This is my friend, Donna. We met many years ago, when she hired me to work for the company she was with. Our connection was instantaneous, and has remained steadfast since the day we met. I find the time I spend with Donna to be full of ease and permission, and I am grateful we crossed paths all those years ago.
Donna was kind enough to transport and host me on Sunday, and then to get me to Eugene yesterday, where I was picked up by another friend (more about her in the next couple of days), who is hosting me in Beaverton (a suburb of Portland) for a few days.
Then today, I had an opportunity to Walk for Peace in one of Beaverton’s neighborhoods. It was a beautiful day here, and as I turned to close the door at my friend’s house, I noticed this sign, which I absolutely love!
I loved seeing this sign this morning in particular, because today is the first day Walking for Peace since my knee was injured over a year ago. And, talking with people is a huge part of the Walk for Peace.
Very early on today, I met a gentleman named Milton. He came and sat on a bench next to me, and began asking questions about Chandler. He then shared stories about his dog, and we settled into an easy discussion. Milton was intrigued by the buggy, and I explained that it is where all of Chandler and my belongings are. I also told him about the Walk for Peace. It is Milton’s belief that “…Peace will not come until the Lord returns”. I explained that I am Walking for and talking about Peace because feel it is a way for humans to find connection with one another in a world where there is a profound amount of divisiveness. What’s important about this conversation is that although we felt differently about how or when it will come to the world, we did align on the need for Peace. We continued our discussion, said our goodbyes, and Chandler and I were on our way.
Later, a kind woman named Joni approached the buggy – clearly excited about seeing Chandler. I introduced Chandler, and we began a conversation about the buggy and how great a “ride” it is for Chandler. I explained to Joni that Chandler and I are Walking for Peace, and told her about why the features of the buggy are so important. At first, she said I was going to make her cry, and then Joni immediately asked if there was anything she could do to support us. I thanked her, and invited her to follow the Walk and to share it with her friends and family. I also invited her to make a donation to the Walk if she felt so inclined. As the conversation ended, I felt grateful for another opportunity to discuss Peace, and the loving energy that it creates.