Buddhist monks from Fort Worth arrive in Washington, D.C.
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Thousands greeted the Buddhist monks who finished their 2,300-mile walk to Washington, D.C., yesterday.
Why it matters: The monks have shared their message of peace and compassion throughout their months-long journey from Fort Worth.
Driving the news: Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara led a meditative moment for a crowd outside the Washington National Cathedral yesterday.
- He asked them to put their left hand over their heart and cover their hand with their right hand. He guided them through three deep breaths.
- "Now feel each and every heartbeat of your heart. Be mindful of each and every beat," Pannakara said. "Stay focused."
The intrigue: Pannakara compared the brain to a hard drive that we're constantly filling with stressors and outside noise.
- He told the crowd that they can feel peace when they stay mindful.
What they're saying: "To be honest, toxic people are out there. When you react, they love it," Pannakara said. "They enjoy their life while we stand there and cry and suffer. So don't react."