Camino de Santiago

Tomorrow I will walk to my Camino destination—Santiago de Compostela! I will have walked 779 km over the past 34 days!

I know when I get home I will spend time reflecting on all that I learned, all that I went through, and all of the amazing pilgrims I met!

One advantage of traveling solo is the opportunity to extend yourself to others. I had some great conversations, debates, and laughs with strangers who became friends. While I have HATED having a black and blue face from my fall, it was annoying at times explaining to everyone, several times a day, every day what happened—it also was a great ice breaker while sharing a meal, doing hand washed laundry or sleeping in the dormitory Albergues. While curiosity was always in their question, it turned to genuine concern as I progressed on the Camino. By that I mean I would see someone weeks later after sharing my “fall-stitches-bruises” and they would make a point to ask how I’m doing! This is the Camino I will always remember.

There have been many individuals I have gotten to know better throughout my weeks on the Camino who have touched my heart. Several shared their heart so openly—it was obvious to me they are a prisoner of their past. The Camino is their hope for figuring out a way to move forward and have a new beginning from their escape from the hurts of the past.

I met other people who are trying to let go of what their perfect marriage should have been, or the mother who didn’t live up to the name, or spouse loss, or abandonment. While I traversed through the old towns on the Camino, I met so many pilgrims with hope for this quest they are on.

Spending hours walking a challenging terrain for 20-30 km every day was perfect for me to pray for others, pray for America, Spain, and the conflicts all over the world. I loved praying for people important to me, I loved lifting all who prayed for me, and I prayed for the Catholic Church, priests and seminarians. I spent time praying for people who have no one to pray for them.

I will close here by saying, for all of the beauty that surrounded me while walking, all of the blessings and safe travels I had, and anyone who was even the least inspired by my trip, I give all of my praise and glory to God!

Until tomorrow, be blessed!Read more