Hiking the Way

While Jenni and I were getting ready to embark on our journey to Spain for a 7 week 560 mile hike we couldn't help but think of all the little things that make up a trip like this. When hiking for 15 miles plus per day every ounce counts. We weighed each of the items in our pack and made the hard decisions of what to bring and what to take out. Adding a pair of socks that weighed 4 ounces doesn't seem like a lot but when all the little things are added up that mole hill of a pair of socks along with 3 ounces for this and 7 ounces for a that and so on the pack becomes a mountain fast.

While making these decisions we both got caught up in the plight of my cousin who through the years has been more of my big brother and one of my best friends. My cousin has been fighting for his life the last two years. His fight ended just as Jenni and I were going through the airport about to embark on this trip. His story can't help but grab the heart of anyone who hears it. His devoted wife has been by his side every moment possible. Her decisions to be with him outweighing all other options. Clif wanted nothing more than to live his life with his family. His contagious outgoing personality befriending anyone fortunate enough to get to know him.

While packing and thinking about the little things to carry like an extra pair of socks it all seems so minuscule and insignificant now. It is the moments like this that one reflects on life that the personal journey of the Camino takes shape.

The Camino started as a trade route by the Romans to the "End of the World" as they called it and turned into a religious pilgrimage to the burial place of the patron saint of Spain, Saint James. Original travelers of the Way of Saint James were promised reduced time in purgatory and forgiveness of sins. Travelers would make the journey looking for peace within themselves and many also traveled for the graces of wealthy patrons that paid them to carry their message or for family members that were unable to make the journey themselves.

We sat with Clif last night knowing this was most likely his last night on earth and whatever our original reasons for choosing to travel "The Way" our purpose came clear while sitting with him at the hospital. Our journey will be one of reflection and remembrance of those we lost with a special dedication and remembrance to my older brother, my cousin Clif. We will travel "The Way" not only for ourselves but also for the memories and prayers we carry with us for those we've lost.