Meaning: This quote is attributed to Junipero Serra, a Roman Catholic Spanish priest and friar who is best known for his work as a missionary in the Americas, particularly in what is now California. The quote reflects Serra's perspective on his own journey and the encounters he had with those who had gone before him, whether by sea or land.

Junipero Serra was born in 1713 on the island of Majorca in the Spanish Mediterranean. He joined the Franciscan order and became a priest, devoting himself to missionary work. In 1749, he traveled to the Spanish colonies in the New World, where he would spend the rest of his life working to spread Christianity among the indigenous peoples.

The quote can be interpreted as Serra reflecting on the sense of continuity and shared experience that he found among those who had embarked on similar journeys before him. The mention of those who have died can be seen as a recognition of the hardships and sacrifices faced by previous travelers, as well as a reminder of the transient nature of life.

Serra's own journey took him to Mexico, where he worked in the Sierra Gorda region, establishing missions and advocating for the rights of the indigenous people against colonial abuse. In 1769, he was appointed president of the missions in Baja California and Alta California, and he embarked on an ambitious plan to establish a chain of missions along the California coast.

Serra's efforts in California were part of a broader colonial project, and his role in the history of the region is a topic of debate and controversy. While he is celebrated as a founding figure of California and a champion of indigenous rights by some, others criticize his methods and the impact of the mission system on native communities.

The quote can also be seen as a reflection of Serra's sense of purpose and determination in the face of challenges. His work in California was marked by hardships, including disease, famine, and conflicts with Spanish authorities and settlers. Despite these difficulties, Serra remained committed to his mission, and he is remembered for his dedication and perseverance.

Serra's legacy is complex and multifaceted, and his impact on the history of California and the Americas continues to be studied and debated. In 2015, he was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, a decision that sparked renewed discussion about his historical role and the treatment of indigenous peoples during the colonial era.

In conclusion, Junipero Serra's quote reflects his perspective on his own journey and the encounters he had with those who had gone before him. It can be interpreted as a reflection of continuity, shared experience, and the transient nature of life. Serra's work as a missionary in the Americas, particularly in California, is part of a complex and contested history, and his legacy continues to be the subject of ongoing discussion and debate.