In brief
A group of Buddhist monks embarked on a 2,300-mile 'Walk for Peace,' beginning in Texas and aiming to reach Washington, D.C. They have persevered even after two members were injured in a truck accident near Houston. The monks invite public participation in their journey through ten states, highlighting Buddhism’s commitment to activism for peace.
ATLANTA — A group of Buddhist monks is forging ahead with their peace-promoting walk across the United States, undeterred even after a tragic accident left two members injured. The monks began their journey on October 26th in Fort Worth, Texas, and they are currently making their way through Georgia on their way to Washington, D.C.
On their route from Texas to Washington, the monks, accompanied by their loyal dog Aloka, have been inviting the public to join in their 'Walk for Peace.' This segment of the journey included an organized Peace Gathering in Decatur, Georgia. The monks aim to cover significant milestones along their route, reaching areas near Athens, Charlotte, Raleigh, and Richmond before arriving in the nation’s capital.
Their dedication to peace is not without challenges - a recent accident involving their escort vehicle left one monk with serious injuries, necessitating airlift to a hospital in Houston. Despite the incident, the group’s spirit remains high, as they share their journey online, amassing over 400,000 followers on social media.
While Buddhism is an ancient philosophy promoting peace through non-violence and compassion, the monks are modern-day embodiments of its principles. Social leaders like the Dalai Lama have historically paved the way for activism rooted in these teachings, which the monks continue to uphold.
“We do not walk alone. We walk together with every person whose heart has opened to peace, whose spirit has chosen kindness,” the group stated recently, articulating their mission as a collective effort for understanding and compassion.
