Do you recall the kind women who, just through their encouraging smiles, boosted my spirits on a tough day of walking? Well, that was just one part of the story of what happened on my last day.
As we stood at the Cathedral in Santiago taking photos and making knowing gestures they shared a little bit of their story with me.
The women were from Norway and had started walking together many years ago after their kids left home. It had been a way for them to be social, stay in shape and talk with someone at a similar stage of life. Once a week they would meet on a local trail and walk. They both smiled and said, “Now we are very good friends!".
At some point while walking in their hometown they wanted more of a challenge and embarked on a three-day walking holiday in the UK ... and loved it. Now, they travel together once a year and explore trails all over Europe!
One of the women showed me a photo of her granddaughter and said "I walk so I'm strong to play with her". And, she added with a giggle, "because we have fun together" gesturing at her friend.
I might have been soaking wet and tired but I was so incredibly grateful to have met these women. Not only did they give me a boost when I needed it but they showed me a glimpse of the future.
Sometimes clarity comes when you see an example and immediately think "I want to do that!". I want to walk in different places. I want to be strong enough to play on the floor with my grandchildren. I want to laugh in the pouring rain with a good friend. My conversation with the women from Norway was exactly that. It was inspirational. I saw possibility.
When these women started walking together it wasn't with the goal of walking all over Europe or playing with their grandchildren. It was because they needed support while navigating a time of transition in their lives.
The clarity to know why they walked came after. As their lives evolved and their families grew, walking was no longer about themselves. It was about how they could be strong and fully present in the lives of the people they love.
I've always known I want to be strong and active as I get older. My friends from Norway showed me what that could look like. It was a brief conversation that impacted me more than they will ever know.
Have you ever seen what might be possible for you in the future and been inspired to take action? I'd love to know.
Walking forward with gratitude,
Sarah
PS - I am looking for three more women to join the initial round of my new one-on-one coaching program called: “The Art of Transition: Cultivating Calm in Times of Change”. You can find out more here. Or, just reach out and I’d love to chat more.
Before I forget …
My friend Nona wrote a beautiful reflection on solo travel and pilgrimages. She shared a little of my story too. I’d love for you to check it out! Have you travelled solo?
And …. if you need some inspiration to keep moving read this story about a 92 year old man who recently walked across the Grand Canyon.