A Canadian, an American and a Jew go into a bar

When I'm walking, I usually have a song going through my head. Sometimes I will say this is the music of the day, but sometimes it is just a piece of music to help me regulate my pace. This morning started out cool – no, cold – and clear.  From Vivaldi's Gloria, I had the Laudamus Te section going through my head. It was just the right tempo for walking - a Larghetto with a lyrical and light sense about it.  But then after Rabanal, I hit the 6k ascent of several hundred meters.  The Larghetto had turned into a Molto Adagio with frequent pauses!

Early tomorrow morning I will be at the Cruz de Fero - the Iron Cross - which marks the highest point of the Camino at 1,505 meters.  It is the custom for pilgrims to leave a rock or stone at the iron cross, signifying the laying down of their burdens, both mental and spiritual.  I have been carrying an etched brick from Lantz through the Camino. Tomorrow I will lay it down at the iron cross.  I've gotten kind of used to the feel of it in my purse, and well I can't say I'll miss it, I think I will be rid of it without too much grief.

Tonight's supper was fascinating: I ended up sitting at a table with an American couple, a Jewish man, and me. And while it sounds like the beginning of a joke, it was convivial, rich, and most enjoyable. My guess is that we represented three generations, and a least 2 faith traditions. But the Camino draws people together, and we accept one another for who we are and just as we are.  Yuram, our Jewish friend, has done parts of the Camino several times with different  members of his family and was eloquent in his description of the bonding experience.  After the meal, we were joined by a Spanish gentleman - an ex-military attaché and retired officer whose vast knowledge of the history of northern Spain and the Camino was fascinating. And he is on his 11th Camino.

Left to right:  Yuram, Me, Dana and Tom

And as I lay in bed tonight with the window open nearby, I can hear cowbells again. It seems like ages since I've heard them.

Today's Music:  Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow (Fleetwood Mac...it was playing in a bar that I walked by and kind-of stuck)

Today's Paces:  24,420

Tomorrow's Prayer Intentions:  my sister-in-law's partner Pat, who is having surgery in the morning