Article by Tina Dickerman
Many people dream of taking the Journey of a lifetime, an adventure that changes you. Not many actually take that leap. Lowell resident and substitute teacher at Murray Lake Elementary, Missy Harrison, did exactly that on her fourteen day, 300 mile walking pilgrimage, along the Senda Litoral, seashore path to el Santiago de Compostela.
After the passing of her mother, Harrison wanted to take some time for reflection. Knowing her life would never be the same after losing someone she she held so close to her heart, she decided to do the pilgrimage of el Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James), a fitting journey to honor her devout Catholic mother.
The trip route was carefully planned ending at the Cathedral of Santiago during a fixed holy day, in order to witness the swinging of the Botafumerio. She wanted to be sure the to arrive early to get a front row seat. The Botafumerio is a massive incense burner that swings at a lofty height, filling the Cathedral with the sweet aroma of frankincense. Although the Botafumerio use to burn regularly, it is currently only lit on holy days due to the high cost of filling it with incense, approximately $400.00 US dollars at each lighting.
The Journey
The Camino de Santiago is an expansive trail network across Europe dating back to the 9th Century. Each leg of the trail ends at Santiago de Compostela, in North West Spain, where it is reputed that the Apostle St. James was laid to rest. In 2016 alone, 278,224 pilgrims completed the Camino de Santiago (often called The Way of St. James). This number only includes those that have their official el Camino passport stamped. Historically, the majority of the pilgrims take this journey for religious reasons, however many take this time to reflect upon their lives.
Along the journey the scallop shell marks the Way of El Camino Trail route, with its many groves starting at the outer rim, all meeting at the same destination. It symbolizes the many routes and reasons people make the pilgrimage. Pilgrims also carry the scallop with them, to signify they are on their journey, each from different destinations and point in their life. Harrison was given hers by a couple she met from Belgium on the Way.
Helping Others on Their Journey
The locals were friendly and helpful and the pilgrims often assisted each other along the way. A newly met friend, Walter, would sometimes stray from the route, believing he was on going in the right direction. Harrison took an opportunity to assist Walter, who was hours behind her in the journey with a humorous and helpful hint. Hours later, Walter would send her a photo showing the message was received.
A Time of Reflection
She made the decision to take this pilgrimage alone, allowing her to walk the path without being distracted by the familiar. Being alone provided time for solitude and peace, to reflect and contemplate the direction of her life. Wearing comfortable shoes for the 300 mile walk was essential as well as packing light, as she would be carrying everything she needed on her back.
As she walked she noticed the smell of eucalyptus and the colorful flowers growing lushly in residential backyards. Really sensing her surroundings without the clutter of the digital age, e-mail, texting or the constant news cycle. The accommodations were small hostels where a room was shared by many pilgrims.
One evening on the Way, while having a bite to eat at a local restaurant, she met a small group of gentlemen who would meet once per month to eat together and share music. They invited her to join them. They played instruments and sang together. They told her, “You must have music in your life”. It was an experience she will always remember.
“People lived a minimalist, very simple and happy”, Harrison said, “they grew grapes in their backyard for wine.”. “When I arrived home, I chucked things out of my closet, its experiences you need in life, not things”.
A Chance Meeting
Along the journey, she met a Priest who was taking the pilgrimage. Throughout the fourteen days, they would see each other occasionally and share personal stories as they walked. Upon arriving at the Cathedral, Harrison was able to slide into a front row seat as they lit the Botafumerio.
The sights and sounds captivated. As the Priests entered the Cathedral, she recognized her walking companion. He looked at her and gave a special prayer for those that had lost their mothers. A fitting end to a journey that started with the loss of her mother.
When asked what advice she would have for anyone taking this journey, she stated “Do it alone”. She explained that she wanted this time to be completely different, where she could do what she wanted, meet new people and learn more about herself. “The Camino became a special gift for me that was life changing (along with great food, wine and people)”. The poet, David Whyte, explained the journey as the “Frontier of what you think is you, and what you think is not you”.
Maybe it’s fitting, that in the New Year, we put away what “is not you”, and focus on “what is”.
It’s a little disheartening to see basic grammar and journalism not being followed. Journalism 101: use AP style. For instance, numbers greater than nine don’t need to be spelled out. Also, puntucation belongs inside the quotation marks (and you don’t need a second period outside of the quotations). Always proof before you publish.
*punctuation
Thanks so much your comments.
While we don’t adhere strictly to AP Style on Lowell’s First Look, proofing and proper punctuation is essential.
Thanks for keeping us on our toes!