This book is a fictional/auto biographical account of one mans journey on the Camino pilgrimage trail in Spain. I really enjoyed it. The characters are quirky and very human with baggage and beautiful experiences. The dialogue is a little too perfect, but it made me consider doing a long walk like this.
Some of my Favorite quotes from the book:
Questions that help guide the way, like the yellow arrows on the
Camino
Too often I hear about guiding values and statements, but I really like the idea of guiding questions. Tim Ferris and his podcast guests often talk about questions that guided their decisions.
"If I loved myself, what would I do?"
I find this a tough question because it feels selfish. Finding a balance between selfishness and selflessness never ends. I wish there was a single answer, but I know that isn’t possible.
"Don't ask why, ask 'Now what'? People have made it through horrific
times not by focusing on why but moving on and asking 'Now What?'"
Trying to understand is important, but sometimes the energy is better spent on getting ready for the future.
"It is not the wound that makes you special, it is the light that
shines through it"
A great reminder that the hardships of life define you as much as the successes. I have always marvelled at artists that were able to transform immense pain into incredible music and art.
"Perfect is no unnecessary pain. I wish you a perfect Camino."
Unfortunately sometimes pain is necessary. Pain is such a multi faceted concept and hard to talk about. Maybe I will find someone who can do it more eloquently than I can.
Rating: Recommended