The trail markings are one of my favorite aspects of this trip. They are clear, but not flashy. If you were not looking for them, you might often miss them. But without fail, when we reach a crossroads, or even the beginning of doubt that we’re on the right path, another yellow blaze or scalloped tile emerges.

I’ve enjoyed a freedom from the map. I do not feel the urge to look where we are, or how much further we have to travel, because I know that the trail markers will always be guiding me. We plan our daily stages the night before, then we simply walk from one yellow arrow to the next scallop shell, until – with great relief – we reach our intended destination with showers and beds.

Here are some things I’ve observed about the trail blazes. See if the parallels to the Camino de la vida – the walk of life – are as apparent to you as to me:

• Markers are easy to see – when you’re looking for them.

• You can never see one marker from the previous; you must move forward in faith that the next marker will be there.

• Markers don’t move to you.

• Markers don’t generally show up on the straight simple path; they do tend to show up just when you start wondering if you’re headed the right direction.

• We have a lot harder time seeing markers in the dark, even though they are there.

• It is easier to follow those with a light., but be sure they’re looking for the markers, too.

• Those who have a light can help point out the markers to those without, but should never ridicule them for an inability to see in the dark.

• Markers come in many shapes and sizes, but are all pointing toward the same goal.