The Walk For Peace

This photo of eighteen Buddhist monks on Day 96 of their 2300 mile Walk for Peace was shot in southern Virginia yesterday during a winter storm. The image illustrates quite clearly to me the effort and perseverance shown by the group all along the route from Fort Worth, Texas to the final destination, Washington, D.C.

At a time when violence and unrest is plaguing our nation, an example of devout people walking… sometimes barefoot… along highways and paved country roads, stopping for only one meal and a few hours of sleep lying on a church floor each day has struck a chord in my heart and in the hearts of thousands more Americans. The monks’ right action shows us that seeking peace is not easy. Sacrifice is required. And due diligence. Living with peace has no political position to uphold. When peace is achieved within oneself, it dissolves political division, not only for the person in whom it becomes reality, but also in those who gather with that person.

Love, respect and honor shine forth in scenes of contacts made between these men and tens of thousands who greet them on their path. I pray each morning for them to have a safe/peaceful day and at night, in gratitude, for what was accomplished. As they near the end of their trail, may they be warmed by the love shared with us all.

As the late Thich Nhat Hahn said “Peace is every step. The practice of peace and reconciliation is one of the most vital and artistic of human actions.”