A Journey With Circles In The Sand

Dozens of people, young and old, flow through an expansive labyrinth on the beach at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. The long path curves and winds its way across an area the size of a football field, then circles back, eventually leading to an exit near the entrance of the labyrinth. Interspersed along the path, are pockets of sand art—a shell-adorned mermaid, a many-tentacled jellyfish, an octopus with curling arms, interlocking Celtic hearts, geometric shell designs, a driftwood dog sculpture, intricate patterns, inspirational words, and more. This labyrinth is not only a path for meditation, but is also a gallery of enchanting, artistic creations. A long line of people patiently wait for their turn to embark on this magical journey. Today, hundreds have made a pilgrimage to this beach in Bandon, Oregon to walk the labyrinth.

Several years ago, Denny Dyke was creating traditional labyrinths in the sand as part of his regular meditation when he decided to link two labyrinths with a single connecting path. It was then that a seed was planted for Circles in the Sand. Circles in the Sand, led by Denny, now comprises a team of labyrinth-makers and sand artists who collaborate to create huge freeform labyrinths that span the beach at low tide. Regular labyrinth events have been happening for six years.

As pilgrims, my husband, Mike, and I made the journey to Face Rock in August specifically to see the Circles in the Sand team in action. On our first morning, we descended the steep stairs to the beach and were immediately awe-struck by tall, massive sandstone formations along the shore and in the misty distance amid the waves. The grandeur of this place is captivating. No wonder they make labyrinths there!

When we arrived, the team and volunteers were adding finishing touches to the labyrinth. In time, Denny welcomed people gathering to walk the path, inviting them to journey with intention and to allow the experience to transform them. Everyone then formed a single line, individuals and family groups standing six feet apart, maintaining physical distance, with many people wearing masks—hallmarks of the current pandemic.

Mike and I joined the procession, eventually entering the labyrinth. At the entrance, we were invited to select a shiny pebble, or dream stone, for the journey. As we walked, we took in the images and words inscribed in sand. All the while, we were blown by wind and accompanied by the sound of waves rolling in. Now and again, people paused to photograph an image in the sand, children shrieked excitedly, and people conversed with each other. It was a slow and delightful journey, more outward than inward, more playful than formal.

Arriving early on our second day, I perched on a rocky ledge overlooking the beach and watched Denny make the first spontaneous lines of the labyrinth.

The path unfurled like a ribbon in curves and meanders on the firm, moist sand exposed by low tide.

Other members of the team soon arrived, beginning their tasks independently. One team member began carving a new path about 300 feet down the beach, eventually joining in the middle with Denny’s path.

The path and art nearly complete, volunteers took up rakes and groomed, or roughed-up, the empty areas between the path and surrounding sand art. Mike and I eagerly helped with this task, enjoying the opportunity to contribute in this meaningful way.

I am thoroughly impressed with the creativity and dedication of the Circles in the Sand team. They truly embody their motto to "share love, show love, be love." I loved witnessing and participating in the process of creating a labyrinth of this scale. The spontaneity and collaboration culminated not only in the creation of a unique labyrinth, but in an experience infused with spirit and joy.

For all that is,