Saturday, September 5, 2009

The Journey Begins

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step"
Lao Tzu

Yesterday we took our last long training walk. Our next long walk will be on the Camino de Santiago.
It was low tide, so we took our river walk. I tried to walk in my husband's footsteps as we walked along the riverbed. He has such a long stride, it made it almost impossible to do without falling in the muck. Now I know why he is always so far ahead of me and I have to work at it to keep up the pace.

Tomorrow we will be on a plane on our way to Spain. Today I am in a thoughtful mood, full of trepidation and questions.
Will I be able to make this long journey? Am I prepared enough? Physically, I think yes. But what about Mentally? Emotionally? Spiritually?
I live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. I have the greatest family that any one could ever ask for. Every day I give thanks for the abundance and beauty in my life.  So, why do I wander so far? Why take on such a grueling challenge, both mentally and physically? What do I expect I learn, if anything?

They say I will walk one million footsteps on my journey across Spain. But if the saying is true, that "we are not human beings having a spiritual experience, we are spiritual beings having a human experience", then wouldn't it be right to say that our life IS the journey?
So many questions swirling in my mind....
I only know that I will walk consciously, and joyfully, and thoughtfully, greeting each day as a new day, a new experience; a new adventure of my mind, my body and my spirit.  I will walk in the footsteps of all the millions of Pilgrims who have walked before me and I will be giving thanks for all that I have been blessed with every day of my life.
I wish you peace, love and laughter
Rita


10 comments:

  1. Rita, I sent your link to my hubby because he would enjoy taking your 'spiritual' trip with you in Spain. His name is George.

    I love your quote that we are not human beings having a spiritual experience, we are spiritual beings having a human experience. That is so neat---and TRUE.

    I'm so happy for you. Please keep us posted along the way.

    God Speed --and God Bless You.
    Hugs,
    Betsy

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  2. Hi Betsy
    I will do my best to blog from the Camino. thanks for "introducing" me to George. And thanks for the well wishes. You and your family will be in my prayers as I walk.
    Hugs
    Rita

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  3. Rita you are going to be just fine! Take it easy the first few days - it is a roller-coaster of up and down hills so just go slow until you are fitter. There are many going with you in spirit (and many millions who have gone before you!) We all want you to enjoy it, to embrace it and to feel the wonder of it.

    We are pilgrims on a journey,
    We are travelers on the road;
    We are here to help each other
    Walk the mile and bear the load.

    I will weep when you are weeping;
    When you laugh I'll laugh with you.
    I will share your joy and sorrow
    'Til we've seen this journey through.

    The Servant Song - by: Richard Gillard

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  4. Hi Sil
    Thank you so much for your words of encouragement. They mean a lot to me. I love the Servant Song. I just copied it to my journal, so I can read when I need a little support(or pass it on, when someone else needs support).
    Hugs
    Rita

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  5. Hi Rita,
    I believe you're ready on all counts. Be mindful and open to adventure! Looking forward to your updates! Safe Trip.

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  6. Buen Camino y Buen Vijae Rita.

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  7. Good cheer Rita

    Happy Trails and adventures
    Travel well with camino friends
    Jim

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  8. take some vino tinto for your health,walk slowly and take it all in.
    good luck
    Ian

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