After gingerly yet successfully clambering over the fallen tree, I found that hip-flexor strains dislike climbing woodland staircases almost as much as they despise descending them … Up & up & up I limped — stair by stair by stair — until I finally climbed all the way out of my marshy valley and came directly (and quite surprisingly) to the small chapel located on the outskirts of the town of Montpreveyres. The sanctuary itself was open, and I was exhausted enough to consider spending the night in its already chilly confines, and yet the parsonage next-door beckoned for a knock on its welcoming door, so I hobbled over and offered the same.

After only a short wait Father Bertrand opened up with a smiling look of surprise. I explained that I was a Peace Pilgrim seeking refuge for the night, and he explained that he was equally worn out — having just returned from vacation two brief hours prior. Still, despite his fatigue, he invited me in without hesitation and to my delight showed me to an amazing room that had been outfitted especially for passing pilgrims. In truth, this wonderful little hostel had only recently been constructed inside the parsonage, and indeed I was graciously offered the very first stay therein that night … :O

“No matter happens to or for you, always remember that your days are innately blessed.  For though you may not always know how to profit by them, you can always use them for the benefit of others — and that is precisely why they remain ever sanctified nonetheless.” ~ inspired by Nadia Boulanger

Filed under: Peace Pilgrimage #02: Walking HOME (2019) by Scaughdt