St. James Way

Officially 56th Hiking Day

About 3 a.m. in Villafranca del Bierzo, sleepless in a wonderfully clean hostel. Every time I decide anew to say goodbye to people. The Camino seems to be nothing less than the story of my loneliness, sometimes chosen by myself, sometimes not. Yesterday there was one of my greatest moments down there in the bar. I must have sat next to Adriana on the bar stool for over an hour and didn't say a word. It was magical to listen to them speak in Spanish, to feel what every day Spanish life could be like. I was so careful not to interrupt the conversation with any stupid small talk. I coughed very softly and put down the beer glass with tremendous care, just so as not to interrupt the moment. That really was something. I felt I belonged there and I was happy that others had so much fun. On the other hand why do I want to say goodbye again? For my part, I can part with Adriana in peace. Or is it not yet time to say goodbye?

And today up the mountain to O Cebreiro. This will be another tour de force. Hopefully the soles hold up. But also interesting to see how women behave after a night of having fun. Jeez, they really tell each other everything.

Just stopped for Cafe con leche and Zumo. Now the condition must hold up. Certainty and a lack of doubt creates inner peace.

Just met Ji Su in Pereje in front of a café. He's now hiking with his girl. He looks happy too. All in all, it's a good day. If I understood Adriana correctly this morning, she picked up a guy last night. I mean: really picked up. Fine with me. I can part with her in peace. And after all, yesterday I had one of my happiest moments because of her. I think I'll treat myself with a cigarette now.

Today everyone really looks so happy.

Lord, if I had one wish today, I don’t want my legs to run out of steam before O Cebreiro.