A pilgrimage is a unique experience. The pilgrim is not a wandering vagabond nor a nomad. “Not all who wander are lost,” says Tolkien. The pilgrim journeys with a purpose.
My wife and I have had the opportunity to walk the Way of St James in Spain three times.
A hostel along the way, Fuente del Peregrino, illustrates some of the lessons one can learn while walking using five symbols of the pilgrim’s journey. These can also be applied to our journey as academics.
The first is the backpack. A pilgrim quickly learns to travel light. Everything needed must fit in my backpack. However, if the backpack is too heavy, it becomes a burden. I need to reassess what’s inside my academic backpack: things I don’t need anymore or can delegate. Maybe I need to take on one less committee or project. Jesus reminds me, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” (Mt.11:30)
On the other hand, I discovered things were missing from my backpack, for example, some new skills. Between my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, there was a twenty-year gap. I needed many new skills: new computer skills, internet searching skills, researching with databases.
The second symbol is the staff. The pilgrim uses the staff while walking to keep pace, for balance and support. As a professor, I’ve realized I cannot do it alone. I get support from colleagues, mentors, and especially my wife. Support also comes from a close walk with God: “Your rod and your staff reassure me” (Psalm 23).
Along the Way of St. James, yellow arrows painted on rocks, trees, or walls provide direction. Be alert to see the arrows or risk getting lost. The yellow arrows are the signs that alert me to continue the way I am going or change.
How are students reacting to the class or materials? Do I hear their questions or their silence? Be alert to personal yellow arrows. Do I need to rest, to get more exercise, to get help? Following Jesus is always the right path: “I am the way and the truth and the life” (Jn.14:6).
I’ve learned that the most important equipment I have is not the backpack or the staff; it’s my feet. It’s not an easy walk. As I walk, I get tired, blistered, and cramped; but the journey must continue.
Taking care of oneself physically, mentally, and spiritually is essential. Batteries must be recharged. Jesus invites me: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Mt. 11:28).
The shell symbolizes having reached Santiago de Compostela, of having completed the goal of your pilgrimage. What is our goal as teachers on this pilgrimage? The goal for me as a professor is to change lives. The goal is to help change the world one student at a time. I’ve been on a pilgrimage made up of sixty semesters helping to make disciples…teaching them (Matt. 28:19,20).
Carmelo Arbona
University of Puerto Rico