Labyrinths

I didn't realize the first few weeks would be spent walking labyrinths.  At the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, I found an outdoor labyrinth and spent some quiet moments walking and thinking there. Then at the Ghost Ranch another outdoor labyrinth.  Now, here in San Francisco, my first day was spent exploring and orienting.  I was able to find Grace Cathedral with its well known labyrinth. 

This was a great help to me.  I was experiencing a bit of culture shock, having come from the quiet, slow paced lifestyles of the monastery, pueblos and retreat centers into the frenetic pace of a major metropolitan city.  Walking the labyrinth was a good opportunity to remain in touch with that silent center. 

For those who may not know, a labyrinth is not a maze.  It has a clearly defined path from the entry into the center.  I was walking the canvas labyrinth at Roberts Park we used during Lent last year.  After setting it up in the afternoon, I decided to walk.  There was someone in the Fellowship Hall quietly watching me on this path.  At one point I stopped to think and this person watching said, "I think you need to turn left."  I had to smile. 

A labyrinth is a good means to quieting life's distractions and walking and listening.  In the center, walkers are encouraged to remain there and pray or meditate as long as desired.  The center point at Ghost Ranch had several large rocks upon which one could sit and people had left notes and items in the center. 

In a fast paced world, I find the labyrinth a good way to be intentional about slowing down and listening for that still, small voice.