I watch an intriguing documentary about the Terracotta Warriors--over 8000 clay life size figures once buried under farmland. In 1974, farmers digging a well, discovered the beginnings of an awesome army in Xi'an China.
It has always been my desire to see the Terracotta Warriors. But they are almost 6000 miles away and 24 hours of flights to get there.
I have a new philosophical questions: Is it enough to watch a documentary or do I need to see them in person?
For years, I've wanted to attend the German Christmas markets. I have a German friend who goes almost every year, and she's outlined a tried and true itinerary. All I need to do is jump on it. But I don't like shopping or buying trinkets, and it will be cold and darkness will come early. Is it enough to see photos and listen to friends' speak of the Christmas market magic, or do I need to go?
I'd always wanted to hike to Macau Piccu. I'd seen plenty of photographs. I'd interviewed people who'd conquered the altitude, made the historic pilgrimage. It wasn't enough, because we eventually planned a trip. The long trail to the ancient city, and walking into Maccu Piccu was a once in a lifetime marvel. I couldn't have come close to the splendor of historical triumph through videos or documentaries.
I know live experience surpasses vicarious or curated experience. I'd rather see an elephant on the African plains than in the San Diego Zoo. But there isn't enough time or money to do all I want to do, and so I must weigh out what must become a vicarious experience or a real experience.
Watch films about Antarctica or dare to sail through the Drake Passage to a forbidding world? Read about Shackleton's failure and triumph or trust my life to the experts?
Travel from the comfort of my armchair, or sign up for the bumpy ride on a boat, or endure the challenges of turbulence and jet lag? Take a course in Art History or visit the museums of the world?
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