Day 9- Love Reign O’er me Rain O’er me

Thanks for the inspiration Pete. My Pilgrimage is in many ways focused on love. Love of family, love of friends, love of self, love of God, and love of all he created, including rain. After 9 days on the Camino, the rain has been the dominate element. Rain reigns. Today was no exception. Yesterday was rain free but the fact I had to mention no rain, reinforces this walk is dominated by the rain. Without rain, we would not survive. Rain is part of God’s miracles. I can handle day after day of rain on the Camino. It’s expected and frankly I have no choice. However, when I get home, rest assured, I will NOT go out in the rain, unless it’s the Best Buddies ride. It rained enough today that I had to change clothes about midway through the day. Today, I walked with a few different people and guess what we talked about? Perhaps being rained on day after day is a test of faith. It’s easier for me to see or feel God’s presence in the sunlight and warmth (think Naples Florida in the winter)- tougher when it’s cold, windy and wet. Yet God is here in both conditions and all conditions. You just need to turn to him.

Tonight I am in the town of Laredo. I decided not to stay in a hotel. I opted for a monastery run by nuns- the Casa de la Trinidad. At 6:00, they have a prayer session followed by a Pilgrim’s blessing. They have a prayer session tomorrow morning as well. Their place is an Albergue and I am sharing a room with a fellow from Germany. He does not speak English and I sure don’t speak German but we get by. The bathroom is down the hall and shared by many. Very Spartan quarters. Forfeiting the comforts of a hotel is a price I am happy to pay to participate in the Nun’s holy routine and to receive their blessing. Tomorrow I will let you know how it went.

Spring fashion Camino style

Spring fashion Camino style

Editor’s note on the video. I lost the last 5 miles of today’s journey as my phone charge was drained.