A few weeks ago, I asked a close male friend to look over this essay about a tough moment between my husband Hal and me on a long, hard day of walking the Camino de Santiago. I was worried it was too honest, too personal, too raw a description of how things escalate fast when people who love each other get tired and frustrated and mad, and counter grump with grump instead of wising up and fixing things.
I wanted the friend to tell me, straight up, whether the story might hurt Hal’s feelings, or embarrass him. But when I told Hal I’d done this, he said, “WTF?! Just send it. I’m a big boy.”
Here’s the reply Hal sent:
So I did. Here’s the result:
The Greenery 
The seed was planted over 10 years ago for me to walk the Camino. I thought I’d do it solo, but now with a husband and a son, I think it will be a family journey – possibly, next summer. I followed your blog with hopes to read some narrative about your experience. I love this piece. Beautiful. Thanks so much!
I wish you Buen Camino! You will love it.
Great story and something us (wo)men do need to read from time to time. I am in awe of your journey AND the fact your marriage is still intact (presuming it it :)).
No awe necessary! A long walk is just a bunch of short walks strung together between glasses of wine.
Hey, that’s me everyday – easypeasy then 🙂
What a nice story!
Thank you!
Your article on nashvillescene is a beautiful story and inspiring one. It did give me some thought about the relationship and it’s not necessary to be for only a couple, but it also can put a food for thought in any relationship. Sometimes people have their bad days and they might not be their true self ;and we shouldn’t forget that. I like the point that you said ‘Go Big’ ‘Right Now’.
Thank you for sharing this. 🙂
Thank you! You’re right. It is hard to remember sometimes that the way a person is in any given moment isn’t the best version of them. Especially when *you* are very tired and sore, too. 🙂
My God, that’s a wonderful piece of writing. Brought tears to my eyes.
PRN
Sent from my iPad
Thanks, PRN!
What a very humbling experience that must have been. It is a wonderfully written piece.
Thank you! Humbled. 🙂