A Peaceful Path

The labyrinth awaits the sojourner – almost calls her by name.

Will you enter my simple boundaries and journey my paths

One step at a time?

~Suzanne Moody

Last week we were treated to a “walking meditation” by Judy Homer (www.soulbasedcoaching.com), who has worked extensively with labyrinths as a meditative tool and who brought her canvas here to the store. “What IS that?” my customers asked, looking warily at its bright pattern trying to discern its intent. “Try it” I replied. That night as the late summer sun set, we lit candles, turned on music and settled into a different rhythm for our silent meditation. As one who can barely chew gum and walk at the same time, I found I had to concentrate on my steps a little too closely, so the hand-held labyrinth was more my speed. Sitting comfortably with the beautiful wooden board on my lap, I closed my eyes and let the music replace the usual chatter in my head. My finger traced the unfamiliar grooved path, going ever slower so I wouldn’t miss an unexpected turn. I found my entire body swaying with the gentle arc of the path, my finger enjoying the sensation of smooth touch as my breathing slowed to match my progress. Or lack of progress. Suddenly, I wasn’t in a rush. I could enjoy the surprise of the design, the feeling of calmness if my finger slid out of the groove and onto a different part. Not the path I had intended? No problem, this path is interesting too! Without my eyes being able to anticipate where I was going, I was relying on instinct and the pleasure of the journey. If only every moment in life were as forgiving!

A twist inward.

A transformation outward.

A fresh view from fatigued eyes.

All part of a simple design of much complexity,

With the whole greater than the sum of the steps.

All the while traveling…..

One step at a time.

To learn more about Suzanne Moody and to read the entire poem, go to http://www.lessons4living.com/index.htm