RE: What connects you to the universe?
Yes those moments exist...can't do them justice trying to describe them...you become overcome by a feeling of stillness...connection...like you and nature are one...you have all the answers without asking any of the questions...
I had a near death car accident...it was mentioned in one of my blog posts...my car skidding on ice and snow over to the other lane of oncoming traffic...I see a truck come up over the hill heading towards me...nothing I can do to get control of car....I remember a total peace come over me...as they have said...my life passing before my eyes like a movie...and me calmly saying out loud..."this is it"...obviously it wasn't....
One other time comes to mind...at the Grand Canyon...early morning...I had just heard the night before how that park is one of the most visited parks...millions of people each year...and suddenly while standing there over looking the canyon I realize no other human being is anywhere to be seen...I was alone...but suddenly felt not alone...
Finally...I have visited Niagara falls a few times in my life...it actually scares me to be near them as I sense such a pull...gravitational...a call...to jump into the water and be swept away....as if the water in me is magnetically feeling attracted to that force...
Something does call us when our inner ears are open....
I also had a near death car accident and what you describe is virtually identical to my own. The same thing happened, instead of fear a calmness came over me and I thought - its my turn to go.
Your experience at the Grand Canyon is also similar to something similar when I was climbing a mountain with a friend. I was half way up and looked up and down. I suddenly felt very small in the universe but at the same time I felt part of everything.
Regarding Niagara, I have heard about this force that has a pulling affect on people making them want to be part of the energy. That alone tells me there is something more to our existence.
Great examples @bobreedo