A New Day Dawning

I had a wonderful rest last night and woke up to happier feet and no complaints from my ankle.  Given my “cheating” the evening before, I knew today would be a shorter day. (For those tracking my actual route, you will find I am 3 miles short given I took a taxi to my hotel after my talk with Tim.)

As I continued to ponder the question of why I would do this again, I have landed on what can I actually learn and take back with me from the Camino?  Last time was largely about proving to myself that I could still do something epic like walking 500 miles across Spain.  This year I would like to continue to be a better version of myself.  Last year there was a guy who became infamous on the journey.  I don’t want to be “that guy” or someone that pilgrims are trying to avoid.  I hope to bring happiness to those who choose to walk with me. 

 

I have a friend walking ahead of me whose pack is half the size of mine.  She is not shipping another bag ahead like some folks do; she just has a less “stuff” along with her.  (She is also half my size, so her clothes are smaller too.)  I want to learn to better balance preparation with making do with what I have.  I am carrying a sleeping bag that I will likely never use.  I think my friend Susan is correct that my bag is too big and I have too much stuff.



 I met up with my first pilgrim friends from Taiwan today and noted that they are really have a good time on the Camino.  They take to time to slow down and enjoy the journey.  So today I also slowed down and actually ordered a pizza for lunch.  It was amazing!  I also took the time to thank a few more of the vendors that touched me last year.  This is their business; however, they often go above and beyond for us pilgrims and I want them to know that I appreciate them. 

 


I ended my day walking with a new friend who encouraged me again to take a new route.  It was great to see a combination of old and new sights today.  

 

Being Sunday, I leave you with the Pilgrim’s Prayer: 

 

Jesus, my Lord, my friend.

You, the icon of God.

You, fountain of communion, 

Freedom and love.

You, who are my servant,

Walk always with me.

 

 

  14.08 miles

28,637 steps

 

Location:  Villafranca del Bierzo @ 42.607828, -6.808652

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