Poetic Shutterbug

The colorful entrance to a temple at Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island.  All of these shots were taken on my vacation there in 2008 A sign tucked away in a small forest area on Lantau Island between Tian Tan Buddha and Lantau peak.  To this day, I still don't know what it says. Avenue of the Stars - The Hong Kong version of Hollywood, CA and much more elaborate. I am participating in Signs

Photo of Tian Tan Buddha taken by me in Hong Kong 2008 The Buddha Speaks I am poor I have no place to weep my occupation s fixed fixedly I sit a thousand years come wearing the richest of smiles go subtly extending a hand as if having given something to humanity I don't know what I can give and don't hope to gain I just want to keep my tears keep them till my work is done deep green sandalwood turns to ash parched red stars are falling by Gu Cheng (1956 - 1993)

Po Lin Monastery with it's temples and gardens is a must see if you are ever in Hong Kong. Po Lin, Tian Tan Buddha and the Wisdom Path are all in the same area and can be seen in a half day. It is located on Lantau Island. The monastery is also a calm and serene sight with it's large incense burner outside the temple where worshippers burn incense and offer prayer to Buddha. Inside the temple monastery is a sight to behold. I have pictures below so they speak for themselves. I always feel bad about taking pictures at temples and sights such as these because of the worshippers who are praying there but it is allowed and everyone does it so I could not pass up an opportunity of catching these gorgeous scenes. In this area of the monastery there is heavy incense burning so if you are allergic to scents of any kind, this may not be the sight for you. There are also many street...

Shakespeare Garden - Golden Gate Park in San Francisco Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves. ~John Muir Being in and experiencing nature is being in touch with your spirit - your roots. We all live in a hurried world full of chores, errands, work, play dates and so much minutia that we hardly have the time to sleep or eat, let alone become refreshed and in touch with ourselves. Nature provides us with all we need both physically and emotionally. It provides us with food, water and the basics of life. It refreshes our senses and allows us the freedom to listen to it’s call and understand it’s mantra. It is peaceful and serene and provides tranquility. Just listening to birds sing or the rustling of leaves on a windy day take us to never ending heights of joy and bliss. Going back ...

While traveling in Hong Kong one of the highlights is visiting Wisdom Path which is located on Lantau Island in the same area as Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Wisdom Path is at the foot of Lantau Peak - the tallest mountain in Hong Kong. The international scholar and poet Jao Tsung-I donated his original calligraphy of the Heart Sutra to Hong Kong in June of 2002. He wanted an open air display of the work to be presented and dedicated to Hong Kong. As a result, Wisdom Path was created and completed in May of 2005. Situated atop a steep mountain the 38 wooden columns or obelisks which are reminiscent of bamboo tiles which were used in ancient times form the number 8 which means infinity. With an aerial view the number 8 is clearly defined and seen. The heart sutra prayer is carved into each of the wooden columns. The heart sutra defined as “The Perfection of the Wisdom of the Buddha.” The prayer is a sacred treasure revered by Buddhists and Taoists alike. It was created...

Serene majesty rests at op lotus flower throne. His bronze elegance adorns the Lantau sky. Facing North a mountain peak on earthly ground the temple of heaven. Right hand raised affliction begone! Left hand rest a gesture of giving. Serene in stature overseer of peace worshipped by mortals and immortals bearing fruit. A massive stone symbol human of spirit energy of life they offer praise. Climbing step after step warmed by his smile captivated by his eyes humbled by his presence. A hypnotic fog emanates around him as visitors encircle and offer prayers. Hours entranced in a spiritual kinship with him, tranquility occupies my spirit.