We all have a catalyst or a reason to walk the camino. Coupled with this, we all have a movie, book, or story that compels us to take the first step.
Mine is the movie, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, written and directed by Ben Stiller, based on a 1920’s short story. It might seem like an unlikely choice since most pilgrims choose The Way (movie by Emilio Estevez) or The Pilgrimage (book by Paulo Coehlo). Both are good in their own right but they didn’t give me the extra push I needed to get off my seat and head to Spain. In 2016, I walked the camino for the first time, taking the Frances route from Leon to Santiago. My initial reason to walk was because my husband couldn’t due to his multiple sclerosis. However, I would be lying if I said that was the only reason. Taking time away from my family to embark on a pilgrimage is a selfish act. I walked for myself as well. In 2016, I turned 40 and I felt unsure about my future. Perhaps it was a mid-life crisis. Instead of purchasing a sports car, I went to Spain. Up to this point, our lives centered on the kids, grad school (both Joe and I), and work. Sure, we traveled and moved around quite a bit, meeting many amazing people along the way, but we were in a perpetual state of just trying to keep our heads above water. Looking back, we experienced much in a short amount of time. I married young at age 24. By age 29, I had two kids. At age 33, I underwent open heart surgery to repair a congenital heart defect. Also during this time, we managed Joe’s diagnosis of MS, the death of my mom and step father, and a child with physical and mental challenges. By the time I reached 40, I needed the camino. In 2013, we watched The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. In this movie, I saw part of me aching for adventure while also identifying greatly with the character (introvert, daydreaming). For so long, the need for travel and seeing the world was not met. It took another couple of years before I gathered up the courage (and money) to go. That first step on Leon was quite possibly the hardest. I started the camino alone but by days end, I found amazing women with whom to walk and share the journey. Each day, I experienced déjà vu and had an overwhelming sense that I was supposed to be there. In a couple of weeks, I’m headed out for my 2nd camino, starting along the Camino Norte and then joining the Camino Primitivo. Again, I will take the first step alone. I fully acknowledge that this is a selfish act and I thank my husband and kids for understanding my need to do it. They each have their own journey (or pilgrimage) ahead of them and I will support them when it’s their time. For now, I feel a pull to head back to Spain. What awaits me? More walking, café con leche, and wine. And whatever else the camino provides.
2 Comments
Mike Weaver
5/7/2019 10:46:19 am
Awesome Marcy! Safe travels. Adventure awaits!
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5/24/2019 08:01:40 am
So Awesome!! You'll return with a renewed outlook and
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About Marcy I wear many hats. First, I'm a wife to an amazing husband, Joe. Second, I'm a mom to 2 incredible kids, Caitlynn and Miles. Professionally speaking, I am a chef, dietitian, and writer working as an instructor in Hospitality Management at Montana State University in Bozeman. Photos: See InstagramMarcy's other Site |