Lourdes

Day: Sunday, 23 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay - but I overslept on the bus
Weather: Fine, but cool
Highlight: Light Procession in Lourdes at 9pm

After a meagre dinner and settling in the "other" hotel (second hotel owned by the Christina Hotel company) we went out at 8:30pm with a candles, and made our way for the Light Procession.

I'm not religious and at first was hesitant to go, but I thought I should make the effort to see what it was. And I am glad that I went. I'm glad that I got to see the beauty. Its not like it converted me. It was just a sight. It was worth the time and the effort to walk around. It was inspiring, it was hopeful.

It started at Le Grotte and weaved around the statue and stopping in front of the 3 tiered Cathedrals (on above the other) by the river and near the new hospital.

The light illumination (even without the faith) was absolutely breathtaking. All the people with faith who sang with their hearts, moved me. With all the candles lit and this long procession - the sea of all the people, was simply a sight to be seen. Supposedly, tonight was a "quiet" night.

After the Light Procession ended, Bev, Judy, and I went to buy our berets and some glass bottles for the holy water, which we went back to the Grotto to collect. I thought I should bring some holy water back for my friends who are religious. I just hope the customs in Australia will allow me back in the country with it.

I bought 2 red berets for Chloe and Aimee.