After we made the decision to commit to this walking pilgrimage there was a lot of things that we had to figure out before we even got too deep into this project. First was a reasonable time line. Our group pilgrimages were normally 10 or 12 days and except for the spiritual things we led - all else was arranged for us by our travel partners. In order for us to plan this pilgrimage just for the two of us to accomplish that - we had to do a lot of research so we knew what we were getting involved with. Reading books - searching the internet - joining Camino groups to be able to connect with others who had already walked this pilgrimage took up the first few months of research. We knew that we would have to do some practice walks with whatever equipment we would need. Living in Illinois - we knew that we would focus on everything but actual walking due to the snow and cold weather. Therefore, our first six months of preparation was reading and researching - investigating the required equipment - testing it in home - returning - exchanging - until we were comfortable with our decision. One of the most challenging was finding someone to watch our dog for six weeks. The second - preparing ourselves to live out of a back pack for 6 weeks was another. For all journeys - spiritual or otherwise - good planning required.
As we begin Lent - many will know in advance what Lenten observances they will do. Many others are still investigating. For those who start immediately with Ash Wednesday - good for them. For those who have yet to start - no problem - plenty of time. The goal of Lent is to observe some practice that will help one grow closer to Jesus - develop a better spiritual life. As with many things - quality versus quantity - the goal.
*Note: I posted a short video clip in the previous post but some could not view so trying a second time. Click here > https://youtu.be/Y3MlI3bVa1I
Deacon Dale
