Visitors gathered at the Washington National Cathedral to welcome peace-walking monks, finding inspiration simply by showing up.
WASHINGTON — Long before the monks reached the steps of the Washington National Cathedral, thousands were already waiting — some standing, some seated — each arriving with a personal reason to witness the moment.
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Kathy Abernathy wheeled herself across the cathedral grounds, determined not to miss the arrival of Buddhist monks completing a cross-country Walk for Peace.
“Oh my gosh, you should’ve seen my plow through the snow trying to get here,” she said with a laugh.
Abernathy had reasons to stay home: an amputated leg and rheumatoid arthritis among them. Instead, she came for what she called a rare moment of calm.
“But just to be here, to close your eyes, feel the sun — it’s amazing,” she said.
Thousands gathered outside the cathedral, many unsure whether they would even catch a glimpse of the monks moving through the crowds.
A few feet away, Delphina Brown waited quietly, book in hand. She describes herself as someone who typically avoids crowds, yet felt compelled to attend.
“I’m searching for peace myself,” Brown said.
For Denise Seidel, the monks’ long journey offered perspective.
“If they could cross half the country, then standing here is no big deal,” she said. “The least I can do is try to show up.”
That spirit — showing up — connected the thousands gathered outside the Washington National Cathedral. Some came out of curiosity, others out of faith, reflection or personal struggle. Many said simply being present felt meaningful.
“I’m just grateful I woke up today,” Seidel said, becoming emotional. “Because some people didn’t. And to be able to be here and honor this event — it’s very special.”
Thousands of people. Thousands of stories. One shared purpose: peace — and the hope, many said, that each person might carry a small part of it home.