I think as humans, we rationalize heaven and hell to be places entirley separate from earth. I think its easier for us to think of it that way than to consider "Heaven and Hell" as an extension of our current existence. (In fact, I hesistate to use the terms Heaven and Hell for that reason)
I like to think of it this way. If you had a civilization of 2 dimensional beings living on an inifinetly thin plane, they would be completely ignorant of a third dimension. If you pushed a pen through that plane, they would only perceive the 2-D circle created as it passed through their plane. Despite their perception, the pen estends out beyond their world.
In a similar way, I believe that each of us, through our souls, extend beyond the perceived universe. For now though, all we can understand is what our physical bodies exist in. When we die, we perceive our full existence extending beyond this world. It is our frame of mind in this place that determines whether it is a "Heaven or a Hell".
As for Reiyuka's post, concepts of afterlifes, gods, and devils have existed since recorded history in many forms. In addition, these concepts have oft been exploited for the gain of individuals. Despite this occurance, it does not rule out the possibility that such things do exist.
Sorry for the long post, I hope it made sense and that you enjoyed it.
24-Jul-2006