The Loss of Another Touches Us All, Especially if it Happens on the Camino
I was on The Camino Frances Forum today and this death notice of a Canadian Pilgrim was posted :
Dr. John Leonard Goodwin of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada, aged 60 years, passed away (mention of a heart attack) on Monday. He and his wife were walking the Camino and had just reached Castrojeriz. He leaves behind his wife Nancy (who is now home here in Charlottetown) and four children.
It is always sad to read of a death in any family. The loss is always a difficult thing to face. IÂ was deeply saddened when I read of Dr. Goodwin’s death.
My family and friends know that I just returned home 5 days ago from my Camino (Frances). I frequently saw crosses and/or markers indicating people’s death while they were on the Camino.
Grave Markets and Memorials I Passed En Route;
Every time I passed a cross or memorial en route, it affected me. We saw many which told us that pilgrims do pass away while walking.
I stopped and wondered about each person:
Who were they?
What were their dreams and goals?
Who did they love?
Who loved them in return?
Did they find what they were seeking on their Camino before they passed?
Why was the memorial placed where it was?
The article I read today mentioned the outpouring of condolences by fellow Camino Pilgrims.
Pilgrims are indeed a rare breed. This outpouring of well wishes that I read today were deeply touching? Dr. Goodwin was a man who must have helped many in his life and that is wonderful. I truly hope his wife and family can find peace with such a loss. I hope they also become aware of the blessings all Camino pilgrims offer at his time!
This is s special time right now in Canada. It is our Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend. I, myself am ever Thankful for my family and friends! I am Grateful for being given this rare opportunity to experience humanity in its kindest form while on The Camino.
May all who read his keep Dr. Goodwin’s family in their prayers and be extra Thankful for the blessings in our own lives.
Buen Camino Dr. Goodwin, as your next peaceful journey into the Kingdom of God begins!
A Fellow Pilgrim!
KEEP WALKING!
