I left my well-worn hiking shoes in Santiago.
In medieval times, Camino de Santiago pilgrims burned their clothing at a cross outside the cathedral. They bought new clothes at the nearby marketplace, signaling a new beginning.
I dumped my Merrells in a trash bin.
There was part of me that wanted to keep them, but I realized I was already taking enough back to California.
Camino friendships, amazing scenery, the Spanish people and so much more will be with me forever.
I walked nearly a million steps in my trekking shoes.
But the things I brought home are immeasurable.