Pilgrimage

Often it's the simplest things which are of the greatest value

Last weekend Moss and I went on a pilgrimage in remembrance of Rose, a young girl who died completely unexpectedly aged 13.  It was a poignant day, but good to be able to do something to show love and respect for the family.

There were many of us humans, but only two dogs, which suited Moss.

To walk and talk about a tragedy is healthy in my opinion.

Whilst walking I had a good conversation with our beloved Rector, we talked about companionship and he told me something that he’d learned recently.  The root meaning of the word companion comes from the Latin com, meaning with, and panis meaning bread, so a companion is someone you share bread with.

On the pilgrimage I felt that Moss was my companion.

It was a warm sunny day and our destination was the ruined chapel where Rose is buried.  When we arrived refreshments were laid on including Rose’s favourite cake and bottles of water.

We sang and talked and shared stories.

Moss was thrilled to have so many people making a fuss of her.

As we sat amid the ruins it was hot, so whilst I chose not to share Rose’s special cake with Moss, I poured water from the plastic bottle into my cupped hand and Moss lapped it up.  She was so gentle and sensitive, it reminded me that often it’s the simplest things in life which are of the greatest value.

AJK