The inner workings of a priest's mind

Today was the most difficult day of the Camino so far. The hill just never seemed to stop. For my Halifax reader(s), 700 meters of ascent is like walking from the waterfront to the top of Citadel Hill five or six times.  You can stop as often as you want and take any route you want, but once you've done that, walk another few k's to get to your destination.   

But the worst part was at the town of O'Cebriero where I encountered 'tourigrinos' for the first time (coach tours that visit important places on the Camino).  I went to the Sunday noon mass at the beautiful parish church and was seated beside a clearly English speaking person.  After mass, she asked where I was from...she was from Wisconsin.  When I said Canada, she wondered if I was a pilgrim - as though the hiking boots, exercise wear, perspiration or scallop shell on my bag weren't evidence enough.  Yes, I replied.   "Oh my," she replied, "I've met a real live pilgrim!"

My inner voice at this point is saying, "wtf am I???  A g/d English speaking tourist attraction???"

My out loud voice said,"but we are all pilgrims in our hearts journeying to be closer to Jesus."

And now you know the inner workings of this priest's mind.

But it's not how you start, it's how you finish, as the old song goes.   My pack had arrived at the town where I was expecting it, and despite rumours of "completo" or "full" did in fact have beds and rooms.  I splurged for a private room across from a cow barn ... at least they don't snore ... had a luxurious shower, changed into dry clothes while my wet stuff dried on radiators, enjoyed a beer in the lounge, and a great pilgrim menu in a specially designed Cafe/restaurant. 

Some of my fellow travellers knew I was a priest and asked if I would celebrate mass after supper, which was my delight and privilege.  

Today's Music:  Smooth  (Santana)

Today's Paces:  30,463

Tomorrow's Prayer Intentions:  the Country of Canada as its federal election takes place...may the electorate have more wisdom than the present governing party