Lent has begun. How are you doing, what are you giving up? And what do we do with the “gap”? These gaps usually fill up faster than expected. However, we can also consciously shape them. Instead of social media, for example, more time for real encounters. Avoiding television could give us time to take time to revive old hobbies. Leave the car at home more often and perhaps walk more.

I have actually resolved to walk more in the fresh air. And on my first long walk three days ago, I had the idea of making small pilgrimage units out of it. 

What could this look like in practice? 

1. take a deep breath

• First take a deep breath 
• Then trace the inhalation and exhalation for a few more steps
• Imagine that the Holy Spirit RUACH connects with you with every breath you take

2. let go

Let go of what has been, without judgment, whether good or bad, what has been, has been

3. prayer and blessing

• Feel free to say a prayer aloud or silently and/or ask for a blessing
• Small help: e.g. shortest prayers “You know” or “Thank you”

4. enjoy the vastness

• Be aware and attentive to your surroundings
• Follow your path step by step, your longing, your pilgrimage, whatever you want to call this walk

5. encounters or community 

• Only if you like them or if chance gives them to you
• Invite cordiality into the encounter

6. arrive

• Breathe deeply
• Short review
• Prayer of thanks and blessing

At this point, I would like to invite you to do without. Refrain from reading the above points several times. Feel completely free and trust in what you have within you and trust that God is very close, in the spirit of “praying with your feet”

Buen Camino

Sabine Petters