LESSONS LEARNED FROM A LABYRINTH WALK

By Shirley M. Carolan

December 2006 had been a most challenging month for me personally, professionally emotionally, financially and spiritually! I was excited then when I got the invitation to do another Labyrinth Walk at the beautiful estate of Rick and Dr. Patricia Crane in Bonsall, CA. It could not have come at a better time, with the end of the year fast approaching. It would give me a bona fide chance to review the past year and decide what had not worked in my life, what needed changing, and what I could do about it. Believe me, I was up to the challenge! tt seemed like the perfect opportunity to discard all the negatives that had bogged me down, and reclaim my energy.

December 30 arrived with a beautiful, bright, sun rising slowly over the distant hills. The air was warm and felt electrifying as I prepared for my journey. How I wished I could share with Krissy, my little Shih-Tzu what I was about to do. Would she even understand? It really didn't matter because I knew I would come home refreshed and feeling much lighter in spirit. A gift that she would benefit from too!

As I drove over to Bonsall, I mulled over in my mind the things I definitely wanted to say "goodbye" to, as well as some things I would like to embrace. Yes, this had the makings of a memorable day, if I got out of my own way and let things unfold naturally.

You may be wondering what on earth is a Labyrinth Walk and why is it so important? Is it the same as walking in a maze? No, it is not the same as walking in a maze (like the famous one in England at Hampton Court Palace). A labyrinth has many twists and turns which you follow until it leads you to its center. The labyrinth in Bonsall is patterned after the one at Chartres Cathedral, outside Paris, France. However, this one has exquisite pieces of rose quartz lining its perimeter and beautiful pink, green, and gray stones outlining the path.

Before setting out on our walk, Dr. Crane walked us through a 20 minute therapeutic, guided imagery exercise. It helped us to get centered, use our imagination, and lighten our burdens. It was a lot of fun and we got to share what we experienced. Then we headed down the steep hill to the labyrinth.

Only 22 people can take the walk at any given time, and then they are let in a few minutes after the person ahead to avoid any collisions, noise, or talking while on the path. I kept my head down as I walked wondering what I might find on the ground. The last time I found a shiny piece of metal, and when I picked it up and turned it over there was the word "Pray" etched on it. I was allowed to keep it. This time, however, I found nothing.

Finally, I got to the center. I laid down my gift for my hosts. Then I looked into the huge bowl filled with beautiful colored, assorted stones. Some had writing etched on them, e.g., Peace, Hope, Courage, Faith, etc. It was tantalizing trying to decide which one I should pick up. As this thought rushed through my head, I realized that I already had those "gifts" to tap into. I hesitated because I saw another bright pink stone seeming to beg me to pick it up. As I looked closer at the wording I saw "Power" etched on it. I hesitated again knowing that I could certainly use more power in my life. But, I couldn't pick it up. Then, I realized that if I did pick it up I would have to take responsibility for my life … I would have to let go of the coulds, woulds, shoulds, and all the other excuses and limiting beliefs that I harbored about myself. Wow, that was a tall order! Not wishing to hold others up, I knew I had to make a decision soon. I took a deep breath and reached down and picked up the "Power" stone, kissed it gently, thanked the Universe, and put it in my pocket.

Slowly, I walked out of the labyrinth wondering if I would have the courage to acknowledge the significance of what had just happened. As I sat outside the labyrinth on a small bench, I was handed my notebook and my pen. Immediately I started to write about what happened, the struggle inside me to pick up this particular stone and what I thought it boded for my future.

Again, later, we got to share our experience with the rest of the group. Each person had his/her own amazing story to tell. When it was my time to share, I clung onto my stone, showed it to the group and told them what it meant to me. It was truly exhilarating!

Since then, I've had many opportunities where I've had to honor that I can trust my own power, in thought, word and deed. It has been quite an inner journey, as well as an education. I am very grateful for the opportunity to do this Labyrinth Walk. This was far different from the "Firewalks" I had done with Tony Robbins, but no less fulfilling. Today, I carry my stone with me wherever I go to remind myself that I have new-found power within me to handle any situation or crises that occurs! And, life is good.

If you ever get the opportunity to do a Labyrinth Walk do it! Here are some things you can do to prepare yourself:

● Take time to review the quality of your life
● Think about your last 6 months.
What did you learn?
What would you do differently?
Where do you want to re-commit?
What must you do to get back on track?

James Thurber said "All men should strive to learn, before they die, what they are running from, and to, and why!" Great philosophy! I intend to live by it.

Shirley M. Carolan, ATM
Speaker/Author/Coach
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
carolcom@qwestinternet.net
www.shirleycarolan.com
http://angelscross.blogspot.com