Carrying Home Camino Lessons
Carrying Home Camino Lessons
by Michael Haynes | Metairie, LA
September 30, 2012
I arose early and went down for breakfast. The Scottish lady was already there, but she finished before me. Yesterday, Anders, Little Italy, and Meecha took the bus to Finisterre. The couple from South Africa were headed out this morning, walking to the “end of land.” The Scottish lady was going there, too, but just for a day trip. I finished my coffee and walked out the door of the monastery that had been converted into a hotel.
Clouds covered the city, and a light rain set in. With everyone gone, a sadness suddenly enveloped me. The weight of this emotional drain made my legs feel so heavy I could hardly move. I proceeded through the arched gateway to the main plaza. Yesterday this passage had been such a triumphant entry point; now that seemed just a faded memory. New pilgrims were in the plaza, basking in their triumph.
The gloomy day matched my emotions; my Camino was over.
I took the train to Madrid and got to the hotel late. By nine the next morning, I was working my way through airport ticket agents, security, and passport control. Poor weather delayed my connecting flight and put me back in my hometown around 9 p.m. (4 a.m. Madrid time). I called home but no one answered. I was so tired my body was numb. I collected my checked backpack and headed out the airport door to the passenger pick-up area and my ride home. Several minutes passed and no ride appeared. I phoned home again and learned that my wife didn’t get my earlier message and was ready for bed. She suggested I take the airport shuttle. My “pissed-off” meter spiked immediately!
After I hung up, I collected myself. Had I not learned anything from the past 31 days? I’d just walked over 470 miles; an additional 30 would be an easy two-day hike, plus, I could spend the night in a luxurious hotel. The other option before me was to take a shuttle and ride home on a soft, cushioned seat with my backpack stowed and be home in less than an hour. As I reconsidered my situation, my attitude turned 180 degrees. I arrived home less than an hour later in a great mood and thankful that my time on the Camino had helped me recognize the difference between convenient and inconvenient. I pray that I will always be more grateful for what I have rather than troubled by what I don’t have. Amen.
