In 2023 I walked the Way of Saint James. It is a 500 miles backpacking adventure across the whole country of Spain. It took me 42 days! But, I decided to expand on this sojourn because I wanted to also see Italy and France. So, I began in Rome embarking on a ten week adventure across three countries.

You can learn more about this adventure, see pictures, videos, and more right here: Will's Pilgrimage Europe

When it comes to my search for the meaning of life there are several important stops that I made along this path. First, of course was Rome with visits to Saint Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museum. Then on to Florence for the Renaissance period art and sculpture.

In France I spent a few days in Lourdes where I witnessed the nightly candlelit procession.

And then I walked the 500 mile Way of Saint James right across the whole country of Spain, celebrating mass, and getting pilgrims blessings in many churches and cathedrals along the way. I finished it all off by hugging the Statue of Saint James which is the traditional way to end the pilgrimage.

All in all it was a profound life experiece for me. And out of it came a book about the meaning of life.

As of the writing of this article I have finished the writing of the book and I am in the process of finding either an agent or a publisher. It is entitled "The Test and the Gift" and here is a mock up cover that I have made for it: