Walk for Values 2008

Committed to Making a Difference, One Step at a Time

All eyes were turned to the skies on the morning of June 22, expecting thunderstorms that had been predicted by all weather forecasters. But what greeted everyone instead was a bright, smiling sun, promising nothing but warmth and a cool breeze. So, what was it that took historic Battery Park and downtown Manhattan by a storm? It was none other than hundreds of members of the Sathya Sai Organization, Mid-Atlantic Region, along with their friends, families, neighbors, and co-workers, who had pledged to make a difference. And they did, one step at a time, at Walk for Values USA.

Young and old, men, women, and children from as diverse backgrounds as New York City itself, turned out to help raise the universal consciousness and awareness about the importance of practicing the five basic human values of truth, right conduct, love, non-violence, and peace, as taught to us by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Concerned about increasing violence in schools, the threat of global warming, and a decline of morale in the nation, participants of the walk pledged to “adopt a value” that they will practice themselves, to help bring about this awareness through their own personal transformations.

They traveled by busloads for several hours from as far as Washington, D.C. and Virginia, bringing with them signs, placards, and banners with messages of peace, compassion, love, kindness, forgiveness, tolerance, and so on—all lovingly hand-made by children and adults—to join hundreds of participants from New Jersey, Delaware, New York City, and its surrounding areas.

When asked by the TV Asia crew why he was there, one young boy, who looked to be about seven years old, replied, “So the world could see what we are doing. It is important for everyone to practice these human values.”

A group of Sai Young Adults from Canada, with members of the team that started the original Walk for Values, made the 12-hour journey by car to give its loving support to the New York version of the event, thereby further strengthening their vision of “Values Without Borders.”

By the time registration opened at 9 a.m., many had already gathered in beautiful and serene Battery Park, listening to the soft hum of the ocean waves and watching sailboats swaying with the breeze. The majestic Statue of Liberty, not so far off in the distance, added a special meaning to the idea of practicing values like freedom and equality. Thousands of tourists had already started arriving in the park, and they were the lucky witnesses to a historic event taking place in the more-than-400-year-old Manhattan landmark. The joy and excitement written on the faces of everyone who had come prepared for the Walk, carrying a sign, placard, or banner in their hands and hearts, ready to imbibe Swami’s message in their lives, was a wonderful indication that all would be well in the world.

There were ample supplies of water, granola bars, sandwiches, and apples for anyone who wanted a refreshment or snack before the Walk started. Participants also had the opportunity to stop by the “Adopt a Value” booth to share the value they had selected to practice, and how doing so benefited them. Even the children boldly came forward to share their values.

Sai Young Adults enthusiastically equipped to paint the town with love, drew heart symbols and painted the word “Love” on the beaming faces of children and adults alike. Their presence was everywhere, managing the stage, handling sound, marshalling, security, and emceeing the entire program with the kind of cool discipline and commitment only found in dedicated Sai Young Adults. They gained the attention of many by their willingness to lead by example. After watching them distributing lunch packets to all, and then walking around with garbage bags to collect the trash, one onlooker exclaimed, “Such disciplined teamwork! It is impressive to see this in young people.”

Resplendent in their white Walk for Values USA T-shirts and caps, almost 1,000 kindred spirits had already formed long lines for as far as the eye could see along the Admiral Dewey Promenade, as the opening program began at 10 a.m. with items like a slow, meditative warm-up exercise by the Energy of Breath Institute; a welcome address by Piyush Ghayal and Bob Singh; and Audrey Bailey’s superb rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner.” Dr. David Gries also spoke on the history of the Walk for Values program and the importance of implementing human values in our lives.

Young adults Sridevi Raman, Vivek Virani, and Ria Nair gave a soul-stirring performance of the Walk theme song, “Banners of Human Values,” which they composed themselves.

Escorted by the New York City Police Department, the procession of gleaming faces and bright smiles began the Walk with Dr. Gries and Elaine Gries as Grand Marshalls. One by one they went, proudly displaying messages of hope, peace, love and forgiveness. One sign said: “Life is living, loving, listening, lifting, and learning.” Another read: “Watch your words, actions, thoughts, character, and heart.”  Still another reminded: “Equality: everyone smiles in the same language.”

Onlookers who gathered in the streets in downtown Manhattan to watch the sea of love and commitment showed their appreciation by giving a thumbs-up sign or nodding their heads in support and agreement. Tourists perched high up on the decks of the tour buses peered down to catch a glimpse of the splendid sight below. Even the usually busy and impatient New York City traffic stopped to look and allowed everyone to cross the major street junctions as a group. It was truly love and kindness in action.

At Ground Zero, everyone stopped for two minutes of silence as a tribute to those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. It was a touching moment for many.

As the Walk came to the last stretch, and the hot midday sun became more intense, Swami blessed us with a light rain that sent a cool breeze through the crowd, to the delight of everyone.

There were many, many volunteers who lovingly gave of their time and energy to make the Walk a success, including several doctors and off-duty police officers. St. Vincent’s Hospital, located in downtown Manhattan, generously made available emergency care personnel and a vehicle in the event that they were needed.

~Walk for Values USA Team

Walk for Values 2008

Walk for Values 2008 was more than a community event; it was a meaningful movement that encouraged people to embrace noble ideals and bring positive change into their daily lives. Organized with the spirit of service and human excellence, the event inspired participants from different backgrounds to come together and reflect upon the importance of truth, righteousness, peace, love, and non-violence. Through every step taken during Walk for Values 2008, individuals demonstrated their commitment to living a life guided by moral and spiritual principles.

The significance of values in modern society cannot be overstated. In a world that often moves at a rapid pace, people may become distracted by material pursuits and forget the deeper purpose of life. Events like Walk for Values 2008 serve as gentle reminders that true success is measured not only by achievements but also by character. Participants walked with enthusiasm, carrying messages of hope, unity, and compassion, creating an atmosphere filled with positivity and inspiration.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Walk for Values 2008 was its ability to unite people of different ages and cultures. Children, youth, adults, and senior citizens all participated with a shared purpose. The walk highlighted the universal nature of human values and demonstrated that these principles transcend social, cultural, and geographical boundaries. As people moved together through streets and neighborhoods, they spread awareness about the importance of ethical living and responsible citizenship.

The event also emphasized the role of education in nurturing values. Schools and community groups encouraged young participants to understand that values are not merely concepts to be learned but qualities to be practiced every day. Respect for parents, kindness toward others, honesty in actions, and selfless service are essential elements that contribute to a harmonious society. Through the walk, these ideals were presented in a practical and inspiring manner.

Many participants shared personal experiences about how values had transformed their lives. Their stories reflected the power of positive thinking, disciplined living, and unwavering faith in goodness. Such testimonies added depth and meaning to the gathering, motivating others to examine their own lives and strengthen their commitment to noble conduct. The collective energy generated during the event left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Community service was another important theme associated with Walk for Values 2008. Participants recognized that values become meaningful when translated into action. Acts of kindness, helping those in need, protecting the environment, and supporting community welfare are practical expressions of human values. The walk encouraged individuals to continue serving society long after the event had concluded, thereby extending its impact far beyond a single day.

The message promoted through Walk for Values 2008 remains relevant today. Modern communities continue to face challenges such as stress, division, and misunderstanding. Human values provide a strong foundation for overcoming these difficulties and building relationships based on trust and mutual respect. By encouraging people to focus on inner transformation, the event contributed to the creation of a more compassionate and understanding society.

Many spiritual and cultural organizations support initiatives that promote ethical living and community harmony. Among them, Devotional India has consistently highlighted the importance of spiritual values and their practical application in daily life. Through educational and devotional efforts, Devotional India encourages individuals to cultivate virtues that lead to personal growth and social well-being.

The success of Walk for Values 2008 can also be attributed to the dedication of volunteers who worked tirelessly to organize and coordinate the event. Their selfless efforts reflected the very values the walk sought to promote. From planning routes and managing participants to spreading awareness and ensuring smooth execution, volunteers played a crucial role in making the event memorable and impactful.

Another inspiring feature of the event was the sense of unity it fostered among participants. Walking together created opportunities for meaningful conversations and mutual encouragement. People who had never met before found common ground through shared ideals and aspirations. This spirit of togetherness strengthened community bonds and demonstrated the power of collective action inspired by positive values.

As time passes, the memories and lessons associated with Walk for Values 2008 continue to inspire individuals and communities. The event serves as a reminder that lasting change begins within each person. When individuals choose honesty over deception, kindness over selfishness, and understanding over conflict, society as a whole benefits. Such transformations may seem small at first, but they create powerful ripples that influence future generations.

The enduring legacy of Walk for Values 2008 lies in its message that values are not abstract ideals but practical guides for everyday living. By embracing these principles, people can build stronger families, healthier communities, and a more peaceful world. The event encouraged participants to become ambassadors of goodness and to carry the light of human values wherever they go. Today, organizations such as Devotional India continue to share these timeless teachings, ensuring that the spirit of Walk for Values 2008 remains alive and relevant for generations to come. Through continued reflection, service, and dedication to noble ideals, humanity can move steadily toward a future filled with harmony, compassion, and lasting peace.

The last event was an extraordinary performance by Bervine Harris and the Renaissance EMS Band that rocked the audience and had everyone tapping and clapping, while sending a deep message into their hearts and minds. Ranging in age from 9 to 19, the band members performed the song that inspired Walk for Values USA, called “Care for Me,” a composition that they had recently created themselves to increase awareness in their community, and as a reminder to all parents, that children need a safer, kinder, gentler, and more caring society.

-A Service Project