Letting Go of Stones – Camino De Santiago – Day 23

Day 23

Santa Catalina de Somoza – Acebo

27.7 km / 17.2 miles

 

Today will be the day I let go of a stone I have been carrying since the start of my Camino. I had not heard of this before my trip, but while here, it is a common question, “Do you have a stone to let go of?” Apparently there is a monument between Foncebadon and Manjarin called Cruz de Ferro where we are supposed to let go of the stone that we have been carrying. Symbolically letting go of whatever weight we are carrying. This gave me purpose, something I didn’t even know I needed before I came here. The past had been something I was unable to forgive myself for and let of.  Today was an emotional day for me, but so cathartic. 

This majestic spot stands 1,504m above sea level. A simple iron cross stands atop a weathered pole that has become one of the abiding symbols of the pilgrim way of St. James. This moment was so surreal, standing at this famous scene featured on the movie “The Way”, the movie that inspired me to embark on this journey. 

 

Another fun tradition on the Camino is collecting stamps. If a pilgrim so chooses, you can begin your camino at an official registar town. I started mine in St. Jean Pied de Port in France. This is a common spot to start. The registar provides an official book meant to collect stamps from along your way. It is a great way to document where you have been and what town you stayed in. It is also required to receive your official documentation of completion at the end. Stamps can be collected at restaurants, Albergues or unique stops such as this road side structure with a place to rest. 

 

 

I walk solo again today. We trek across beautiful mountainous terrain.

 

I stop in the town of Acebo, where I have decided to stay at a new Albergue called La Casa Del Peregrino. I was excited to stay here because it has a pool! I can’t even believe it, never would I think would I be swimming while on this adventure. Of course I didn’t bring a bathing suit so I decide to wear my sports bra and dip my feet. It felt amazing to enjoy the view and bask in the sun. Extremely grateful today to be here, something I remind myself daily to recognize. Something I want to carry with me forever.