<HTML><FONT FACE=arial,helvetica><FONT SIZE=2>Anna,
<BR>There was really only one day when I felt completely alone. That was from
<BR>St. Jean to Roncesvalles and I never saw another pilgrim. It was only until
<BR>much later that I found out I was never on the path. Somehow I managed to
<BR>get to Ibaneta and was then able to get back on the Camino. But that one
<BR>day, seeing notheing but dense woods and mountains, I felt as if that day
<BR>would last a lifetime, and I was not happy about it. I would say I fetl
<BR>lonely, but it went further than that. In that first day, I think I
<BR>questionned every moment of my life. I had no one to talk to but myself and
<BR>we had a very intense conversation, thank you very much! :-)
<BR>
<BR>Before I left I was concerned about being lonely too often, but I soon
<BR>realized those fears were unfounded. I met so many people who filled the
<BR>days with laughter, and tears. But it is so true that one can either walk
<BR>alone or with many different people according to what you need at the time.
<BR>There were portions when I knew I had to "walk my own Camino" and did so. I
<BR>think in that first day I learned how to listen to myself and fulfill my
<BR>inner needs.
<BR>
<BR>One of my fondest memories occurred in Samos. A few of us arrived at the
<BR>monastery early and so had some time on our hands. I left my pack in front
<BR>of the church door (nothing was ever stolen) and just started walking. If
<BR>you go the rear of the monastery you will find a river walk. I highly
<BR>suggest following this because it is not only beautiful, but incredibly
<BR>peaceful. I must have spent three hours or so just watching this river move
<BR>on its own way. Anyway, I was alone, but I never felt lonely.
<BR>
<BR>Thanks for letting me share!! Much appreciated!
<BR>
<BR>Gabrielle
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