The Break Up AND the Reunion

Today the group was split. Marianne and David both solo walked today. That left Steven, Jimmy, and I who walked together. The days are getting exponentially hotter. With temperatures close to 100 degrees and total exposure to the sun in the later part of the walk. I ran out of water toward the end of the day and I chose to pass a final rest stop which was not good for my body. My feet were on fire and I needed a parador to make it all go away. Lucky, we got one! I had my first siesta I think since my brothers have been here. Worth it!

The morning started off as it would when I was walking solo- 6 miles (about 2 hours) and then a rest for breakfast. Then Amerigo and Lisa caught up with us and brought along an Italian friend they had met, Martina. We listened to their experiences since they started the Camino.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Amerigo and Lisa had continued to use the daily reflection I have been using for each day: in the morning - what is one thing you are grateful for in your life? The evening reflection- where did you experience God’s presence in the day? Or for the less religious/spiritual - what had meaning to you in the day?

It’s amazing how one’s unintended words and actions can have a ripple effect in the lives of people that come into our lives for fleeting moments. I know there have been many, many people in my life who have changed the course of my life experience. On very real example is Alison Corcoran. It was her speaking to me about walking the Camino the day before she was leaving mass one day that put the idea in my head to do something similar. Alison, I can’t thank you enough for this wonderful gift you didn’t even realize at the time you had given me. And that gift has expanded to gift many others who have decided to join this Camino experience with me for my 50th birthday. And it was the stimulus that has now led to Amerigo and Lisa using the reflection questions in their daily practice. They shared how helpful the questions have been to opening up new insights and observations about life. All amazing when I think about it! Our small actions can have profound impacts in the lives of others.

The evening was capped with Jimmy doing some top notch research on the perfect restaurant for us to dine. It was a beautiful pairing of the owner’s passion for food and people enjoying the experience, excellent wine, and great sharing between those gathered. Someone pinch me. I can’t believe I’m having all these consecutive days of grace and love.Read more