America has been under a lot of divide in the recent months. Many tragedies have happened and political discourse has kept many people negative and angry about the future, but something good has caught the attention of the nation.

A group of monks are trekking from Texas to Washington D.C. on what they call, “Walk for Peace”. The premise of it is, as the name suggests, advocating for peace in America. One of the leaders is a monk named Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara. One interesting thing about the walk is that Pannakara isn’t there to “bring you any peace”, but instead to “unlock that box and free it”.  Which is why his hope is “when this walk ends, the people we met will continue practicing mindfulness and find peace,”. 

Additionally, he plans to ask the congressman to make Vesak, which is Buddha’s birthday, a national holiday, but Pannakara has clearly stated that it is not the main focus.

While walking this spiritual offering, some of these monks are barefoot or in socks throughout the journey. The goal is to feel more present and experience everything at a higher level as they can feel the ground.

The walk isn’t always an easy one as local law enforcement has helped them too. While on a highway, their vehicle used to escort them was hit by a truck which has caused some injuries and a monk needing his leg amputated. 

Regardless, many people throughout the nation have been moved by this movement, some are even driving far distances to get a glimpse of their action and help support. On the path the monks have traveled, they have received food, flowers, and prayers on their journey.

This 108 day journey comes to a close when they reach D.C. where an interfaith reception will occur. Washington Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde, is planning on hosting. It just shows the degree of how far this movement has touched hearts and the lasting impact it may have.