As many of you know, this past year has been incredibly difficult for me. I lost my mom, who I lived with and cared for full-time, and all three of my beloved dogs in a very short period. The grief has been overwhelming, and the journey toward healing has been challenging. Throughout this time, the Monks on the Walk for Peace have been a source of inspiration and comfort. Following their journey and listening to their daily Peace Talks has brought me hope and a sense of peace I desperately needed.

Recently, I was offered the honor of volunteering as a medical worker for the Monks at the Buddhist Temple in Virginia, where they will be stopping for a large Peace Talk and gathering in early February. Because of my experience caring for dogs, I was also asked, along with my co-worker Tracy, to help care for their loyal Peace Dog, Aloka, who is recovering from surgery. Tracy has also faced tremendous loss this year, having lost her son and her mother in close succession. Both of us are on our own paths of grief and healing, and the Monks’ peaceful teachings have helped us more than words can say.

We feel deeply called to give back to the Monks who have given us so much hope. We will be driving from Ohio to Virginia from February 6th to 9th, volunteering our skills and support. To make this possible, we are seeking sponsors to help cover our travel expenses, lodging, meals, gas, and pet-sitting costs for our own pets at home. Both of us will also be missing work during this time. Any support you can offer would mean the world to us and help us on this healing journey. Thank you for considering a donation to our mission.