Peaceful, compassionate conflict resolution between two people can be accomplished using a method that combines a time-tested mediation process with the ancient labyrinth pattern. This allows the process to move from the head into the heart and body, thus enhancing deeper understanding and exploration of ways toward peaceful resolution. Both finger labyrinths and a dual path walking design are discussed.
Abstract
Labyrinths can be utilized in several ways for personal reflection and individual problem solving. Using the labyrinth with another person with whom a conflict exists is a method to incorporate a time-tested mediation process with an ancient pattern. Doing so allows the process to move from the head into the body, from a sterile “talking –only” process to a full and fun embodiment of the process. This seems to assist in deeper understanding and also a more in-depth exploration of the options and choices available to resolve the conflict. The labyrinth allows individuals to engage in variables of walking and processing time between the mediation steps that help each person to reflect on what has been said and to integrate the communication. This has the result of heightening understanding of the conflict and each person’s feelings and emotions related thereto.
This presentation demonstrates both table-top sets of finger labyrinths and a full walking-size dual path labyrinth that the presenter has developed in conjunction with both public and private school social workers and child therapists. The labyrinths and the associated problem-solving process have been used in schools around the country to support peaceful conflict resolution. The process and presentation also demonstrate that use of the labyrinth can interject an element of fun into the conflict resolving process and provides a labyrinth pattern that can be used beyond problem solving situations so that the labyrinth can be multi-dimensional in its application to the school setting.