The 16th day of the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run brought us along the beautiful Bay of Fundy coastline of Nova Scotia.
We began the day running from South Maitland toward Noel Shore. The route passed through communities whose histories are deeply connected to the sea. Noel and the surrounding shoreline settlements have long been shaped by fishing, shipbuilding, and the remarkable tides of the Bay of Fundy, the highest tides in the world. Generations of families have built their lives here, creating close-knit communities known for their resilience, hospitality, and connection to nature.
Sulabha enjoys the rolling hills.
Some friendly girls our girls team met on the road.
Tammy & Maya at the Atlantic Superstore.
Kathy with the torch in the Atlantic Superstore.
Micky was happy to hold the torch as he had read about the run earlier in the local paper.
One of the highlights of the day was our visit to Cobequid District Elementary School in Noel.
Before gathering in the gymnasium, some sixty students enthusiastically joined us for a 1.5-kilometre run carrying the Peace Torch.
Their excitement, curiosity, and joyful energy reminded us that the spirit of peace lives naturally in the hearts of children.
Marcus was collecting flowers on our 1.5km run and Patrick was collecting garbage, he said “the earth has feelings, so we shouldn’t litter”.
During the ceremony, students shared thoughtful reflections and listened attentively as we spoke about the Peace Run's message of friendship and international harmony.
The school principal Millie Crowe personally presented each participant in the race with a certificate of participation, while our team members awarded the drawstring bags and medals sponsored by the local Kids Run Club.
Their smiles and encouragement stayed with us long after we left the school.
The afternoon brought more running through the peaceful countryside between Noel and Walton.
Runners are Smilers.
Walton Lighthouse. Noah keeps an eye on the lighthouse.
Our day concluded at the beautiful Ravens Rest Retreat in Moose Brook, where we were warmly welcomed by owner Heidi Penning and her neighbours.
Brannigan, the Irish Wolfhound, one of the largest of all dog breeds, known as a “gentle giant”, was happy to see us. The fondness was mutual.
Heidi, who previously worked at Queen's University, has created a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can reconnect with nature, reflect, and recharge. Surrounded by rolling countryside and expansive views, Ravens Rest provided the perfect setting to celebrate the Peace Run's message.
A particularly meaningful moment was the dedication of a Peace Tree and commemorative plaque on the retreat grounds.
As we gathered together, we sang a special song by Sri Chinmoy written in honour of trees: "He Bitapi, O Tree, at your feet we place our gratitude."
The Peace Tree will stand as a lasting reminder of the friendship shared today and of the community's commitment to a more harmonious world.
Grahag has found a new friend.
Jack is curious to meet the new visitors as well.
As the sun set over Moose Brook, our team shared an evening meal, stories from the road, and gratitude for all those who helped make this day memorable.
Tomorrow the Peace Run continues onward, carrying forward the dreams, goodwill, and friendship we experienced here along Nova Scotia's remarkable Noel shore.
But tonight we rest beneath the enchanting starry sky, that Satyagraha so masterfully captured.
