- Time of past OR future Camino
- Camino Frances (2022)
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Thank you for trusting the forum members with your situation. I will write your name in my little list, and keep an eye on how your camino goes. No point in bargaining, one step at a time. You know though that you are supported.I am about to head out on the Camino Frances. Two weeks ago my elderly mother started to deteriorate rapidly.I have agonised over whether to continue with my plans. I am one of six siblings and we are all pulling together on this. But I will go in the knowledge that she may pass. And I know that I may return suddenly at any time. In my packing of lightweight items I am painfully aware of the heaviness of my anticipatory grief. The sadness is overwhelming at times. I fear I may weep my entire journey. I am so grateful for the length of time she has been in our lives but it is so hard to let go. I have told her I am going and I think she understood what I was saying. I want to send a postcard every day so at least she is as much a part of this journey as I can make it. I feel the Camino is a good place for me to be. Words and prayers may quietly aid my acceptance of the circle of life.
My mother is in a similar state and I understand your sadness. I had to accept that this is my mother's journey and I cannot make it any better other than to love her as much as possible. You can do that from wherever you are, love doesn't need proximity. The Camino is a good place to be when you have emotional pain, do not fear weeping. As I feel my own sadness I will think of you too and send love to support your journey though both the Camino and your losing.I am about to head out on the Camino Frances. Two weeks ago my elderly mother started to deteriorate rapidly.I have agonised over whether to continue with my plans. I am one of six siblings and we are all pulling together on this. But I will go in the knowledge that she may pass. And I know that I may return suddenly at any time. In my packing of lightweight items I am painfully aware of the heaviness of my anticipatory grief. The sadness is overwhelming at times. I fear I may weep my entire journey. I am so grateful for the length of time she has been in our lives but it is so hard to let go. I have told her I am going and I think she understood what I was saying. I want to send a postcard every day so at least she is as much a part of this journey as I can make it. I feel the Camino is a good place for me to be. Words and prayers may quietly aid my acceptance of the circle of life.
I walked the CF with my wife several years ago knowing my brother might pass away while we were still in Spain. I had travelled across Australia to see him before leaving for Spain, and we had agreed that if he did pass away, I should continue with the pilgrimage.Two weeks ago my elderly mother started to deteriorate rapidly.I have agonised over whether to continue with my plans.
There is a thing called 'Divine Timing'. As humans, we think we are 'in charge', & so we plan things accordingly. God laughs, as only He knows, & so He plans when, where, & how our life goes. You say the Camino helped you before with an emotional situation, & it will do so again. I work in Healtcare & have witnessed many deaths. There is a lot of emotion, tears & sadness. But there is also release, relief, reflection & fond memories. Everyone grieves differently, just as everyone heals in their own way. You are doing what is best for you at this time, & no mother would argue with that. Light the odd candle along the way ... that's what a mother would do! Buen CaminoThank you all for your kind words and thoughts and to CarolamS I reciprocate your sadness and support. When I planned this Camino I had no idea I would be doing it through a time such as this. But perhaps, once again, the camino calls me when I most need it. My first one, Portuguese Coastal, came at a time of deeply emotional tumult. The gentle healing of that camino was a source of amazement. I love this forum for all of its generously given information and insights. Buen Camino !
When are you leaving?i start from Saint Jean Pied de Port 25th of aprilI am about to head out on the Camino Frances. Two weeks ago my elderly mother started to deteriorate rapidly.I have agonised over whether to continue with my plans. I am one of six siblings and we are all pulling together on this. But I will go in the knowledge that she may pass. And I know that I may return suddenly at any time. In my packing of lightweight items I am painfully aware of the heaviness of my anticipatory grief. The sadness is overwhelming at times. I fear I may weep my entire journey. I am so grateful for the length of time she has been in our lives but it is so hard to let go. I have told her I am going and I think she understood what I was saying. I want to send a postcard every day so at least she is as much a part of this journey as I can make it. I feel the Camino is a good place for me to be. Words and prayers may quietly aid my acceptance of the circle of life.
From what I can see from the emoticon replies, you are geographically surrounded with prayers, compassion and sympathy. Please pack our well wishes into your backpack and "take them out" when needed. Prayers and Buen Camino.I am about to head out on the Camino Frances. Two weeks ago my elderly mother started to deteriorate rapidly.I have agonised over whether to continue with my plans. I am one of six siblings and we are all pulling together on this. But I will go in the knowledge that she may pass. And I know that I may return suddenly at any time. In my packing of lightweight items I am painfully aware of the heaviness of my anticipatory grief. The sadness is overwhelming at times. I fear I may weep my entire journey. I am so grateful for the length of time she has been in our lives but it is so hard to let go. I have told her I am going and I think she understood what I was saying. I want to send a postcard every day so at least she is as much a part of this journey as I can make it. I feel the Camino is a good place for me to be. Words and prayers may quietly aid my acceptance of the circle of life.
Starting from SJPP on 20th April. Trying to face my journey with courage but I feel fragile and vulnerable. I will draw on my faith and the kindness of strangers.When are you leaving?i start from Saint Jean Pied de Port 25th of april
My Mum is 98 ..anything could happen( of course i am close , easy for me to go back ) anyway i would do like you!
Sending cards is nice ! When i am away she líkes when i call her keeper who has whatsapp and she can have some on Line little vidéo !
Keep going
Take your Mom with you, in your heart.I am about to head out on the Camino Frances. Two weeks ago my elderly mother started to deteriorate rapidly.I have agonised over whether to continue with my plans. I am one of six siblings and we are all pulling together on this. But I will go in the knowledge that she may pass. And I know that I may return suddenly at any time. In my packing of lightweight items I am painfully aware of the heaviness of my anticipatory grief. The sadness is overwhelming at times. I fear I may weep my entire journey. I am so grateful for the length of time she has been in our lives but it is so hard to let go. I have told her I am going and I think she understood what I was saying. I want to send a postcard every day so at least she is as much a part of this journey as I can make it. I feel the Camino is a good place for me to be. Words and prayers may quietly aid my acceptance of the circle of life.
Starting from SJPP on 20th April. Trying to face my journey with courage but I feel fragile and vulnerable. I will draw on my faith and the kindness of strangers.
I understand the sentiment here, but there may be better ways to remember your mother while doing the camino than this.Take your Mom with you, in your heart.
Buy a second credenciel and put her name on it. Carry it with you, as she will be beside you, all the way. Stamp both credenciels every day. I guarantee she will be with you, carrying you along.
At the end, she will have her own Credenciel to add to all those post cards.
Another thought, just as I write, grab some postcards and add a stamp as you go. That way, when you're home you'll be able to peruse the postcards and the Credenciel and all the memories.
Buen Camino!
Thank you. This is a wonderful article.This is an article from the British Medical Journal, for doctors by doctors, about the dignity of death. I have it bookmarked for all the events I know are coming. It covers the subject of there being better people than family members (a doula) to help a person into the next life.
Perhaps there is someone in your family or your family knows that has that gift and would be the better person to attend her needs.
The gift of death
“I dreamed that I was dead last night. Then I woke up and found I was still here. It was such a disappointment.” My 98 year old mother surprised us with this comment, for she rarely talked about dying and death during her decline from advanced frailty, although she repeatedly said, “I never...www.bmj.com
You are in my prayers now.I am here in SJPP and preparing to start my walk today. I am content that my decision to come was the right one. Last night I had word that my mother is in her final hours. She is on my mind constantly. It is pouring with rain as it has been all night. It seems apt. Perhaps you may pray for us and the start of a new part of life's journey.
Dont be too hard on yourself ffor thé first day! Are you stayong in Orisson?I am here in SJPP and preparing to start my walk today. I am content that my decision to come was the right one. Last night I had word that my mother is in her final hours. She is on my mind constantly. It is pouring with rain as it has been all night. It seems apt. Perhaps you may pray for us and the start of a new part of life's journey.
I just heard a loving quote last night which I hold in my heart. Courage is fear that has said its prayers...Ann Lamott! You naturally will feel all of those emotions described...how can you not, she's your mom, and I wish you and your family all the best. Godspeed, lots of love as you go on your journey. Find kindness for yourself too. My best friend and I leave for the Camino del Norte, on April 30th. I will send my prayers to you both. Mom will love your postcards!Starting from SJPP on 20th April. Trying to face my journey with courage but I feel fragile and vulnerable. I will draw on my faith and the kindness of strangers.
Sending you hugs!My mother passed away in the small hours of Wednesday, the day I started walking from St Jean. I found out when I got to Orisson. I am so full of sadness but also thankful for her long life. The grief is almost overwhelming at times. Today is the worst. I arrived in Pamplona and there were no beds at all. I have walked 19 miles today with all the extra walking around albergues etc. When I tried the third Municipal albergue and was turned away I burst into tears. I was so tired and overcome. The lady told me to go to the tourist information. The only beds they could find is out of town and 135 euros. I took it but I'm so sad that the camino spirit seems lacking for me today.
All my condoléances , your burden is very tough right now and it comes at the beginning of the Camino when it is the hardest physically and émotionnally but confide it can only get betterMy mother passed away in the small hours of Wednesday, the day I started walking from St Jean. I found out when I got to Orisson. I am so full of sadness but also thankful for her long life. The grief is almost overwhelming at times. Today is the worst. I arrived in Pamplona and there were no beds at all. I have walked 19 miles today with all the extra walking around albergues etc. When I tried the third Municipal albergue and was turned away I burst into tears. I was so tired and overcome. The lady told me to go to the tourist information. The only beds they could find is out of town and 135 euros. I took it but I'm so sad that the camino spirit seems lacking for me today.
So sad to hear all of that. My thoughts are with you.My mother passed away in the small hours of Wednesday, the day I started walking from St Jean. I found out when I got to Orisson. I am so full of sadness but also thankful for her long life. The grief is almost overwhelming at times. Today is the worst. I arrived in Pamplona and there were no beds at all. I have walked 19 miles today with all the extra walking around albergues etc. When I tried the third Municipal albergue and was turned away I burst into tears. I was so tired and overcome. The lady told me to go to the tourist information. The only beds they could find is out of town and 135 euros. I took it but I'm so sad that the camino spirit seems lacking for me today.
I'm so very sorry for your loss & that you couldn't find a resting place on that sad night. There is a saying 'you never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice'. You are doing this, & yes, you are being tested, but there are lessons in all our 'struggles', & they say we learn our biggest lessons during our hardest struggles. She is with you ... every step of the way, & she is proud that you are carrying on, despite your struggles. Don't question too much. Just take the steps & carry on with your journey. Your 'load' will get lighter. Don't be afraid to share it. Everyone you meet on that road, is on their own journey too ... & 'sharing the load' can help. Remember, you always have an angel by your side too ... & they are great listeners! Sending you courage & warm angel hugs.My mother passed away in the small hours of Wednesday, the day I started walking from St Jean. I found out when I got to Orisson. I am so full of sadness but also thankful for her long life. The grief is almost overwhelming at times. Today is the worst. I arrived in Pamplona and there were no beds at all. I have walked 19 miles today with all the extra walking around albergues etc. When I tried the third Municipal albergue and was turned away I burst into tears. I was so tired and overcome. The lady told me to go to the tourist information. The only beds they could find is out of town and 135 euros. I took it but I'm so sad that the camino spirit seems lacking for me today.
The funeral is late May which means I will get to Santiago but probably not to Finisterre this time. I was willing to go back but there seems little point in grieving at home when I can walk and grieve here.So sorry to hear about your loss. You'll be faced with another dilemma whether to continue or to return for the funeral. Whatever you decide, our prayers are with you.
Good to hear you made it @LongRun64! With all you had to go through, it's an extraordinary achievement. Wouldn't surprise me if somehow little things along the Camino reminded you of your mother. Things we don't often associate but maybe looking back like an ever constant presence. Again condolences to you as you continue to grieve your loss.I arrived in Santiago on 26 May and I feel like I was put in a washing machine and spun round such that I feel I am still spinning. My Camino was extraordinary in so many ways. When I can put some things in context I will post again.
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