design considerations

Crossing on the lower level of the George Washington Bridge toward New Jersey last night, Mike said something like, "Just think of where we are, here on this bridge, inside this massive structure that's bearing such massive weight from above us and below us."

So I thought of it.

I wonder if this is an apt image for our life on this planet. I don't think so. The planet is not a massive structure in any sense similar to the bridge, i.e. not made by humans (though quite likely un-made).

But I think The City is more apt. Massive structure. Made by humans. Bearing such massive weight above and below. The city would not exist if people were not willing to enter it. Obviously ... but ... such a move demands ... such trust. That it will not collapse upon our heads. That we will not starve here where no food grows.

In my experience, cities do not collapse. But I know about earthquakes. And we know about intentional acts of destruction.

I suppose we each need to consider the scale on which and within which we can best, safest, and sanest live (if safety and sanity are primary virtues).

Yet ... this smaller structure—this big old house in New Jersey ... how safe ... how sane? It's always a question of "enough", isn't it?

This small structure of my (or your) ego ... or our larger selves ... how safe ... how sane?

Enough.