If I was ever going to convert from Judaism to Christianity, it would be for the whole Heaven thing. A little known fact about Jews: We don’t really believe in focus on Heaven (or Hell for that matter). Rather, Jews focus on life on earth. Most of our readings suggest that life ends with physical death. No pearly gates. No angels or people in white robes. No eternal happiness. Just ashes to ashes and dust to dust. A known fact about me: I’m hoping the Jews have this one wrong.
I’m kind of counting on Heaven. (And I’m also hoping it’s easier to get into than college.) Here’s why:
Most of us have seen first hand how the premise of Heaven can truly comfort those left behind. Last week, my friend Kim’s much loved dog Maddie died and I know many of us referenced the “better place” where her pup is now. (Kudos to Mo who suggested that dog heaven is full of the best Cat Poop Cafés imaginable.) But there were other versions of Maddie’s heaven, including tennis balls, ponds, hot dogs sitting on tables, and other doggies and humans who have passed away, just waiting for Maddie to come and play. When you are grieving , this is one visual that provides some peace. I would also like to believe that our loved ones have a view into this world after they are gone, and are watching over us, cheering us on, trying to make things better for us from wherever they are – just as they did in life. I will believe in Heaven for that alone.
But the thought of Heaven also soothes my fears of dying someday. For as long as I can remember, I have been fearful of the boredom of being dead. And since death is (as far as we know it) forever, a place like Heaven would be a welcome eternal oasis. So assuming I am fit for entry (I may not be depending on the requirements), I wondered what my heaven would be like. Because certainly, everyone’s is not the same. My heaven would:
- Be somewhere warm with sandy beaches and crystal blue water that is always 85 degrees.
- Include all (yes all) my family and friends – or they would be scheduled to arrive eventually — and we would all be living close by.
- Have an unlimited supply of good food and drinks with minimal work
- Include activities would be plentiful but you could also choose to sleep all day if you wished
- Not require any hard work
- Provide views to the real world, which would be available for you when you choose, although you would have no power (no pressure) to change any outcomes on Earth
- Not have any sickness or emotional turmoil.
I had never really asked myself this question before, but the description above came rather easily. I was feeling quite proud of myself in this regard until I realized I just outlined a privately chartered, all-inclusive vacation to the Caribbean.
Maybe I am meant to remain Jewish after all.
What would your heaven look like MoB readers?
