Labyrinth

A pilgrimage is, after all, a journey of self-discovery, an attempt to recover the true self from beneath our constructs of layers and masks. What is discovered must be acted upon.

-Frank Cunningham

The Labyrinth is an ancient symbol of the holistic human...a metaphore of man's journey of life here on earth. They can be found in the floors of great cathedrals throughout Europe and beyond.

I was introduced to the Labyrinth when I was very young. I can't even recall why or where, but I was a child. It filled my senses and I have been drawn to them ever since.

The Labyrinth, like life, is not a straight path but is full of twists and turns, winding this way and that, but one path for one lifetime. Some of the turns we can ease into and are predictable, but others take us by surprise. As we walk the Labyrinth, with our feet, we are mindful of our own life path.

I walk passing through three stages; Purgation, Illumination, and Union

Purgation is a time of emptying. Letting go of thoughts and worries. This is the walk to the center. This stage can take some practice if you are not in the habit of meditation. Still the mind... becoming empty like the circle at the center of the Labyrinth.

Illumination is a time of receiving what God intends for you. A time spent at the center of the Labyrinth in prayer and meditation. I like to imagine I am an empty vessel being filled with God's love and peace.

Union is the return journey out of the Labyrinth. It is a time to become empowered to carry out what has become illuminated in our soul. God's healing is at work and every twist and turn is met with new confidence to overcome things that may stand in our way.

As I exit the labyrinth I am overcome with a peace that penetrates my consciousness, I am lighter on my feet and living on a higher level.

Peace be with you all.

Thus says the Lord;

Stand beside the earliest roads, ask the pathway of old, Which is the way to good?

and walk it; thus you will find rest for your souls.

-Jeremiah 6:16