Day 7 of Walk For Peace – The Faithful Companion

Before dawn broke over Troy, Texas, the monks rose from their quiet rest at Roberts Cemetery. Beneath a soft veil of mist, they began their morning chants — sacred verses offered to the boundless sky, praying for peace, healing, and compassion for all beings. The stillness of the early morning seemed to listen, and the earth itself felt calm under their feet.

As the first light touched the horizon, the monks set forth once again, heading south toward Temple, Texas. Their footsteps were steady and measured — a rhythm of mindfulness echoing across the waking land. Alongside them walked Aloka, the faithful dog who had followed the leader of the Walk, Bhikkhu Paññākāra Tuệ Nhân, since their days together in India. From the first moment they met, a quiet bond had formed — not through words, but through understanding.

Aloka walked silently beside the monks, never straying far, pausing when they paused, resting when they rested. His presence was gentle yet powerful — a living embodiment of loyalty, awareness, and harmony between human and animal. In his quiet devotion, he too became part of the journey, a silent practitioner of the path.

By midday, the monks reached Temple, where they paused for a simple meal, received with gratitude. Afterward, they continued their journey for another 22 miles, their robes moving gracefully in the golden light of the setting sun. As dusk descended, they arrived in Belton, Texas, where they found shelter and rest for the night.

That evening, as the monks reflected in silence, Aloka lay nearby — peaceful, alert, and still faithful. His companionship reminded them of the Buddha’s teaching on interdependence — that love and mindfulness know no boundaries of species or form. All beings who walk the path with sincerity, whether on two legs or four, share in the light of peace.

🌙 As the stars emerged over Belton, the monks and their faithful companion rested together in quiet harmony. Tomorrow, their journey will continue onward — but tonight, they rest as one Sangha, united by the simple truth that all life, when guided by love, walks toward peace.

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