2030 Hrs, 2/23/11

Sitting here in a bar in Leon, Castilla y Leon reflecting on 500 Km of the Camino is challenging. First, I feel like I need to try to define the Camino. But, even that is like trying to explain LIFE in a few short words; it just can't be done.

Physically, the Camino, is an ever-changing platform. Sometimes it's a dirt road, sometimes it's asphalt, other times it takes you through two dilapidated Spanish buildings that once was someone's village home. It's rocky sometimes. It's windy sometimes. Cold. Sunny. Raining. Trees, fields, mud- you name it.

Spiritually, the Camino, is a constant correlation to life. It is ever-changing; it encompasses days in which you feel you have so much energy and drive that you can go forever, other days you are lucky to just walk half of the day without pain somewhere in your mind or body.

There is a different and similar reason why most everyone is here- they are looking for something in themselves- reasons, answers, or God. I don't know if any of these answers really ever come to anyone who takes on the task of the Camino. I have met several Camino goers who have multiple treks to their name; some have found what they believe to be answers and others are still searching- for what, I don't believe they even know.

For me, I'm not here to "find myself"; I already know who I am- I'm here to accept who I am. Odd enough, in speaking with others, my reason seems to be a unique motive for being here. But, truly, there is no self-help book in the world that can help you or your relationships (past, present, or future) unless you are first accepting of who you are, to the core.

I will climb aboard a train tomorrow night to take about 180 K off the total distance of the St Jean to Santiago trek due to realizing I could not do it ALL in the time and pace that I had originally set for myself, but, you know what-- I'm okay with that. Perfection is not all it is cracked up to be!

Photo: My walking shadow.