Yesterday was a day that took much longer to happen than expected. I had hoped to check into my hotel here in Pamplona by midafternoon and see a little of this town where St. Ignatius was injured by a cannonball. This began his physical change which was then to launch his spiritual metanoia. However it was the end of Easter break here in Spain and everyone was traveling. The two early trains were booked solid and so I ended up taking a late evening train that was also very full. We got delayed a little bit and so arrived in Pamplona half an hour later than expected. I suppose though that there are no mistakes on a pilgrimage. Only lessons to learn.

I met a lovely woman who is originally from Japan who married a Basque and lives with him in Pamplona. She was travelling back home after visiting her sick mother in Japan. She had flown from Dubai and had been travelling for 30 hours. She could speak both Spanish and English which was perfect for me in a travelling mate. We had a good conversations and I felt safe travelling with her. She offered me a ride to the hotel that I was staying at upon arrival. Her kindness was exquisite at the end of a very long day. As it was Mercy Sunday I appreciated this act of mercy for me.

She had an interesting comment for me as we talked about spiritual things. She said that I had pure eyes. This has to be one of the loveliest compliments I have been given. When I was in my 20s, a friend said that I had my Father’s eyes–from an Amy Grant song. That too was beautiful. Our eyes say a lot about us and I was deeply touched that this woman could see deep within me.

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions

What act of mercy have you done for someone today?
What do your eyes say about you?

Prayer

Merciful God, thank you for all the blessings he was still up on me. May I remember your goodness to me and repay it to those I encounter. Amen.