(photo P Volker)
Walking the Camino is all about the experience. What great memories have I collected from the dust and mud of it. Have you noticed when listening to a pilgrim who has walked one of their favorite stories is about the time they got lost. This happened, then that happened and so forth. That to me turns out to be a memorable grade A experience. So “getting lost” is really an unexpected added experience that would have been lost, so to speak.
So concentrating on the experience of it all we can appreciate so much more. Usually the best stuff happens at those unplanned times, those out of the ordinary times and places. Maybe things are a little or a lot out of control. That happens. But generally with a little help we get back on the trail and back to the familiar.
Right now we all sense we are off the trail as we search and grope along. It will all be a memory soon, something to talk about with the grandkids when they ask. But today the sun shines and the sky is blue just like the best of days.
Please know that you are not alone in all this. Reach out if you need a friend or help finding the next yellow arrow. We are here for you.
I remember the time loves, Felipé.
It’s true. Some of the most cherished memories of the Camino come from the unexpected. I was so mad at myself when I would forget my trekking poles, and we would have to circle back, wasting time and miles. My daughter Katherine was sanguine, “Maybe we will have an adventure we didn’t expect.” Once, to get my poles, we walked back over an hour to Santibanez. This time, we stopped at la Casa de los Dioses Cantina, an oasis that David and his partner Suzi have created for parched pilgrims. He promises free fruit, juices, water, and the “key to your essential nature.” When we sit and talk, he tells us the Answer to Life is simply this: “Live in the present.” (i. e., notice the gnats in your naan :-> ) We would have missed this extraordinary interaction had I not lost my poles.
Phil, I like the way you keep connecting the Camino with COVID. Go with the flow, don’t hold on tight to expectations–there just might be some surprises waiting in the new plan. And, always, there’s a friend to help you find the yellow arrow when you get lost. Good one.
Henriette ~ the unexpected can be the best sometimes. Our own personal plans can be so so boring. I had many trips back for my sticks and small adventures ensued. David, does he have a FaceBook presence? I don’t remember running into him back then though. So off to write the blog for today. Talk to you Tuesday. Felipé.x