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A Camino of the Soul: Learning to Listen When the Universe Whispers
“ Start writing. Don’t ask what or why...just start” My sister Jeannie, deceased 7 years earlier, wrapped her angel arms around me that September day on the Camino Santiago de Compostela and guided me to my purpose. What is it that magically draws us to step outside our normal realm of existence? That unexplainable energy that sings a calling to our soul? A knowing which came in the late summer of 2011, my pilgrimage was the culmination of several years in which I began learning to listen to the energies of the Universe. Listen to the knowledge my soul cradles deep within. Listen to the love and guidance of my guardian angels. Believe that all I need to know, all I need to understand, is available to me if I simply remain open to the forces of the Universe ...and listen. In September 2014 I followed my soul knowledge and embarked on the Camino Santiago de Compostela, an ancient pilgrimage path some 500 miles crossing the French Pyrenees and west across the north of Spain. A Camino of the Soul - Learning to Listen When the Universe Whispers shares my Camino story and, more importantly, a lesson of growth and transformation.
75 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2016
41 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 8, 2018
Elliott's tale of walking the Camino de Santiago is...not really about the Camino. The first half of the book is about the events that led up to her beginning the Camino, and considering that it's a short book, that doesn't leave much space for the 800 kilometers of the Camino. (I think she actually got to the Camino around 43% of the way through the book.)
Believing as I do that there are no coincidences in life... says Elliott (loc. 614), and that's one of the things that made this a poor fit for me. If you believe that every. tiny. thing. that happens might be a sign from the universe, this might make a better read for you, but I'm...pretty skeptical? Elliott implicitly asks the reader to take a lot at face value when it comes to her beliefs about the universe, so again...if you're better at that than I am...you might have more luck here.
I have a slightly easier time with the book when I consider that it's not really a Camino memoir, but little errors rankled: one pellegrina (loc. 558) instead of 'one peregrina'; the hosteliero (loc. 604) instead of 'the hospitalero'; Roncesvalle (loc. 623) instead of 'Roncesvalles'... Or this: She would walk the final 120 kilometers of this Camino with me. ... Her first ten days coupled with the next five earned her the coveted compostele, the certificate recognizing completion of the 120 required kilometers (loc. 996). It's a 'compostela', and only 100 kilometers of walking (or 200 km of cycling) are required to receive it. I know I'm being nitpicky, but 1) considering how much time pilgrims spend talking about collecting stamps for their pilgrim passports (which serve as proof that you've completed 100 km), it's rather startling to me to see a wrong number, and 2) it leaves the impression that she didn't care too much about the Camino itself.
I haven't read either The Camino: A Journey of the Spirit or The Pilgrimage (might at some point, but I've read enough about both to think they will not resonate terribly well with me), but I'm guessing that this might be a better fit for readers who connected with those.
Believing as I do that there are no coincidences in life... says Elliott (loc. 614), and that's one of the things that made this a poor fit for me. If you believe that every. tiny. thing. that happens might be a sign from the universe, this might make a better read for you, but I'm...pretty skeptical? Elliott implicitly asks the reader to take a lot at face value when it comes to her beliefs about the universe, so again...if you're better at that than I am...you might have more luck here.
I have a slightly easier time with the book when I consider that it's not really a Camino memoir, but little errors rankled: one pellegrina (loc. 558) instead of 'one peregrina'; the hosteliero (loc. 604) instead of 'the hospitalero'; Roncesvalle (loc. 623) instead of 'Roncesvalles'... Or this: She would walk the final 120 kilometers of this Camino with me. ... Her first ten days coupled with the next five earned her the coveted compostele, the certificate recognizing completion of the 120 required kilometers (loc. 996). It's a 'compostela', and only 100 kilometers of walking (or 200 km of cycling) are required to receive it. I know I'm being nitpicky, but 1) considering how much time pilgrims spend talking about collecting stamps for their pilgrim passports (which serve as proof that you've completed 100 km), it's rather startling to me to see a wrong number, and 2) it leaves the impression that she didn't care too much about the Camino itself.
I haven't read either The Camino: A Journey of the Spirit or The Pilgrimage (might at some point, but I've read enough about both to think they will not resonate terribly well with me), but I'm guessing that this might be a better fit for readers who connected with those.
December 2, 2023
I have always loved Camino de Santiago journeys, and seeing what the walk meant to people. This was another good one, although the time on the Camino is the latter part of the story, and the first part about her life, the losses she endured and a marriage which was falling apart. All of the above was a big reason she decided to walk the Camino. With an open mind she sets out on this spiritual Journey, listening for signs from people she lost and using her intuition for answers, she got a lot of answers she needed. It was a good read.
There is a second book which I just started, about a walk in Patagonia to help her gain more closure.
There is a second book which I just started, about a walk in Patagonia to help her gain more closure.
October 27, 2018
Very interesting. A tad depressing. The author shows us healing is indeed a slow process.
April 16, 2016
Looking into someone else's soul
Before I start, if you are looking for a book about the Camino De Santiago, you are looking in the wrong place. This is a story about what is going on in the author's soul within the context of taking a long walk on the Camino. Katharine allows us to look inside her innermost thoughts, to see things that the rest of us keep very private. We may share our feelings with other pilgrims on the Camino but writing it all down for the world to read takes courage. The author talks a lot about the universe just like some say the Camino will provide and although I cannot reconcile her ideas with my own beliefs, I would certainly recommend this well written and touching book to anyone interested in the journey your soul takes as you walk alone with your thoughts. If you have not felt just the tiniest bit like crying after the first couple of chapters, then go read anyone of dozens of other books, my own included, that will detail the day to day living on this famous pilgrimage. I have walked the Camino twice and met many people with life problems that they hoped to sort out as they walked. Katharines problems make most of them pale into insignificance but she found the secret of the long walk. She allowed her conscious mind to listen to what her subconscious always knew and her soul found peace. Buen Camino for the rest of your life journey Katharine and thank you for sharing your innermost thoughts with us
Before I start, if you are looking for a book about the Camino De Santiago, you are looking in the wrong place. This is a story about what is going on in the author's soul within the context of taking a long walk on the Camino. Katharine allows us to look inside her innermost thoughts, to see things that the rest of us keep very private. We may share our feelings with other pilgrims on the Camino but writing it all down for the world to read takes courage. The author talks a lot about the universe just like some say the Camino will provide and although I cannot reconcile her ideas with my own beliefs, I would certainly recommend this well written and touching book to anyone interested in the journey your soul takes as you walk alone with your thoughts. If you have not felt just the tiniest bit like crying after the first couple of chapters, then go read anyone of dozens of other books, my own included, that will detail the day to day living on this famous pilgrimage. I have walked the Camino twice and met many people with life problems that they hoped to sort out as they walked. Katharines problems make most of them pale into insignificance but she found the secret of the long walk. She allowed her conscious mind to listen to what her subconscious always knew and her soul found peace. Buen Camino for the rest of your life journey Katharine and thank you for sharing your innermost thoughts with us
September 18, 2016
The book turned out to be more about the author's coping with the loss of her marriage than it was about walking the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. The Camino seemed to simply be one of the settings of this biographical account of the author's realization that the end of her marriage was more than just a life change, but an opportunity for growth as well. However, her former husband's presence in Santiago and her seeming desire to return to him indicated that the realization actually came later, after the journey to Santiago, and outside of the setting that the Camino provided.
I found portions of the book less than compelling, such as the contention that deceased loved ones were communicating with her through such things as the repeated appearance in her life of specific numbers. Instead, the author requires the reader to unquestioningly understand and accept this important aspect of her story. Perhaps I would have been more drawn in had I already possessed a presupposition of the message the author was trying to communicate.
Regardless, A Camino of the Soul is one person's story. I'm sure it was cathartic to write. And others may take more away from her story, even if I didn't.
I found portions of the book less than compelling, such as the contention that deceased loved ones were communicating with her through such things as the repeated appearance in her life of specific numbers. Instead, the author requires the reader to unquestioningly understand and accept this important aspect of her story. Perhaps I would have been more drawn in had I already possessed a presupposition of the message the author was trying to communicate.
Regardless, A Camino of the Soul is one person's story. I'm sure it was cathartic to write. And others may take more away from her story, even if I didn't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2016
Having myself walked the Camino as Katherine Elliott did in April-May (probably the most alluring season of the year) and also having written a book about my own Camino (Strangers on the Camino), I was looking forward to reading Kate Elliott's maiden publication - and I certainly was not disappointed.
I like her writing style, and the use of apt quotations at the beginning of each chapter. Her story about the journey she undertook to "walk the Camino and discover who and what I am to be in this life" makes compelling reading. Her journey was made at a time of personal turmoil and questioning in her life, and led to personal growth and discovery . I like her finding for herself "a new way to view any situation - focusing on all that is good" and her observation "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change".
Years of experiencing illness and death in her loved ones showed her clearly that Life is meant to be lived - and the Camino gives us the chance to behold the magnificence of this planet we call home.
Whether you have walked the Camino yourself or you plan to walk it someday, I commend this book to you. It is a compelling read.
I like her writing style, and the use of apt quotations at the beginning of each chapter. Her story about the journey she undertook to "walk the Camino and discover who and what I am to be in this life" makes compelling reading. Her journey was made at a time of personal turmoil and questioning in her life, and led to personal growth and discovery . I like her finding for herself "a new way to view any situation - focusing on all that is good" and her observation "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change".
Years of experiencing illness and death in her loved ones showed her clearly that Life is meant to be lived - and the Camino gives us the chance to behold the magnificence of this planet we call home.
Whether you have walked the Camino yourself or you plan to walk it someday, I commend this book to you. It is a compelling read.
October 9, 2016
Life constantly throws us daily obstacles, negatives and challenges, somehow along our many journeys we must adapt, listen to our inner issues and steer into a more positive path of recovery that will enable us to manage all that is within us. We do lose strength to stay strong and resilient, we sometimes lose track of that steering, so going on Katharine’s Camino of the Soul journey, helps us to refocus on what’s important in our lives. Her questioning of her motives and purpose helps us to self evaluate our purpose; her connectivity with the greater whole enables us to reconnect with our fragmented soul. Katharine’s openess to her pain, loss and grieving - assists us with facing our own emotional turmoils and find ways to heal and move forward. I admire her skillful ability to weave the various stages of questioning into healing and viewing each day as a gift and a new opportunity.
April 9, 2016
This is a symphony… the whispers of the universe are all around you … you just need to listen. Author Katharine Elliott takes us on an inspirational soulful journey in her book, “Camino of The Soul.” The reader walks alongside her and feels the emotions of the devastation of loss to the soul’s unfolding and awakening. While walking the Camino Santiago de Compostela, she learns to surrender, listen, and allow the universe to guide her to gratitude, grace, acceptance and healing. This book will inspire you, as it did me, to find your own “Camino” and pay attention to the synchronicities and whispers in your life
April 17, 2016
Ms. Elliot offers the reader an opportunity to be a companion with her on an authentic physical, mental, and emotional journey of self-discovery and renewal. She weaves the themes of learning through loss and developing awareness through seeking with her experience walking the Camino in a way that is heart-warming and insightful. Her lessons learned on loss, faith, and trust will resonate with anyone seeking understanding and forgiveness of self and others.
Whatever one’s “universe” is, the reader can identify with the messages of hope and appreciation for blessings that are all around if one opens their eyes to receive them.
Whatever one’s “universe” is, the reader can identify with the messages of hope and appreciation for blessings that are all around if one opens their eyes to receive them.
April 13, 2016
Kate is an absolutely inspiring woman with a great sense of humor and rich perspective on life and its meaning. Reading this book felt so intimate, like listening to a close friend share her story with you over a cup of coffee. Following the journey of her personal losses, I was inspired by her focus on finding gratitude. With every page, I began feeling more grateful myself and delighted in her journey on the Camino de Santiago. This is a wonderful book for anyone looking for a quick reminder of what is truly important in life.
April 13, 2016
I started to read Katharine's book this morning and couldn't stop. It was a captivating and easy read while pulling me into deeper, soulful parts of myself. I felt like I was walking with her through a challenging part of her life, soulmates each in the search of finding ourselves. Give yourself the treat of some nutritious Soul Food and check out this woman's inspiring, UNIVERSAL, story ..... that the only way to truly find oneself is to take the first step in the direction that Life is calling you.
Bon Voyage....!
Bon Voyage....!
April 14, 2016
Inspiring and thought-provoking!! Writing from her heart, Katharine Elliott takes us on an amazing journey, sharing devastating events in her life and letting us feel her pain. She then courageously “walks” us forward to a place of self-discovery, hope, and healing, as she learns to truly listen and trust the energies of the Universe. We find ourselves traveling with Katharine, step by step, on the Camino, totally enthralled. She also gives her readers a special gift: a greater and deeper meaning of life that is just waiting to be discovered.
June 21, 2016
I loved her book. I'm usually not all that fond of memoirs, but hers is so gripping I couldn't put it down. I was actually late for work after I started reading it. It's a great companion book if you find yourself at the crossroads of life and struggling to orient yourself toward new beginnings. She reflects on death and dying, loss of familiar structures and support, and about turning inward to listen for spiritual awakening and meaning. It's a story of acceptance, surrender and purpose. Great read! Highly recommended if you are seeking to make sense of life and current challenges.
April 11, 2016
Authentic and intriguing. Seldom do I find myself wanting to keep reading however Katharine's ability to share her story with curiousity and inward reflection kept me riveted to continue to the end without a break. So many life lessons woven throughout. At times I felt as though I was on the trail with her. Thank you for baring your soul and inviting us to walk along side you. I hope we have an opportunity to read more in the future. Highly recommend!
May 23, 2016
Raw, open, engaging
Katharine's book is immersive. Her gentle storytelling skill coupled with her open account of a series of life changes brought tears to my eyes a few times. Her account of hiking her way through a major life change is inspiring. Enjoy a literary ease and transcendent language that creates a feeling that one has not merely read about it but rather has shared the journey with her. Looking forward to her next book.
Katharine's book is immersive. Her gentle storytelling skill coupled with her open account of a series of life changes brought tears to my eyes a few times. Her account of hiking her way through a major life change is inspiring. Enjoy a literary ease and transcendent language that creates a feeling that one has not merely read about it but rather has shared the journey with her. Looking forward to her next book.
July 26, 2016
Find the magic in your life!
A wonderful book that sweeps you away to foreign shores, and touches your soul with the power of the universe. Katharine's journey is all of our journeys that we experience in life. The difference being she uses her experiences to more deeply understand who she is, and how her life's purpose connects with the greater whole. Through her journey you will question yours...and that is where the magic may emerge in your life.
A wonderful book that sweeps you away to foreign shores, and touches your soul with the power of the universe. Katharine's journey is all of our journeys that we experience in life. The difference being she uses her experiences to more deeply understand who she is, and how her life's purpose connects with the greater whole. Through her journey you will question yours...and that is where the magic may emerge in your life.
April 11, 2016
I loved the authors view and the journey before, during and after the walk. The issues that needed to be overcome to get to that place were she said I'm doing this walk.
I had tears in my eyes a few times when you could feel the struggles she had to face and how the walk helped her.
I wish I had the courage to do something so independent and then to write about the experience.
Congratulations
I had tears in my eyes a few times when you could feel the struggles she had to face and how the walk helped her.
I wish I had the courage to do something so independent and then to write about the experience.
Congratulations
October 10, 2016
Soul searching focus
Nice book. First third or half was all about what lead her to choose the Camino pilgrimage. I found the recollections about the Camino lovely and enjoyed reading her perspective. Would recommend this only if reader is more interested in listening to the universe and less interested in reading about Camino adventures.
Nice book. First third or half was all about what lead her to choose the Camino pilgrimage. I found the recollections about the Camino lovely and enjoyed reading her perspective. Would recommend this only if reader is more interested in listening to the universe and less interested in reading about Camino adventures.
October 9, 2016
I loved this book, I felt I was with her on the journey. The way she writes, let's you feel connected. I couldn't put it down, I read through out the day. Her story is compelling and fascinating . I highly reccomend this book. The author. Is down to earth , and writes beautifully. I would give it 5 stars, but 4 was the limit.
June 29, 2017
You will not want to put this book down! Before you are finished reading you will be inspired to go on a camino of your own. Filled with beauty, wonder and raw emotions, this story is heartwarming and captivating.
May 6, 2016
A Camino of Soul is a story about love, forgiveness, and self-discovery. It is a story that engages you from the very first page, story that will stir your emotions, story you will be glad you took the time to read.
August 17, 2016
This is a must read for anyone who's at a crossroads in their life. This book will help open your eyes and heart to give you the nudge you need to make those hard choices and then the ability to be at peace with those decisions. I highly recommend it.
August 10, 2016
Know that this book is more about the author's coping with loss than walking the Camino. The Camino is a minor character in this memoir. I'm sure it was cathartic for the author and helpful for some readers.
October 9, 2016
Finally finished the book and I have to say that it touched my heart, her account of the struggle between staying or leaving her marriage was so real, it hit home. Thank you for sharing your story and hope one day I get to share mine. See you in Spain... Buen Camino!!
April 24, 2016
Great Words of wisdom!
Walking with Kate not only on her Camino journey but through some real life struggles. Full of useful words of wisdom and aha moments. Well done Kate!
Walking with Kate not only on her Camino journey but through some real life struggles. Full of useful words of wisdom and aha moments. Well done Kate!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews