Book excerpt: Does experiencing creation invite you into a deeper, healthier relationship with yourself, with others, or with God? Peak Encounters is a collection of life changing experiences from men and women who share their stories of trials, triumphs, fears, and courage as they encountered God through natural creation. God led them from obstacles to opportunities, transforming their lives from the outside in! Surfing a monstrous wave reminded Jeremiah to be bold and step out in faith. Gardening showed Chiara how to give what she received from God's tender care. And the author shares how canyoneering taught her that God protects-no matter where you land. Heather Makowicz is a certified Spiritual Director, counselor, retreat director, and the founder of Peak Encounter Ministries. With her background in clinical social work, she has a deep desire to integrate our natural, complex human experience in life with our spiritual life with God. She and her husband are the proud parents of three grown children, one of whom has special needs.