WARNER SPRINGS, Calif. – Surrounded by wilderness, in the middle of nowhere, a quiet road paves the way to finding your inner peace. The Lieu Quan Meditation Center is sacred ground.
A place both grand and low-key. A place known by few but loved by all. A place so mysterious, we had a hard time finding information about it.
It’s home to four large statues, carved out of granite from Vietnam. They symbolize the main stages of the Buddha’s life – from birth and enlightenment to nirvana – a state of ultimate peace and freedom.
The sculptures are magnificent, yet modest. Each one is adorned simply by incense, accompanied by a plaque and prayer.
The monastery opened in 2000 with a simple goal: to give people a peaceful place to commune with nature and reflect on the Buddha’s teachings. The landscape is barely touched. Simplicity, humility -- two key themes of Buddhism.
We’re told the owner is a Vietnamese reverend in Los Angeles who does not want a lot of attention. Occasionally, monks stop by for basic maintenance.
Everyone is welcome here, regardless of religion. There’s only one simple request: please respect the space.
