Grateful Hearts on the Camino Francés
Grateful Hearts on the Camino Francés
by Joanna Sands | Ocala, FL
Meeting fellow hikers and locals along the way was a special highlight of my daily walk along the Camino Francés. The trail community was remarkable for its warmth and generosity. Strangers quickly became friends, sharing stories, advice, and sometimes a communal meal. These encounters reinforced my belief in the inherent kindness of people and added a rich layer of human connection to my solo adventure. Yet, despite the camaraderie and shared experiences, I couldn’t shake the feeling that a deeper meaning lay just beyond my grasp. For me the Camino still had a message in store that wouldn’t be revealed until the day before I walked into Santiago.
I was passing through a fragrant eucalyptus forest approaching O Pedrouzo, Spain, when my gaze fell upon a large, white rock directly in my path. Its stark contrast against the earth caught my attention immediately. I stopped and knelt down, examining this curious interruption. It was unmistakably heart-shaped, with a thickness and density that suggested permanence and resilience. Yet, it was partially buried, as if the earth itself was reluctant to let it go. Curiosity piqued, and I decided to free this heart-shaped wonder. It required some effort, but soon enough, it was resting in the palm of my hand. Both sides mirrored each other in their heart-shaped perfection. Something about it resonated deeply within me, an inexplicable connection that I couldn’t articulate. I slipped it into my pocket, feeling its comforting weight as I continued my trek.
That night I examined the heart-shaped rock, with its white sheen reminiscent of Mother of Pearl. It was more than just a treasure found along the path; it was a symbol of gratitude. Its heart shape on both sides signified its strength, and despite its blemishes and discolorations, it was still a heart—my own heart.
This heart-shaped rock was a reflection of me and my journey. It embodied my heart, with all its imperfections and resilience. As I continued my walk toward Santiago, I felt confident that the Camino would guide me to the right spot to return the rock to nature. The moment arrived, and I placed the beautiful, scarred yet strong heart-shaped rock in a special place along the trail. It would be a message for someone else, a testament to the journey we all undertake. As I laid it down, I understood that life would bring more scars and heartbreak, but it would also bring kindness, love, and caring people, if I opened my heart, trusted, and allowed it to happen. The heart-shaped rock is a constant reminder to carry gratitude and to trust the path ahead.
