What follows, is a personal schedule which could be applied to any pilgrimage. A way of ordering the day so that each step, each pause, each encounter participates in the deeper journey already underway.
First Light (A quiet time of reflection, prayer, meditation, and/or poem/song)
Pilgrim Breakfast (If one participates, it is a time to meet some of those walking the same path.)
Morning Mojo
Notice and Wonder. Keep your eyes open and your mind observing and questioning.
Take break to rest and stop at cafes. Stay hydrated. Remember to be thankful in all things. Often obstacles become blessings.
Continue to approach all people and sites with notice and wonder, with a word to all you meet on the way. Also be aware of those in need. “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” (Mark Twain)
If you are worn out and hurting—take a taxi!
What Not to Miss: This depends on the location. Research in advance what you want to make see and experience. Otherwise, you might miss something you later deem important. Even if there is not enough time to see everything, it is better to know what you’re missing. (See Addendum 1 for my list of what not to miss if traveling from Leon to Santiago.)
Destination: (Check into your hotel, B&B, or hostel)
Pilgrim Meal: (The pilgrim meal is offered at almost every stop, except of the large cities. Often in smaller villages all pilgrims converge on one restaurant.) Conversations can be delightful, and hearing other peoples stories inspiring.
Memorialize (Journal and note all observations. Then pick out one particular high point)
Examination of Conscience: (brief silence reflecting on your own actions. Did I show kindness?, What could I have done different?, “Was there meaning to the day? if not, can still embrace it and learn something?)
Guided Prayer/Thought: (for example, “I am grateful for this day, for the moments of joy, and for the lessons learned. I finish it in peace.”Or a more religious prayer, “Lord of light, call me from comfort into obedience. Teach me to number my days. Let mortality sharpen my devotion. Amen.”)
[Part Five: What Not to Miss in 2026}
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