The obstacle is the way…

… is a book by Ryan Holiday about a key idea in Stoic philosophy. I’ve been listening to Ryan’s podcasts for a while now and have read some of his many books on Stoicism. I find them thought-provoking and they’ve helped me consider how to approach various challenges in my life.

I’ve not read The Obstacle is the Way but have listened to him talk about it enough to have a general idea of the principles involved. The subtitle is “The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumphs.” You probably get the picture.

On this Camino I am finding (so far!), that the hills that might be considered obstacles have actually been the sections of the trail where I have felt most connected to my journey, in the sense of almost being able to meditate as I walk slowly up. My slow and steady pace takes the rush out of the equation. There is no rush. I’ll get there when I get there. I find that so freeing. It’s almost a joy at times.

Now, I will add a caveat… the really, really steep sections are not so much fun. They are more to be endured, or conquered.

But the steady, upward inclines, these have become some of my favourite parts of the pilgrimage.

Check back with me after tomorrow though - tomorrow we have 5 miles all uphill to start the day 😳 - I’m hoping my joy remains!!