Walking with Peace
San Francisco to Washington, D.C. Distance covered: 1,500 km (932 miles) in 51 days Today’s distance: 35 km
Today I reached Palo Verde, a small town with a population of around 80 people, surrounded by farmland, the Colorado River, and colorful dry mountains. The Colorado River breathes life into this desert landscape. The Chevron gas station is the only place where you can buy food and water.
After walking 35 km—which was supposed to be 50 km—my body just couldn’t move any further. This is my ninth consecutive day of walking without rest since leaving San Diego. The route has been tough, with constant ups and downs, dry stretches, and cars speeding by on the road.
At 5 p.m., I arrived at the Chevron gas station, exhausted. An elderly woman welcomed me warmly with a smile and offered me a chair to rest. She was amazed when I shared the story of my cross-country peace walk. When I asked if there was a place to stay, she mentioned the Palo Verde Vacation House and even called Cathy, the manager, to tell her about me.
When I arrived at the vacation house, I saw several RVs parked in neat rows. There I met James, who has been living in the area for a year. James openly shared his past—he was once part of a white supremacist group and showed me his Nazi tattoos on his hand and leg. But he told me that practicing Buddhism transformed his life, teaching him to love all people. His honesty and kindness moved me deeply.
Cathy generously offered to cover the cost of my stay. Later, James invited me to his RV for dinner with other members of the community. It happened to be Saint Patrick’s Day, which I experienced for the first time. Their warmth and acceptance filled me with gratitude.
After two days without a shower, I finally reached the Colorado River in the afternoon. I took a refreshing dip, massaged my sore muscles, and felt rejuvenated. My body felt ready to take on the road again.
Yesterday evening, a police officer stopped me on the road, concerned about my safety due to heavy traffic and the lack of a shoulder. After I explained my mission and my years of experience walking, he understood and appreciated my journey. His concern was touching.
This afternoon, a car pulled over to check if I needed help. After I assured them I was okay, Victor and Rose returned 30 minutes later with a gallon of cold water, a sandwich, and snacks. Their kindness was a true blessing.
It’s hard out here—but the kindness of strangers keeps inspiring me to move forward.
Gratitude,
S.Nitin🙏