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Aloka" - The Light of Noble Companionship
Sunday Island
|February 01, 2026
When we hear the name "Aloka," a truly extraordinary story comes to mind.
It is the story of a dog who walks mile after mile alongside Buddhist monks in America, leading the way with them on a noble journey.Once, Aloka was a stray dog wandering the streets of India, suffering from hunger, abuse, and hardship. Today, not only is the whole world speaking about him, but countless people are also blessing him. When these monks were on a walking peace pilgrimage in India, they encountered Aloka and decided to take him under their compassionate care and bring him with them to America. From that moment on, Aloka grew up under their loving protection.
Indeed, this world is truly wondrous. The story of Aloka, once a stray dog, beautifully demonstrates the immense power of associating with noble and virtuous people (kalyana mitta — spiritual friends).
The Mangala Sutta teaches: "Patirupa desha vaso ca - Pubbe ca katha Punnata
"Living in a suitable place and having done meritorious deeds in the past are great blessings." Aloka's life today clearly illustrates the truth of these words and the priceless value of good spiritual companionship.
This story is from the February 01, 2026 edition of Sunday Island.
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