I have been meaning to read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho for ages. I  noticed a copy on the bookshelf in my friend’s house last week and asked if I could borrow it. She agreed and I have been reading it mostly on the train and bus while I travel between appointments. There is a point to me telling you that last piece of information -bear with me!

I met up with someone yesterday for the first time. I already felt I knew him because of his reputation  so it was great to hear him tell his own story. He and I share a common interest and also have a variety of different experiences. I was somewhat summarising why I was doing what I  am doing now. It still surprises me – in a good way –  that in April 2008 I am delivering training as well as providing coaching services. When I established Cameron Consulting training was not on my radar.

But my mission then – as it is now – is to work with others to make a difference.

So – as I am reading the Alchemist I got the part where the story has led the lead character ( I am keen to give nothing away for those who are yet to read it) is on a journey across the desert in a caravan of camels which had to “take detours and make adjustments”  and the author writes

“Once obstacles were overcome , it returned to its course sighting on a star that indicated the location of the oasis. When the people saw that star shining in the morning sky, they knew they were on the right course…”

Yesterday I had got to my first meeting by bus – then took a train to the next ( and back) – the bus home and drove to my final , evening meeting. I travelled about 160 miles in total and  – apart from during the last journey, I read the book. It seems entirely fitting.

I have not finished the book yet – but it won’t take me long to do so. I will buy my own copy. It is a great book.