The title of this Blog is appropriate because we have stayed in and walked through so many towns and villages that it is impossible to keep track of them. I just looked at tomorrow’s map and we are in Ponferrada, home to the last Castle of the Knights of Temlar; a sect steeped in mystery.
In the comments someone asked if I had brought a “Rock” with me. Yes. And I wrote something on that rock and I put it on the pile of rocks and this may come as a surprise to those of you who know me as someone with no filter, but I’m not even sure I will tell Tim what I wrote on that rock. All I can say is it is something I have needed to say for over 40 years and it was very painful but I said it, I wrote it, and I left my rock on the east side of the pile so it can watch the sun come up. Fuck, I’m crying even as I write this. It was a powerful ritual. Here is Lu our Guide talking about the Cross and the Rocks on top of the mountain.
It’s 10pm and I just finished dinner and we have a series of long days ahead AND another mountain range to climb and descend before we get to Santiago BUT the time changes tonight so we gain an extra hour of sleep. Still, I woke up at 4:30am in my tiny crib sized single bed (a factoid – the Spanish people are the shortest people in Europe) so I am exhausted.
We’ve got rocking internet tonight so I’ve uploaded a ton of content but I’m simply too tired to get “creative”. Here’s a few pics and a video that I did to let everyone know that I am doing well. I have to admit though…..there were times doing that video…talking about coming home….when I had to choke it back. I guess the homesickness can fade but it never goes away.
8 Comments
antonialeivas
You have a glow.
jadenjeter
What an experience Joe, I know its hard but this will be a memory for life…Life here is just as you left it and you will realize that when you get home. I hope you take in every moment (it sure looks like you are) and can appreciate it for the accomplishment that it is. Love you and look forward to seeing you soon….love you!!
Linda
You look so HEALTHY!!! I believe you are accomplishing this Pilgrimage with a fit body and most important, a healthy attitude. I am really enjoying the posts of the Historical sites, I know they are “old hat to you” but amazing. Your body is going to need to WALK when you get home, you will be addicted.Love You Tons
Tim Chan
I love the video of your guide Lu telling the story of the rocks. It’s a great ritual. I’m so happy you were able to experience the history, power and spiritual energy there and along the Camino. Buen Camino Joe! Love, Tim
Tim Chan
Hi Joe, I’m glad you are feeling good and the walking is working well for you. The term is: “Walking is the superfood of fitness” it’s via a study published by some people who studied effects of various fitness themes. Here’s the original source for your readers.
http://mobile.reuters.com/article/idUSKCN0HO0PV20140929?irpc=932
ran3dy
We continue to follow your journey and progress with interest and enthusiasm. Your effort at sharing sites and experiences, and the history, is exemplary and appreciated. Nice picture with the body of water in the background. Is that the Embalse de Barcena (Barcena Resevoir)? Best wishes on the Good Walk from all of us States-side. —
jjadmin
Even though I have lived in Spain I’m not sure that I knew how much important history took place here. For a while Spain was a massive power. There are so many ruins here, perfectly restored buildings, ancient bridges, and even the little towns and pueblos that are still functioning. The little speck of a village we stayed in last night had probably existed as long as the rock pile monument which is 2,500 years old. Still herding sheep and living in mud and rock huts. I am humbled by the tenacity of these people.
The pile of rocks is probably larger than it appears on the video or in the pics. Most of the rocks are small (mine was the size of a walnut) and the rock ritual is probably fairly new. I doubt pilgrims a thousand years ago would carry one given that this journey often took many years to complete.
But when you can walk out of your hotel, turn a corner, and see a massive castle that belonged to the Templars you know you aren’t in kansas anymore Dorothy.
JoeLUNA
Great video of Lu. Interesting about the pile of rocks. what keeps it from getting enormous?
You’re looking great Joe Jeter. Fit and looking good. Probably the final week or so will really bring you forward into renewed fitness. Great job!
Knights Templar. From dizzying heights of power to wiped out. The original Friday the 13th. That’s one huge castle. Thanks for the video!
JoeLUNA