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10 Lessons People Who Have Died & Come Back Can Teach Us About Life
How often do we stop to really think about death? For many, the thought of it is unsettling—associated with fear, loss, and the unknown. In popular culture, death is often portrayed as something to be avoided or feared, tied to horror or pain. Yet, throughout history and across cultures, people have grappled with death in deeply profound ways, creating rituals, myths, and even stories of life beyond the grave. Death is, in many ways, a mystery, but those who have experienced near-death experiences (NDEs) offer us glimpses into what might lie beyond.
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From personal stories of loved ones passing to accounts of people who have died and returned, there is much to be learned about how we can live more fully. Having faced death, these individuals often return with a renewed perspective on life—one that highlights love, authenticity, and a greater connection to the universe. By reflecting on these lessons, we can shed light on our own fears and anxieties, ultimately finding comfort and guidance on how to live a more meaningful life.
10 Lessons People Who Have Died & Come Back Can Teach Us About Life
- Love is the Ultimate Purpose
One of the most profound lessons shared by those who have returned from near-death experiences is that love is the driving force of life. Material possessions, status, and even personal achievements pale in comparison to the impact of love. It’s the love we give to ourselves and others that ultimately matters most. Whether it’s in our relationships with family, friends, or even strangers, love is seen as the one thing that transcends life and death. Anita Moorjani, who came back from a near-death experience after battling cancer, emphasizes that focusing on love and kindness should be at the forefront of our lives. - Fear Holds Us Back
Fear often prevents people from truly living. Many who have faced death return with the realization that fear is one of the greatest obstacles to happiness and fulfillment. Anita Moorjani stresses the importance of living fearlessly, explaining that when we live out of love instead of fear, we feel safer, more grounded, and freer to pursue our dreams. Letting go of fear opens doors to new opportunities, relationships, and experiences that we otherwise might miss. After all, if death is not something to fear, neither is life. - Life is a Gift, Even in Difficult Times
People who have experienced near-death often describe life as a precious gift—even the challenges. This perspective shift is one of the most powerful takeaways from near-death experiences. Difficulties and hardships, while painful, often contain valuable lessons. In fact, many NDE survivors explain that these tough moments are what make life meaningful. Anita Moorjani notes that if a challenge doesn’t yet feel like a gift, it means you haven’t reached the point of understanding its value. Embracing life, even when it’s hard, is part of the journey. - We Are All Interconnected
One common thread in near-death experiences is a deep sense of oneness. People often describe feeling connected to everyone and everything. This connection isn’t bound by time, space, or even the limitations of the physical body. Lewis Brown Griggs, who had an NDE following a car accident, talks about how his spirit felt connected to the universe in a way that transcended the physical world. This lesson teaches us that we are part of something much larger, and our actions affect the world around us more than we realize. - Embrace Authenticity
NDE survivors frequently emphasize the importance of being true to oneself. Authenticity, or being the most genuine version of yourself, is something that many people struggle with due to societal pressures or expectations. However, those who have returned from near-death experiences often share that the essence of life is to live as your authentic self, unafraid of judgment or rejection. Anita Moorjani advises us to shine our light and embrace who we are, as this brings joy and fulfillment in life. - Death Is Not the End
A recurring message from people who have come back from the brink of death is that death itself is not the end, but rather a transition. Many describe it as a peaceful experience—one that brought clarity and comfort. Dr. Christopher Kerr, who has worked extensively with hospice patients, found that over 80% of them had vivid dreams or visions before passing, often of loved ones welcoming them. This reassures us that death is not something to fear but a natural part of life’s cycle. - Forgive, Let Go, and Heal
Holding onto anger, grudges, or unresolved pain weighs down the spirit. Many NDE survivors talk about the importance of letting go, forgiving others, and healing emotional wounds. The realization that life is too short to hold onto negativity is a key takeaway. Forgiveness, whether it’s for yourself or others, brings a sense of peace and freedom that allows people to live with more clarity and purpose. Near-death experiences often emphasize that unresolved conflicts pale in comparison to the larger picture of life. - Material Success Doesn’t Define You
People who have come back from the edge often report that material success or wealth becomes meaningless after their experiences. What truly matters are the relationships we build, the love we share, and the memories we create with others. The pursuit of money, possessions, or societal success fades in importance. The lesson here is that life is about how you impact others and how you cultivate joy and kindness, not what you accumulate. - Time Is Precious
Near-death experiences often leave people with a heightened sense of time’s value. Returning to life, many NDE survivors realize how much of their time had been wasted on trivial matters or unnecessary worries. Time is a gift, and how we spend it shapes the quality of our lives. Rather than getting lost in distractions or stress, survivors urge us to be more present, cherish moments with loved ones, and focus on what truly matters. Time spent on meaningful pursuits creates a richer, more fulfilling life. - Death Can Be a Comforting Transition
Far from being a terrifying or painful event, many NDE survivors report that death itself is peaceful and comforting. Dr. Kerr’s work in hospices reveals that people often experience visions of deceased loved ones, who appear to guide them through the transition. These moments provide peace and closure, both for the dying and their families. This lesson helps us to understand that, when the time comes, death may not be something to dread but rather a gentle, reassuring passage into a new realm.
Embracing Life’s Final Lessons
Reflecting on the stories of those who have died and come back offers us profound wisdom about living more fully. These experiences remind us that the things we often worry about—success, wealth, or fear—matter far less than love, connection, and authenticity. The ultimate lesson is to live with purpose and be true to ourselves, knowing that fear only holds us back from experiencing life’s beauty. By focusing on love and kindness, we can find a deeper sense of fulfillment and meaning.
Death, as described by many near-death survivors, is not something to be feared but a natural and peaceful transition. Whether it’s through visions, feelings of oneness, or encounters with deceased loved ones, these experiences shed light on the comforting nature of passing on. Understanding death in this way helps us live more freely, allowing us to appreciate the time we have, the people we love, and the moments that bring us joy.
Ultimately, the lessons learned from near-death experiences inspire us to live with courage, embrace challenges as gifts, and make the most of every moment. As we walk our own unique paths, these insights can guide us toward a life filled with purpose, peace, and love—ensuring that when our time comes to move on, we do so with a sense of peace and completeness.