Since I walked the Camino de Santiago in 2018, several people have reached out to me asking if I have any advice or tips before they made their own way on the Camino
Yes I do. Here are a couple…
On spiritual matters...
This is a pilgrimage. It isn’t a hike, or a fitness challenge. It’s not a credibility grab. You are walking with your fellow pilgrims and with God. He has already gone ahead of you and prepared you. Your Camino doesn’t start at the airport, or in Saint Jean Pied de Port, or Leon. Your Camino began the moment He called you. You will realize at some point, perhaps long after you arrive in Santiago and returned home that you've always "been on the way".
You will see beauty and miracles. Look for them.
The Camino is a metaphor for life. It is a journey, a road. It has ups and downs. You'll see glorious beauty. You'll experience rain and cloudy days. You will hurt. You will heal. You will laugh.
Your fellow pilgrims are there to accompany you on life’s journey. You will treasure some of them, you will remember some of them. Some will be with you for a short time and lift your spirits, others you may walk with for many days in a row, then never see them again.
Allow your heart and your voice to be softened by your steps. Believe in the goodness of those around you, and believe that Papa will provide for you. You never walk alone.
As you walk, you will be sure to have memories from your past visit with you. I have found that the Lord was bringing these memories forward for reflection and healing. Let Him work out these things in your heart. Ask Him to speak into them as they come to the surface, and then surrender them to Him for healing.
There is a saying that "The Camino provides". This is true, but know that it is God who provides. He is the Way.
On practical matters...
Socks - I’ve walked three times, and thanks be to God, I’ve never had a blister. My winning sock combination was shared with me by another pilgrim who had the same experience. Want to know what it is? Injii toe sock liners, and cool max wool Merino socks from REI. Yes, those silly Injii cotton toe sock liners where you can see your individual toes. 56 days walking over 890 kilometers and never had a blister. (Thank you Jesus!)
We are all carrying too much stuff. Metaphorically, and literally. You will find as you continue down the path that we really don't need very much stuff. Lighten your pack, get rid of things you were never supposed to carry. Again, metaphorically and literally. Keep your pack light.
Keep some snacks with you for days when Spaniards shut down their business, bar, or cafe to celebrate a Church holiday. This happens often, Spaniards like to party.
Listen to your body, and listen to your spirit. There may be days where you have to keep going to reach your albergue. There may be days when you need to stop and smell the flowers. Both are valid.
The Brierly guide books are great for their information, and their reflections. Both have great value on the journey.
Bed race. Many area on the Camino have become very crowded through the walking season, and this has created a "bed race" mentality. It was never supposed to be like this, but it is. Do not let this take away from your peace on Camino. Some will take the path of making reservations for their entire journey, and some will drift in to town being led by the Holy Spirit. Both are valid.
On arriving in Santiago...
I would encourge you to sit in the Plaza and reflect on "arriving". Experience the emotions. Say a prayer of Thanksgiving for a safe journey. Celebrate.
Attend the pilgrim Mass in the Cathedral. It is beautiful.
Get your Compostela!
For my Catholic friends and readers...go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. There is plenty of penance in walking hundreds of kilometers. Leave your sins at the feet of Jesus and walk in freedom. A plenary indulgence is possible!
Saint James' tomb is in the basement of the Cathedral. Stand in the line and go say a prayer of gratitude. Once you complete that, follow the line upstairs to hug the Apostle and (quoting the Brierly guide book) "say what you came here to say".
What advice or tips would you add? Comment below!
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