What is Camino?

[Phoenix]

After eight days on the CF, I am now home, arriving last night after nearly 24 hours of bus rides and flights. My Parkinson's brain and legs couldn’t seem to connect on a consistent basis on this Camino. At the rate I was walking, I would’ve completed the trek to Santiago de Compostela sometime next year ...

I made the decision on Monday morning while shuffling along between Hornillos del Camino and Hontanas; I just knew my 2018 Camino was completed. I am neither disappointed nor discouraged. Although the walking was difficult, I had several wonderful encounters with other pilgrims and travelers. For me, those types of encounters are what truly defines a Camino.

From the senior, salty French paratrooper who appeared out of nowhere to instinctively pace my steps going up the Pyrenees from Orisson to Roncesvalles to the kind Irish pilgrim I met in the Logroño bus station (the eerily spitting image of my father had he lived into his 70s), from having a raucous dinner/discussion with two Swedes, two Germans, and a young American at an Irish pub in a small town in northern Spain to reuniting with a dear Canadian friend from a previous Camino: these are but a small sampling of the pilgrims I met and experiences I had along The Way.

Although shorter than planned, it was a great experience. My primary goal for walking this (third) Camino was to take a million steps of thanksgiving to God for the many blessings He has given me in this life. Although I didn't reach a million, each step I did take was a heartfelt offering of gratitude. It was a good Camino.

 

[TMcA]

Although the walking was difficult, I had several wonderful encounters with other pilgrims and travelers. For me, those types of encounters are what truly defines a Camino.

Everyone has a personal reason for walking these routes and each person finishes with his or her own unique experience. But I couldn't agree more with what you have mentioned in the quote above. It is as if we become part of the "family of man"; these encounters transcend being just a conversation with those we meet, a kind action by a fellow hiker, etc.

Tom

 

[Shalaw]

I believe everything in life is always more about quality instead of quantity, and it sounds like this Camino was a wonderful, meaningful experience for you. From what I understand, each Camino is different from all others and I hope to confirm this for myself in the near future (I’ve only done one - the CF in 2015).

 

[Iriebabel]

I truly believe that everyday and every step is a camino. I see by your avitar that you already the experience of walking a full Camino Santiago so everything else is a blessing and testiment to your sprit of adventure and an undying feeling to never quit while able. Of course every experience is what makes life special and meaningful. Well Done ! Happy you made it home safely

 

[Former member 42123]

After eight days on the CF, I am now home, arriving last night after nearly 24 hours of bus rides and flights. My Parkinson's brain and legs couldn’t seem to connect on a consistent basis on this Camino. At the rate I was walking, I would’ve completed the trek to Santiago de Compostela sometime next year ...

I made the decision on Monday morning while shuffling along between Hornillos del Camino and Hontanas; I just knew my 2018 Camino was completed. I am neither disappointed nor discouraged. Although the walking was difficult, I had several wonderful encounters with other pilgrims and travelers. For me, those types of encounters are what truly defines a Camino.

From the senior, salty French paratrooper who appeared out of nowhere to instinctively pace my steps going up the Pyrenees from Orisson to Roncesvalles to the kind Irish pilgrim I met in the Logroño bus station (the eerily spitting image of my father had he lived into his 70s), from having a raucous dinner/discussion with two Swedes, two Germans, and a young American at an Irish pub in a small town in northern Spain to reuniting with a dear Canadian friend from a previous Camino: these are but a small sampling of the pilgrims I met and experiences I had along The Way.

Although shorter than planned, it was a great experience. My primary goal for walking this (third) Camino was to take a million steps of thanksgiving to God for the many blessings He has given me in this life. Although I didn't reach a million, each step I did take was a heartfelt offering of gratitude. It was a good Camino.

Phoenix,what a joy to hear you made it back safely.After we waved farewell in the early morning light in Castrojeris I was able to tell your old Canadian friend that you looked and sounded strong even if so dissapointed.The Camino "family"has begun to 'split up' today,as is normal,but the others,like me,will never forget your friendship and your strength in the face of massive adversity.God Bless and keep you safe.Philip.

 

[Syncro]

Hi Phoenix,

Your words remind us it is not the perceived end goal in our minds that is to be treasured, but rather the beauty of the journey along the way.

Your trip sounds wonderful and magical!

 

[jmcarp]

Well said, @Phoenix. Another reminder that the meaning of the Camino is found in the attitude and expectations of one's self.

 

[Phoenix]

I appreciate the kind responses. Thank you.

Since returning home to Colorado, I’m doing very well. I've been walking the paved trails here in my neighborhood almost every day using trekking poles but no pack. Just working on getting the brain-legs connection smoothed out again. I’m back up to 5-7 mi/day and my stride & pace are about 90% normal. Still slower on inclines, though. I’m sure I could walk much farther if needed, but it would take a day or two to recover. It’ll take a while to build back up to form, but I’ve done this before. I'm even pondering walking the Camino Portuguese next year ...