Day 7 - July 31

Once again the weather was extremely hot. We were joined by 4 guest walkers (3 from Elkhorn and 1 from Lake Geneva). Palden-la walked the entire day covering all 10.4 miles. The highlight today was an encounter with a polish business owner by the name of Greg. Like every day since the beginning of this walk, there was no shade, lots of heat, and no place to use a bathroom. We have been engulfed in rural farmland since day one! As we approached Greg's business, he came running out from his shop that was at least 100 yards from the road we were walking on. Greg invited us into his shop for cold water and use of his toilet. We agreed! In talking with Greg, we learned he grew up in Poland under the dictatorship and later participated in the "Solidarity" Movement that led to the collapse of the dictator. He pointed out to us the official "Solidarity" flag. It was hanging on his wall. He told us it was illegal to carry this flag during the times of the dictator and that a person would be arrested for such an action. We informed him of the fact that a similar outcome was certain for a Tibetan possessing a Tibet flag in Tibet. We also educated him about the situation in Tibet. He wished us well and told us we were fighting the same fight he faced back in Poland and that we should keep up our work. The police once again stopped us today to inquire about our walk. After a brief dialogue, the policeman allowed us to continue walking. In the evening, we were treated to yet another pitch in meal by the people of Elkhorn. Four students from the local high school were present and some rich dialogue occurred. The students and everyone else present also sang some western songs together. Tenzin Mingmar played guitar during many of these songs. A couple of walkers sang some Tibetan songs as well.

 

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