Nothing is what it seems: contribution by Ellen (pilgrim 053)

Ellen Eggerdink (pilgrim 053) sent us a nice story with a matching photo.

Recently, in preparation for the night of the refugee, I walked a 36 km stretch of the Walk of Wisdom for the second time.

When I read in the following description how to continue walking (on map 19 dot 9: to Nederasselt, priority road cross Broekstraat main road first path on the right along fish pond ) the following obstructive conviction of mine came along: “Oh yes that fish pond, boring gray part”. When I arrived at the place I was totally surprised, so beautiful! And thought I should just take a picture of this.

I realized that my prejudice, mentioned above, was inspired by an idea from the past when, as a child, I had seen a trout farm near a campsite where we were staying. Had saved this as a very gray crisis place. And this had apparently become a model for the abstract concept for all fish ponds.

My insight: another proof of ‘thoughts are not facts’. Experiencing is what it’s all about. Everything is change. The impact a word can have. Nothing is as it seems. This experience helps me to look and feel more and more consciously with an open mind at everything that comes my way in life and to be more aware of my (pre)judgments that are always with me.