We are catching up with our English/Australian friends today so our walk will be a 4 km walk to the station to catch a train to Tomar, a medieval town, so crucial in the Portuguese story which I will tell you more about after tomorrow’s exploration with our friends. 

In the meantime, we walked through parts of this ancient city, chatting about old times, and potential new times for us, family and the globe. With the ancient castle staring aloft with sad and weary eyes, a distant image of its old self, unable to do the job it was built for, and no longer needed to do so in any case, we walked and talked through its ancient streets.

As we walked through the large square I noticed a yellow arrow, and pointed it out to our friendswho then followed it with me as we discussed its role in getting us to our goal. We passed limping pilgrims, one with a bandaged knee, another with a swollen ankle reminding me that it is not an endurance test at all costs but a journey full of challenges where wise decisions are needed to be made in the name of personal and spiritual growth.

It is for everyone who wants a challenge where even the faint hearted may surprise themselves, as long as walking is not an over-riding burden for them, and where a change of heart is a  desirable thing. We talked about life’s different meanings as we strolled through some beautiful parkland, in awe especially of the strong heart of what appeared to be a dead tree as it sprouted new saplings from its seemingly lifeless but determined will to survive.

We look forward to our time with them tomorrow as we explore the strong and ancient heart of this inspiring town, that holds a special place in Portugal’s soul.