Imagining Heaven: What Will the Afterlife Really Be Like?

Imagining heaven is a deeply personal spiritual practice. As I prepare to publish my seventh book, I’m sharing a creative reflection on what the afterlife might hold.

My next book, Hip Waders: A Naked Version of a Soul, is in the final stages before publication. Similar to Knee Deep: A 9-Month Whirlpool of Handwritten Letters to the Creator, Hip Waders is a medley of my journal entries.

While we wait for Hip Waders to leap into the literary waters, I share an intro from my catharsis writing. Felicity’s Diary is a muse of what heaven may, or may not look like, according to my limited earthly perception.

The Birth of Felicity’s Diary

Felicity’s Diary was born in 2017 during an afternoon in “Christina Land” (a journey into my island of make believe). Felicity is my pseudo name when I simply write a stream of consciousness.

This creative writing practice has shaped my faith journey in profound ways.

Felicity’s Diary was inspired by Marjorie Holmes’ book, “Who Am I God?” After reading Ms. Holmes’ blend of humble brilliance, she unknowingly became an influential mentor through her literary craft.

Marjorie has moved to heaven but the writing that she left behind inspired me toward Felicity’s Diary. Felicity’s Diary is a short, bulleted list of what I picture life may be like after I finish this earthly experience. I believe heaven will be personalized for whatever’s best for each of us, because of whatever’s best for heaven.

As I write this today, I’m unsure of its ending, but I know the beginning. The purpose of Felicity’s Diary isn’t to prove, or disprove, any biblical teaching. It’s not meant to debate or pontificate. It’s not written as a professional journal or scholarly guide. It’s simply an invitation for my spirit to consider. Only God knows all facets of what and who He created.

Maybe it’ll be published. Maybe it’ll inspire someone. Maybe it’s merely for personal catharsis. Only God knows…

A Personal Vision of Heaven

An excerpt from handwritten pages with short bullet points from Felicity’s Diary:

Heaven: The Haves and Have Nots:

HAVE:

• Colorfully painted rocking chairs
• Access and endless time to spend with every person who ever lived
• Fountains, gardens, sitting spaces, porch swings, gazebos
• Bakery scents
• Best music
• Laughter, smiles, eye-to-eye contact

HAVE NOTS:

• Pollution: water, air, excessive noise
• Roadkill animals
• People judging others, according to the world’s standards
• Schedules, delays
• Anxiety, weariness, frustration
• Waiting in lines
• Hospitals and funeral homes

Until we meet again,
Felicity

Your Turn to Imagine

Reader! Your turn.

I invite you to begin a list of what you picture the best eternal life to include, or not include. Only God knows 😊 Be kind!

If you enjoyed this creative reflection, you might also like my faith poetry about divine timing.