I was new to the idea of a Labyrinth, in fact somewhat uncomfortable and wasn't sure that this "method" of praying fit into how I prayed. In fact, as I have learned later, labyrinths are used the world over by a number of faiths and religions, and also embraced by some Christians.
This place held no special powers, but was a garden walk, created by those who wanted to create a place to pray. For those who are not familiar with the labyrinth (and I am far from knowledgeable), it is a circular walk, similar to a maze where you walk around the path set before you until you reach the center. And then you walk out again.
On Bowen Island, it is beautiful rocks inlaid in the ground with mossy and ground cover plants in between, lovingly tended by gardeners and volunteers, next to a wood that surrounds Rivendell. You can smell the ocean just a short ways away.
I have come to see the labyrinth as a tool, especially in times of solitude and prayer - it is not something I have the opportunity to do often, but it is special; like visiting a garden, or praying by the ocean, or any quiet place where one becomes quiet before God.
So I tentatively walked that spring day, and prayed, in silence, as my two sisters and I stepped on the stony path that led to the center. The center seems symbolic - as Christ is my center, I also need to find those quiet times to center on Him - to quietly push out all that wants to crowd my mind and pray in His love, His peace.
This picture is of the Rivendell Retreat Center perched up on a hill, overlooking the ocean. The labyrinth is below; I never did get a good picture of it.