Time for reflection – on the Camino Trail
Perhaps it is fitting, that after only a few days of walking with others, today is a day of serious reflection, and I walk alone.
The Camino is a very personal journey, and for me, represents a transition zone and re-evaluation of my life, where it is going, and how I am going to get myself there! I am a very lucky girl. I have had many opportunities to travel (only a percentage of my adventures are actually on this blog) and many more will come! I have my health, and while over active at times, I also have my mind. For these things, I am grateful.
The trail from Pamplona to Uterga was perfect for me today. There were many opportunities to stop and reflect on life. Last night, I received some bad news from home – a serious car accident with dire consequences affected a member of my family. I am still anxiously waiting on more news, but this has given me plenty to reflect upon!
As some of you know, I was involved in an accident in 2011 – it could have been far more life altering that it was. I have been told that I am lucky I still can walk – perhaps one the reasons I have decided to walk the Camino. I am so very grateful that I can do this, and while my legs and feet hurt, I am able to keep going, knowing that this is a privilege.
The terrain of the Camino Trail continues to surprise me. The descents are steep, with loose rocks making a turn of the ankle a real possibility each step of the way. I find it gives rise to many small stops, to rest the knees and ankles. It also gives me time to think, to take pause and reflect on the wonders of life.
My reflection today centered on life – how fragile it can be, and how fortunate I am to be living the life I live, even with it’s ups and downs. It is much like the Camino Trail as I go up and down, over the ranges, between towns, and onwards with my fellow pilgrims.
The Camino Trail is a religious pilgrimage that has been walked for centuries. It is also a spiritual walk. Many walk for so many different reasons – for those walking the entire route, from St Jean Pied du Port to Santiago de Compestella, it is a significant journey. For me, it is a definitely a significant journey and time for reflection.
Thank you for joining me as I undertake this pilgrimage.
Whether in life or on the trail, Buen Camino.
Hope you get better news about your relative, very soon.
Enjoying your posts and photos about the Camino
Posted by Marianne | September 12, 2012, 9:09 amThanks Marianne! It has been an added challenge along the way. I already had a lot to reflect upon as I walk the Camino de Santiago! It really makes one realize how precious life is!
Posted by Anita Mac | September 12, 2012, 10:19 amYes, indeed.
Posted by Marianne | September 12, 2012, 10:29 amAnita, best wishes sent your way. A thoughtful post.
Posted by drawandshoot | September 12, 2012, 10:43 amThanks Karen. I am finding the time to think on the Camino comes in waves. At times, there is loads of time, others – there are loads of people! Regardless, it is an interesting journey and I am looking forward to much more time of reflection.
Posted by Anita Mac | September 12, 2012, 2:45 pmlooks fantastic, must be great, and reflections are always a bonus !
enjoy every step and every thought.
Posted by pim | September 12, 2012, 11:26 amThanks Pim! Just wait til the photos from the good camera become available! Will have to wait til the end of the Camino as the camera and the misty conditions did not go so well together!
Posted by Anita Mac | September 12, 2012, 2:46 pmSo sorry to hear your news, it’s times like these we are reminded to be thankful for all that we have in our lives. Thanks for reminding us all of this. I wish you all the best on the remainder of your journey and of course, for your family member too.
Posted by miramiandmog | September 12, 2012, 1:28 pmIt is true – so important to be thankful for what we have! Even when times are tough! Thanks for the good wishes – we are hopefully for a strong recovery.
Posted by Anita Mac | September 12, 2012, 2:47 pmLoving your post – beautiful photos – thanks for taking your readers along:)
Posted by cravesadventure | September 14, 2012, 7:07 pmBuen Camino, Anita. I’m sorry about the bad news from home, and hope it’s improved by now.
Posted by Robin | September 17, 2012, 1:56 pmGlad to say that, while it took some time…all is almost back to normal!
Posted by Anita Mac | February 22, 2013, 11:21 pm