Santiago!

We wake early (5:30) on Friday June 16th to start our walk into Santiago.   It is only 20 Km's or 12 miles - but we would like to arrive well in advance of the Pilgrims Mass held each day at noon.   Adriane (Jordie) and Edel from Ireland stayed in the same Pension with us last night and we all head out together for this last leg.   It is the first time Chris and I have walked in the dark and I use my headlamp while he uses his phone to help,light our path.   Early on we follow what we think is a yellow arrow (it was really white) only to realize 1/2 mile down the road it was the wrong way.  Not the way to start your early journey.  The correct path takes us through groves of eucalyptus trees and eventually opens up a,lowing early site lines of the city.   We stop at Monte de Gorzo (Mount of Joy) where a monument exists to the visit of Pope John Paul....and also honors Francis of Assisi.   

 

 

We get a good view of the awaiting city and the Cathedral that is the focus of today's walk.  By 11:00 we have entered the "Old City" - always much more interesting then new parts of these towns - and arrive at the awaiting Cathedral.   

 

I have been thinking more about the true Pilgrims of old and how they much have felt after journeying from their homes throughout Europe.   Taking on risk to themselves physically and significant financial hardship to bear the months of walking - their joy and anticipation - much like their faith - must have been extraordinary.   When they arrived they were only 1/2 way as they still had to back track to their homes.   All to seek the blessing of St James.  

 

We celebrate with friends as they role in - but it in some ways is anticlimactic.  It was never about the destination and always about the Journey.  We try to go to noon Mass but the Friday service is jammed with Pilgrims and Tourists and we eventually decide to go to the evening service.   Beers at the Parador - are followed by our normal ritual of laundry and showers - but today we will all gather for an evening meal and enjoy the company that will soon be separated by many miles.