Apostolising on the Camino

 Walking from Astorga to Foncebadón, as I have done today, I had plenty of headspace time. 

Reflecting on my journey over the last 500km, I have seen plenty that has changed. From numbers in my party, terrain, temperature during the day and quality of path to walk on.

It got me thinking, how the Camino represents life. 

There are people, you would still like to walk with, but who have left your side. There are people who don’t share your current journey, but you will be united in the next city. There are people present at your side, when you are scared or crave company, who share their time or food, and then are gone.

The Spanish people along the way, have been a constant. Always wishing well, trying to help and making sure you get to Santiago, under their watch. 

This idea can be expanded when talking about the path. Sometimes it is flat and paved, a cakewalk if you like.

At other times, the path splits, and you must choose your course. Sometimes you miss the signs, get lost, and end up sliding on your arse, down a bank to get out of trouble. Don’t worry Rex, nobody will recognise you in this.

     

Other times there are huge pitfalls, you have to negotiate with care. The path has its climbs, you don’t think you’re going to make. Then there are the drops, you have to steady yourself with, so as not to fall.

 

You walk with pain, that knocks you out or slows you down. 

For a time you need help, or your Dad to carry your pack for a day! The pain also becomes manageable, other times it goes. Or you feel light footed and fit to crack on.

There is the achievement, for example: no-one can take away crossing the Pyrenees. The disappointment, no room at the inn, or like last night, because it was Sunday, nothing was open, so I skipped my meals that day. 

The ladies at my hotel, made sure I had a very good breakfast, coming in at 6.00am to look after this Peregrino. God bless the Spanish, who look after us.

Everyone is at a different pace, a different place and in a different headspace. 

Mine is that the Camino represents life. Buen Camino!