The legend according to the Papago, the man at the top symbolizes birth--of the individual, of the family, of the tribe. As the figure goes through the maze he encounters many turns, many changes. Many of the elderly Papago often talk of a turn in their life and liken it to a turn in the maze.
Progressing deeper and deeper into the pattern one acquires more knowledge, strength and understanding. As the figure nears the end of the maze he sees his death approaching: the dark center of the pattern.
Interestingly, he is able to bypass death and retreat to a small corner of the pattern ( to where the line is pointing). It is here that he repents, cleanses himself, and reflects back on all the wisdom he has gained. Finally, pure and in harmony with the world, he accepts death.
No one is sure where the design came from. The maze was found on the old adobe walls at Casa Grande National Monument,
probably there long before any Spaniard encountered the structure. Furthermore, ancient coins discovered near the Isle of Crete in the Mediterranean were stamped with this same design.
I am now enternig mi third month of having lung cancer, which was discovered by a routine Xray at work. The initial shock got me thru the first few days and lots of tests got me thru the first weeks. I had an inner visualization about the meaning of all this and what came to mind was an ancient Native American symbol of the MAZE. I had chest surgery the end of March to remove two lobes on the right side. I have begun chemotherapy every three weeks to be followed by radiation. The treatment leaves me looking like a cupie doll with numbness of hands and feet, which will all come back to normal after treatment. Being unable to do my beading and weaving, UCLA offers stress reduction, journal and art therapy, all of which I am participating in during this health crisis.
I am looking forward to having all this behind me come fall. I could not do any of this without the cherished and appreciated support of family and friands.