To be a Pilgrim

 Back in primary school, I can remember standing in the big hall, used for assembly, singing about being a pilgrim.

As John Bunyan penned; “there is no discouragement shall make him once relent.

His first avowed intent to be a pilgrim”.

So what is it like to be a pilgrim?  As you walk along the Camino route, you see there is an inordinate number of fruit trees, berries and edibles. Pilgrims in the past would have eaten fruit and then done a “Paula Radcliffe” I believe it is known as, along the route. 

Subsequently more fruit and berries came. I might try it with wine corks, for the pilgrims coming after me.

Another aspect of the trail is bumping into pilgrims several days later. It was great to catch up with Orsi, Erik and Konstantin after several days away from each other. Orsi was kind enough to play chess. 

Today I had the pleasure of Danny’s company on the walk. We were introduced several days ago, but it was great to chat today. The topic of conversation was far ranging, and made the kilometres slip away. It did slow us down. 

Finally, for today, I want to mention the Pellegrino’s menu, that most restaurants offer. It is a three course dinner with a half bottle of wine. Standards vary, as two nights ago I had a soup that was given the love and attention of road kill.

Not so soup-er

The price is normally less than 15E, which is a bargain.

Last night however, I dined with friends, enjoying a local stew for starter and the beef tongue for main. Pudding was a frozen tiramisu, but the house wine was drinkable and the company divine. 

Clearly he will make good his right, to be a pilgrim.