Close to the entrance of the Grove Shopping Center, on its Main Street, is a magnificent statue by nationally renowned sculptor, De L’Esprie, entitled, “The Spirit of Los Angeles.”

This magnificent bronze statue is a male and a female angel soaring upward. It rests on a multi-footed concrete foundation, surrounded by a small but well tended and colorful flower bed.

Overall, it proudly stands over 32 feet in height, and the angel’s wingspan is 10 feet in length. Scripted at the sculpture’s base is a poem, which expresses many people’s thoughts; including yours truly. Thank you, Noelle Donfeld, for your wonderful words:

“Firmly planted under my feet

Is a land that cries for freedom.

Firmly planted in my heart

Are the people who long to live

As an eagle flies

In boundless skies,

Rising, rising.

I am determined to stand

Tall and strong and free

This is my country, my land;

It’s part of me.

Firmly planted in my fist

Is the seed of my own freedom.

Firmly planted in my will

Is the power to let it grow

Like the winter grain

That fills the plain.

Rising, rising.

I am determined to stand

Tall and strong and free.

This is my country, my land;

It’s part of me.

This is my country, my land

And my destiny “

Los Angeles is full of hidden treasures. Who knows what wise words you’ll find the next time you go shopping while Travelin’ Local.