The event was sponsored by a host of
civic and faith organizations including, but not limited to, the
Rotary Clubs of Branchburg and Plainsboro, the Somerset County
Cultural Diversity Coalition, and Friends Of Nepal New Jersey
(FONNJ).
As the event began, the attendees were
welcomed; there was a moment of silence for the victims of the recent
earthquake in Nepal, followed by brief proclamations from local
political authorities.
Sunims Myong-Ahn and Duhk-Song led the
attendees in a walking meditation along an asphalt path through the
shady, wooded grounds, circling an imposing 28-foot statue of the
Buddha in samadhi meditation posture.
As the weather gradually turned clear and semi-tropical, there were peace songs by the serene voice
of singer-songwriter Ingrid Heldt, a guided meditation by the Art of
Living Foundation Group, then orations and prayers by representatives
of many faiths and peace alliances, including both sunims, and
finally the World Flag Ceremony.
A generous luncheon, featuring a wide
selection of sumptuous Nepalese dishes, was graciously provided. Many
compliments were freely offered acclaiming its deliciousness.