I’ve read about near death experiences several times, including an article I saved from Discover Magazine.  These experiences really fascinate me—not that I want to have one.

There seem to be some consistencies among the near deaths of many people. Most seem to “see” their dying bodies as if they’re outside themselves. Many see a bright light—or a shadow. They report them as the most powerful,  intense, and important experiences of their lives. The scientists seem particularly confused about how those NDEs could leave such memorable and intense impressions.

I have a theory.

It seems to me that dying, even for only a few seconds or minutes, would be about as intense as it gets. It is, after all, the end, or at least a reminder that the person experiencing it could end. Period. No more chances.

Many people change their personalioties as a result, becoming friendlier, kinder, more tolerant. I can’t help thinking that’s the Ebenezer Scrooge effect. Once you’re faced smack against your ending, wouldn’t you have more perspective about what’s important and what’s not worth worrying about? Wouldn’t you think about how you’ll be remembered—because, after all, our lives do go on in some ways in other people’s memories.

I know there are probably scientific explanations for the NDE effect, but I’m thinking I’ll go with what seems obvious and not try to explain it out of existence—and that from a lover of science.