Space in the Center
Yesterday evening I attended a summer solstice labyrinth walk with a small group of people. The evening was perfect – the location serene and next to a small lake with ducks; benches, flowers and little plaques honoring the grounds, cloudy sky offering cooler temps and a gentle breeze. Several people sat quietly at the edge, holding the space with intention, and sound gongs and bowls. As I began my walk I felt comforted by those around me, some moving in front, some journeying behind, some right alongside as we all moved, explored and quieted. A subtle feeling slowly washed through me to let go…quiet myself…soften and expand my gaze, my feet and my essence. Walking, walking. Some short lanes, some interesting twists and turns, some long stretches, legs and feet brushing against plants at times, other times just an open road. Periodically pebbles would slide into my shoe and poke my foot.
The metaphors for life began to inhabit me. I became lighter and noticed my face smiling and heart joyful. I stooped to pick up a rock, held it and felt its energy. Eventually it went into a space of safe keeping in my bra! Walking, walking, walking. Noticing the beauty of the water…how ducks interacted, the sun setting, the vase of bright yellow sunflowers in the center…what became to me as a womb.
Joyfully, with some hesitation because it meant the completion of a part of my journey, and with reverence I entered the womb. Others were there too, some arriving, some leaving. I gently explored, then made a space in the center for myself, to sit on rock and pebbles, to feel all that was being offered in the moment. My soul opened to the awareness that my life has invited me into this similar spot many times. To sit and quietly contemplate. to feel where I am…to be OK with the space I occupy on the earth…to nourish that which is me and all I have to offer. To be comforted by the assurance of the presence of light, hope, even while feeling in darkness, empty. Sitting, sitting, sitting.
After a time I stood, paid respects to the center of the center, and plucked a yellow petal for my safe keeping. With another wave of hesitation, yet excitement, I left the womb to begin my journey outward. A lightness had come over me and us – carefree and still quietly moving each in our own way. I heard laughter bubbling up and gazed skyward to see the huge arch of a double rainbow seemingly just for us, as there had been no apparent rain nor signs of storm! It was breathtaking, the rainbow on one side of the sky and the setting sun reflecting in the lake on the other. It felt lyrical and lovely.
After being distracted by my external focus and inner thoughts, I came back to the present, wondering if I’d followed the path correctly or if perhaps I had inadvertently skipped a turn. Looking around I could see others in a similar place – some confused, others comfortably laughing, or anxious, wondering if they were doing it right. All of it brought a smile to my face, again the wonderful metaphor for life! I acknowledged this as one of the gifts of the labyrinth. Earlier someone had said there is just one way in and one way out. Relaxing more deeply I knew I could simply trust that I was on the correct path in the correct way in each perfect moment and let everything else go. So I slowed down and enjoyed the walk…even more… Eventually the final aisle to the exit/entrance came upon me with an irresistible invitation to linger a moment longer, to anchor in the experience as if sending down deep roots from each of my senses and every part of me that participated.
Namaste
Laura Sarna