Some Lessons from the Camino 

It has been several days and 10 journal pages since I last posted. In that time, we’ve walked 64 km. The Camino continues to teach new lessons every day. Here are three. 

God speaks through whom He will. If necessary, He will send updates and clarifications. 

Several days ago, an issue with which I have been wrestling was answered by the sudden appearance of and subsequent conversation with Friar David of the Pilgrim Friars of the Camino. 

When, upon further reflection, I decided that I didn’t really know what to make of this encounter, Friar David obligingly appeared again the next day to clarify. 

God gives you what you need, not necessarily what you want. 

Many of the places that had such a profound impact on me during my first Camino – Eunate, the monastery of Santa María la Real – have been closed, while other places that I didn’t visit last time – San Juan Bautista in Obanos, Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Navarrete – have had such meaning and importance this time. 

A word about the church in Navarrete: it is glorious beyond words. Go take a look at the photos – the link to all of the photos is on the side bar. 

And it was the first church we’ve encountered that has had designated and marked Holy Doors, not to mention a “welcome table” with information for pilgrims and a promise that the parish would pray for us. 

All distances are lies. 

The stated walking distance between any two places on the Camino are largely a matter of opinion. No two maps agree, and signs don’t agree with any of the maps or with each other. 

This can be disconcerting at first, but once you accept this, you have truly entered into the timeless spirit of the Camino.