According to the Soul Age theory, man doesn't have simply one shot at living and learning. He has multiple lifetimes in which to grow, learn and mature. Soul Ages are based on the different levels of advancement a soul obtains throughout its reincarnational journey (inspired by the Michael's teachings framework). As a person progresses through the hierarchy, paying off karma as he or she advances, it is said that he or she is free to return to universal and infinite consciousness at the end, achieving final liberation. Some call this the state of "nirvana", others "heaven" and others "paradise".