‘As a memory the Camino exists on at least two levels: that which is shared and re-created for an audience and that which exists privately for the pilgrim, the place that is revisited and remembered, bringing back the journey’s discoveries.’ p199, Nancy Frey, Pilgrim Stories.
Pilgrims return from the Camino with memorabilia which may be utilised as an aid to memory and sharing. Compostelas and possibly credentials are framed, photographs are turned into coffee table books and ornamental representations of sign posts displayed. Some may pin badges to hats and sew or stick fabric badges to their pack.
The viewing of You Tube videos detailing the exploits of others, and the reading of pilgrim memoirs is a favoured way of keeping in touch with our memories. A number are moved to write and publish their memoir thus reaching an international audience.
The Christchurch Camino Group is an example of an ‘imagined community’ which pilgrims feel they are part of as they walk their Camino. Pilgrims once home form or join associations of like minded people linked by various routes and shared experiences. In this way meetings provide the opportunity to maintain a connection to their pilgrimage and other pilgrims. ‘No one else understands,’ is a commonly heard remark and given as a reason for attendance.
Memories can also form part of the private world of the returned pilgrim. They may take home an internalised viewpoint as part of their transformation. They might seek to show more generosity and kindness towards others as a result of example and practice on the Camino.
‘As a memory the Camino is not only a mental process but also a sensory experience.’ Nancy Frey.
The pleasure gained from experiencing silence whilst walking might be replicated in the home by shunning background music, and radio. The scent from plants and flowers can be a trigger to bringing back vivid memories, perhaps of specific Camino events. Alexander John Shaia recommends keeping your Camino clothing (not burning it at Finisterre or throwing it out) as an aid to adjusting to home life.
‘Simply putting on the clothes may powerfully evoke the experience of the Camino.’ Alexander John Shaia
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