The Labyrinth

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

• 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. 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.”
• A labyrinth is not a maze. A labyrinth has only one path. The way in is the way out. Unlike a maze there are no blind alleys. The path leads you on a circuitous path to the center and out again.
• A labyrinth is a right brain task. It involves intuition, creativity, and imagery. With a labyrinth there is only one choice to be made. That choice is to enter or not. The choice is whether or not to walk a spiritual path.
• At its most basic level the labyrinth is a metaphor for the journey to the center of your deepest self and back out into the world with a broadened understanding of who you are.

Walking the Labyrinth

Our Labyrinth is a Path of Grace. You only have to enter and follow the path. However, your walk can encompass a variety of attitudes. It may be joyous or somber. It might be thoughtful or prayerful. You may use it as a walking meditation.

When you walk a labyrinth choose your attitude. From time to time choose a different attitude. Make it serious, prayerful, or playful. Play music or sing. Pray out loud. Walk alone and with a crowd. Notice the sky. Listen to the sounds. Most of all pay attention to your experience.

Some general guidelines for walking a labyrinth are:

1. Focus: Pause and wait at the entrance. Become quiet and centered. Give acknowledgment through a bow, nod, or other gesture and then enter.
2. Experience: Walk purposefully. Observe the process. When you reach the center, stay there and focus for several moments. Leave when it seems appropriate. Walk your way out as attentively as you walked in. Pay attention to any change in your attitude or your disposition.
3. Exit: Upon reaching the entrance turn and face the center. Give an acknowledgement of ending, such as “Amen.”
4. Reflect: After walking the labyrinth reflect back on your experience. Use journaling or drawing to capture your experience.
5. Walk often.