The HKL Time Vol 1 # 7

TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA

BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON, USA

BIKE ROUTE

Volunteers from HKL Surrey were invited by the Buddhist community of Red Cedar Zen to join them before the start of their 25-mile Peace Walk in Belling- ham, US. The morning carried a quiet sense of intention, with souls coming together to spread peace in the community. Every- one gathered by the water, where the ceremony opened with a Buddhist chant and a simple prayer. The sound of the chant- ing, along with the stillness of the surroundings, rippled a calm and reflective atmosphere that naturally brought everyone into the present moment. Following the opening, HKL volunteers spoke briefly, offering words centered around unity, humility, and service, with both commu- nities coming together under the umbrella of peace. As a gesture of respect, flowers were given to members of the Buddhist com- munity which brought tears to their eyes.

When volunteers came together to sing the hymn, ਨਾਨਕਾ ਗੁਣ ਚੰਗਿਆਈਆ ਤਤੁ॥ (Translation: Sweetness and hu- mility, O Nanak, are the essence of virtue and goodness), the at- mosphere became very calm. The voices blended together into one vibrating sound, and there was a genuine sense of togeth- erness and stillness. In that exact moment, an eagle flew directly above everyone, gracing a sign of blessings to the group, which was gently pointed out by the Buddhist priest.

• NO MOTOR VEHICLES
• SKATES
• NACKS
• HUMILITY, KINDNESS & LOVE
• LOVE
• KINDNESS

HUMILITY

For example, my family mem- bers are growing as well which sets an alarm in me that the responsibilities are increasing.

Secondly, in our youth we ro- manticize our lives, we think adulthood will feel or look a certain way. Adulthood may look like a life of freedom and independence. However, not everything you planned in your youth transpires into adulthood. It is how you face the tender- ness of relationships, work, and your own well-being.

Thirdly, over-time our daily life will feel mundane if we actively do not sit in meditation, exer- cise, and recognize our purpose in life. Before the walk began, I came to the realization that I have so much in common with others who are present at the walk. We all share struggles, some voice it and others keep it to themselves. However, we all have struggles. Having con- versations like the one I had, relieves some of the burden that we feel when we know that there is a sense of community. Thank you, HKL.

The Toronto HKL Walk took place in the month of April, beginning at Nathan Phillip

Square, Downtown. Walking downtown, carrying the ban- ners of HKL was an act of pas- sion. There were many people who looked at the banners and approached us to know what the message was. Through the hustle and bustle of a city, we all were walking with a simple message about life.

For instance, I overheard an in- dividual being passionate about walking. He was speaking to a young adult beside him about the joy he felt being a partici- pant of the walk. I, myself, end- ed up in a conversation with an individual just moments before the walk began. I walked away with three lessons which I recall a couple of times in the past few weeks. The first being, it is easy to think life is long but in reali- ty, life is short. Thinking that I have a whole life ahead of me and I can do as I please is not true. The reality is, my age is growing and my surroundings are changing.

As the singing came to a close, there was a noticeable feeling of closeness among everyone present, as if something quiet but meaningful had been shared. Before the group set off on their walk, tea, snacks, and coconut water was served. Insuring they felt supported as they began the long journey ahead. They left holding the flowers they had been given, and there was a sense that what they carried with them went beyond the physical; rooted in humility, kindness, and a shared hope for peace.

• ONE DAY, MANY PLACES
• AROUND THE GLOBE
• HUMILITY KINDNESS
• HKL
• LOVE
• HKL.ORG