Shenandoah University is open to those who would like to exercise outdoors or leisurely walk on its inviting grounds while practicing social distancing.
The campus offers abundant opportunities for strolls, including those through Sarah’s Glen and its stone labyrinth, where one can engage in quiet reflection and spiritual meditation. Found in many cultures for more than 4,000 years, the labyrinth design symbolizes a long, difficult journey that must be taken to reach a goal. When a distant sacred pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Mecca or Santiago is not possible, Shenandoah’s labyrinth offers pilgrims a symbolic path and a contemplative journey.
Shenandoah University physician’s assistant student Ashley Grisnik is taking her classes online due to the coronavirus pandemic. But on Monday she was on the nearly deserted campus campus for a run on a chilly, gray morning.
Photo by Jeff Taylor &The Winchester Star
Shenandoah’s labyrinth has been chosen for individual discernment, private meditation, class discussion and at least one marriage proposal. It invites people of all faiths and those with no religious affiliations to make their own inward and outward pilgrimage.
Many who walk the labyrinth journey to the center to clear their minds, confess their frustration or shed their shame. They linger in the center—whether standing, sitting or kneeling—and await insight, direction or a sense of divine blessing. The return journey to the circle’s edge can be one of determination and calling to action. This journey both inward and outward is at the very heart of a Shenandoah transformative education.
Sarah’s Glen is named in memory of the late Sarah Brandt, daughter of Shenandoah University Trustee Bill Brandt and his late wife, Elaine. Designed by Van Yahres & Associates, it serves as a performance venue, outdoor classroom, events location, gathering spot and memorial garden. Colorado blue spruce trees and native shrubs, grasses and perennials beautify the gardens, while a dry stream bed serves to channel rainwater to Abrams Creek as part of the university’s stormwater management initiative. Enjoy the beautiful gazebo or lounge in an Adirondack chair.
As a reminder, please maintain social distancing (at least six feet between individuals) and consider wearing a face covering as you walk on campus. Buildings remain closed until further notice.
