What Happens When We Die

Echo Bodine is that "only in Minneapolis" combination of completely down-to-earth and completely out of this world. Her approach to death and the afterlife reads like a chat over tea with your favorite quirky aunt, yet she continues to approach topics that many shy away from, and she approaches them with insight and experience. In this much-anticipated follow-up to her bestselling book, Echoes of the Soul, Echo takes on topics such as suicide, the death of a child, how to tell when a loved one is waiting for permission to let go, exploring past lives, communicating with the dead, and how to prepare for our journey from these earthly bodies and this earthly realm to the promised joy of the life that awaits on the other side. With her signature wit and fearlessness, Echo describes the difference between spirits she sees “on the slide” (those ready to exit their current physical bodies; or, in other words, die to the current existence) and those “on the fence” – the souls of people who may have a dire diagnosis but who still have work to do in this lifetime. For Echo, it is clear from her first encounters with these souls where they stand, and her goal as a psychic and healer is to help them on their way. Such stories make the book enjoyable and inspiring. In fact, Echo begins her introduction talking about her mother, who has had major health challenges over the years but who continued to hang on until right before Echo finished writing this book. Her mother’s death, and how they experienced it and communicated during the process, frame the book. Sections of the book include chapters on exit points (times when the soul might choose to stay or leave); funerals; talking to dying loved ones; talking to departed loved ones; physical death; the white light, the tunnel, and heaven; the afterlife; what the soul feels as it makes its transition; how we will communicate after death; memorializing our loved ones and coping with grief. In addition to exploring the phases of death and grief, Echo offers useful advice about how to interact with a loved one who is dying or who is gravely ill. As she explains, too often we try to hang on when all the person wants is to let go and find peace. Echo does not turn away from such difficult topics as suicide and the death of children. Her writing on these subjects will bring insight and comfort to many struggling through their grief. Each chapter includes ways for the reader to connect more deeply to their own soul and explore their own views and (mis)conceptions about death and dying. The stories are moving and surprising, and readers will find much practical experience and advice to help them better understand this phase of our soul’s journey. Publisher: NEW WORLD LIBRARY PAPERBACK ISBN: 9781608680351 Dimensions: 21.60 and 14.00 cm In stock