The idea of writing this sketch excites me greatly, but as with anything that is anxiously looked forward to, elements of time, organization, and presentation aren’t so readily laid out before you. The topic and subtopics are already outlined in my head, so before you give up on ever reading about the intended subject matter, I will hastily attempt to break the suspense.
It was the dawn of human existence… a place quite different from our modern world. While the differences are many, the similarities are even more spectacularly illustrated. Unlike Darwin, I do not seek to argue the Origin of the Species, but rather intend to recognize the parallels of ancient civilizations with our own. Technology is wonderful, but it hasn’t changed the primary hunter/gatherer objective that is essential to survival.
It is in that state of thought that I would like to introduce the topic of virtual reality, and it’s relevance to my thesis. Unfortunately, it means that I must also admit that the catalyst that encouraged me to pursue the subject was gained while playing Age of Empires. I was intrigued by the genre in which it is classified; it is a Real Time Strategy (RTS) game. There are some parallels that can be drawn in regards to developing a strategy that increases the possibility of victory. As I began to examine the pieces that are needed to develop a flourishing colony and effective military campaign, I was suddenly aware that the same sort of skillful planning is imperative to my life as an individual living my life.
I won’t spend time creating an exhaustive list of strategies that can be employed throughout the game, but there are a few notable points. First and foremost you need to establish a constant supply of resources. Secondly develop a defense system and protect your assets. Thirdly make upgrades in technology, weaponry, etc. mandatory investments. The ultimate objective is to eliminate the opponent.
We understand in our own lives, that these elements must be in place in order to be successful. The only notable difference is that we have been raised in, so we are told, is a democratic society. An empirical government is motivated by expansion only. Unfortunately theoretical victory, has historically failed in the grandest of fashion. The most recent example is illustrated with the defeat of the Reich at the end of WWII.
Before jumping to conclusions about the supremacy of democracy, I will remind you that all human systems are inherently flawed in their execution. It is with this knowledge that we can address the abstract nature of humanity. In every culture, self-actualization is viewed as the ultimate ambition; the pinnacle of existence. In every instance, such a place of fulfillment is never realized or achieved. The simple reason being, that unless we live with an outward focus, we are missing the mark. It’s like playing a Role Playing Game (RPG), no matter how well you are able to replicate a certain lifestyle, and it is ultimately bogus.
Now we are back to the very basic, fundamental exploration of finding strategies that can be implemented in a real world scenario; hosted, ever so graciously, by your Local Area Network (LAN). I would like to suggest that relational development with people and God are among the primary objectives. Personal growth and advancement are viewed as secondary. The finer points of determining right or wrong, and wisdom and foolishness will be discussed in future articles. My intent is that when it’s all said and done it will have been For the Win! (FTW).
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