Since my last blog I saw some of the most beautiful scenery of this Camino. It was really neat to be in the Portuguese fort city of Valença, then walk across a bridge and be in Tui, Spain.
The number of pilgrims increased dramatically at Tui, as it’s just over 100kms away from Santiago. This is the minimum distance needed to walk in order to receive a Compostela (certificate of completion). The landscape changed to walking through forested areas and along babbling creeks. I made some nice connections with other pilgrims at some great Alburgues.
After reading my ‘Planny’ blog, an insightful friend asked me the name of the one making her place on my other shoulder. I’ve been thinking about this a lot, and something just hasn’t felt quite right about it.
One day while walking it all of a sudden became so clear to me. I will never be (nor do I really want to be) a free spirited, as the wind blows kind of person. I would just like to nudge Planny a little along the continuum in that direction. I’m training myself to try to reduce those whispered fears and anxieties that are often distorted and catastrophic. This feels like a really authentic and positive shift. I can picture Planny with her practical, comfortable shoes, but she has some dancing shoes at the ready!
Awwww that’s AWESOME DawnO!! It’s so wonderful that you came to that insight about Planny. I personally love that about you. I joke about it because I admire that (think about how a little boy bugs a little girl because he likes her 😝) and I envy that quality somewhat. I’ve always wished I was more Planny, and as someone who grew up with two other Plannys (oh . . . the planning parties you guys could have!!), I think I grew up thinking I SHOULD be more like that. But, I’m not and, like you, I don’t think I was ever meant to be. Now . . . . I just have to take your lead and try to figure out where on the spectrum I can be comfortable!! Amazing blog as always buddy!!