The Basilica of St. Mary, Minneapolis MN,
On a mild Thanksgiving day we took in two labyrinths in downtown Minneapolis. The first, the Basilica of St. Mary was ingeniously mowed into the side lawn and delineated with orange spray paint. From above the design follows a linear path then circles back to a spiral, shoots off to a smaller spiral and then returns to the central spiral. I have found that walking with others has limits depending on their motives. So, this one didn’t impress me as much. The presence of the Basilica itself was comforting and the bell ringing was authentic – Not a recording but the actual bell moving and gonging a call to worship. But, the Interstate near by was – well the Interstate. I guess one could concentrate and shut out the movement, noise and modernity of it all. Perhaps that is what we have to do when we walk a path, choose to ignore the distractions and concentrate on the matter at hand, trusting we will reach the “center.” Certainly, something I was unable to do earlier this week. I applaud the Basilica for supporting an intriguing design that is simple enough for maintenance staff to maintain.
The view to the sky with the Ramada mimicking the labyrinth pattern on the ground. Truly a work of art.
The Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), where Jane and David White’s son attended has a labyrinth that is simply stunning. The path is of two foot wide dark granites slabs. The Ramada mimics the path. The entire setting complements the labyrinth and I could get into this journey. Again, other around limited Alone, or with other pilgrims who wanted the solitude and experience, this would have been a magnificent experience to walk. Kleenex, please. Even so, just as a “tourist” of sorts, it was inspiring and wants a return. (Photos at flickr.com/photos/mspatt)
I have found that reticence dominates and letting go is very difficult, thus self limiting. A lesson in itself.
1080 Labyrinth 