On the hectic main shopping thoroughfare of Taksim, in the center of Istanbul yesterday, five people walked slowly and quietly, practicing mindfulness.
Thomas, who is on a peace pilgrimage to Southeast Asia, led the way. Andrew, an Englishman living in Switzerland, and Phap Khi, a French Buddhist monk, have recently joined Thomas on his pilgrimage, and they followed him along with Inge and myself. The five of us snaked our way through the hasty throngs of people; past buskers, hawkers and protesters.
We finished our peace walk near Blue Mosque, and returned to the flat where Thomas has been hosted by two joyful Turkish brothers. There we enjoyed an enormous meal with the brothers and their friends.
It was there that I finally made the decision to join the peace pilgrimage with Thomas, Andrew and Phap Khi.
We'll be on our way in about an hour from now.
Goodbye Istanbul!
Inge, see you down the road!
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