Walking the labyrinth: A journey within

I’ve been dreaming about labyrinths for years now—maybe longer. I don’t know why or what is calling me, but the feeling has been there, waiting. Waiting for me to find one, seek one out, build one, or simply experience one.

Today was that day.

It’s funny how, once something enters your consciousness, it starts appearing everywhere—when and where you least expect it. I had no idea there was a labyrinth just down the road from me, hidden in a place I never knew existed. A short drive and a blustery afternoon led me to an amazing discovery. Even if it had been pouring rain, I wouldn’t have cared. Living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re conditioned for all weather, and I was ready for whatever the day had in store.

The Path Unfolds

Labyrinths have always fascinated me. (Yes, even the movie!) But beyond fantasy, they serve as a spiritual practice—a way to slow down and simply place one foot in front of the other. Today, I learned there’s no right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth. It’s not about speed or direction; it’s about intention.

Lately, I’ve been searching for clarity—what truly matters and where I should focus my energy. My life is full, sometimes overwhelmingly so: a full-time job, two companies I run on the side, family, pets, plants—all important, all requiring attention. So today, I set an intention: gratitude first.  As I walked, I repeated a simple mantra: release all that does not serve me.

Step by step, breath by breath, I followed the path.

When I reached the center, a wave of calm settled over me—an unexpected yet welcome peace. A sense of accomplishment, of knowing I was exactly where I needed to be in that moment. I opened my heart to all I’ve received, all I’ve been given, and left the labyrinth feeling lighter, clearer.

Hidden Wisdom in Plain Sight

The labyrinth itself wasn’t obvious at first glance. Time had softened its presence—old, moss-covered bricks, their two-toned markings faded by the years. I imagine many people walk by without ever realizing what it is. You don’t truly see it until you step onto the path, until you’re in it, tracing the patterns, letting them guide you.

Like life, the journey twists and turns. You don’t always know where it’s leading, but you keep going—step by step, heel toe, heel toe.

Chambers Bay Labyrinth

I love this passage by Rainier Maria Rilke:

"The mist that floats over the valley drifts along without a morning voice. It cannot be caught or contained as it sails with ease and touches us all, leaving the effects of its moist breath on each stem of grass and every stone. Your presence glides in similar fashion. Like the soft mist touching all it reaches, you also leave the quiet, soft memory of your gentle presence in our lives."

Like the mist, like the labyrinth, like life itself—we move forward, uncertain yet intentional, present to the journey ahead.

Have you ever walked a labyrinth? Or felt drawn to something without knowing why? I’d love to hear about your experience.

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