China: a Great Wall Nation — Matt Flavin

The Great Wall for me is a grand example of how I perceive China. The Great Wall is something so majestic, impressive, and significant that I feel China as a country is much like the Great Wall. It is sturdy, beautiful, and a little excessive. After visiting the Wall and seeing the mountains, I wondered why any army would want to travel the rugged ground. Nonetheless, China built a gargantuan structure to heighten the challenge. The places I have visited on the Wall have been repaired, restored. I think China is going through a time of re-building now, and its long history is represented by part of the ancient wall that still exists. It is impressive, but it is left alone to be what it is. It is crucial, because without the old wall or history there would be nothing to repair or from which to build. The part of that is now restored is a strong foundation on which to build. Seeing the Great Wall really made me appreciate China more than I already had. There are so many beautiful large significant structures in China built throughout time or dynasties that are enough to impress the world. A grand example is the tombs of Chin Shi Wang Di and the terra cotta warriors. But the Great Wall is something that makes one really appreciate China for what it was, what it is, and what it is yet to come.