A Necklace from a Camino Angel
A Necklace from a Camino Angel
by Paula Kowalkowski | Arlington Heights, IL
Our journey begins in Vigo, Spain, in April 2023. We set out on our first day, climbing out of town with spectacular views of the bay. As we enter the sacristy of the Iglesia Parroquial da Inmaculada Concepción, a priest stamps our Credencials. I say a prayer for the day ahead, and we exit the church.
Appearing out of nowhere is a tall man carrying necklaces with religious medals. He hands each of us a necklace, and we start digging into our backpacks for a few coins to give him. He emphatically says, “No, no money.” He tells our guide that he wants us to have these as we walk. Hugging each of us tenderly, he tells us to pay it forward, and says, “May it be a good way. Buen Camino!” We stop to take a group picture with this gentle soul. I look at our group and we are all in tears as this Camino angel disappears as quietly as he arrived.
A year and a half later, I still wear this necklace as often as I can—a beautiful reminder of my days on the Camino. It helps me recall the friendships made, the steps taken, the images seen, and the lessons received.
The Camino brought peace and joy back into my life after two years of grief over a loved one’s illness and death. I feel I have been given a license to be joyful again in simple, humble ways. The Camino seems to do that—look here at this beautiful view, be aware of this next step, listen to this bird singing or this rooster crowing, taste and savor this delicious wine and this flavorful food. For there is nothing to experience except this moment.
I think of our Camino angel often and know he is out there somewhere, bringing his gentle light and peace to others who walk the Way.
