In 1981, during major surgery, the writer had a near-death experience (NDE) they describe as a journey from the physical world to a peaceful spiritual realm, feeling no fear—only overwhelming love and tranquility. Unlike the common "tunnel," they felt they traveled through a "valley" bordered by non-physical, infinitely tall golden walls. Suspended in this state, they felt heightened awareness, heard harmonious sounds, and saw their own shadow-like spiritual form.
As they approached a bright light, they were suddenly pulled back into their body, experiencing intense pain and a stark contrast between the spiritual realm's freedom and the physical world's limitations. Reflecting on the experience, they connect it to Psalm 23, especially the line "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil," finding peace in its themes of divine presence and guidance.