Nature of a Labyrinth

So it occurs to me that maybe there is a corelation between my spiritual journey lately and a continuing desire to install other labyrinths. My original desire was to honor Sherita and one of the last places we spent time together was at a labyrinth in Palos Verdes Estates, Southern California. I never seemed to pronounce the word correctly, she had experienced labyrinths in her worship team travels, and there was a real pretty one at a Neighborhood Church of God near where we were staying for the clinical trial. Anyway it worked out great to do one in her memory at Ashland Community Hospital. Many of our friends and coworkers helped put it in place. The spot is very peaceful although it is literally right in the middle of the hospital. When one reflects on the "contemplative" focus of Richard Rohr a labyrinth is a perfect place to be alone with God. Having ancient roots but no "denominational" home it is very much the fabric from which an all inclusive "God" experience can be partaken. I hope I will be able to install others in the future. Included below is the text of the brochure put together for her memorial. Peace! RV

Conceived and installed during the winter of 2008 in honor of Sherita Pearl Vlach. Sherita was employed at Ashland Community Hospital in the Admissions Department for many years and on September 14, 2008 she lost a brief valiant battle with Pancreatic cancer. The memorial plaque at the center briefly tells her story; “A Moment In Our Lives ~ Eternally In Our Hearts!”.
This garden monument is more than a traditional labyrinth. It has many unique features incorporated within it’s structure. This in itself is a symbol of the uniqueness of Sherita as a wife, mother, grandmother, educator, businesswoman, singer, and healthcare professional. She epitomized the spirit of “Planetree”. This labyrinth is smaller than some and of a more contemporary design. It is a “five circuit Neomedieval Chelsea” design. Ashland Community Hospital is also smaller than some but that is proven everyday to be a very good thing.
The labyrinth concept has ancient origins and only since the middle ages been utilized as a symbol of Christian Meditation. The differences from the original use are interesting and bear mentioning here. Symbols have been used as touch points in many spiritual traditions. Originally a labyrinth was a maze with one path to the center and many dead ends. Walls to hide the path were also common. A modern labyrinth has no walls to hide the path and no dead ends. The goal is readily visible. You are only asked to focus and meditate on that goal. The center of Sherita’s Labyrinth is a bubbling water feature symbolizing the life giving nature of living water. A solid symbol of God. Between the admittedly narrow paver paths are planted several varieties of thyme which provide for an aromatherapy path, especially as one may stray. Please enjoy your time of reflection and may peace be with you!
　
Many of Sherita’s friends have contributed to this art form in her memory, both in the form of cash and labors of Love. Bob and the family wish to thank them for their generosity. In addition to the contributions of many individuals special thanks are in order to the following organizations;
Ashland Community Hospital
Leave Your Mark memorial pavers
Ashland Parks and Cemetery Departments
　
Please use caution when walking the path. Pavers (cobblestones) naturally have uneven surfaces and the use of this monument is at your own risk. Enjoy!