Limits
First, let us set the record straight. Constraints can be a very good thing. Many people I have talked to think the terms limitation and constraint are the same thing. They are not. There are both limiting and enabling constraints. And sometimes those limits enable.
I suspect that anyone who has parented a toddler has had a discussion about obeying rules in order to be able to go out and enjoy an activity in public.
I use the equal and opposite forces described in Newton’s third law in thinking about limits and abilities that become apparent when some sort of constraint is applied. Force is redirected. Nothing disappears, only the direction of the flow changes.
Labyrinths
Sometimes what seems especially complex is profoundly simple. Look at the medieval labyrinth. It is but one path into the center, and the same path leads out.
For me the 11-circuit labyrinth is the perfect illustration of how what seems upon first acquaintance to be extremely limiting can be quite enabling. The path is quite proscribed, but many who walk the path of the a large labyrinth find a meditative state can be reached in the walking.
Many cultures use a labyrinth as a way to walk a path to connect with a sacred ancestor. In the Middle Ages labyrinths like the one at Chartres, France began to be built all over Europe and are thought to symbolize pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Labyrinths have been found in the archeological record as long ago as 4000 years.
Lace
Tatting or the making of bobbin lace by hand is intricate skilled work that once was a common craft. The repetition of forming the pattern of threads, over and over, can be a soothing, meditative exercise.
Much of the determination as to whether an action or process is limiting or enabling lies in the perception of the task.
I cannot help but think about the pattern of women’s efforts in life when I see how modern culture has redeveloped a love of labyrinths. Oppositional factions in society might try to impede what women can accomplish, but understanding patterns, cycles, and the power of will finds women who are unable to move forward in a task or project most often simply move to one side or the other, climb over, or dig under to go around the impediment, and find strength and wonder in the new path.
I wonder how many of us can find instances where mothers, aunts, grandmothers or mentors simply moved ahead in a different way, undaunted, when obstacles were dropped in their paths? Those are some of the stories I would love to explore.
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A to Z Blogging Challenge, Day 12, The Letter “L”
Obstacles are the seeds of invention. Perhaps an O topic for me to explore. I love reading your posts and look forward to taking this journey with you.
Thank you Pam! So much of success in life for most people comes from reframing, finding alternative routes, and just walking the path.
Obstacles dropped in our way only strengthens our resolve to find a new direction around them in order to move forward. The example of the labyrinth was excellent.
When I was in France some years back I visited Chartres and was asked to act as part of a demonstration about some of what you are discussing here. It was fascinating, yet, at the time, I didn’t think more than what I learned on the surface. Now, in re-visiting what I learned I can apply it to what you are discussing here to ponder this concept on a much deeper level. How grand is that?
Cathy, how cool? I would love to visit Chartres. It makes me happy to think that this piece allowed you to revisit and overlay more of life on a previous experience. Thanks for letting me know.
What an unusual comparison. I have no sense of direction and have always been terrified of labyrinths.
Bet you don’t like caves either.
This is another deep thought provoking post. I’m thinking I gave up too soon on some things and heldbon too long to others.
Recently I’ve been feeling like I need to only move forward. No more sidestepping and absolutely no giving up.
No. Never give up, Doreen. Tenacity and resilience are my most life-saving, keep on keepin’ on traits.
Ha! If some politicians were held to the same rules we place upon our toddlers, they just might be more productive (and show more common sense).
I’ve always wanted to walk a labyrinth. Supposedly there’s one going up near The Stanley Hotel (of The Shining fame), which is just a few hours from my home. Perhaps I’ll give it a shot one day once completed… though THAT one might be a little creepy, for obvious reasons.
You’ve nudged my brain into gear once again with your contemplative writing. Thank you!
Lisa, you can find a labyrinth nearer to you I am sure. Try this link http://www.labyrinthlocator.org/
I always think of the movie Labyrinth with David Bowie when I hear that word. What a great flick it was. It had a very similar lesson too. Life’s obstacles are just part of path for sure!
I loved that movie and so did my daughter. I try to watch it at least once a year. And yes, I had a thing for Mr. Bowie when I was younger.
How interesting. And you’re right about labyrinths. I recently walked one, thinking it would be quick, and it took much, much longer than I anticipated!
Deceptive isn’t it?
Labyrinths were once used as a form of meditation. Fascinating discourse.
Once I walked one, I was hooked.