ROME, Ga (AP) Instead of traditional maroon and gold Tibetan Buddhist robes, Lama Rod Owens wore a white animal print cardigan over a bright yellow T-shirt with an image of singer Sade, an Africa-shaped medallion and mala beads the most recognizable sign of his Buddhism.

"Being a Buddhist or a spiritual leader, I got rid of trying to wear the part because it just wasnt authentic to me, said Owens, 44, who describes himself as a Black Buddhist Southern Queen.

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Lama Rod describes himself as a Black Buddhist Southern Queen. He wants to free you from suffering - The Caledonian-Record