pilgrims of a lesser kind

[Jeffrey Crawley]

Gee, Howard, I HAVE missed you :-)
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Howard Mendes 
  To: GOCAMINOaPETE.URI.EDU 
  Sent: Monday, October 13, 2003 8:38 PM
  Subject: Re: pilgrims of a lesser kind


  In a message dated 10/13/2003 6:59:44 AM Eastern Daylight Time, jt.crawleyaUKONLINE.CO.UK writes:
    Although there was much fun made of the coach pilgrims I must admit I felt
    more sorry for them that they did not have the time, ability or imagination
    and faith  to undertake a "true" pilgrimage. Although I wonder what value
    they held their multi-stamped credential in.

  Your entire piece is condescending and judgmental in reference what a "true" pilgim is, as differentiated from a tourist.  Why bother to put labels on people if they choose to ride a bus rather than walk?  Have their luggage shipped ahead or carry everything with them?  
  What amuses or annoys you about other pilgrims' modes of travel is very patronizing nonsense.  Was I supposed to swim the Atlantic to get to Spain?  I imagine boat travel may be more acceptable to you than plane travel since some early pilgrims came by boat from England and elsewhere. Take into consideration that many people don't walk because they are infirm, don't have enough time, or just don't want to walk.  
  What if some people get their passport stamped or Compostelas deceitfully?  Although many people attach religious significance to the Compostelas they receive, I suspect many more want them as souvenirs or mementos of sorts.  Big deal!  It's only a piece of paper after all. 
  Howard Mendes NYC  (Ready for another firestorm of opposing viewpoints) 
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