In the center of the labyrinth

"I stop. Every few steps, I stop, to pray
Oh beloved, be near, lead me.
Tiny, bright yellow flowers respond, see me.
I pass under frayed, bleached prayer flags
flapping in the wind.
I stop.
Grant me grace, fortitude, patience.
And the wind caresses. The sun shining on my face.
A few more steps.
The sun is interrupted by whispering branches.
Shadow flickering and there, In the shadow:
violets, deep, secret, sweet.
A few more steps,
I release my heart; embrace and forgive its pain.
I stop. Dear God help me breathe.
I acknowledge tightness in my throat; it is time.
The wind turns cold and bites at my ear.
There is water. I feel it near, wide, deep, stormy, still.
I stop. I breathe.
Thank you beloved.
In the center of the labyrinth
I collect my soul."