Walking with Peace
Distance Walked Today: 27 km
Total Distance Covered: 713 km
I started walking at 8:30 a.m. from the warm and welcoming home of Chandrakant Kolape, who generously provided me with a propane gas tank for cooking and enough food to last me the next days. His kindness reminded me of the incredible support I’ve received throughout this journey.
By 11 a.m., I reached a nearby Gurudwara, where I was welcomed with delicious langar. Lovepreet Paaji went a step further and helped me find new tires for my trolley, as the old ones had worn out. This was already the third time I’ve had to change tires — the last set had served me well since Coalinga.
Around 1 p.m., Madhavan ji from Fremont and Reddy uncle joined me for an hour of walking. Madhavan ji drove all the way from Fremont just to walk alongside me. His dedication and belief in this mission deeply moved me.
Later in the day, I finalized my walking route and feel more confident about the next stretch. I discovered a small town about 60 km ahead — a reassuring sign for the journey ahead.
As the evening set in, Rahul Dhavel dada came to meet me around 5:30 p.m. He treated me to a delicious Indian meal at his restaurant and then kindly took me to his home for the night, ensuring I’d get a good night’s rest.
From here, I prepare to continue toward Los Angeles, a walk that will likely take a week. Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Tejon Indian Tribe land and respectfully seek their permission to walk through their ancestral territory.
Reflecting on the past few days, I realize how essential it is to find peace not just with the body but also with the mind. When I reached Fresno, I felt a sense of physical peace. But I rushed toward mental peace, which was the wrong approach. Now I understand: peace isn’t something to chase — it comes naturally when we surrender and simply observe the present moment.
Grateful for each breath.
Slowman Nitin
Bakersfield, CA, USA
February 17, 2025