Three Days That Changed My Life: A Journey Toward Peace

Kabita Ghimire, PhD

I had the privilege of volunteering for the Walk for Peace over three days in Virginia, an experience that left a lasting impression on me and my family. During this time, I assisted in serving meals to the monks, volunteers, and support team in both Richmond and Fredericksburg, including Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara. I also had the opportunity to support and participate in the closing meditation event at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
The first day in Richmond was particularly meaningful. My family, including my two children, joined me and witnessed the monks as they entered and departed the venue. My children had thoughtfully prepared handmade cards for the monks—simple gestures that carried deep sincerity. Watching their expressions of compassion and reverence made the experience profoundly moving for all of us.

This journey also brought an unexpected and meaningful connection into our lives. We met Dr. Neeraj Bajracharya, the press coordinator for the Walk for Peace. What began as a brief introduction has since grown into a close friendship grounded in shared reflections on Buddhism, spirituality, gratitude, and the importance of paying kindness forward. Our conversations have continually inspired us to think more deeply about our roles as individuals striving to contribute to peace in the world.
More recently, during Dr. Bajracharya’s visit to Washington, D.C., my family had the honor of hosting him. That evening, we sat for a group meditation—an experience that planted a quiet but powerful seed. Since then, my family has committed to meditating together each day. What began as a single shared moment has now become a meaningful daily practice; today marks our tenth consecutive day of family meditation, something we had never done before.
While the long-term effects of this practice are still unfolding, I can already sense a subtle but meaningful transformation within myself and my family. One of the most impactful elements of this journey has been a simple daily intention I adopted on the 99th day of the Walk for Peace: “Today is going to be my peaceful day.”
Though the words are simple, living them fully has proven to be a deeper challenge. Each morning, I repeat and write this intention, and over time, it has gradually reshaped my mindset—how I see myself, how I respond to situations, and how I relate to the world around me.

In the past, my thoughts often rushed ahead—preoccupied with schedules, responsibilities, and the many moving parts of daily life. Slowly, I began to notice a shift. I found myself less anxious about what might go wrong and more willing to trust the natural flow of the day. What initially felt like a deliberate effort has now become a natural rhythm. Repeating this intention no longer requires effort; it arises effortlessly, like a quiet anchor at the start of each day.
Over time, this practice has come to feel like a gentle prayer—a grounding breath I return to whenever my mind drifts toward urgency or unnecessary concern. It has deepened my self-awareness and taught me that peace is not the absence of challenges, but the ability to meet them with steadiness and presence.
I am learning to pause more often, to respond with greater patience, and to release what no longer needs to be held. I find myself becoming more forgiving—of others and of myself—and less inclined to take things personally. I am beginning to understand that not every situation requires a reaction, and not every thought deserves attention.
This growing mindfulness has also changed how I engage with those closest to me, especially my children. I listen more attentively, speak more intentionally, and try to approach each interaction as an opportunity to practice kindness, understanding, and compassion. Even on difficult days, I remind myself that peace begins within and gently extends outward.
Some days feel lighter than others, and some still carry moments of resistance. Yet regardless of how the day unfolds, I find that I end it with greater calm, deeper acceptance, and a sense of inner rest. I sleep more peacefully, knowing I have shown up with awareness and intention.

Through this ongoing practice, I have come to understand—through experience, not just thought—that “Today is going to be my peaceful day” is more than a statement. It is a daily commitment to presence, trust, and inner balance.
And it is a commitment I intend to honor—one breath, one moment, and one day at a time.
May we all have a peaceful day.