During the 24 months of the devastating pandemic in California, the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine Meditation Gardens remained open to the public. We implemented a reservation system to help ensure that health protocols were being followed. During that time we received over 50,000 guests from all over California. We also offered our Meditation Gardens as respite for first responders and medical staff from local hospitals. Our operational motto has been “safe and sacred.” We are proud to have achieved this successfully!
We have also noticed that reservations in advance measurably improve guest experience. When guests make reservations, they are educated on the purpose of Lake Shrine as a sacred site for contemplative activity. Guests are also informed by suggestions on how to maximize their experience. The number of guests arriving with lofty intentions has dramatically increased and this has been inspiring to staff and other guests. In addition, the process of reserving seems to effectively filter out those few who may not respect our shrine environment. Prior to introducing reservations, we were routinely experiencing visitors full of aggression and this was negatively affecting staff, volunteers, and other guests. These incidents were escalating, and on occasion required security intervention. This is an unfortunate parallel for our society in general which has become more prone to random public violence. Our guests seek and expect a sanctuary of peace and families need a quiet outdoor space safe for small children. Reservations have without question improved the safety and tranquility for all on site.
Visiting opportunity has been greatly expanded and as of Spring 2023 we are receiving over 1,000 guests per week. A visit remains free of charge. No reservation is required for attending temple events. It is our hope that the many thousands of guests who continue to come will appreciate the enhanced safety and protected peace of the sacred environment which Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine offers to the general public.
Simple instructions for easily reserving a week in advance are posted here.
We thank you for your kindness and support.
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