Chapter 1: The Pilgrimage of Purpose

This past May, I embarked on the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage spanning over 500 miles through Spain. Beginning in Pamplona and concluding in Santiago de Compostela marked my fourth experience on this historic route.

According to legend, in the ninth century, a hermit named Pelayo was guided by a star to discover the remains of St. James the Greater, one of the apostles of Jesus. This discovery took place in a field, which is why the name Compostela translates to “field of stars.” Following Pelayo's find, King Alfonso II of Asturias became the first to make the pilgrimage to Santiago, thus establishing the route as a key Christian pilgrimage site.

Approximately 300 kilometers from Santiago, I encountered a man who shared that he was walking the Camino to "build a life." His statement intrigued me, leading me to ask for clarification.

His response was a profound story.

In 1209, a pilgrim traveled from his village in France to witness the construction of the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. After months of walking, he arrived as night fell and encountered workers leaving the site. Despite the scaffolding surrounding the cathedral, it was nearly finished.

Excited, the pilgrim approached one of the laborers. Curious about the men who constructed such a significant place, he asked the worker in broken Spanish about his role.

Brushing dust off his arms, the worker replied, “I am a stonecutter. I cut rock for the walls.”

The pilgrim then approached another man. “What is your job, sir?” he inquired.

Removing a wood chip from his curly hair, the second worker said, “I am a carpenter. I create the frames and scaffolding.” He nodded at the pilgrim before heading home.

Next, the pilgrim encountered three more men. “Excuse me, señores. What do you do here?” he asked.

One man explained he painted the murals and gilded the columns, while the others were glassmakers who crafted the windows that let in light. After they departed, the pilgrim continued his exploration.

He then spotted an elderly woman sweeping debris at the church entrance. “Perdón, señora. What is your role here?” he asked.

The woman smiled and replied, “Mine is the greatest job in the world. I am building a cathedral for God.”

Reflecting on this encounter, I realized that many navigate life like the workers who contributed to the cathedral. They see themselves as mere stone cutters, painters, glassmakers, or carpenters—focused solely on their tasks without grasping the larger significance.

In contrast, the old woman, tasked with cleaning, viewed her role as part of a divine mission. She believed she was building a cathedral to honor God and to safeguard the bones of one of Jesus' apostles.

This story prompts us to consider whether we perceive our lives as ordinary or recognize that even the most mundane tasks can carry profound meaning.

Your life can be viewed as a grand cathedral, a temple, or an exceptional creation, or you can see it as a simple stone awaiting someone else’s touch. The choice is yours.

“Be humble, for you are made of dung. Be noble for you are made of stars.” – Serbian proverb.

Thank you for reading. Choose to forge an extraordinary life.

Michael

For a deeper insight into building resilience and recognizing value in struggle, follow me and consider subscribing to my newsletter, The Art of Becoming.

Chapter 2: The Heart of Worship

Exploring the essence of worship can greatly enrich our lives. This video dives deep into the significance of worship and its impact on our daily existence.

Chapter 3: Living a Meaningful Life

Understanding the vision of a fulfilling life is essential for personal growth. This video highlights how to cultivate a meaningful existence, guiding you on your journey.