I first thought about walking the camino when I read the book by Paolo Coelho over ten years ago. Since then I have thought about it seriously for the past 6 years, even going to a pilgrim meet up in 2006, buying boots in 2010, reading more books and buying the CSJ guides. To actually take the time out of working and use my savings for it was a huge leap for me. Then buying the tickets was another huge leap. In fact, I am very interested by my anxieties about practical things and about my own ability to keep going, having not really expected that to be honest. I have a tendency to be very controlled, very organised but have learnt to step back a bit, mainly through working as a musician in Italy a lot!!! So I thought I'd be able to find that relaxed attitude for the camino too. I am finding it a little trickier but I see it as a good exercise to have trust in myself.
So, I am setting off along the Via Podensis from Aire-Sur-L'Adour on 9th March. I have already reserved some accommodation. I've been doing some training walks and now need to build a little more stamina with my pack, but taking it gently.
My reasons for walking are mainly spiritual, questioning and seeking. The real need to walk arrived because I've had a couple of very difficult years, hence doing the questioning and seeking. The solitude appeals but I also want to work and be aware of the community of pilgrims and their diverse reasons and needs.
I am looking forward to the challenge and hope that my journey will be the end in itself, the destination.....
thank you to all of you who have posted useful and reassuring tips here about all sorts of practical things. your advice is well received.
'may the road rise to greet you' all
So, I am setting off along the Via Podensis from Aire-Sur-L'Adour on 9th March. I have already reserved some accommodation. I've been doing some training walks and now need to build a little more stamina with my pack, but taking it gently.
My reasons for walking are mainly spiritual, questioning and seeking. The real need to walk arrived because I've had a couple of very difficult years, hence doing the questioning and seeking. The solitude appeals but I also want to work and be aware of the community of pilgrims and their diverse reasons and needs.
I am looking forward to the challenge and hope that my journey will be the end in itself, the destination.....
thank you to all of you who have posted useful and reassuring tips here about all sorts of practical things. your advice is well received.
'may the road rise to greet you' all
