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| Haley, age 12 |
Haley Walks 200 Miles on the Camino de Santiago
Over the course of my journey, I came realize that the Camino is a greatly condensed version of life. The Pilgrim quickly learns to appreciate any kindness, and to realize how little we really need in this world. My thoughts percolated for a few months after returning, then I resolved to tell and illustrate the very simple story of the Camino through the eyes of a 12 year old girl walking from Leon to Santiago with the guidance of her very wise, favorite Auntie.
As Haley completed her journey she made a series of discoveries about herself:
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| Haley's Compostela |
"Auntie and I talked about why she wanted me to experience this journey and what I learned. While walking on the Camino with only what little I could carry on my back, I discovered the journey is really about life: my needs became quite simple, being reduced to finding water, shelter, and lastly food; the support of family and friends makes everything possible; I am surprisingly tough and strong physically and mentally; and I must stop occasionally, look back, and appreciate how far I have come. In addition, I found that if I open my heart and mind, help will arrive when needed: with directions, water, a bed, or a kind word from strangers who don’t even speak my language.
My first night in León , the label on my water bottle at the restaurant had this quote written in English: “Magic Places exist. Sometimes only in our dreams. Sometimes, and only sometimes, we have the immense fortune to find them within our reach”
It was truly a Buen Camino! AND an adventure of a lifetime.
Walking back into the Plaza the fading sun lit the buildings and the cathedral with a lovely soft, yellow glow. The Plaza moved with contented Pilgrims; it was magical. And Haley embraced the magic with her Auntie by her side."
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