Monthly Archives: August 2013

My Introductions to “Feeling Old”

I have often said with authority that old is something you appear to others but not something you experience yourself. My body has been remarkable healthy and strong. In my mind, I still wondered what I would do when I … Continue reading

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Observations from the Camino

As I watched my fellow travelers I began to notice that there were two groups with identifiable distinctives. I found them falling into these two categories: Pilgrim/Tourist • Personal appearance not an issue • Personal appearance a big issue • … Continue reading

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The Decision Belongs to Another

I am sitting on the veranda of Casa Bendariz in northern Spain. The owner is sitting with us. I ask if this hotel has been in the family for a long time. The question prompts this story told through an … Continue reading

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Where to Build the Church?

As a group of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago we were very interested in the story of our hotel, Casa Bendariz. The owner, through a translator from a traveling Spanish family, told us that the house that we were … Continue reading

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I Have Done Enough

During the night I recognized that my body had gone as far as it could go. I needed rest. I struggled. I needed to finish. I rationalized: even God rested one day out of seven. I didn’t want to come … Continue reading

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An Encounter with Presence

When we had about 8 miles to go today I couldn’t take another step. I was weak and the pain in my right knee was unbearable. I braced myself against the corner of a stone building, dragged my body around … Continue reading

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Lessons from the Camino

Today is my third day walking. I am mostly walking alone, which is the recommended way. Here are some thoughts that blessed me. Watch the sheep. They peacefully graze in the green pastures. There is no evidence of concern. Use … Continue reading

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Breaking News: Train Crash Kills Nearly 100 People

Note: The next several posts are about my recent trip to Spain where I walked the pilgrimage trail of the Camino. I was in Madrid when my phone rang at 2 am. My friend from home was frantic. She knew … Continue reading

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