Buen Camino Again

I have discovered along the way how easily Pilgrims are to spot in any town along the Camino. Their slight to extreme hobble, a very underdressed look compared to the decked out Spanish, knee or ankle braces, sunburned, than once seated comparing their new and old blisters is a must, as well as trading theories on curing those darn things, an alcoholic drink in hand, and a smile on their face… Oh Buen Camino!!
To be honest this Camino adventure is not really what I had expected. I mean I did not know what to expect, but it has been fairly hard. Like fellow pilgrims I have dealt with several blisters, sunburn, a surprisingly painful bee sting, an terrible stomach virus yesterday, a quite heavy pack, as well as sore feet, knees, and hips. It would be a lie to tell anyone that this was an easy trek. No it is not Everest, for we have a place to stay every night, towns all along the way to get a great cup of café con leche or a fresh baguette, and stunning scenery. Yet, it is still very challenging.
Among the pilgrims traveling the Camino it is thought that there are three stages. They are Physical, Mental, and Spiritual. I am almost half way through my journey and as stated above oh boy have I experienced the Physical, and in every realm. I now am in a different area of the Camino known for its flat plains, and long stretches in between towns. I am totally feeling the mental strain now. For walking practically alone, for about 7 hours, with little change in scenery or town, is the perfect recipe to get your brain into a tizzy. The past few days I have spent the hours listening to music, praying, crying who knows how many times, thinking about home, my loved ones, my Germany experience, and wondering why the heck did I choose to walk 25-30 km a day…You know I am not sure right now. But I have learned SO much already. I wonder how God could possibly teach me more in these next few weeks. I got an big wake up call, of my thirst for control in my life. And Boom, HELLO, my plan for my life sucks. I praise The Lord all through the day that He is holding my hand leading me on along this walk into His beautiful plan. A new start each day. He never ceases to make us new, we just need to rely on him. Lean on his immaculate grace. I am dumbfounded by His mercy…yet I think that is the perfect place to be. For if I could understand my Heavenly Father, would He really be God? God is inconceivable (yes said in the same way as the guy from Princess Bride). "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power at work within us.." Ephesians 3:20. Each day when I wake up sore, in a new bed, and in a new city, I just have to remind myself of God's promise that He will never leave me or forsake me. And not only that, but He is walking beside me every step of the way, I just have to choose to draw nearer to Him.

Buen Camino (Greeting said to Pilgrims from fellow Pilgrims as well most Spaniards you pass by, literally it means Good Path/way)