It has been a while since my last post and so much had changed since then. Rachel and I are on the last bus to Zaragoza. Tomorrow we will start our pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. From all the cars, trains, planes and busses I’ve managed to effectively waste a significant quantity of fuel to get here. From tomorrow until the third week of May, I will do no more to contribute to that consumption. We will be traveling from Zaragoza by foot. The ‘plan’ is to continue North to Logroño where we will meet up with the French route.
Over the last week we had the privilege to meet a wise man, who prepared us immensely for our journey. His name was Josep ‘Canario’ Martín from Tenerife. He woke up early every morning to juggle in the park everywhere he traveled. Some of the advice he gave us has already saved up. I’ll make a short list of some of the things I’ve learned for the Camino/Traveling.
1) Always carry a small jar of olive oil and buy bread from the bakery, not the store.
An easy thing to carry while walking is a baguette, so when you leave the city in the morning stop by the bakery. The bread will be fresh and last until you’re ready for lunch. If you’re unable to bring other foods, olive oil on the bread will give you the extract energy you may need to make it to the next town. It is also wonderful for your skin and tastes wonderful here.
2) Always keep a sharp eye on your bag.
I don’t think this one needs a ton of explaining, just a bit of practice. Be attentive to your surroundings, and remember that there are crazy people in this world – especially in hostels.
3) Never to forget family.
It’s rare that you see a man in his early 40’s who loves his mother as much as Josep did. He reminded me the importance of family. Last year my family got a lot smaller with the loss of my uncle. It was incredibly difficult for all of us to lose a man who loved us that much. As we got to know Josep he took on the role of an uncle/brother for Rachel and me. He gave us his mother’s number, since his is always changing during his travels. He said if we ever can make it, we would be welcomed openly by his family in Tenerife.
4) “No plan, no prison”, making plans adds unneeded baggage.
Take everyday minute by minute. For a couple days Josep discussed coming with us on the Camino. This was an exciting idea for us, and we knew that having a guide would change the trip for us. After a few days though, we realized that it would be better for Rachel and I to just walk together. When I told him this, instead of getting hurt or upset, he gave me a hug and said no worries. We decided to stay in Barcelona an extra day to say goodbye to the man who became a brother to me. I will be forever greatful for what he taught me.
5) Always ask for help at the church first.
Once entering a city, head straight towards to church. Don’t stop to ask people or the police where to stay, ask the local priest. We were told that once explaining we are pilgrims, the priest will know people who can help, and put us in contact. From there they will likely know another person in the next town to stay in.
These 5 simple things have already made the greatest difference in my life. He taught us so much more about love, happiness, spirituality, and peace. I will be forever greatful for Tío / Hermano Josep, the Canario.