I started hiking the 900kms to Santiago, on to Finisterre, with no idea what to expect. I had read a couple books, did some online research, I spoke to some that experienced it themselves. The Camino is a personal journey. It’s not something that can be explained. It strips life down to its most basic and simple form. It allows all of the self, all of what is inside of you, to be magnified and brought to the surface. There’s no hiding, you and the basic items in your backpack are all that you have. It forces you to be with yourself. To look at the inner workings of who you actually are. For 900kms you are your worst or best companion. .
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The Camino is a challenging journey of the body, mind, and spirit. It gives you what you need and allows you to give away what you don’t. Everyone’s experience is different; everyone walks their own path. Every person who walks the Camino will have stories to tell. .
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When I started the Camino I had no idea what my stories would be. Where my inner journey would take me. How much my life would be altered. I am forever thankful I chose to take a walk across Spain. Without obstacle or hesitation, the Camino de Santiago showed me the good and kindness in humanity when striped down to its most basic form. It gave me clarity, peace, and forgiveness. It showed me how deep my inner strength ran. It gave me many lifelong friends and a common bond with anyone who set out on the same path. It gave me a new perspective on my own emotions and heart. .
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The shells and yellow arrows guided me deeper into myself while moving forward across the varying altitudes and landscapes. I am forever grateful for taking my first step into the unknown. And, I look forward to doing it again…with just a few more kms added next time