As is often explored and explained, conceptual knowledge is not real until embodied, experienced ... and so with this liftsharing platform from France, now in regular use by young people in Spain, Portugal, Italy and elsewhere ... patience and perseverance sets up the 9 am pick up by the bus stop, Nicola right on time and ahead of schedule with 14.35 arrival at Torrelavega, including pick-up of second passenger en-route ... Susanna, on her way to Bilbao ... Nicola heads for San Sebastian today, Milan tomorrow, with a French couple to collect in Pau and drop in Monaco ... meaning his fuel and toll costs are covered, plus he has some company on the long drive ... favourite FEVE train station right by drop off speeds into Santander by 15.15 and boarding pass secured before stretch for legs around town ... warm and sunny 20° unlike rainy Finisterre this morning ...
Before this very efficient trip, another rather snory night in the dorm means tonight's tiny solo cabin looks like a real haven and ensuite toilet eases any nocturnal incontinence ... a very warm embrace from Coline (ed. please note previous misspelling) and Bernard, and a short trip to the bus stop means legs are wondering what's going on, while feet are quietly grateful for a complete rest .... the philosophy has gone very deep with Coline, in the zone after 2 months on the Way without smartphone or other technology ... the increase of techgadgetry over the last 5 years is noticeable and intrusive ... perhaps a reflection of the dilution of the purpose of pilgrimage along with the ever increasing numbers. .. especially from Tui, Sarria and other Compostela earning short trips ... taxis advertise pick ups of tired pilgrims as well as onward baggage to lighten the load ... taxigrinos ... others more focused on the holiday aspect known as turigrinos ... all of which holier than thouness begs the question of what a pilgrim is ... maybe best to discern case by case, without judgement ... if indeed even discernment is required ... walking always in groups, navigating by smartphones, plugged in to music or whatsapp chatter diminishing pilgrimness ... Coline exemplifying the possibilities ... others too ... never mind, the Compostela may or may not get you into heaven, but it seems quite helpful on cvs when employers are seeking character reference beyond academic qualifications ...
Pont Aven provides simple needs, including great veggie early supper to make up for skipped lunch .. a book and yesterday's newspaper for a day afloat and another by train ... time on-board is UK time, another hour back meaning bed is calling, this time without snoring ...
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