Much has changed on our planet since the time the Buddha walked here. Yet, when we visit these sites sacred to the Buddhist tradition, we can imagine ourselves in those ancient times. The more we know about the Buddha and his teachings, the more fully we can open our hearts to the vibrant energy of enlightenment alive at these places of pilgrimage. And, the more the traveler knows about these sacred sites, the more readily the heart will open to their blessings. When we gather at sacred sites to invoke and honor through prayer, meditation, and offerings, we clear the way for compassion and enlightened awareness to manifest in our world.