How Far Is Heaven?

Do you believe that "heaven" is a reward for a life lived as dictated by religious or societal rules? Does this mean you have to wait to reach heaven? If that is your belief, I honor your choice but offer my opinion.... dangerous ground to tread on for some folks; however an open, non-judgmental, mindset is a key to becoming more aware. Whatever you may view as heaven, can you agree that a joyous state of being is the ultimate goal? We have the ability and the divinely-provided gift to achieve that joyous state in any given moment. It is a choice we can all make. Unfortunately, we have been taught beliefs that are contrary to making a choice. Beliefs that hold us back from seeing the light. These beliefs come in all kinds of forms and are reinforced through the media, religious dogma, and conformance style thinking. The media reinforces beliefs. If you take the time to truly observe and analyze what you are watching, listening, or reading, you will note the amount of negativism being broadcast to you. It is a fear-based message being presented most of the time. Not always, but a good majority of the information presented is subtly judgement-based. Popular sitcoms present parables that denounce rich people, ways of life, tolerance, ways of thinking, etc. Advertising constantly feeds fears of disease, lack, and inadequacy. The constant bombardment of these subliminal messages affect us on a subconcious level and feed/reinforce beliefs. These beliefs act as clouds that block the light from shining through. They promote the illusion that "heaven" is a faraway destination to be strived for or be denied from. Fortunately, we can choose to see the light. We can choose to create our own heaven in each moment by savoring each experience. Joy can be derived from any situation when perceived without judgement and appreciated for the blessing being provided. We have that choice available to us. Namaste