Here among the red rocks and the green trees in West Sedona is the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park.
It was created as a vision of Jetsunma Ahkön Lhamo, the spiritual director of Kunzang Palyul Chöling, a Buddhist organization committed to compassionate outreach.
A large Stupa dominates the center of the site.
A large Stupa dominates the center of the site.
A sign says the Stupa represents the body of Buddha and requests that people not sit on it nor place objects on it.
Nearby a statue of the Buddha gazes over the quiet landcscape.
Visitors are invited to walk around the Stupa three times and many do.
You can see the size by the next photo with some visitors next to it.
It's a quiet spot where one can meditate while circling the Stupa or sitting under a canopy in a plastic chair.
I had a long conversation with a man from Illinois who knew a lot about Buddhism though he did not profess to be a Buddhist.
He told me of one visit he had made to a retreat for 10 days of silence and sitting.
He described it as "psychic surgery." I liked that.
In these increasingly tumultous times, I think we could all use a little psychic surgery and a little peace.
This small park may be a good place to find it.
It's Arizona, can you "open carry" there? You know just in case any Buddhists or their sympathizers get out of line, understand? Not looking for trouble, but I want to be ready if anything does break out. Can't be too careful around those people.
ReplyDeleteSeriously, We've been there and it is very nice, peaceful and relaxing.
Cool place.
ReplyDelete"Give peace a chance" huh? We should never cease trying. Lovely patch of earth there in the Peace park.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a fine place to meditate. Sedona is a wonderful place and I wish it had been protected from developers years ago and made into a national park for all to enjoy.
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