Patient wisdom of the artist

Sunday, two friends and I woke up in Coos Bay at 6 a.m. and drove the 35 miles or so to Bandon, in search of a labyrinth on the beach. A local artist draws it regularly in the wet sand near Face Rock as the tide retreats. Volunteers rake the negative space. People come to walk the sacred path. Some silently, deliberately. Others blithely, taking pictures. A few hours later, the tide turns and incoming waves wash it all away.

Walking this labyrinth was restful, frustrating, heartening, irritating and inspiring. Inspiring because after our walk we spoke briefly with the artist. His blue eyes shone as I complained about people who didn’t seem to appreciate the meditative power of the labyrinth. He smiled.

“Not yet,” he said.

I hope I don’t forget the certain hope that sounded in his voice.

Here’s a link to his website.