I have been paying attention to the actual, physical makeup of the Camino ground path. It is so varied in its diverse contours, a combination of nature and human ingenuity. Paying attention to this aspect of the Camino is quite fascinating, for it reminds me of the great diversity of creation and how altitudes, mountains, hills and level ground, not to mention rain and sun, have played their part over the centuries in shaping the path of this ancient path.

How many people have imprinted their feet, sandal, shoe or boot on this path will never, and can never, be known. A number of famous people have walked the Camino, from St. Francis to Shirley MacLaine, but the vast majority are anonymous to history. In centuries past, many made the journey for penitential and religious reasons, a way to experience God’s mercy and Redemption.

Some still do and I am one of them but a growing number of people have transformed the pilgrimage into a more secular journey of self discovery. The Camino has become very popular, the thing to do, with nearly a half a million walking each year. My first Camino, about 12 years ago, there were less than two hundred thousand.

Part Two will be tomorrow. This is too long and I’m tired. If you need any special prayer intention please send through email for privacy. Frfrankjohn56@gmail.com