I stepped cautiously over a narrow, rocky path, hoping not to slip into another puddle along El Camino de Santiago. My ankles turned, sending pain up my legs. It was sunny, and sweat covered my legs, chest, and face. My spirit was light—it was only my second day walking and only mile eight—so I kept my eyes upward, catching sight of the green mountains and blue sky. Every few miles, I lowered my head, hiding my nose from the smells of cattle farms; other times I raised my head to the scents of the forests. Everything came and passed, and I tried to let go of old senses and welcome the new.

At first, traveling El Camino with Youth Hostel Ministries seemed to be an opportunity to share the story of Christ with fellow travelers in Europe. As I walked, however, I realized that Christ had additional plans for me. From city to city, novel smells, images, tastes, and noises entered my body—I felt unfamiliar with the places, and also with my identity as a Christian woman, student, and friend.

The experience stripped me of my comforts and forced me to depend on the most essential elements of myself: my faith in Christ, the Christian principles of friendship and community, my love for learning, and a steadfast hopefulness that kept me moving. Remaining centered on these was crucial as I walked, and I am hopeful that I will carry them with me always.