Day 16 Grandpas

Last night Carla and I stayed in a small hostel called La Casa Del Abuelo- Grandpa’s House. As we embarked this morning, I freed myself of all thoughts hoping to get some spiritual guidance on what in my life I may reflect upon today. The time we spend walking gives me a chance to think about what is, or should be, important to me and what has influenced me. Then it hit me. We just left Grampa’s House. Grandpas play a unique role in the family. Note- I was inspired by God to reflect on grandfathers. Grandmothers are critical too and perhaps their presence will surface on the Camino. Grandpa- I had one. I saw one. I am one. My friends are becoming grandpas too. I knew my maternal grandpa but my paternal one passed in my first year of life. I loved my “Gramps”. I would even road trip in college to see him. Unburdened by parental responsibilities he was family and friend wrapped in one. He gave me a sense of heritage. I see my Dad be a grandpa to my kids(JB) and I see how he enriches their understanding of their heritage. My kids have a great bond with JB and his memory will live on in them. Now, I am a Grandpa or “Bumpa” as my grandson Onyx named me. I will follow in Gramps and JB’s footsteps trying to be that presence they both were to their grandkids. The Camino inspires me to reflect on ways I can be a better Bumpa.

Grandpa’s House

One of our nicer rooms. Note the headboard built into the stone wall