Credentials, Compostelas, Journals and Photographs

[Al the optimist]

The sellos on my Credentials are to me a very personal art form. I find it impossible to look at them without evoking strong memories and feelings. My Compostelas remind me of the joy I experience when entering the Pilgrim's office and sharing the love there. With my journal and my photographs I can relive the pleasure and pain, the people and the places. These all remind me the vital place the Camino has had and continues to have in a greater journey in life.
The picture in my mind of the tomb and of the peace found praying in front of it needs no such physical reminder but that does not detract from the function the others play in my life.
People travel the Camino for many reasons, from many places and in many ways. They often find something new in themselves and about themselves whether starting with a sense of religion, spirituality or otherwise. I hope that all who travel gain as much or even more than I from their own experiences and that of others. To paraphrase the words of Frank Sinatra "They do it their way". May that way provide.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

I feel the same way Al, every sello I received, every face left such an imprint on my everyday. I remember you as if it was yesterday. I remember the faces of those who stepped in front of me to capture a photo of the remains of St. James.

Thank you Al for being part of my everyday.

 

[Al the optimist]

Cheers Scott. Every time you post I am reminded of a lovely afternoon's sunshine in a great albergue and the joy felt at bumping into you again in Santiago.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

But I still can't understand this shandy thing.


. .

 

[Scott Sweeney]

In three Camino's we have met and walked with so many, a dozen or so have made such huge imprints on me (can't speak for the other half). And if for no other reason, I am very thankful for this world of technology and social media, it has allowed me to keep those people closer to my memories.

 

[jmcarp]

The sellos on my Credentials are to me a very personal art form. I find it impossible to look at them without evoking strong memories and feelings. My Compostelas remind me of the joy I experience when entering the Pilgrim's office and sharing the love there. With my journal and my photographs I can relive the pleasure and pain, the people and the places. These all remind me the vital place the Camino has had and continues to have in a greater journey in life.

That pretty much says it all. In the end, the way the Camino experience lingers is in one's mind and memories. Sellos, photos, journal notes, and yes, the Composetla are the doorways by which we re-enter that world from the here and now.