they want to keep the man alive, let them, it is their life, their choice and their decision. Who are we to question the truth?

I don’t want to think like an African but with respect to the Mandela story, can anybody tell me how I should think. I thought my mind would consider rational thoughts based on my level of intelligence, and now I am beginning to question my own thoughts. I thought getting lost inside my imagination was for the ability to use those thoughts in creative writing. I thought in English only. I never thought like an African, I don’t know how to.

My mind tells me that based on all the available information to the public since Mandela was admitted to hospital on June 8 that he has passed on. Mandela has not uttered a word to the world since his hospital admission in December last year, following what I think was a botched operation. My thoughts on the Mandela photo published in April this year, displayed a person probably heavily drugged from medication, or brain dead.

The media presence outside his Houghton home have diminished, and if there still are media there, then what are they doing, playing chess, not a whimper of a story has been published. In my mind, it is the magical Zuma move. Like all the headlines, the public love to know about, it starts with a frenzy of media attention and then disappears, nothing, gone, swept under the carpet. There are lots of those stories that just disappear, I've lost count.


Now let me get on with my insanity.


Have a great week, all the best.

Your 'sane' friend,
Laura