Labyrinths

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We are all on the path... exactly where we need to be. The labyrinth is a model of that path.

A labyrinth is an ancient symbol that relates to wholeness. It combines the imagery of the circle and the spiral into a meandering but purposeful path. The Labyrinth represents a journey to our own center and back again out into the world. Labyrinths have long been used as meditation and prayer tools.

A labyrinth is an archetype with which we can have a direct experience. We can walk it. It is a metaphor for life's journey. It is a symbol that creates a sacred space and place and takes us out of our ego to "That Which Is Within."

By clicking on the labyrinth at the bottom of this page, you will be taken to Grace Cathedral's website, where there is an interactive labyrinth for you to walk using your finger or your mouse. When you get to their site, just click on the banner there and it will open up the interactive labyrinth. There is text and music if you choose to use it.

The Sacred Path

The tapestry of amethyst and gray stretches before me,  
A circular path with turns and twists.  
I stand at the entrance with questions:  
Which way do I go?  
Which path do I follow?  
Hesitant to begin the journey.  

Uncertain of what may be revealed.  
A deep breath for courage  
Hands clasped before me in strength.  
A single step forward  
I enter.  

I feel the warm textures of the tapestry,  
A comforting, soothing touch beneath my feet.  
Cautiously, carefully keeping to the narrow path  
Following every changing direction  
Placing one foot, then the next  
Moving closer towards the center.  

This ancient sacred path traveled by many  
in places near and far,  
in times present and long ago,  
I share the experience with those walking,  
A timeless connection to past, present and future.  
All deep in thought, solitude, and contemplation,  
Searching for answers in the midst of confusion  
Lost within the maze.  

My breathing becomes more rhythmic.  
An easy natural rate  
My mind begins to focus on the constant pace  
of walking, breathing,  
of just being.  
All cares and problems abandoned.  
My heart opens to hear the inner voice.  

Passing by others, each on their own private quest  
Searching for hopes and dreams,  
for answers to questions that remain unspoken.  
Quietly yielding to those who must stay true to the path.  
At times my steps may falter,  
I hesitate which direction to turn,  
but I return anew to the course.  

Step by step, each turn and twist  
I progress to the center,  
closer to finding my truth.  
Steady on the path  
to dreams, to healing, and to answers.  
Cleansing the mind.  
Mending the spirit.  
Healing the soul.  

At the heart of this labyrinth-- a quiet solitude  
A tranquil place to stay, to escape  
A respite from the turmoil of the outside world  
A place of rest and peace, of renewal.  

Time passes swiftly and soon I must depart.  
Reluctantly, I leave this haven  
with a promise to return again.  
A breath to center   
Hands free at my sides  
Silently, steadily  
Following the intricate ancient path  
I begin the journey home.  

I am met by others on their quest  
A respectful glance  
A shared smile  
A knowing of the common joyous experience.  
As I walk the path home  
my answer is revealed  
Restoring the faith, the belief and the trust  
Knowing that in time  
the true path will appear.  
This time, a new road  
a new path  
a new way of healing.  

I emerge,  
Transformed.  
  

Kirsti A. Dyer MD, MS
   

The author of this poem, created it after walking the labyrinth at Grace Cathedral. You may not be in San Francisco to visit the labyrinth in person, but you can visit their site and use their online interactive labyrinth by using the link below-- ENJOY

 

 

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