Published in: *US Current Affairs* Date: January 17, 2026 Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39M2yEoNJcs
"Across a noisy and divided America, something unusually quiet is capturing attention. Nineteen Buddhist monks are walking 2,300 miles across the United States — not to protest, not to campaign, but to move slowly and mindfully through communities that rarely stop to breathe. Their journey, known as the Walk for Peace, has unexpectedly gone viral, reaching millions of Americans online and in person. People along the route step out of their daily routines — work, rising prices, retirement worries — just to watch. Some stay silent. Others ask questions. Many say the moment feels grounding in a country overwhelmed by tension and constant debate. This walk is not about politics or religion. It’s about presence. Each step is a form of walking meditation, offering a reminder that calm and connection don’t require speeches or slogans. The group’s resilience has deepened the impact. Despite injuries and setbacks along the way, the monks continue forward. A rescue dog named Aloka, now a familiar face to followers, has become a gentle symbol of compassion and perseverance. Their destination is Washington, D.C., where they hope to inspire recognition of Vesak Day, a time that reflects peace, wisdom, and empathy — values many Americans feel are in short supply. In a fast-moving nation, this quiet walk asks a simple question: 👉 Can slowing down still bring people together?
