A chapter closes with a bookmark

The Camino provides what we need not what we think we need.
Today I started out alone, thinking I needed the solitude. The wind was brisk, but it felt good to feel cold-a reminder I was alive, and perhaps also the old thing of physical pain being easier to cope with than emotional pain.

I walked with my thoughts. It was a long night last night, disturbed with thoughts that would not be quietened.

I stopped in a small town for coffee. There is only one small bar and a few houses. I finished my coffee. As I started again on my journey I heard someone calling my name. I turned to the warmest, most welcomed hug from Lidia! She and Frederico had a late start this morning.
We share the miles until we reached Sahagun. The official halfway point.
It is a lovely town steeped in history. We had coffee, and then went to collect our compostelas - the certificate to verify I have walked halfway. It is a piece of paper I was in two minds about collecting as for me it is far more about the journey.
We met Antonio there, and then we headed back into town for a sad final goodbye. Tears all around.

Tonight I am staying in a monastery. There is strict silence from 10pm as the nuns live above us.

It feels an appropriate place to close this chapter, and I hope this is where I will pick back up again next year.

The accommodation is lovely. 3 to a room. A bunk bed and a single bed. I have the single bed, and am alone thus far. There is even the luxury of an ensuite....all for €7

We have a pilgrim get together shortly then a mass and a pilgrims blessing, followed by a bring and share communal meal.
A fitting end in that so much of this Camino has been about sharing- our dreams, our deepest thoughts, our hearts, sharing the physical pain, emotional pain and the encouragement, and sharing of the things we carry. We have indeed shared a journey of a lifetime, and one that will forever be etched in my heart.
This last few days have been tougher than the physical days early on.
Today I have come to understand that perhaps in leaving some of my baggage on the way, I have a renewed strength that I will need for the months ahead. In the words of a very wise friend....you can't drink from an empty cup. Mine needed replenishing

Stes today 30157
Miles 14.54
Total miles 370.98Read more