Labyrinths

A labyrinth is an ancient symbol of cosmic order. Labyrinths can be small artistic designs meant to be traced with the eye or a finger, or -- like the ones shown here -- big enough to actually walk through. Although they appear similar at first glance, a labyrinth is not a maze. There are no puzzles, tricks, or dead ends here. This may be hard to understand at first, because modern life trains us to expect tests, concrete goals and destinations. The journey through the labyrinth is a metaphorical one, mirroring the longer journey through life. It is also a tool for meditation; by forcing us to slow down on an unambiguous, predetermined path, the labyrinth forces vision inward. Outside cares and worries are left behind; time itself falls away. The journey brings one to a center, both physically and personally, then back into the world. What is to be found in there? Some have spoken of peace and a quieted mind, a contemplative or enlightened state. But the experience is perhaps beyond words, and even if the words existed they are no substitute for the experience itself. Like life, the labyrinth is a path that each must walk themselves.

This labyrinth is between Bloody Basin Road and the center parking lot, and is open to the public during the hours that the center is open.
Last visited: January 2010.

This labyrinth is next to the southeast corner of the west parking lot at the church, and is open to the public at all times.
Last visited: July 2009.

This labyrinth is towards the rear of the renewal center grounds; signs lead the way. The center is only open to the public during certain hours; there is no charge but donations are accepted.
Last visited: July 2009.

This small labyrinth is behind the Church and Columbarium, and is open to the public at all times.
Last visited: December 2009.

This brick labyrinth is in the courtyard that faces Roosevelt St, and is open to the public during daylight hours.
Last visited: January 2010.

This large and intricate labyrinth is immediately south of the southernmost of the two entrance driveways on Power Road. The labyrinth is only accessible to the public during the hours that the memorial park is open.
Last visited: July 2009.

This labyrinth is on private property and is not accessible to the public.
Last visited: October 2009.

This is an example of the labyrinth used as an artistic design, a key element of the monuments that are seen at entrances to the Salt River Pima - Maricopa Indian Community. Known as the Man in the Maze, this design was earlier used on Native American baskets and churches. The human figure at the top can symbolize an individual, the community, or humankind. The labyrinth represents the path that must be traveled in life or in the quest of wisdom. The monuments are at various locations on the border of the community; the one seen in this photograph is at the corner of Highway 87 and McDowell Road.
Last visited: October 2009.

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Standard disclaimer: Sites are described for entertainment purposes only, as they were at the time of my last visit. I can not vouch for the current condition of the site or its accessibility.

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Revised: January 30, 2010
Copyright © 2009-2010 Joe Orman
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