My Journey To Heaven: What I Saw And How It Changed My Life (2012) - Plot & Excerpts
I would have liked to give this book five stars simply for its sincerity, but I can't. Nevertheless, it's a good read--I've read it twice. What I liked:1) It has good structure: logical beginning, middle, and end.2) He spoke from his heart.3) His account of Heaven is entirely scriptural.4) He explains why he wrote the book.5) He weaves the story of his life throughout his account, which gives context.What I didn't like:1) Editing could be better. Some sentences are structured awkwardly, and the editor made silly slips, like using "pour" when it should be "pore."Regardless, if you have lost a loved one, particularly a child, you will find Mr. Besteman's account of his trip to Heaven very interesting, even comforting. I've read a number of books about people who have survived near death experiences. This is another interesting account. I found some of Marv's observations and insights enlightening and hopeful. He mentions several times that the overwhelming feeling he had in heaven was LOVE and that he did not want to return to earth. Many other survivors report the same thing. He notes that no one in heaven had any disabilities or afflictions. He also talks about meeting others who passed on before him and that they all were content and waiting for him - including a newborn baby he and his wife had that did not survive. He notes that the people closest to him and who had been an inspiration to him in his life - were the ones who greeted him at heaven's gate - which was very comforting to him. He mentions that he has talked to other near death survivors and he has come to the conclusion that the experience is different for different people i.e. somewhat customized for each individual. For example, he talks about music playing that he loved - it was the beautiful music he had ever heard. He notes that another person's music might sound different - something especially appealing to them. Like other near death survivors, he talks about brilliant colors - unseen on earth and an ability to feel andunderstand things far beyond his capabilities on earth.Marv says that although he got a glimpse of heaven - he was sent back to earth since God felt his journey on earth was not finished.At first Marv did not discuss his journey to heaven with anyone - not even his wife. From other books I have read from survivors - this is often a typical response - the survivor is overwhelmed by the experience. In time, Marv believed that he survived in order to tell his story. I found it very interesting that after Marv's last meeting with his publisher to finalize the dedication and other last minute details of the book before it's release - he passed away the next day. It did appear that his work was complete.This is a very hopeful book about the after life.
What do You think about My Journey To Heaven: What I Saw And How It Changed My Life (2012)?
Life changing and utterly beautiful! I'm so glad to have the chance to read this one. :))
—Bleh
This was a wonderful short read, it's less than 150 pages. I'd read it again.
—hana
