We are repeating this event this week on Thursday 1st November:
Peaceful Dharma Yatra (slow quiet walk) from St Thomas's, Haymarket, down Northumberland Street, followed by meditation and chanting at Grey's Monument - in support of the monks, nuns and people of Burma - meeting at St Thomas's at 5pm, finishing at approximately 6pm. Come along and join us when you can.
burma: newcastle hasn't forgotten you
Yesterday evening we met up at five pm and walked for the people of Burma. This was our fourth event and there were only three of us this time, walking slowly and chanting 'Amitabha' down the main shopping street of the city as workers rushed home and late-night shoppers took over Northumberland Street. We walked slowly, taking forty minutes for a distance that one could cover in about eight at normal pace.
We carried placards with pictures of Aung San Suu Kyi and Buddhist slogans and then, when we reached Grey's Monument to sit in meditation, we blu-tak'd these and others to the pavement and side of the monument. During our walk many people felt able to come up and read the words. We were looking about 7 feet ahead at the pavement as we chanted - so our lack of eye contact emboldened others. There were nods and 'thumbs up' of recognition and support. Even three can make an impact. To walk slowly and chant peacefully demonstrates a difference.
When we reached the monument we were approached by a group from the Kurdish community. As we prepared to sit in silent meditation we gave them a quick precis of the history and current situation in Burma. Would we pray for them, too, we were asked. Of course.
After the clock struck six we finished by chanting the nembutsu and bowing. Then we collected our belongings and repaired to a cafe for hot chocolate.
We're glad to be able to play a very small part in keeping the eyes of the world on the situation in Burma. The eyes of the world are having an effect, both for those who can make a crucial difference and for those who know that, this time, they have not been forgotten. So we will walk again next Thursday, whether we are few or many.
Comments