The Buddhist monks’ Walk for Peace from Fort Worth, Texas to Washington, D.C. returned home today. And we watched, participated in loving-kindness prayer and meditation and walked step by step as hearts and hope were raised across the country and the world.

What does it mean to live in peace in a world so fraught with anger, violence and hatred?

Does it mean to ignore so much of what is happening as to be apathetic?

Apathy is not the answer. But in order to “fight the good fight” and to not simply be caught up in fighting for the sake of having something to fight about - one must have an understanding of peace.

Yoga and Buddhism are great friends - in fact the study of one enhances the understanding of the other. They both provide a pathway to the “peace that passeth understanding.”

Glorious, unbreakable, undeniable and palpable: Peace is like nothing else. It is calm, powerful and transcendent of the world. It allows you to be in the world but not of the world.

Both Yoga and Buddhism emphasize the sangha. Those who practice and stay in the company of loving, respectful people are bouyed by each other’s kindness and compassion. To me the definition of “Sangha” can be both specific and wider than the few people you know who speak the languages of Buddhism or Yoga.

“Community” is another word that is used. These words “sangha,” “community” carry the tide of peace when people simply gather to do good for one another and the planet.

Bhikkhu Pannakara led a group of monks on a 2300 mile walk that drew so many who simply needed to be in sangha, in community with those who literally walk their talk: peace-makers and peace-keepers.

There was no great show, no theatrics, no big slogan - simply peace and deep prayers for peace for all beings everywhere.

We all simply need more of this. I have found that I don’t really need large groups of people in a room to have satsangs. Oftentimes the most wonderful sangha is the company of very few who are truly genuine and care about your well-being. Mutually respectful company is the best company.

How to stay in the peace

Sing and laugh often with loved ones
Play and care for animals and nature
Focus on what you can control
Offer what you cannot control to the Heavens
Stay in the company of good people who are doing good
Volunteer to feed the hungry - “Love people and feed them”
Minimize your screen time
Become your best and kindest Self by reading great Scriptures and texts from all great faiths
Have fun - genuine bona fide fun that helps you see the magic and the beauty of the world and people all around you

Lots of love,

Sumukhi

Palpable Peace