PereGringo by Morning
PereGringo by Morning
by Robert Bain | Houston, TX
In 2018, I walked my first of three caminos. I chose the trail name PereGringo to be different and because I live in Texas. It stuck, as pilgrims remembered the moniker and would call it out with a laugh when they spotted me. Communal guitars can sometimes be found hanging on a wall at albergues waiting to be played, and I was fortunate to have the chance to play for my fellow pilgrims along the way. It was my treat to play “La Bamba” as walkers from dozens of countries would sing or hum along. I have been writing songs about the Camino since that first walk, including this one inspired by my trail name.
Song lyrics written to the tune of “Amarillo by Morning” by George Strait. YouTube audio of Strait’s song here.
PereGringo by morning
walks all alone
Orders café con leche at the break of dawn.
Connects with pilgrims along the way
shares stories and laughs
Resting in Pamplona
Tomorrow back on the path.
Grass, gravel, concrete not easy on the feet
20 kilometers to go. Surviving the day’s heat.
Toting a pack filled with snacks and extra sox
facing O’Cebreiro, long day uphill walk.
Strummed a communal guitar closing in on night
Joined by 28 peregrinos singing with delight
A tune about dancing to a rhythmic beat.
All relaxing, not a soul was on his feet.
Pilgrims meal at the table all pray and dine.
Paella and wine to pair a taste genuine
Washing clothes, soothing shower, little time left
He’s asleep by 8 and will rise to do his best.
PereGringo in Santiago, rain pouring down.
Running for cover among the pilgrim crowd.
He’ll take time to understand what was lost and what was found.
Planning his next camino, seeking spiritual ground.
PereGringo by morning, always Santiago bound. (Repeat)
