I came across this CNN Travel article in my morning reading. It has general interest about the Camino. IMHO, it applies to all, want-t0-be, new and veteran pilgrims. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did.
Tom
This is the first article that I can remember that captures so much of what pilgrimage is, and how special being a pilgrim and living life as simply and with just the bare minimum of possessions. Just walking with the necessities of pilgrimage and life. Walking with peace and tranquility and being thankful of nature and the wonderful people, local people or pilgrims alike. I loved reading the different sections of what are the most basic and important aspects of why one walks. It was especially refreshing not to read about Michelin restaurants, hotels, luggage transportation (although I know that shipping backpacks makes it possible for more people to walk and this is only a good thing), complaints that a bed was too hard, or a bathroom not cleaned properly, etc. etc. etc.
We all have our own perspective on so many things in life. Mine is no better or worse than yours. But it is how I feel. A camino is not supposed to be easy. A camino is and should be hard. The balance of pain and pleasure makes everything richer.
As the writer of this story says:
You also must sort through your rucksack and get rid of the superfluous stuff – what my best friend calls the non-essential “just in case” items we always insist on packing.
Most importantly, you must sift through and reduce your “emotional rucksack”: all that unnecessary anger, bitterness, shame and blaming of yourself and others that you carry from life. Apply the spiritual version of zinc oxide tape: forgiveness – both to yourself and others.
So much less is so much more. Free your mind of the crap that brought you here. For so many, we have been carrying this around for years. Will it change? Most likely no. Forgive yourself, stop thinking, free your mind, and your body and spirit will follow.
As I say to so many, listen to your body, your mind will only get you in more trouble. Rid your thoughts of what was or what could be, all you have is the step you are taking.
Love this story. Thank you