During the cold days of January 2026, Ann Kovalcik, SCNA, and her friend Kathy found encouragement not only in their regular gym visits but also in following the Buddhist Monks’ Peacewalk on social media. At a time when public conversation often reflects anger and division, the monks’ messages about compassion and kindness drew their attention.
The monks had committed to a 2,300-mile walk across the United States to encourage peace. Their effort and discipline touched Ann and Kathy. As they watched updates online, the two friends often spoke about the monks’ reflections on mindfulness and the call to choose peace in daily life.
The winter weather seemed to reflect the tension many people feel in the world. Yet the monks’ words reminded them that peace begins within. Mindfulness invites people to pause, reflect, and act with care. Peace, they realized, is not passive. It is a daily decision.
When Ann and Kathy learned that the monks would soon pass near Fredericksburg, Virginia, they decided to meet them along the route. They planned to greet the walkers somewhere west of the city as the group continued its long journey.
On the morning of Feb. 5, 2026, they left southern Maryland with a simple prayer in their hearts: “Today will be a peaceful day.” The drive to Spotsylvania County took about two hours. Snow and ice covered the landscape. Along the way, they felt gratitude for the chance to witness the monks’ commitment to compassion and nonviolence.
As they approached the area, they passed a local fire department that was hosting lunch for the monks. A large crowd had gathered, so they continued a few miles farther. Soon, they noticed a small church with a nearly full parking lot. One parking space remained open. For Ann and Kathy, the moment felt like quiet guidance from God.
They joined other supporters along the roadside. The air was sharp and cold. Temperatures were well below freezing, and snow and ice covered the ground. The group waited more than an hour. Despite the cold, there was a spirit of friendship among the people gathered there. Everyone shared respect for the monks and their purpose.
Then the monks appeared in the distance. They walked with purpose and calm, accompanied by Aloka, the peace dog who traveled with them. When the group passed by, the moment felt brief yet meaningful. Supporters greeted them with smiles and gratitude for the witness they offered.
The monks continued forward, step by step. Their journey did not promote a political message. It did not focus on one religion. Instead, it called people to remember the shared human desire for peace and unity. Their walk invited others to practice compassion in everyday life.
For Ann and Kathy, that winter day in Spotsylvania County left a lasting mark. The encounter reminded them that peace is not only an idea. It is something people can practice and share with others.
Catholic social teaching speaks of the dignity of every person and the call to build peace in the world. Encounters like this one show how people of different traditions can walk toward that same goal. In moments of prayer, reflection, and kindness, God invites all people to choose compassion.
Shared by Ann Kovalcik, SCNA