Throughout the world are places of huge structures and strange beauty. If you've ever been inside a castle, there's a sense of hugeness you don't get anywhere else. But, large ruins offer a similar feeling, such as the Parthenon, the mind-boggling scale of Mayan buildings, and the Pyramids in Giza (not ruins, but at least a tomb). Human activity is bewildering. Modern structures tower into the sky in ways our ancestors couldn't have imagined. Yet, walking amongst moss encrusted blocks of stone still evokes a pensive mood. It's a good time to reflect on what we've accomplished.
How long will our current structures survive? What record will exist of what we did? Certainly strong places will remain, though it's surprising what's strong and what isn't--roads and highways are overgrown so quickly it dizzies the mind. It's a good exercise to consider such questions in all areas of life, because it provides a sense of perspective to life. After all, everything needs a beginning and end.
For me, castles are more than structures of defense. They are places of fantasy, heroics, imagination, and romance. Yup, not true to reality, but I don't care. These buildings aren't common, are ridiculously expensive to create, and are impractical defensive structures in current warfare. So, why would I have dreams of owning one? Well, I've always wanted secret passages and hidden rooms. I imagine castles are loaded with such places ... and if not, well, I can dream can't I?
- M
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