Ultreia!
“The Camino taught me to keep going, to keep moving forward when life gets hard - even if it’s one step at a time.” Tristina Oppliger
“Ultreia” is a word of encouragement sometimes used on the Camino. It comes from a pilgrim’s song that dates back to medieval times. Ultra means “beyond” in Latin. The word ultra is also connected to footraces longer than a marathon. The “eia” modifies the a in ultra, suggesting forward movement. Though there are some who tackle the Camino as a sport-like challenge, for most, the Camino is a pilgrimage often done solo, in pairs, or in a small group. They may walk together or with space between themselves to allow for times of contemplation. Ultreia is a word of encouragement to keep on going when the road feels too long, too hard - as Liam or Dora would say - a slog!
There is a companion word to it, often chimed in as a response - Suseia - which refers more to going higher. Ultreia et Suseia are often paired on tattoos. Ultreia was enough for me and, instead of a tattoo, I bought a ring in Santiago de Compostella, large enough to wear on my thumb. I mention the ring now rather than when I write about the culmination of my pilgrimage because I’ve been using the word to end my posts, to encourage you to move forward in your writing.
Why a thumb ring? I discovered half a lifetime ago that a thumb ring could help soothe my anxiety, clear my mind, and help me regain a sense of calm and self-control. It also helped me to gain control over nibbling in the evening - or smoking. My first thumb ring had been a simple band that no longer fit my finger and I didn’t want to part with it. It served as a fidget long before the term became a thing. I since discovered that there are various types of meditation rings, including ones with moveable parts that date back to Tibetan prayer wheels.
The official ring of “The Way,” in sterling silver.
Since then, I’ve had various thumb rings including one surrounded by symbols representing the history of Ireland. When I found the one pictured above, it resonated for me in a similar way that my little statue of the cruceiro did, only I could keep this with me. I buy very few pieces of memorabilia in my travels, even if I don’t travel light. When I returned home, wearing the ring, and knowing the meaning behind it, helped me find moments of calm while I supported my brother through his illness. It helped me find direction after his death, reminding me that I had to move forward on this pilgrimage of life, go beyond my grief, and focus on the future, including my writing.
Do you use a fidget or a motivating word or phrase?
Write a scene where your protagonist uses one - or is offered one by someone who thinks she/he is losing it.
Ultreia! Forward together!
