The two gentlemen in blue t-shirts are Alan from Australia (left) and John from (England) who were the hospitalaros. I was so happy to speak with native English speakers! John made spaghetti for dinner for me, Alan, and Christine. That was a treat. Then John sang a bunch of songs as that is a huge passion of his. Christine and Alan sang along depending if they knew the song.
We talked about the Camino coming to an end. Alan has volunteered as an English greeter. Evidently a number of English speakers finish the Camino and feel isolated around a bunch of Spanish speakers. He said a number of people break down and cry. In part Alan has that kind of trustworthy presence. John shared a moment that he had broke down and cried in the church at Santiago and having fellow pilgrims there to comfort him, made the whole pilgrimage worth it. Alan said that since 'Aussie men don't cry', he could only tell his story the second time he entered Santiago coming in from the Norte. He was feeling pretty neutral when half way listening while in the cathedral the following day, his presence of completing the Camino was read out as part of the tradition. He said he definitely felt a welling of emotion from that.
For me I am having a lot of happiness, excitement and relief to be so close to completing the Camino. The days are sunny now, which makes such a huge difference in walking.
I gave John and Alan a big hug before leaving on the Camino.
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