We departed the United States early this morning from Port Angeles on a ferry across the Puget Sound to Canada today.
When crossing from country to country you can often feel a difference as you leave one behind and enter a new one.
Luckily the clouds started to break as we approached the harbor.
Passport control!
We disembarked to a gloriously sunny Victoria, British Columbia.
We noticed hints of Scottish influence here and there.
Walking from the ferry to our first meeting.
After hearing about the Peace Run, Floyd’s Diner wouldn't allow us to pay for our drinks.
City Councillor Marg Gardiner welcomed the runners with a silent moment for peace.
Marg took us on a walking tour of the city on the way to City Hall.
May Shihadeh joined us from the Greater Victoria Peace Academy Advisory Committee.
A local bakery has the right spirit!
Flowers are everywhere as there is a pride in gardens.
Jamala's younger brothers Pegasus, Mark and Lloyd came out to show their support for the Run.
Anne Maycock, who volunteered for many years at the Victoria Self-Transcendence Triathlon, made a long journey to hold the torch today.
The team ran into the ceremony outside City Hall and handed the torch to Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto.
Mayor Alto shared a Proclamation for Sri Chinmoy Peace Run Day for the city of Victoria.
Past recipient of the Torch-Bearer award Ian Phillips participated in the Victoria Self-Transcendance Triathlon for decades before becoming a dedicated volunteer. Ian spoke about the inspiration of that experience and how he sees it in the Peace Run.
Paul Latour receives the Torch-Bearer Award. Paul was the creator of HeroWork, an organisation that improved charity infrastructure.
Accomplished choral musician Denis Donnelly (left) is a previous award recipient who introduced Paul Latour.
Dana Hutchings, Co-CEO of Power To Be, introduced the next award recipient, Charlayne.
Charlayne Thornton-Joe has been a longtime advocate for social justice and inclusion, serving the community in many, many official and unofficial ways. Charlayne spoke with such inspiration and warmth. She served as a Councillor for 23 years.
Charlayne and her husband.
Roxana spoke with Nushara from Sri Lanka who was inspired by the Run and hearing about Sri Chinmoy's friendship with former Sri Lankan President Ranasinghe Premadasa.
Jamala's younger brothers.
Ninad! A long-time member of the Victoria Sri Chinmoy Centre.
Igor, from Ukraine, swam the English Channel twice!
Malashri from Ukraine.
In the afternoon we visited the Oneness-Heart Park.
Sahoshi originally named it "Liberation Park", however he says when he shared it with Sri Chinmoy, he recommended the name "Oneness Heart Park," which Sahoshi liked much better.
Over the years Sahoshi has planted thousands of bulbs to fill the small plot with vibrant flowers for the neighborhood to enjoy.
The smiley face is a neighborhood favorite.
The planting of a heart of red flowers is an annual tradition.
Old friends came out from the woodwork to attend.
Victoria is recognized for her selfless service.
Representing Romania!
Pauline, 99 years young! Pauline is the mother of Sahoshi and Malik.
Udar has been the master craftsman of our torches throughout the years. Asking for feedback on his latest design, he wants to improve upon the design for the next batch.
Udar, Bhamini and Sahoshi.
The Victoria Sri Chinmoy Centre was established in 1973 and resonates with a soundless-sound silence.
After a soulful meditation, a wonderful meal to end a wonderful day.
