I went to Conservation Trust to walk on the labyrinth for the first time.
As I entered into the mystery of the new and unfamiliar path
I recognized that this labyrinth has different energy
because of the stones
brought in memory of loved ones by families.
The stones welcomed me
as if they were eager to tell me their stories--
the stones that survived the wind and rain for many years,
the stones that carry the stories of the saints,
the stones as heavy as the pain of grief,
the stones as precious as the memories and blessings they left behind,
the stones connected to each other
as if they are holding hands together to create a path
that will lead people to wholeness and centeredness.
I walked in drained and exhausted
and walked out a bit more balanced with clarity and equanimity.
I put my hands together and bowed deeply
to the rocks and the saints they represent and all who made it possible.
Most of all, to God who led me to be there,
where, as Thich Nhat Hanh said, I arrived.
I miss the energy already.
