The first team out running this morning was three guys who were about to do their last run with the Torch before leaving us. Pujari, Josef and Joey have been with us for about a week now but have to be heading back to Oregon and California. They ran from Napavine to Chehalis and then drove back south. We are sad to see them go.

Life has to be constantly moving and changing in order for growth to take place, so we try to understand the natural flow of people and nature as the daily scene and personal experiences keep in motion here on the road. But we never can forget the wonderful experiences and the help offered by all those who join us even for the shortest amount of time.

Moving on, we made our way to Olympia, the Capital of Washington, where we were greeted by dozens of people at the Farmer’s Market area. Slava, from Moldova, was running through the city near the Capitol building when he encountered three local runners who decided to run with him through town to the Farmer’s Market. Sue, Catherine and Phyllis were thrilled to carry the Torch and offer their goodwill for us to share with others as we continue on our way.

Our good friend Wendy had arranged for us to go on stage in a nice venue which is centered in the midst of a wonderful shopping and dining area outside by the river.

There were many people who were inspired by our journey and offered their wishes as well. We ran from the Farmer’s Market with more hope in our hearts and support from people who until then had not known of this event but nevertheless understood our goals.

The day ended though with many people who have been eagerly awaiting our arrival and prepared many surprises for us. Our very good friend, Amritananda Russell Barber who lives in Gig Harbor, a beautiful area of Tacoma, had written an article about our arrival in the local newspaper. He and his sister Sharon and her husband Dick and their family all had prepared a wonderful welcome for us as we ran over the majestic Narrows Bridge.

Before the delicious meal they had prepared, we had a ceremony and photos with relatives and friends, including the lovely Mayor of Gig Harbor, Gretchen Wilbert. Gretchen offered us many inspirational messages of support and understanding having herself been involved in programs for international understanding and harmony for many years. She told us at one point, “The World Harmony Run is a true inspiration for all of us to understand the cultures of the world to be able to find Peace. Harmony begins at home, in every village and town. Thank you for sharing your vision from the mind and heart.”

Along with Mayor Gretchen Walbert, we were also privileged to have our good friend and supporter Amritananda Russell Barber offer his illumining comments. He said, “Each step you take in the Harmony Run is a step toward Peace! Thank you for letting me find the single note of my Life’s Song with your Harmony of The Supreme’s Perfect Melody of Peace.”

In the company of our friends, old and new, we had a wonderful evening to start our two day respite that will begin tomorrow in Seattle before we head back East. We are all gratitude to all those who have made it possible for us to get this far and to have shared so much with all the wonderful people of this great country as others do the same all over the world.

Arpan and Team Harmony

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