It’s wild to believe I’m in month 11 of the Race. As this season comes to a close I am filled with bittersweet feelings. My squad-mate, Allie, once asked- What sauce would you describe your day?. Today I am choosing to describe my month as sweet and sour. August has been giving me what I need and not what I expected. A few weeks ago I went to the hospital to get my foot checked out and found out I damaged my ligaments and tendons. Because of this debsaster I had to stop because I wasn’t allowed to walk for 10 days. I never expected to be alone or away from my team/squad.
God gave me the word unfamiliar for our final month. I was so excited to walk the 300 miles from Burgos to Santiago de Compostela. The Father has an unpredictable way of giving us what we need and not what we want. I quickly began to realize my purpose was not to walk the Camino de Santiago but to volunteer within the albergue. I came to the Camino looking for answers. Instead I am choosing not to know the answers but have an open heart and be surprised by what I find. The Father has used the Sister and volunteer workers at Santa Maria de Carbajalas to lead me to Santiago. Each and every person has taught me lessons I will use to find the way.
Not going to lie, I was infuriated when I was told I couldn’t walk for 10 days. It’s not what I expected and it was especially not what I wanted. My choices were to wallow within the storm or to change the direction of the wind. As typical I chose to adjust my sails in order to reach my destination. I don’t know what the rest of my path looks like yet. I’m just crutching/walking on it.
The enemy threw me into the Leóns den and expected me to be filled with bitterness. In reality to be cared for by the people who make up Santa Maria de Carbajalas has been a huge blessing. These people have become my community and family over the past few days. I got so much joy helping stamp people’s credentials and having great conversations (thanks to my foot). Being in an unfamiliar environment with complete strangers has given me sweetness in the sourness. Even tho this month went different than expected I’m thankful for the debsaster relief team the Father blessed me with.
Debsaster Relief Team Members:
Fernando always went above and beyond to make sure I had everything I needed. He always joked about me being a big client and challenged me to use my Spanish more. I’m so grateful for his heart to make me feel like a sister!
Andrés is simply one of a kind. Every morning when he passed by I would hear “Good Morning Sarah”. Throughout the day he was always there to make me laugh as we checked people in or just hanging out. I’m so grateful for his lightheartedness that made this debsaster full of sweet memories.
Momma P, augh I just love everything about her! She constantly made sure I was taking things slow, being fed, and asking about my pain levels. I’m grateful for the way she made me feel like her own daughter.
Ester is filled with patience, grace, and beauty. We spent snippets of our days practicing English and Spanish conversations. Quickly she became an aunt figure by her encouragement and acts of service. I’m so grateful for her simple ways of showing deep love.
Sister Anna has been in charge of this albergue for the past 30 years. She was like a grandmother who made me feel like part of the albergue family and spoiled me. I’m so grateful for her hospitality and precious love.
P.S.- If you’re ever walking the French Way of the Camino de Santiago I highly recommend stopping in León. I can promise you will not regret the experience and love shown by the people of Santa Maria de Carbajalas!
