Yes, indeed, I lost my tried and true hiking poles that have been my support through three caminos. At one of the places I staid, they gave me a pair of used ones, which is great, but they kept bending, and sinking down as I put pressure on them climbing a hill. Not much of a help at all.
Walking in the village of Carrion de los Condes, I actually found a Camino store open, in off season!!!And there was my new set of poles, waiting for me. The clerk was so gracious as she showed me how they work and how strong they were as she pounded them on the floor with much vigor and force. The poles seemed to cry out to me, “We won’t disappoint you.” I found my poles, arrayed in silver and orange, waiting to be my help as I prepare to enter the glorious city of Leon.
Not quite like the “lost shepherd,” but there is a rather poignant parallel: when awe are “found” after getting lost in life, we become a “new creation” very different from before our getting lost. We are changed within the depths of our being through the gift, the energy of grace, as we allow Christ to be the one we “lean on” as we struggle up life’s many hurdles and sometimes steep mountains of inner suffering.
Lean on Christ as I lean on these poles, Christ who leads us on the right path, chosen just for us. May we stay on that path chosen path. Even if we start wandering, losing Christ as our guide and support, he is waiting for us with open arms to be found once again.
I’m going to celebrate right now by celebrating Mass for you.
These poles came at a price, however: $50.00 and worth every penny.
Fr. Frank's Camino de Santiago 
A good pole oarable and good color too! The folks back home are holding you up as well. Andale!
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Another cherished story!!!!!
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oh Fr Frank! You have been such an inspiration to me! I am 3 weeks out of back surgery and the Dr said to walk and stay active. So… I took my study poles with me as I began my trip (1 mile) around a tiny lake. 1/2 way into my trip- I felt such pain in my knees! I thought-how can I make it home? I thought…WWFFD? ( what would Fr Frank do!). Keep going I said to myself. I did- and began to feel better! I made it home and am elevating my leg. Not the Camino- but my own little first hill! You rock, Sir!
Becky Lutkus
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You raise us up to walk on stormy seas.
Thank You
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How Blessed we are to have you provide an example to all of us that can be applied to so many facets of life. Thank you for sharing, I look forward to your messages each morning and ask God to guide me, and all in this world, as He does you.
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LOL! Father Frank, this is a great post about replacing your lost poles. But where’s the post explaining how you lost the old ones?
More seriously, I don’t think I lean on Christ as much as I lean on my wife, my friends, my home, my books, etc. At least I don’t think I do. Thanks for reminding me to make it personal with Christ.
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