During my time on the Camino, one of the most unexpected revelations was the realization that I have friends. It sounds trivial, I know. Of course, I have friends – why wouldn’t I? Yet, it took a casual remark from someone I met along the way to truly grasp this concept.
As I walked, I found myself forming bonds with fellow pilgrims, eventually becoming part of what they call a Camino Family. It was a diverse group, spanning various ages, races, and genders. Despite our differences, we shared laughter, stories, and experiences along the trail. Whilst I was quite a bit older than most, I felt a genuine sense of belonging.
One day, the leader of our little band expressed his genuine pleasure at having me as part of our group. His words struck a chord within me, prompting deep reflection during my solitary walks. Growing up and moving frequently as a child and then as an adult, I had become adept at making friends quickly but equally skilled at drifting apart from them when circumstances changed.
I often envied those with lifelong friendships forged in school or university. I believed that my lack of such connections meant that people didn’t want to be my friend. It was a limiting belief that coloured my interactions and often held me back. Along the Camino, with ample time for introspection, I confronted this belief head-on.
I realized that my tendency to distance myself stemmed from a fear of rejection, a misguided assumption that others didn’t desire my friendship. Yet, as I shared snippets of my journey on social media and received an outpouring of comments and likes, it hit me: I do have friends. Their support and engagement brought tears to my eyes, validating the connections I had formed along the way.
The Camino taught me that friendship isn’t bound by proximity or longevity. It’s about shared experiences, mutual respect, and genuine connections. It’s about being open to giving and receiving friendship, even in the most unexpected places.
So, to all those who have crossed my path and touched my heart, thank you for reminding me that friendship knows no boundaries.