I
am a walker of labyrinths, those circular constructions made famous by their
examples in Greece and France and which can now be found in chapels and green
spaces all over the world.
The
labyrinth combines the imagery of the spiral into a meandering but meaningful
path in which the getting there IS the destination. We've all heard that, but sometimes
it seems little more than an admonition to enjoy the scenery, as if we were all
on a train ride, the countryside of Life flying by just outside the window.
The labyrinth offers a different truth—you are not separate from your landscape. You are inextricable. In the metaphorical labyrinth, like in real labyrinths, there is only one way in and one way out, so you can't get lost. And unlike the labyrinth of Greek myth, you will find no monster in the middle—only yourself.
The labyrinth offers a different truth—you are not separate from your landscape. You are inextricable. In the metaphorical labyrinth, like in real labyrinths, there is only one way in and one way out, so you can't get lost. And unlike the labyrinth of Greek myth, you will find no monster in the middle—only yourself.
You
may also find others along the path, for labyrinths are not necessarily
solitary experiences. You’ll pass people coming out as you are going in, and
vice versa, each on a separate, individual journey, yet all together in
community and purpose.
My
time here at this blog feels like a labyrinth walk—lots of unexpected turns,
much shared joy and appreciation, new opportunities for learning and growth
with every step. But like all experiences, this one has both a beginning and an
end. And I have reached the latter.
I
will no longer be a regular contributor to Writers Who Kill. My life is
looping in a different direction now. Will it loop back this way eventually?
Fingers crossed that it will. Until that time, thank you to everyone who has
shared this space with me over the years. May your own path be enlightening and
joyful. And may the writerly crew here at WWK keep making space for people like
me—and you—to stop for a spell. Thank you, each and every one.
* * *
Tina Whittle writes the Tai Randolph/Trey Seaver mysteries. The sixth book in this Atlanta-based series—Necessary Ends—is available now. Tina is a proud member of Sisters in Crime and has served as both a chapter officer and national board member. Visit her website to follow her on social media, sign up for her newsletter, or read additional scenes and short stories: www.tinawhittle.com.
Keep walking those labyrinths! Miss you.
ReplyDeleteI love labyrinths, Tina. And what a fabulous metaphor for this journey. I've so enjoyed getting to know you through your posts and look forward to seeing what's next in your life. Come back to visit (and guest post) any time you want!
ReplyDeleteTina, you have a home at WWK whenever you can get back. Just remember, there may be only one way through a labyrinth, but in most of life there are many paths. Just remember where you want to go. I will miss your support. Thanks so much.
ReplyDeleteI will miss you, Tina, but you will always have a spiritual home here at WWK, and I hope the path ahead leads to all the best. As an aside, you introduced me to labyrinths, so perhaps we will meet in the center.
ReplyDeleteSorry to see you go, Tina, but I understand how our priorities in life change, and some things need to give way for different goals.
ReplyDeleteI've enjoyed your postings as well as your stories. Keep in in touch, and come back when you can.
Thank you all so much! I look forward to connecting, and reconnecting, as our paths cross and recross.
ReplyDeleteMay you leave this path and find another. I’ve no doubt you will. Write on.
ReplyDelete