We started our morning as the sun was rising--the air was just slightly crisp with Fall. I am missing the Fall leaf smell from home; so this was perfect. As we walked into Leon the area became more industrial. Fruit shops, mixed with car dealerships, mixed with tiny community parks where old men sat on benches exchanging stories and soaking in the sun. The body did 47 km in just over 36 hours so I am going to share just one pilgrim story before I get my Dominoes Pizza (big city treat) and head to bed early:
• She is from Estonia. We have met several times before. She joined us for Pilgrim's Dinner. She went to school when Estonia was part of the Soviet Union. She studied Russian at school and spoke Estonian at home. Now her children, three daughters, learn Estonian at school and study English and Russian to get better jobs. She also speaks German, French and some Spanish. She walked the Camino last year. Her feet were bad...she had to take the bus. She bought merino wool socks and hiking boots two sizes bigger and her husband has encouraged her to try again. She tells me her parents were divorced and she was raised by her father. I sense there is more tragedy to the story...I sense there is a brokenness. She has just lost two days of walking to fever and was afraid she would have to go home again. She said her spirits were low and she cried. I said I cry because my feet hurt--she laughs. I tell her the tears might help wash away her sadness. I sense she is on the edge of healing. After, she tells me, her husband is meeting her in Barcelona. It has been many years since they have done something like that together. She is beautiful already....as she speaks of her walk she becomes radiant. "As the thunder rolls...I barely hear Your whisper through the rain....“I’m with you”...And as Your mercy falls...I raise my hands and praise..." World class stain glass at the Leon Cathedral. Reflection upon reflection in the early evening light. The Albergue is exceptional. Our own bathroom and real towels. But, of course, in the morning we walk.... You are Always in My Prayers. Love Mom.
2 Comments
The other Mrs H
9/30/2017 11:53:44 am
This is absolutely without a doubt my most favourite adventure so far. I LOVE the pilgrim stories. Almost like a Humans of New York book!
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Diane
9/30/2017 12:17:41 pm
Definitely the adventure that has pushed me most, but I agree the Pilgrims are all so different...and their stories so genuine.
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Ray & Diane HomewoodSharing the Blessing of Travel Archives
January 2018
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