Buddhist Monks Reach Halfway Point on 2,300-Mile Walk for Peace Across US
A group of 18 Buddhist monks has completed the halfway mark on a 2,300-mile journey across the United States, as they seek to promote peace and compassion in America. Led by Venerable Bhikkhu Paññākāra, who is conducting the walk barefoot, the monks have been traversing through several states since October, drawing massive crowds of thousands at each stop.
The 83rd day on the road saw the group passing through North Carolina, their home state for the night. The journey has not been without challenges, however. In November, a truck hit the group's escort vehicle, propelling two monks into the air and leaving one with a lost leg. Fortunately, the injured monk is now recovering well.
The monks have also encountered another setback. Aloka, a dog rescued by Paññākāra in India last year, was severely injured during the walk but made a remarkable recovery after undergoing surgery. The canine companion has since rejoined the group, albeit with reduced mobility and gradually easing back into action over the next few days.
As the monks continue their journey towards Washington D.C., they plan to seek recognition for Vesak, the Buddha's day of birth and enlightenment, as a federal holiday. "By reaching the heart of the nation," said government liaison Neeraj Bajracharya, "we believe we can reach every American's heart and deliver our peace message."
The 2,000-year-old tradition of Buddhist monks undertaking peace walks has seen its fair share of challenges. Paññākāra himself completed a 112-day barefoot walk across India last year but found the US roads to be more demanding.
Throughout their journey, the group has been accompanied by thousands of supporters and millions of followers worldwide through social media. The response to the monk's heartfelt messages about peace, loving kindness, and compassion has been overwhelming, with many expressing their admiration for the team's dedication and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Walk for Peace is expected to culminate in a visit to Congress, where the monks will ask lawmakers to recognize Vesak as a federal holiday. The initiative aims to promote unity, healing, and peace in America, reflecting the core principles of Buddhism.
A group of 18 Buddhist monks has completed the halfway mark on a 2,300-mile journey across the United States, as they seek to promote peace and compassion in America. Led by Venerable Bhikkhu Paññākāra, who is conducting the walk barefoot, the monks have been traversing through several states since October, drawing massive crowds of thousands at each stop.
The 83rd day on the road saw the group passing through North Carolina, their home state for the night. The journey has not been without challenges, however. In November, a truck hit the group's escort vehicle, propelling two monks into the air and leaving one with a lost leg. Fortunately, the injured monk is now recovering well.
The monks have also encountered another setback. Aloka, a dog rescued by Paññākāra in India last year, was severely injured during the walk but made a remarkable recovery after undergoing surgery. The canine companion has since rejoined the group, albeit with reduced mobility and gradually easing back into action over the next few days.
As the monks continue their journey towards Washington D.C., they plan to seek recognition for Vesak, the Buddha's day of birth and enlightenment, as a federal holiday. "By reaching the heart of the nation," said government liaison Neeraj Bajracharya, "we believe we can reach every American's heart and deliver our peace message."
The 2,000-year-old tradition of Buddhist monks undertaking peace walks has seen its fair share of challenges. Paññākāra himself completed a 112-day barefoot walk across India last year but found the US roads to be more demanding.
Throughout their journey, the group has been accompanied by thousands of supporters and millions of followers worldwide through social media. The response to the monk's heartfelt messages about peace, loving kindness, and compassion has been overwhelming, with many expressing their admiration for the team's dedication and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Walk for Peace is expected to culminate in a visit to Congress, where the monks will ask lawmakers to recognize Vesak as a federal holiday. The initiative aims to promote unity, healing, and peace in America, reflecting the core principles of Buddhism.
That's like, crazy dedication! And they're not just doing it for themselves, but to spread peace and compassion across the US. It's amazing to see how many people have been drawn to their journey, thousands at each stop, and millions online. It's like they've tapped into something really special.
just saw this link about those 18 Buddhist monks walking across the US for peace 
[
meanwhile, there was an accident where one monk lost his leg 
but he's doing okay now 
! These Buddhist monks are literally walking their talk, and it's so inspiring to see them spreading love and compassion across the country. I mean, who needs more division when we can have unity, right? 
The fact that they've been able to draw in thousands of people at each stop is just amazing - it goes to show that there are still good vibes out there.
) after a rough patch. It's all about resilience, right? And I'm curious to see how this whole Vesak recognition thing goes down - would be awesome if it happened! 
The more we can find common ground as Americans, the better off we are.
. I mean, 2,300 miles is a looong way, especially when you're walking barefoot 
. And yeah, the challenges they've faced are legit - who wants to deal with a truck hitting your escort vehicle? 
That's just crazy.
. These monks have been on the road for months now, and they're still going strong. And let's not forget about Aloka, the dog who was injured but made a full recovery - that's just incredible 
. It's like they're showing us that even in these crazy times, we can still find common ground and work towards a more loving and compassionate society 
. But I think it's great that they're pushing for that and advocating for unity, healing, and peace in America 
. Here's to the Walk for Peace - may it bring us all closer together! 
The fact that they've overcome so many challenges, including a truck hitting their escort vehicle, shows us that even in tough times, kindness and compassion can prevail.
. And, who knows, maybe this walk will inspire some real change in our country – a federal holiday for Vesak? That would be incredible! 