Do you ever feel like you are going around in circles, going nowhere? You can see the end point marching to the goals set out before you and still fail to see the progress.

When these feelings set in we need to remember the lessons of the labyrinth. Life is like walking the labyrinth.

The ancients use meditative walking to forge a connection with the divine. They followed prescribed routes in mazes to avoid the mental activity of deciding on where to direct steps. In doing so, they freed their minds to be open to another voice. Suspend all thoughts, while walking, to concentrate on feelings and whims within.

While the age-old custom of walking a labyrinth supports a direct connection with the Divine soul within, it’s also a walk in faith. Just like life itself.

How is life like a labyrinth?

  • Seems like you are not making any progress going nowhere in a circle. Even though you are literally winding your way through the prescribed maze in a circular fashion, you are still, ever so slowing, making progress inward to the goal. Have faith!
  • The narrow walking road often sees the walker losing balance falling off the to the edges. The trail ahead of you is well designed to move with forward motion, but oftentimes distractions will pull you off the path, experiencing defeat. Keep moving. Life is a game of recovery!
  • The wind is swirling. As you progress you will face every direction with the wind swirling. You will delight when all goes well with the wind at your back and at other times battle the gales blowing right in your face bringing adversity. Whatever the elements, know that they will eventually change. Have hope!
  • Before you know it, it’s over! As you keep you head down intently moving through each stage of your life/labyrinth you will reach your end surprising quickly no matter how long a daily trudge you may think it is. Celebrate each step, it’s called the present!

So this week, let remember the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. and rejoice in the mystery of it all.

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Martin Luther King, Jr.