Another beautiful day of sunshine and warmth greeted us as we finished our journey through New Jersey and entered Pennsylvania. On the way to the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, we were spotted running on Route 13 by a reporter from the Bucks County Courier Times newspaper, Rachel. Even though she had heard nothing about this global event, she enthusiastically followed us with her camera and pen, taking photos and doing interviews with most of the runners.

Not being a runner herself, one would think that she would not be able to relate to such an athletic form of expression of harmony and oneness. But the joy and inspiration she derived from covering the event as it passed through her town was infectious. It lifted our spirits as well to see that the simple act of running with a flaming torch to symbolize harmony and friendship was warming the hearts of even the casual observers.

More excitement followed as we ran to the Grover Washington Middle School in Philadelphia. We were greeted by Rachel McGonigle and the Philly Run Style Run Club of 8 young runners waiting to carry the torch to a nearby track. After an exciting torch relay at the track with the runners, we headed back to the school auditorium for a program with the Cora Beacon Community Center directed by Ann Marie Schultz.

All 100 children and adults were surprised and delighted to hear of our journey of harmony and oneness as part of a worldwide event. Knowing that they were part of this international expression of friendship gave them much happiness. They easily learned and sang the World Harmony Run song composed by Sri Chinmoy, the founder of the World Harmony Run, and then all took turns holding the torch while thinking of something good they would like to see happen in the world.

As a former teacher myself, it is so heartwarming to see teachers, parents and young children all creating an atmosphere of something positive and constructive in our world which sorely needs more harmony and friendship.

We would like to thank our friend John Baker for organizing this event for us as well as all those from the Grover Washington Middle School and Cora Beacon Community Center, especially the children, for making our long day of running with the Harmony Torch a memorable one. As one of the young runners, Alianda, expressed when asked what she felt when she carried the torch, she said, “ It makes me not want to stop running.” I hope this natural energy stays with us as we make our way on a long 11,000 mile journey through this vast and beautiful land.

South Philly

Making our way through south Philadelphia was unique experience seeing some of the earliest communities of America. Building that have stood the test of time and neighborhoods that have been growing together over the past couple of centuries. Though most people seemed rooted in their daily routine, there was still a spark in their smiles and hope in their eyes that suggested that one day we would bridge the gap of all our differences and move toward a harmonious world.

It was another beautiful day for running and the team seemed to be in great spirits again. The mission of the World Harmony Run was in action again. Bringing the day to rest we were very warmly received with an awesome meal at Outback and a a great room at the Media Inn.

Hayden

New Zealand

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