Avoid presenting heaven, hell, and purgatory as places; they are three states of being after death. Heaven is the state of eternal happiness in union with God. Hell is the state of complete separation from God for all eternity; it is experienced by those who decide to reject God. Purgatory is the state of final preparation for those who are saved but not yet ready to be with God in heaven. In this state those damaged by sin are surrounded by divine love so that they can return to God in the original, perfect condition in which he created them. Indulgences received while we are alive can help remove some of the effects of sin. The prayers of other people can help those who have died to be fully united with God. Indulgences granted to the living may also be given to the dead.