We have been home for a few days now but I cannot funtcion. I can't get the Camino out of my mind. It seems unnatural to just get back in the old routine of every day life.
I can feel the effects of the long journey physically, through the stiffness throughout my body, especially my legs.
But mostly the emotions of the journey are whirling through my mind. There is so much to digest from what we experienced that I can't let it go. I had so many profound lessons and peak moments that I have to sit with and think about. I need to make room to work on the things I have gleaned from the journey.
It wouldn't make sense to take such an arduous journey and then just let it go as if it were just another trip.
A very select group have the privilege, the desire and the ability of making such a trip. In my case it was more of a "calling". So I think that call was for a reason. That is the part I am still trying to figure out.
I do believe that the Camino is a methaphor for life. There are constantly lessons for us to learn from each other and teach each other in the course of our every day life.
Although I am still in the dark, I have faith that my messages and lessons will be revealed to me as I continue to walk this journey that we call life.
Rita
Rita…you have been a pilgrim in the truest sense of the word's meaning‚ "…a person who journeys to a sacred place for religious reasons."
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful legacy and blessing you have brought home from your walk—and what a gift to those of us who, through your willingness to share via a blog, accompanied you on your journey. Perhaps that's the Camino's first and foremost life metaphor—that life's greatest joys come in sharing with others.
join the club girl,3 months back still working things out.
ReplyDeleteIan
sorry ment to mention-you look like you own the trail in the first pic rita,we have come a long way glad I got to share.
ReplyDeleteIan
Grizzled
ReplyDeleteThank you for coming along on my journey. I enjoyed and appreciated your comments, as well as those from others, while I walked. They were like a balm to my soul, especially on the long hard days when I thought I coudn't go any further. You who fgollowed me were some of my best "camino angels"
And yes sharing was one of the most profound messages that I learned first hand on the journey. More on that in a blog post I am sure.
A big hug
Rita
Ian
ReplyDeleteYou kept my excitement peaked as I followed your camino journey, and I am thankful to you for that. It was a joy hearing from you during my walk. I felt I already knew you as a fellow Pilgrim, so it felt quite right for you to be journeying with me.
As you know, like in the photo, there are days when you are the only Pilgrim on the trail for hours at a time. Always a great time for thinking, praying and meditating.
Yes, we have come a long way, and we have so much more to learn from our camino experience.
Hugs
Rita
I have discovered that the most profound journeys abroad result in the longest and most difficult re-entry periods. It does take time to adjust to the culture shock of being back in the US and then the more minute details related to "everyday life." Give yourself time and you'll find your way again.
ReplyDeleteOh, Rita! What an honor to have had this peek into your journey. Blessings to you as you sort and sift. Will you write a book? :)
ReplyDeleteRita, I've enjoyed following your journey. Your life will never be quite the same. A mundane question. Could you do a blog entry on your Blackberry experience? What model do you have? You were on Verizon. Did you have to do anything special for Europe? What were rough costs for an entry in Europe? Was reception good in most places? Would you recommend it to someone else? etc. etc. etc
ReplyDeleteMountain.mamma
ReplyDeleteYou are so right, I notice that each time I travel for a long period that it is difficult to get back to "normal"
But even more so on a spiritual pilgrimage.
thanks for all your messages. they kept me uplifted just when I needed it.
Hugs
Rita
Cheryl
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for joining me on my journey. People back home kept me going with their comments. It was a great help.
As for a book...many keep asking, but I don't think that is going to happen...but then...who knows?
Hugs
Rita
Timecheck
ReplyDeleteThanks , Hmmm...I do remember you saying before I left that my life would never be the same...now I know exactly what you were talking about. As an experienced pilgrim yourself, you have been there!
Good idea about the blackberry...I loved it and would recommend it.
I will put something together about it.
Hugs
Rita
Hi Mom, I love the new pictures you posted, it's just like being there again. All of the pictures are so different, but they are sights you would see daily. We are all still whirling from the journey. It's more of a beginning than an end for me, even though it's been nearly a year since the planning and training began. I think about the people we met the last night in Santiago. One guy translated for another and the message was think about the trip and why we have met. His name was John The Door (english translation for Jean La Porte). I still can't figure out if when I left I was exiting through the Door or entering. Very Interesting. Heidi
ReplyDeleteHello Rita, These photos and your words are potent reminders of the Camino and all you gained from your journey spiritually, emotionally, and physical. Take time to reflect and also rest you body.
ReplyDeleteNow that you are home and fresh with all your thoughts you can review your journey on your blog...and appreciate your endurance even more.
ReplyDeleteHi Wanda
ReplyDeleteI have been doing just that. It brings it all right back even more so.
Hugs
Rita
A lovely post, Rita - and I empathize with every word. The Camino continues, for you, for me, for all of us. It is endless.
ReplyDeleteHello Solitary
ReplyDeleteIt would be pointless to walk the camino and not try to glean the wonderful lessons. I am spending a lot of time just sitting and reflecting on my journey. Yes the camino continues and is endless....how wonderful!!
Hugs
Rita