Four days previous, just as I was setting forth from the medieval city of Conques, Chantal – one of the hostel’s hospitaleras who had powerfully resonated with both my Walk and its mission – had rushed out to stop me, both to offer a fond farewell and to tell me that she maintained a small refuge in the city of Bach where I was welcome to stay if so inclined. This offer was quite gratefully received and I had fully intended on accepting the same, and yet my legs had picked up the pace since that time and I had arrived in Bach at midday – too early to stop walking and still remain “in the flow.”

That said, I did find her quaint little refuge, decked out with a table and chairs upon which to write, a cot upon which to sleep, and even a garden out back in which to rest. I freely admit that I was somewhat saddened that I wouldn’t be staying there that evening. Yes, such places are extremely rustic and not at all the most comfortable, and yet there is something magical about them; something that seems to transport one’s Soul back to the days when pilgrimage was an honored task (often undertaken for the benefit of one’s hometown) – much unlike today, when it is viewed by so many as a more superficial act of mere tourism (often undertaken solely for one’s own ‘personal growth’).

“Build a House for both men and birds, and leave it open for both. And when they arrive, sit with them and play music – or simply allow them to do the same. For a day – every day – speak of that which brings peace to all nearby. And give joyfully of all you have, that those who wander in from the road might have a Home once more.” ~ inspired by Hafiz

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