Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
The mystical Stonehenge
As a kid, I have often been mesmerized by this structure,
staring at me from the computer screen.
So, it was only natural that I visit this mystical site which is just an hour
from my home in Hampshire. This prehistoric monument, located between the
countryside of Wiltshire and plains of Salisbury is one of the most iconic
structures of present times. Believed to be the centre of Neolithic and Bronze
Age monuments; it is certainly a destination for the curious wanderer and
history lovers. From the rubbles of the plains, you will notice a circular
structure where bluish rocks stand rather tall breaking the harmony of the green
plains but lending it more charm. Welcome, to the enigmatic Stonehenge.
As you go closer, the site draws some serious awe. True history aficionados would love this place. The first stones were erected way back between
3000BC to 2000BC. Completed and restored in many phases from then on; today the
structure is listed among the World Heritage Sites. The rocks are said to be
Bluestone and Sarsen. Folklore and
legend abound this place. Some called it the one of the most ancient burial grounds; for some
it was the place of worship while some termed it as healing rocks. The rocks were
once called Giant’s Dance and were believed to be brought from Africa and
Ireland for its healing properties. It is also believed to be a site where followers
of Neopaganism practiced religious rituals in the twentieth century. Whatever
be the belief, no one really can tell how the rocks appeared here in the first
place. There are also rumours of UFO sightings here!
Just outside the main entrance to the Stonehenge is the Heel
Stone or Friar’s heel; a rough, giant stone which leans towards the ground. An interesting
folk take around this stone is that the devil brought many stones from a woman
in Ireland. While he was a carrying around the place, he stated that no one
will find how these rocks came. A Friar then audaciously challenged him and
said only he thinks so. The devil in his fury threw one of the stones which
struck the friar in his heel giving birth to the Heel stone.
Despite these interesting stories, many feel the entire
place to a bit of a dampener. Why? Because there is nothing else here but an explanation
would be that it is a sensitive area, an area which is still researched time
and again for Neolithic and Bronze Age cultures. Hence, it should stay away
from “development” as much as possible. While some call the place rocks
randomly scattered I cannot help but wonder if we ever made a similar structure
in today’s modern age will it able to stand the test of time?
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Southsea, Portsmouth. Another trip to the sea side
The skies are bright again but the mind knows no relief. I
am bleary eyed, ridden with insomnia and a doubtful mind; I look for a quick
out from the mundaneness. Sometimes, escapism brings a great joy, calmness and
clarity of mind. Introspection, I call it. As I have said many times in this blog, ocean
and beaches is my favourite spot when riddled with the various obscurities of
life. The beauty of the ocean, its greatness, the sound of waves lashing against
the rocks calms me, uplifts me, inspires me, awes me and definitely humbles me.
With the rays of sun slowly teasing my senses and my heart
fluttering at the prospect of yet another new discovery I step out hopeful and
head towards Southsea beach in the water front city of Portsmouth. The sea comes in many tantalizing forms as I discovered.
Here there is no sand but the beach is made of many different types of stones,
scattered and littered. I gingerly walk on them collecting some which catch my
attention. They are pink, jade, sea green and some with a bit of sea weed on
them. Aaah…the joys of finding something new out! Life would be so much more
interesting if each day was different than the last.
In the horizon, somewhere
where the sky meets the sea line, I see piers. There are two piers, I am told.
The south parade pier and the Clarence Pier; the sites are now amusement centers.
But to me from this distance the sight looks like a picture perfect postcard
evoking great wonderment.
People come and go. Some are running, some are cycling, and
many are flying kites. It lends an added charm to this already wonderful
tapestry. As for me, I am once again lost in my bubble. I am at the safe place
where the sea and its waves is my biggest comfort. Once again, the sea has
succeeded in wrapping me around its safe arms. I feel uplifted, a tiny smile
plays on my lips and the former frown lines are disappearing. The sea whispers
to me to march on with head held high and that everything will be alright.
The dark clouds which were hovering around me are long gone
and I am at a beautiful, happy place.
Just me, my thoughts and of course the ever calming sea.
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