The Camino de Santiago

Pamplona came upon us fast. It was a nice, easy breezy walk, barring what seems to be some emerging blisters!😰 Jon and I reflected on the significance of milestones and how in our culture, and in the Christian faith, they help us to transition to new experiences by letting go of what has come before. Upon reflection, it was significant for me to think of all the many milestones I’ve passed through in my life: birthdays, anniversaries, sacramental celebrations, graduations, deaths, births, beginnings, ends. I’m glad I’m celebrating my 50th in a away that gives me the opportunity to reflect on all the goodness that has come to me through both the blessings and challenges of my life. I so appreciate being able to live this milestone transition over an extended period of time to be able to reflect on the impact of the experiences and people in my life.

One group of people in my life that has had great significance are the people and staff at Our Lady Of Mount Carmel church for the last 10+ years. Jon and I found the cathedral church and lit some candles (again, electric😣) and prayed for them. I cannot say enough about how much I have been moved by the people of this community. They continue to inspire and teach me about true Christian discipleship. It is a privilege to work and serve amongst such people.

A final observation of the day is that I think for the first time in a very, very long time I have not known what day of the week it is. Noticing this today has had special importance to me. I think I’ve known the day of the week every day for what seems like decades. To have the capacity to live more in the present moment and less time attending to the multiple responsibilities of both myself and those that I’m caring for is a true gift. Jon and I noticed that we are already five days into the trip. For most vacations, I would already have my mind back into what I need to do when I return at this point. Nothing could be further from that reality for me now. I’m happy to live in greater Kairos than Cronos.En savoir plus