The Chapter Ends

Hey there,

You know, I think it's about time to turn the page.

The road is calling again, and I’ve got some mighty itchy feet.

After 8 incredible months in Barcelona, it's time to say goodbye.
(At least for now.)

If you recall, last week I mentioned my plan to walk the Camino de Santiago.

And well, life has a funny way of speeding things up.

Some unexpected roommates (hello, bed bugs) have expedited my journey.

So, I'm leaving Barcelona in a few days.

And The Camino begins as early as next weekend!

Overall, I'm thrilled to take part in this pilgrimage.

But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous.

Not about the walking, though...

It's the whole experience that's got my mind racing.

Because a pilgrimage is all about seeking spiritual growth.
(Religious or otherwise)

And the list of answers I’m looking for is long.

But I can't go into this with sky-high expectations.

Because reality often falls short of what we build up in our minds.

And I think the key is to live in the moment…

To take whatever comes your way.

And be okay with the experience, no matter what.

Every experience shapes us.

They could teach you a lesson or give you lifelong memories.

And we have to take them as they come.

Then we can decide what they mean to us afterward.

So, here's what I'm working on:

Managing my expectations.

Especially with all the career and life questions swirling in my head.

I can't expect a sudden spiritual awakening or life revelation.

If I do, I run the risk of missing the entire experience.

And I think that’s a lesson for all of us to learn in life.

Try to keep your expectations realistic.

Or lower them all together so you aren’t let down.

Because no matter what happens, the experience is worth having.

We’re all so lucky to ever get the chance to partake in this beautiful thing called life.

And life's adventures aren’t about the destination.

They're about the journey itself.
(Yeah, I know, cliche!)

So here's to embracing the unknown.

To walking with an open heart and mind.

And to whatever lessons the Camino, or life, has in store.

Until next time, from somewhere along the Way,

Your friend on the path,

Michael "Pilgrim in Progress" Mitchell