In two years he had learned everything about shepherding he had to know." At that moment Santiago became just an ignorant shepherd boy who had refused the chance of finding treasure, and worst of all he refused to follow his heart. To enable Santiago to continue his quest he would have to move past his initial pinch of ignorance. On page 30 Coelho writes, .
"The boy felt jealous of the freedom of the wind, and saw he could have the same freedom. There was nothing holding him back except himself.".
Santiago moves passed his ignorance and takes hold of his freedom and begins to flower and to grow out of what he has known all his life. .
.
The first step to growth is making a decision and an effort toward growing. Santiago made the decision to continue his quest to Egypt. All Santiago knew of the world, was the Andalusia countryside, he had never been around people who spoke another native language. People in Andalusia weren't overly friendly and there was a lot of thieves but at least Santiago was accustomed to them, in Africa he was robbed and he couldn't even yell for help because nobody understood him. Santiago went on to work at a crystal shop for eleven months and seven days. His knowledge of the African country began to increase, his knowledge of crystal glass, counting money, dealing with customers, and speaking Arabic grew. On page 42 Santiago promises to himself " I promise that I will make my own decisions" The importance behind this quote is Santiago has learned and grown so much by being on his own in the world and not relying on anyone else. If Santiago hadn't of had reoccurring dreams, and encouragement from two people he probably would have never left his sheep. Santiago is now learning that for him to be able to live his personal legend he has to wholeheartedly make the decision himself. Page 62 talks about Santiago getting ready to leave Africa. At first Santiago plans on leaving to go buy some more sheep and continue his life the way it had been before.