67 Comments

Not sure what's more chilling--what happened or that Hallie had that premonition. Also, this resonates very strongly with me on a certain level. I am a survivor of suicide, and so I too am living a "bonus life" and I also think of it in those terms. Glad you are here to tell the tale, mahalo and happy birthday. And a moment of quiet reflection for Ash 🙏🏼

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Thank you for sharing this story, which serves as a reminder to treasure each day and one another. Happy birthday!

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Thank you for sharing this story, Hal. Wow, I'm speechless. So glad that you're here to tell it (and I'm glad to have crossed paths with you in our weekly Substack writing hour!). Happy birthday!

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

Happy 9th bonus birthday—may the current struggle also bring unexpected wisdom & rewards.

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

I couldn't post a comment from my phone, so I had to go to the computer. What a gripping story, Hal! Even though I knew you had survived, I was on the edge of my seat. I like the concept of "bonus life." It helps you judge what is really important and what is not. I tend to forget that I am living a bonus life, because my near-death experiences were so long ago (and not nearly as dramatic as yours.) Hallie's premonition is a reminder that premonitions are real; the problem is telling the difference between a premonition and a baseless anxiety.

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

Happy bonus life birthday Hal! I am so glad that you survived and our musical paths were able to cross. Please take care .

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What a story, Hal. Epic writing, I was gripped throughout.

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Mar 17, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

I’m getting slowly more pieces to the puzzle of that sad but valued event between You, Jp & Hallie: I met You Hal thru Jp. What’s JP’s status today? I briefly heard & witnessed a compromised JP health wise. Is he healthy & whole ?

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

What a cool looking grp of people in the last photo ....

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What a story. What a life. And to get a bonus life. You are charmed.

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

Happy Birthday, Hal (or Happy Burtgday! as I first typed). I hope both days are happy. There’s sunshine!

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

This was an emotional and profoundly inspiring listen. Thanks Hal- Todd B

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

This was such a moving story, I'm sure everyone has found a greater appreciation in our own bonus lives now after listening. Happy birthday Hal :)

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So glad you survived and got your bonus life! I am also so glad that you are writing. My husband Tom had a heart attack on Feb. 12 of this year. I feel we both got bonus lives as he recuperated! Hallelujah!! And happy birthday!

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Mar 5, 2022Liked by Hal Walker

I recall the evening you called Dad and me……from the hospital……to tell us of your near-death experience. Even after hearing about the event, we were both trembling with disbelief, but feeling grateful that you had survived. ❤️

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My goodness, what a story. I imagine your appreciation for this bonus life has helped you through many dark days. You’re alive!! I thank the universe for deciding you should survive, because you continue to offer the gifts of beautiful music, wisdom, and hope. Happy Birthday, Hal.

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