Australian Peace Run finishes in Canberra

On 15th August, the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run completed its epic, 3 month, 15,872 km journey around the continent of Australia.

The Peace Run began in April in Canberra, and over the past 3 months, a team of international runners have run clockwise around Australia visiting all the major cities, such as Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Sydney . Along the way they have met many people who have participated in this endeavour to promote peace and goodwill.

Peace, universal peace, Is definitely within the reach Of all.

- Sri Chinmoy[1]

At the closing ceremony in Canberra, Prachar Stegemann offered these words on the meaning of the run.

"Sri Chinmoy founded the Peace Run in 1987, as a dynamic expression of our eternal journey towards a better world.

"Here we are talking about peace, yet through talking we do not achieve peace. Let us rather enjoy a minute's pure silence to embrace peace, to imagine inside our hearts that perfect world where love, joy and oneness reign supreme... [one minute of silent meditation followed]

"Everything valuable starts in our hearts and in imagination – world peace is no different. If we can imagine a perfect world, then rest assured, that perfect world is just around the corner.

"Sri Chinmoy used to say that if we look at the moon we can either appreciate, love and claim its beauty, or we can analyse and deplore its spots and imperfections.

"In the world around us, we can find many weaknesses and faults if we look for them. Yet carrying this Torch of hope all the way around this vast continent, we have encountered a world of astonishing beauty, blossoming joy, beaming smiles and wide open hearts. (more on Peace Run closing ceremony)

During the journey around Australia, the Peace Run team visited many schools to give schoolchildren the opportunity to participate in the Peace Run.

• Peace Run Australia

[1] My Christmas-New Year-Vacation Aspiration-Prayers, Part 52, Agni Press (2007) - Source »