Kathy started the morning in a pair of well-worn running shoes—too well-worn as it turned out. During the day the sole of one of her shoes separated. Duct tape (the universal fix) failed to keep things together. As we limped into a tiny cafe filled with hikers I got everyone’s attention and asked, Does anyone have extra shoes you would loan to a fellow pilgrim?

One lady with an old pair tied to her backpack waved us over. Kathy tried them on and they fit (good enough). She finished the day in borrowed shoes, returning them at the next town where she bought a new pair. Pilgrims are generous.

I’ve experienced locals along the Camino handing out tomatoes, snacks and water. Landowners planted fruit trees along the trail years ago and now every fall apples, plums and chestnuts litter the ground, free for pilgrims passing by. Traditionally those who finished gave alms to the cathedral in Santiago. We encourage our fellow pilgrims to give to a charity of their choice as a part of their pilgrimage.

In this we follow Christian teachings on generosity. Paul encouraged free-handed giving from the church in Corinth: But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.

The Camino experience moves pilgrims to give generously. Giving without qualms forms a good take-away from this experience. God loves a magnanimous giver, because it’s a reflection of him who gave so much to us. In our pilgrimage through life generosity leads first to immediate needs met, then on to deep friendships and healthy souls.

2 Corinthians 8:7

Photo by Marta Reis