Yesterday, September 21st, the Fall Equinox, 25 people came to an event I put on titled Experience the Labyrinth. The purpose of the event was twofold – first, as a community offering for my graduate Practicum class at Antioch University and, second, as one of the steps that I need to take to become a Certified Labyrinth Facilitator.
I’d been planning and preparing for this event for at least 3 months. Sandra Mistretta, MA, LMFT, Clinical Director of Casa Serena, Adjunct Professor at Antioch and my practicum supervisor helped me throughout with her savvy skills in online technology and social media sites not to mention, moral support. Finally, the day arrived and with lots of nervous energy, I went to Antioch to begin setting up. My much appreciated helpers, Eric and Patrick, came to literally move tables and chairs out of Community Hall so we could spread out my brand new, 24’ canvas labyrinth. It filled the room. When I backed up to look at it, I noticed how the energy in the room had changed. The room no longer felt utilitarian – a spiritual quality seemed to be emerging. With table cloths, flowers, low light, candles and lovely music, the mood was set.
Before the walk, in another room, I told the story of my first labyrinth walk, showed a polished Power Point presentation about the history and meaning of the labyrinth and then facilitated the walk. We all processed the walk afterwards, and soon, it was over.
Just like life, we are always in a stage of beginnings and endings. I have learned that I can’t move through life alone. I need help along the way and I’m grateful to have learned how to ask for help, thankfully realizing that these connections create spiritual experiences.
I’ll end this post with a quote from the Reverend Dr. Lauren Artress: “Walking the labyrinth clears the mind and gives insight into the spiritual journey. It urges action. It calms people in the throes of life transitions. It helps them see their lives in the context of a path, a pilgrimage. They realize that they are not human beings on a spiritual path, but spiritual beings on a human path.”
Blessings…..
Megan Woodward Moyer 