As the warm and bright rays of the sun made their way over the trees, we all sat in silence contemplating the journey ahead. We were joined by runners, organizers and supporters from around the world to celebrate and mark the beginning of the 4-month journey through all 50 states of America. After a silent meditation, we all took turns holding the torch.
We sang a number of songs written by Sri Chinmoy, the founder of the Peace Run, to commemorate the event. And since he wrote short songs for each of the United States, we sang the New York song.
This year's run is very significant because it is the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson.
We finished with the powerful song Sri Chinmoy wrote in honor of America:
America, America, America! Great you are, good you are, brave you are, kind you are. O my America. Your Heaven freedom is earth's aspiration choice. With you, in you is God-Hour's Victory Voice.
Various team members who will run in different parts of America who were present came together for a group photo before departing.
And the Run through America has begun!
Our first school ceremony was at Princeton Junior School which received us enthusiastically at the entrance.
It was likely our hottest start of the USA run ever, so every bit of shade was needed.
The school's cross country team ran a loop around the school property and kept gaining speed.
On our departure from the school, our runners all grasped the torch together and had a moment of silence for peace.
Our brilliant school coordinator Ginny Cusack!
Our second school visit was at Princeton Montessori School.
Monmouth Battlefield State Park is where the American Revolutionary War's Battle of Monmouth was waged – one of the largest battles of the American Revolution.
Our last school visit was the Princeton Friends School.
Dinner at Gagana and Putrima's house, with Ginny helping and providing homemade ice cream!
