Today was day 29 of the Camino. Only eight days left until we reach Santiago de Compostela. Our destination was O'Cebreiro (6.6 miles). Our walk started and ended with cool air and rain. We only covered a few miles today because we had to climb a tall mountain. By the time we reached the top of the mountain all of us were soaking wet and literally walking in the clouds.
I walked most of the day with Sr. Leota and Padre Benjamin. I walked in front of the two of them but would pause every now and then in order for them to catch up. Padre Benjamin walked behind Sr. Leota just in case she slipped or needed any help.
The path was muddy and rocky. It was also very green and beautiful. We were told by David that it rains quite often in the region of Galicia and he was right.
One had to be very careful where they stepped because there was a lot of horse and cow droppings on the path (that's the nice way of saying these animals pooped on the path).
All along we had feared this climb because David kept telling us it was going to be very difficult. I personally think the climb would not have been difficult at all if it had not been raining.
At one point of our walk a farmer was moving his cattle down the mountain and they passed right beside us on the Camino. He had a herd of about twenty cattle. As the cows moved toward us, one cow in particular began to run right towards Padre Benjamin. When I say "run," I mean the cow was running. Had that cow not changed his course and jumped off the path, Padre would be in the hospital recovering from being impaled by the cows horns. Pretty scary moment. I shouldn't have laughed but it was kind of funny watching Padre's eyes pop out of their sockets.
Today I offered my walk and prayers for people who are contemplating suicide. Most of us know someone who has attempted or committed suicide. I think it's very important for us to know that most people who contemplate suicide or actually commit it don't want their lives to end but instead they want their pain to go away.
Let us pray that those contemplating suicide will to find the help and support needed to deal with their pain. Below is information taken from the National Suicide Prevention website that I believe will be helpful in educating all of us about suicide.
Taken from the National Suicide Prevention website:
No matter what problems you are dealing with, we want to help you find a reason to keep living. By calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255) you’ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7. What Are The Warning Signs For Suicide?
The following signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. The risk of suicide is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs, seek help as soon as possible by calling the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
- Sleeping too little or too much.
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
- Displaying extreme mood swings.
Helpful Links:
Find a Therapist or Support Group
Speaking to a therapist or attending a support group can help you work through your grief and improve your overall mental health. The following resources can help you find a psychologist, psychiatrist or support group near you.
Create a Safety Plan
Having a plan in place that can help guide you through difficult moments can make a difference and keep you safe.
Watch Stories of Hope and Recovery
Told through the voices of these individuals, their families, and the professionals in their support network, each inspiring story recounts one person's journey from a suicide attempt to the life of hope and recovery he/she is leading today.
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