In celebration of Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month (APIHM), I am sharing a recent discovery/experience. While I am pretty naïve when it comes to the Buddhist faith and practice, I happened upon this American Buddhist Meditation Temple (ABMT) through a Google Maps marker. I immediately hit the road out of curiosity.
Directions: To find this temple, head south on Patterson Ave toward the ocean, passing over the Atascadero Creek and bike path. You'll go up a hill into the More Mesa neighborhood with ranches and orchid farms. Follow the signs to Cal-Orchid by turning right on Orchid Dr (there was no street sign when I visited). The street dead ends with three gravel parking spots on the left for the temple. Given that parking is limited, it is acceptable to park on the property of Cal-Orchid to the right.
This was such a unique and hidden find that most locals are probably unaware of its existence. It is a quiet place to practice meditation, offer support to the monks, attend Buddhist ceremonies, and for interested participants
to attend formal retreats. The monks here perform a ceremony daily at 4 pm involving chanting and meditation. The property is truly serene with a light breeze, blooming flowers, and greenery of bamboo in every corner of the eye. Buddha statues are also discovered throughout--even in unlikely places such as trees or on rocks. There are multiple areas for meditation, a covered shrine, and places for offerings. Truly a beautiful site for all to explore and learn about.
If you visit here, please consider leaving a donation in the locked box for its preservation and services. read more