Labrynth

15 Apr 2016 Comments Off

Dear Fellow Journalers,

The labyrinth is an ancient circular pattern that leads the walker on a path to its center. It is not a maze, as there is only one way in and one way out and no dead ends that would make the seeker choose directions.

Many people see a labyrinth as a metaphor for life’s journeys offering lessons as they walk their path.

“Stand at the crossroads and look, ask for the ancient oaths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it and you will find rest for your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16

How do you use a labyrinth? The following comes from Holy Family Retreat House.

WALKING THE LABYRINTH

There is no single correct way of walking the labyrinth as a spiritual practice.
Feel free to walk in a way that expresses your unique relationship with the divine.

At the Entrance

Begin in silence. Walk slowly with an open mind and heart. Become aware of your breath and let go of thoughts, judgments, and internal commentaries. Allow yourself to find the pace your body wants to go. Just be here in the present moment.

Three Stages of the Walk

I. Purgation (Emptying) ~ Walk slowly and breathe mind fully. Empty yourself of thoughts, burdens, and distractions. This is the time to open your heart and quiet your mind. Become empty like the great circle at the labyrinth’s center. Remember God is breathing with you and through you.

II. Illumination (Receiving) ~ When you reach the center, breathe mind fully and stay there as long as you like. This is a place of meditation and prayer. Receive from God what is there for you to receive. Imagine yourself as an empty vessel being filled with God’s love and peace. Remember that God lives at the center of your being.

III. Union (Returning) ~ As you leave, breathe mind fully and follow the same path out of the center as you came in. In your departing, you are joining God and God’s healing power at work in the world. Each time you walk the labyrinth you become more empowered to find and do the work you feel your soul reaching for.