Pilgrim's Progress: Our Lady of Bella Vista

Dear Henry,

Years ago, I heard about the Camino de Santiago and was immediately drawn to the idea of a 500-mile pilgrimage across Spain.

I can pinpoint many of the reasons that I want to do this. I was born in Spain, I love to journey, and I love to learn. But, honestly, I just "for no particular reason" really want to do it.

Initially, I didn't think it was possible. However, after the accident, it became difficult for me to wear a backpack at all, and for many years, I had placed the Camino de Santiago in the "Things I Have Lost" closet.

Then I learned that a porter system was available, complete with bed and breakfast accommodations, and I realized that I could feasibly do the Camino.

Of course, after pricing the Porter system, I realized that achieving the goal would take a few years.

No matter, I need to work on my Spanish anyway.

While planning to walk the Camino de Santiago, I began thinking about all the shrines in the US. I felt that while preparing for the walk, I could make mini-pilgrimages to the shrines around me.

My first one was planned for the day after Easter. I would travel to Prague, Oklahoma, and visit the National Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague. The icon of the Infant of Prague is a personal favorite of mine, and Prague is only a half-day drive away.

Of course, Covid-19 has altered all of my pilgrimage plans.

The other day, I complained to Father B, my pastor, about how awry my plans are (sadly, I have already fussed about a road trip). Father waved out of his office door toward Our Lady of Bella Vista and the (charming) outdoor Stations of the Cross and suggested I begin my pilgrimage here.

Perseverance would be the first lesson I would have to learn from my pilgrimages. Instead, it appears my study will focus on patience.

xoxo a.d.

****** *********************************

a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller living in Salem, Virginia. 

In addition to her travel writings at www.takethebackroads.com, you can also read her book reviews at www.riteoffancy.com and US military biographies at www.everydaypatriot.com

Her online photography gallery can be found at shop.takethebackroads.com

#TaketheBackRoads

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Location: 1 St Bernard Ln, Bella Vista, AR 72715, USA

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