Messages from the Past
Through the similarity of various legends
from around the world, and through the discovery of seemingly anomalous
artifacts in diverse settings, there is strong evidence of cultural migration.
The few survivors of these cataclysmic events managed to either seed new
civilizations or bring their wisdom to other existing societies.
For instance, the huge carved stone heads attributed to the Olmecs of Meso-America have distinctly Negroid features, not common to those natives. Another example is the discovery of coca leaves buried with Egyptian mummies at a time when commerce with South America (where this herb originates) was not known to exist.
So why do we deny such an obviously rich cultural heritage in favor of the over-simplified time-line promoted by archeological science? As far as I can tell there are a couple of reasons. First is vested interest in the status quo; too many people have accepted the standard model of human evolution to even imagine anything else. The other is vanity. People want to believe that they are the epitome of humanity in all regards.
I would much rather embrace the mystery of our
marvelous past, try to decode any messages left in stories and stone,
heed the warnings that might be there, and boldly go forward knowing that
those who preceded us were doing their best to help us muddle through
what are likely to be trying times! I think we should listen to the Hopi
and mend our ways to live with compassion and reverence for all of earth's
creation, and thus possibly avert impending catastrophe.
My life as a Hobbit among Men has not been an easy one. Don't take me wrong; I have been blessed in many ways, but my Hobbit sensitivities have been abraded sorely. I have had to steel myself to the rudeness and crudeness I see around me, to the jarring noise and frenetic activity, to the lack of concern for our environment and future generations, to the greed and self-interest, and to the horrifying violence, especially military.
At first, when I was growing up among Men, it seemed like an interesting challenge to stay centered within my own Hobbit nature and not allow the hubbub to adversely affect me. But over time the constant callous bombardment has been wearing to my soul, to the point that I can no longer remain silent about it. It is my basic nature to quietly withdraw to my Hobbit Hole, block out the intrusive ways of Men, and live the quiet contemplative life that we Hobbits tend to value. But, like with the renowned Bilbo Baggins, there has come this time in my life when I am no longer content to sit at home and simply enjoy my pipe and breakfast. I feel a call to action!
I could do as other Hobbits I know have done, and just let the way of Men take its natural course toward self-annihilation, hoping that somehow the Hobbit race will emerge unscathed. Unfortunately, at this point, I don't think that is possible; the destiny of Hobbits and Men has become inextricably entwined. We are in the predicament together.