Before I left for my Europe 2017 adventures, my mama sat with me as I ate my usual Vegemite and peanut butter on toast. She commented on how she could see me connecting with so many wise ‘older people’ on my Camino travels. “They are going to share pearls of wisdom with Laura”!
We both imagined grey silver haired men and women sharing their life tails as I walked alongside them on a bush track… ‘We shall see hey’ I responded!
There certainly have been many incredible silver haired people whom I have hugged, chatted and slept next to in 30 bed dormitory rooms. However, most of the incredible Camino characters who have touched my heart are aged between 20-30 years old!
The soul has no age!!
Let me tell you about them and what they have taught me…
The lone wolf pilgrim:
An incredible Canadian fella with an awesome belly laugh! He walks hard, reads hard, is consistent and friendly and has incredible social boundaries! Everyone knows him and I’m sure adores him, but also respect his boundaries and space. Whenever I see him, he lights up my day! He expects nothing from those he interacts with and just appreciates the moment, then goes on his merry way while he gracefully gets clearer about what he wants from life!!
Smiley Pilgrim:
You can see her smile fill the room and her calming energy is always welcomed. She can laugh, talk seriously, share her vulnerabilities, and offer support! She has gained clarity in her direction by being authentic about where she is at. The good bits and the tough slogs. She’s sorting stuff out one step at a time!
The wise pilgrim:
I’ve named her after a Camino app! She is a quiet leader who doesn’t need to cause a who-ha to have an impact. She wears socks and sandals and owns it confidently, but is also incredibly perceptive and observant! She knows her purpose is greater than most, but she takes it in her stride one step at a time and can have a great laugh along the way! And she’s only like 22!
The Alaskan Pilgrims:
A gorgeous family of 4. Mum, Dad and their 2 gorgeous kids who are travelling for 12 months! They have walked from Loupe in France and are walking all the way to Finisterre! That’s over 1100km! Can you believe that? These kids are so happy and friendly. They are a team of 4 who work together to make this adventure work! The mini’est Alaskan and I have a special little bond based on hugs and a love for ice cream! Deep I know ha. I promised her that one day I will travel like this with my own family and I mean it.
Super Steve Pilgrim:
Oh what a delight. This young man has asked me some of the most interesting questions along our walks which have really made me both think and feel. He says things like ‘I love my job, I miss it Laura’! He is in love with life, feels privileged for his humble fortunes and strives to be the best version of himself. His secret weapons are- asking incredible questions and listening!!
Last but not least..
Unconditional Love Pilgrim:
She’s lived and loved and continues to do so. She embraces everyone and Every experience with enthusiasm- even if it fuckin hurts! She loves the good, bad and ugly in everyone- and her incredible ability to make ANYONE laugh including herself is admirable! May she turn some of that love inwards.
Thank you, Camino characters, for making my heart and belly feel really full!!
I would be here till June 2018 if I named all the incredible souls I’ve met to date. So I’ll pause there for now!
Simply BLISSfull
-x-
SimBLISSity 