the stone boat

Soulful Road is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Hello friends,

I hope you are all well and caring for yourselves where ever you are in the world. I did not think I would be back here on this platform, but here we are. Like so many small businesses that care for pilgrims along Camino, we are at a difficult moment without a clear sign of a date for relief in sight. Not simply businesses, but Wayshowers who have been working with devotion, some for many years, supporting pilgrims on their journey to Santiago. Deep respect and appreciation for you if you are reading these words.

I find myself standing at a place along the path where I need to ask for help. Down to bare bones here, which thankfully is a pilgrim superpower, but it is time to send up a 'flare' as a friend put it to me. The Stone Boat is starting to 'list'.

The funds raised here will go directly for basic expenses during this uncertain time. Also, sadly, last week, Giovanni, the boat's trusty truck and pilgrim rescue vehicle, broke down on the side of the highway on the way to Ponferrada for provisions. The Guardia Civil came to my aid, and eventually a big tow truck. So, after all of those times over the Irago Mountain on pilgrim duty, in a pandemic, the truck had simply had enough. The mechanic informed me that it was the end. RIP Giovanni. *So, anything additional would go in this direction.

Aside from the financials, I am feeling solution-oriented and trusting this is somehow part of a bigger plan. ‘The Camino Provides’ is a mantra that is infused along this road, and I have heard it repeatedly since my first pilgrimage 16 years ago from Vezelay, France. Now is the time for calm, creativity, and to use all lessons that were learned right here on this holy road. I believe in the power of this road, Camino Spirit, and the resilience of our Pilgrim community. Here is to the Kind Camino. To friendship. To faith. To love.

So, if you are able to put your hand on an Oar of The Stone Boat at this time, thank you. If you are able to light a candle, send out a prayer, I will take it. Thank you.

Here are a few pictures from the season below. You can also visit the website, send an email, subscribe to the ‘field notes’ where I will post updates on what comes from this evolution.

Animo!

Much love, Kim

www.thestoneboat.com