My trek along the Camino de Santiago is now a memory- a few days ago I, along with hundreds of other “pilgrims,” walked the final miles to Santiago’s magnificent cathedral, completing a journey of 33 days and nearly 500 miles.
Many who walk the Camino do so for religious reasons - it is, after all, a centuries-old pilgrimage. Others, like me, chose to walk the Camino as a way to meditate and reflect. I thought about a good many things during my walk, and about a good many people - hundreds of them - who have impacted my life in meaningful ways.
Part of the power of my Camino experience was that virtually all of my self reflecting occurred while walking in a land of beautiful vistas, stunning architectural structures, and simple meals consumed along the “Way.” I enjoyed fine conversations with other pilgrims (especially during communal dinners), and was stirred by the kindness and generosity of the rural Spanish people.
Am I a "changed" person as result of my walk? Well, the Camino is now in me - how can I not be changed?

Mark Ferguson