More than 320 individuals participated in the Walk for Values in Ann Arbor each pledging a value that they practiced. The crowd gathered in Gallup Park on Fuller Road at 12.30 p.m. on a cloudy but spirited day. It was very heartening to see a huge crowd of individuals from various groups participate in this walk.  Some participants drove from Toledo, Cleveland and Detroit to participate in the walk. The walk was to raise awareness of the human values of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Non-Violence. 

The walk was inaugurated by the Mayor of Ann Arbor, Mr. John Hieftje and Mr. Ted Henry.  The Mayor spoke about the importance of applying the values in our lives. Mr. Ted Henry also emphasized that it was wonderful to see a huge crowd with similar values gather for a good cause. He also took several videos of individuals participating in the walk which will be available on http://www.vimeo.com and  http://www.vimeo.com/videos/search:souljourns.   Washtenaw County Administrator, Verna McDaniel concluded the walk and spoke about the importance of this walk.  She mentioned that the message of the walk is uplifting and enhances the spirit of the society that is struggling with so many other problems related to the economy.

All the participants gathered in lines according to the values they chose and walked 1.5 miles in the park around the lake.  They held banners and quotes that exemplified human values.  The walk was very picturesque with individuals in white shirts and holding colored banners amidst beautiful nature. 

Many participants also took part in the festivities before and after the walk.  There entertainment was melodious and inspirational.  It consisted of Value songs presented by Antwaun Martin, Indian classical music John Churchville and his group, and National anthem by Pioneer choir group called Harmony.  All the children who were there in the walk concluded the walk with the song- “We are the World” to emphasize unity and harmony in all those who had collected for this good cause.

 Walk for Values USA is organized by the Sathya Sai Organization, a not-for profit group, and is part of a global effort to promote the practice of human values by providing opportunities to participate in community-based service activities.

To view pictures of the walk, please click here

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