”…I will literally pay you to get me out of here! I’ve tried finding the way to get out of this town all day and I just can’t find it. Please! Help me!” These words were what greeted us from a distraught man when we reached our Albergue last night. Can’t blame him cause I’ve thought very similar things the last few days.
While walking the steep ascents and descents Katie and I were reminded of old coaches who’ve said “With every downhill there’s an uphill”. How fitting because these last few days have been full of highs and lows.
The views are stunning. We’ve walked in rain and shine…along beaches, countryside and highways. The path never gets terribly crowded which offers space to think. Even when all you can think about is how much pain you’re feeling. Every so often I’ll pass by another peregrino for a bit. That’s not entirely accurate if anyone passes they are usually passing me. The different Albergues where we stay each night are filled with a diverse array of nationalities. Bhutan, Italy, France, Japan, Poland, Russia, Uruguay, etc. Each one having unique stories and experiences. I met one woman from France who started in April on the Francés way. She walked all the way to Compostela de Santiago and is now walking back on the Norte way! As long as her legs don’t give out she says. I’m like befumbled. How cool. We’ve gotten lost (several times), visited hospitals and clinics for X-rays and shots in the butt (don’t worry mom we are all fine), and slid down muddy mountain sides (again mom just to reiterate we are all 100% fine).
That all shared we keep ticking on following the little yellow arrows.
Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.
As they pass through the Valley of Baka,
they make it a place of springs;
the autumn rains also cover it with pools.[a]
They go from strength to strength,
till each appears before God in Zion.
Hear my prayer, Lord God Almighty;
listen to me, God of Jacob.
Psalm 84:5-8
