Salmon

Today I walked 15km to the tiny spot of a village named Brea.  But what made today's walk so different from all the others was the direction I was going.  Like a salmon swimming to the headwaters, I headed east against the flow of the pilgrims.  

The first thing that was overwhelmingly noticeable was seeing the faces of pilgrims instead of the back of their heads.  I could see the joy on one, the exhaustion on another, and surprise on more than a few.  

The many reactions made today delightful.  One group of Spanish abuelas was sure that I was turned around and tried hard to convince me to join them going to Santiago.  They were amazed I had already been.  A lovely lady from Houston shared that she was sad that Santiago was so close, because then the walk would be over.  A French lady was incredulous that I was still walking.  She barely wanted to make it into Santiago.  She didn't want to take another step.  Many, many people just pointed ahead... thinking I was turned around.  

As the pilgrims passed, I delighted in smiling and wishing them a Buen Camino.  Most will make it into Santiago today.... and meet the Apostle they have walked so far to see.  I got to see faith filled pilgrims being drawn closer to the Lord.