Yesterdays events have become very much a blur due to the fast paced nature of the trip, but it is all summarised in the itinerary so check it out. Im skipping a few days to get back on top if things. If you have a problem with that, come fight me... Oh thats right you can't, cause I'm I'm Spain!
As usual I woke early in time for morning prayer by the pool with sun rise. Another great experience, where an opportunity for personal reflection arose. These are the moments which truly define the personal pilgrimage.
Speaking of the pilgrimage experience as you may know there us much suffering involved. For three nights we've roughed it out in luxurious hotels, with spas, pools, gym, 10€ massages
I'd like to start with what was most important. The fact that Fr Jim led us in one of the best masses while on this pilgrimage. It was so inclusive and we were all invited up to the altar for the liturgy if the eucharist which was awesome. To top the mass off it was celebrated in a 12th century cathedral with amazing architecture and walls... Which is pretty much the norm EVERYWHERE we go here in spain.
The style of the cathedral couldn't make up it's mind as it was in the transitional period between romanesque and gothic. Don't worry I have no knowledge if the characteristics if neither... Either.
We then hit up the tomb of St Therese of Avila. It was really powerful to be so close to such a holy woman. Although I kind if find it disturbing how her heart and arm had been removed for separate display. I just don't agree with tearing someone apart for their holiness. But I can't argue with the church. I'll embrace the positive side and just think of the graces associated with relics.
Any ways prepare yourself for some negatives. (i like to keep the scales balanced)
After we had had productive small groups we walked through the absolutley sweltering heat of the afternoon and got onto a bus that was graciously waiting for us in the sun. The temperature on the bus could only compared to the fires of hell. We all suffered our penance until the air con kicked in. Pity there were no windows to speed up the process. :s
Id just like to throw down a fun fact. The sun over here although really hot does not burn you. I spent a whole day in blistering heat walking the spanish streets and even MY skin didn't burn... It did although take a pinkish hue which soon faded. I'm thinking it probably has something to do with that gaping hole in the ozone resting over unfortunate Australia.
Well after that I won't go into it too much but I probably had the best night of my life. Some local girls showed us round fiesta central salamanca and we partied well into the morning.
This blog was written the morning after so I'm a tad tired so sozza for the dullness. But I'll catch you all on the flip flop
Sam xx
EDIT: late upload and lack of material caused by limited access to wifi
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