Late one afternoon, having spent the entire day climbing, we reached a summit ridge…I was mesmerized by the panorama of oceanic mountains that surrounded me and propelled by the rhythm of my feet touching the ground. The soft golden light of the setting sun cast the forest in an emerald glow. I was captivated by the moment and felt lifted and humbled. Every breath inspired me. I had discovered the meaning of worship.
   It was then that I began to take my wanderlust more seriously. I recognized that my adventuring resembled a religious quest. It was my chance to encounter life’s mystery.

Ellen Bernstein
Ecology and the Jewish Spirit