As we ran into China Grove from 10 miles out, we were once again joined by Jim Duncan and several of his runner friends. Jim has organized runners to join us here for the last three runs through North Carolina. 

Mrs. Sally Mabry escorted us into China Grove Middle School gym where we were tenatively greeted by the 7th grade class. We did not know what to expect, as we are sure all of you can remember, this a slightly rebelious age. But after hearing about our mission and then having us sing for them, they really warmed up to us.

We were fortunate enough to have all 209 of the children hold the torch and offer a wish for world harmony.

Later on that day we visited the Boys and Girls club of Charlotte, NC. We love visiting the Boys and Girls clubs. It is always a little less formal and we can really let the kids express themselves.

For just a moment we thought we were going to lose Homagni to a sea of children. However, he was able to surf to the top and got the kids running around the gym.

The tsssst tssssst tsssst of the Torch

The light drizzle of the rain

The sweet songs of the birds

The flip-flop flip-flop flip-flop of my feet

The joy in my heart

The harmony of the morning.

- Atulya

Nothing like the smile of a child!

We would like to thank Mr. Mason Curry for allowing us to come give our presentation. He was an enthusiastic host. His 18 years of experience really shined through. The children all respected him deeply.

Bansidhar - our photographer - runs almost as well as his photographs. We are so greatful for his beautiful shots.

The neibhorhood recycling team stopped by to hold the torch. Green things make me smile!

Starting to feel the groove of running. The miles are coming easier.

The logistics of traversing the country afoot and "awheel" can be very challenging. Taking the time to make sure we are all on the same page saves us a lot stress.

Our thanks to the management and staff at America's Best Value Inn and Suites Charlotte for a very comfortable night's accommodation.

– Atulya

Distance: 99 miles

Team Members:
Salil Wilson (Australia), Atulya Lee Berube (USA), Homagni Baptista (Australia), Karen Metcalf (Australia), Uddyogini Hall (Australia), Shyamala Stott (Scotland), Bansidhar Medeiros (USA), Jitavrata Jacobs (USA), Dhima Grigorevskiy (Ukraine), Vilupti Barrineau (Canada), Anne Lienonen (Finland)

Harmonemail:
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