Walking The Walk
At the time of writing this it is day 11 of my adventures in Portugal and Spain. It has been quite the journey. I have met so many different and amazing people along the way. Sounds cliché, but it is simply true. It is fascinating how fast connections are built on the camino. 5 minutes of small talk’s enough to dive deeper. “Why are you doing the camino?” is already a question that reveals more about the person than many other questions ever could.
I’ll answer that question myself for context. For me doing the camino was not about the physical challenge — 280km is indeed the longest distance I have walked, that being said I was confident about my physical state to endure such a challenge. For me it was about putting myself in a situation where I travel alone. I had travelled from A to B alone before, but it was always to visit someone, be it family or friends. The challenge was to push myself to be social with strangers.
I would argue that I achieved that goal rather well. I have made good friends on this little walk. It has been a spiritual journey. Not the one I expected or could have expected whatsoever to be honest. It was about learning to form connections quickly and efficiently. I have been told by reliable sources (my mom) that I am very adaptable to novel environments. I think this experience was a milestone in making it clear to myself what I am capable of in that sense.
All of the relationships built here came with a certain deadline (which was actually helpful). The time of the trip if you will. So there was a novel mentality which formed for me — not holding back any thoughts, fear of judgment was inexistant. It just made sense to share and ask more. It made sense to not fear rejection since it did not matter. There will be a completely new set of people around the next day. This sense of pressure was just off my shoulders. I am hoping I can keep this momentum for my life post-camino as well! Very freeing way to flow through it all.
Also for anyone interested, firstly my dm’s are open. Secondly, anyone can do it. No matter the age or sex. The range of age was from 10 to 80 years old who all were walking the same route. For me it is most interesting when done alone though— it creates more space to interact with others on the same path.
This Week’s Suggestions:
This song came out this week. Used is a well established Belgian drum and bass producer at this point. This easy-going melodic dance-floor song is perfect for summer playlists! Have a listen!
Have a good one:)
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