Fellowship

[[Note: this post was first written in June 2017, then updated September 2026.]]

In 2016 I flew alone to Spain to hike the the last 100km of the oldest pilgrimage in Europe, the Camino de Santiago or Way of St. James. Since that life altering experience, my journey of spiritual growth, self-discovery, and healing has continued. In 2018 and 2025 I walked two more pilgrimages along The Way: with a ballroom dance friend on the last 100km of the Portuguese Way; and solo (at first, then made many friends while walking) for the last 100km of the English Way.

One of the many things that makes the Camino so special is the fellowship of seekers from all over the world sharing stories, meals, accommodations, faith, and encouragement. As the saying goes, friends are the family we choose. My extended family includes those fellow pilgrims I walked and socialized with in Spain and Portugal, as well as all those friends over my lifetime who shared my childhood, witnessed my marriage, celebrated my children’s birthdays, comforted me through my daughter’s surgeries, supported me through divorce and work challenges, cheered me on at dance competitions, and lightened my backpack in numerous other ways.

On the pilgrim’s passport stamped along The Way, the Spirit of the Camino is summarized in these words: “Live in the moment. Welcome each day – its pleasures and its challenges. Make others feel welcome. Share. Feel the spirit of those who have gone before you. Imagine those who will follow you. Appreciate those who walk with you today.” The message of the daily mass in the breathtaking Santiago cathedral, where thousands of weary travelers gather at the end of the pilgrimage, is to take that spirit and fellowship back home. In life, as on the Camino in Spain, some are meant to join us for the long haul and others for just a short while, but we all learn from each other and our shared experiences. Today I appreciate everyone who has walked – and danced – with me along life’s journey.