A truly spectacular day on the Camino Primitivo. Today’s journey covered 33 kilometers from Salas to Campiello, featuring 1,355 meters of elevation gain. We spent the majority of the day traversing mountain trails within a national park, surrounded by the vibrant colors of Spring. The blue skies were endless, the air was a perfect 74°F, and the sunlight filtered through the canopy, warming us as we climbed.
A Global Fellowship
Over the last 24 hours, the trail has felt like a microcosm of the world. I’ve shared miles with a diverse group: a father and his 12-year-old son from China, couples from Denmark and Sweden, Italian siblings in their 70s, and fellow travelers from Russia, Portugal, Germany, Spain, Ukraine, Norway, Virginia, and Seattle.
In a world often dominated by discord, every pilgrim chose to speak of the joys and blessings of the Camino. There was no mention of anger, only a shared, peaceful respite. It reminded me of the wisdom of Paulo Coelho: “If it costs you your peace, it is too expensive.” On this trail, that peace is worth every step.
Purpose and Retirement
The rhythm of the walk provides time for meditation with pilgrims. Today, the dialogue turned toward the nature of happiness in retirement and the daily search for purpose. This inward journey is often the most difficult, René Descartes’ advice to “conquer yourself rather than the world.”
Through these conversations, a common theme emerged: retirement thrives on purpose and fascination. Focusing on what fascinates us is a direct path to joy. Ultimately, joy comes from serving others, the fulfillment of being needed. As Terri St. Cloud wrote: “And if, when it is all over, I’m asked what I did with my life, I want to be able to say, I offered love.”
Buen Camino!
Spring flora along the trail!
Camino Gratitude Primitivo 
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