Camino pilgrim statues at Alto do Perdón.

Two weeks from today, I’ll be taking my first steps onto the Camino de Santiago de Compostella, commonly referred to as simply the Camino. I’ve spent six months training for this experience yet still feel unprepared and nervous. There’s a lingering doubt about my ability to achieve what I feel called to do.

As often happens, I received the exact encouragement I need exactly when I need it.

Inspiration for Walking

This morning, a friend sent me a private Facebook message telling me she thought about me when a segment of the Today Show aired. The segment was about an upcoming documentary called, “I’ll Push You” about two friends who took the Camino journey together. I encourage you to watch this short YouTube clip about their experience.

Needless to say, I lost my shit watching the clip myself. Yes, the devotion between these two friends touched me deeply, but it was the determination to walk the Camino despite all odds which hit me hardest.

“I wasn’t looking for the Camino. It kind of found me.”

It’s exactly how I feel about the Camino: I’m called to walk it. From the first moment I heard about the pilgrimage, I felt compelled to participate. In two weeks, I’ll take my first steps toward making this dream a reality.

When the Going Gets Tough

Learning about Justin and Patrick’s journey helps me feel more confident about my own path. They traversed the Camino with one of them literally pulling and pushing a wheelchair. Up mountains. Through mud and rivers. IN. A. WHEELCHAIR. If they can do it so can I. Their success came from trusting each other and the Camino community.

A Camino trail blaze.

Having a strong tribe makes everything feel possible. I believe that no matter what I find on the Camino, I’m prepared to handle it. I also trust in the women who share this journey with me.  I can’t wait to see what happens, see the difference it will make in our lives. I’m already changed by this experience and know — just like I knew I was called — that my metamorphosis has only just begun.

If you want to be even more inspired by “I’ll Push You,” watch Justin and Patrick’s TED Talk.

Is the Camino Calling You?

Are you also feeling called to the Camino? Heather Waring of Women Walking Women Talking leads women on the trail. You can learn more about that here.

Addendum: I’ve since traversed nearly 350 miles of the Camino. The experience has changed me. For more information on the Camino and how you might wish to experience it, please visit Mountain IQ’s website for videos, tips, and insights.