I posted this in another thread and then I realized it was boobmaster's thread and I can't delete it.
I came within minutes of death and was actually on my way to punchout. When I was 18 I got into a group fight against some local rival H.S. kids. There were about 10 of us and 10 of them. After all was said and done, they were running and I was bleeding. I got stabbed 3 times; once right below my right arm through my rib cage, once in my stomach, and once in my thigh. They landed a medi-vac helicopter and had to clear out the movie theater so they could land the chopper.
While in the air, I heard the flight tech say, "We're losing him!". By that time I was in severe shock and had already lost a lot of blood (some still stains the walk area at the outdoor mall as a macabre reminder). Once I heard him say that I honestly remember seeing my life flash before me like some grotesque slideshow. I remember seeing my family, friends, and distant memories. I don't recall seeing a light or a tunnell but I did see myself from outside my body.
I was kneeling down next to my body and I could actually see myself unconcious. To be 100% honest, it was one of the most peaceful things I have ever encountered. I was at total peace with myself.
I finally arrived at the hospital with a punctured lung, ruptured instestines, and a severed ligament in my thigh. They slapped 89 internal stitches and 36 staples into me and I finally recovered. A grim reminder of my childhood.
So yes, I have experienced one and it was the most peacful thing ever. That is one of the reasons I don't fear death. Peace and tranquility without a hint of fear or pain.