Later this month I will be walking a part of the Camino de Santiago–The Way of St. James–in Spain.

Legend has it that The Apostle St. James’ remains are buried in Santiago. Those who walk the Camino, these “pilgrims,” come from all over the world and from many faiths. For centuries they have thoughtfully walked the Camino de Santiago, seeking enlightenment.

I will be walking for seven days, 14 miles the first two days; a total of 80 miles on the path taken by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims who have traveled The Way of St. James. This pilgrimage is seen as an enactment of a spiritual journey; the hardships one encounters along the way are seen as tests of faith.

My pilgrimage will end at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain, where all the pilgrims who arrive in Santiago on that day will celebrate the mass together.

It’s said that preparing for the pilgrimage is just as important as walking the Camino. One must prepare physically as well as spiritually. For me, the preparation of the physical, emotional and spiritual cannot be separated. In preparing for the walk, I find myself going inward into a deep awareness on all levels.

I am looking forward to discovering what comes forth physically, emotionally and spiritually, and to sharing this enlightening journey with you. It will be interesting to uncover what I take from the Camino. It will be just as enlightening to see what I leave behind.