While I Slept

By Jaki | walkwithjaki | One path. Many reflections.

“He grants sleep to those he loves.” — Psalm 127:2

Today, the Camino asked me to trust.

After yesterday’s long, gruelling 11-hour walk, I was nearly ready to give up. My body was aching, my spirit worn thin. I went to sleep uncertain about how — or even whether — I would continue today.

But then morning came.

And with it, the quiet miracle I had forgotten to expect: rest had done its work. I woke up feeling better. Lighter. Stronger. I remembered — with both humility and awe — that sleep is not a pause in the journey, but a vital part of it. That somewhere between sunset and sunrise, grace moves. Healing begins. Strength returns.

With that, I chose to trust.

Trust in the process.

Trust in my body.

Trust in the One who watches over me as I sleep.

So I walked again today. With a trusting heart and a steadier step, I reached my next stop.

Along the way, I was reminded of something else essential: the power of self-motivation. This is not a journey you can make without a strong personal reason — without a sense of calling or conviction. No one else can walk it for you. You must find the reason within yourself, again and again.

And yet, even in this deeply personal walk, today brought a beautiful glimpse of shared humanity. It is Pentecost Sunday — a day that reminds us of the Holy Spirit’s power to connect us across language and culture. And on the Camino, I experienced that in real time.

I met people from many countries, speaking many languages. And somehow, we spoke — haltingly, kindly, joyfully — through our common identity as pilgrims. The Way gave us words. The season gave us a shared spirit.

Tonight, as I lie down, I will say again, “Watch over me as I sleep.”

But now, I say it with renewed belief.

Because last night, He did.

And today, I walked — restored, healed, inspired.

What are you learning to trust again?