The Peace Walkers

Their journey carries onward.

(Photo from the Walk for Peace Global Supporters Facebook page, Feb. 6, 2026.)

I started writing this post on Day 104 of the Buddhist Monks’ Walk for Peace which started in Fort Worth, Texas on October 26th, 2025 and is now in its final phase. The monks celebrated their arrival in Washington D.C. on February 11th (Day 108) with ceremonies, meditation and an interfaith service.

Accompanied by their dog, Aloka, a group of 19 monks from the Theravada Buddhist tradition walked about 2,300 miles (3,700 kilometres) in 108 days to promote peace, compassion, mindfulness and nonviolence. Along the way they attracted millions of followers on social media—including so many of us.

As their journey is coming to a close, many people are writing to say how much they’ll miss them. Amidst the daily litany of sorrow in our social media feeds, their shining message of hope and peace has been a welcome infusion of positive energy.

Of course, their purpose was not only to attract millions of followers on Facebook and Instagram. It was to convey, to as many people as possible, simple tools we can use to bring more peace into our own lives.

Each day via Facebook, they invited us to join them in spirit, with words such as “Have a peaceful day! May we be mindful in everything we do throughout the day. We invite you to walk with us in spirit. May you and all beings be well, happy and at peace.”

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Like all activities, songwriting and performance can be approached with mindfulness, attending to the task step by step, with as much care as possible, and then, when the song is complete, offering it in a spirit of kindness and non-attachment.

I sometimes find it challenging to stay connected to the present note, word and intention…noticing when I become distracted by anxious thoughts and trying (always imperfectly) to return to the task at hand with a clear mind and with patience.

I wrote this song to reinforce my commitment to contemplative practice, grateful for the monks’ example (and the influence of many wise teachers). It joins a growing group of songs inspired by the Walk for Peace.

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I have followed the Peace Walkers / As they’ve travelled ‘cross the plains / over bridges, fields and borders / in these days of ICE and rain / As I watch them moving mindful / in their brilliant orange robes / loving-kindness sure and simple / shines more brightly than the snow.

I was scrolling through the shadows / of a dark’ning winter night / when I stumbled on the walkers / in their line of radiant light / I clicked “follow” the Peace Walkers / their beloved dog as well / joining seekers and sleepwalkers / listening for a distant bell.

I’ve been fearful of the future / and regretful of the past / Now I’m grateful for the teachers / who so bravely bring me back / to the refuge of the moment / to the rhythm of the breath / In the present now unfolding / may we know we’re truly blessed.

We have followed the Peace Walkers / from Fort Worth up to D.C. / but their journey carries onward / as it lives in you and me. / There will be no need to wander / when I’m with them in my way / so I rise again to whisper / “This will be my peaceful day.”

My new book, Songwriting as Soul Work: Songs and the Inner Life is now available through many online retailers including FriesenPress, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indigo and more, as well as many independent bookstores.