Would a 10-Foot-High Wall Around Your Property Satisfy Your Security Needs?
Every homeowner faces the decision of whether to invest in significant physical barriers, such as fences, to protect and secure their property. The notion of constructing a 10-foot-high wall arouses both security and aesthetic considerations. For some, such a structure might seem like an unnecessary intrusion. For others, it's a statement of their desire for total control over their surroundings.
The Psychological Factor:
Control and Visual Signifiers
Many individuals find that fences, particularly tall ones, are a clear sign of control. It visually communicates that there are bounds and, consequently, a designated area that is to be respected. This heightens a sense of security and territoriality, as if a gate or entrance is required for anyone to enter the property. If I didn't want certain individuals to enter, it is my stance that I would not allow them to do so forcibly. Public opinion might label such a stance as rude, but the principle of self-preservation and respect for one's own space cannot be undermined.
Practical Considerations:
View and Peace
Does this mean I would build a 10-foot-high wall around my entire property? Not necessarily. My decision would depend on the specific circumstances. For instance, would a wall detract from the overall aesthetic of the grounds or obstruct my views of the surrounding landscapes such as hills, mountains, trees, and bodies of water? In areas where a wall would block light and views, I might be more hesitant. Conversely, if the wall enhanced the beauty of the surroundings or provided additional protection, such as shielding the property from intruders or pets, the decision would lean towards a more positive perspective.
The Fencing of One's Retreat:
Backyard Security and Front Yard Aesthetics
Currently, I already have a 6-foot-high fence around my backyard to protect my dogs from straying into the neighborhood. This addition has not only provided a barrier but has also improved the appearance of the property. While my front yard remains without a fence, I have taken an alternative approach. Last time, I installed a row of knockout roses around a corner lot. Although these roses didn't physically prevent trespass, they served as a deterrent and effectively reduced incidents of people cutting across the yard.
A Controversial Solution: A Border Wall
Is a Border Wall Necessary?
When discussing the construction of a 10-foot-high wall, many are referring to the idea of border walls, particularly in the context of immigration. While fences and walls can be effective for certain areas, they are not a universal solution for addressing complex issues like immigration. Just ensuring the border's integrity is one aspect of the broader issue, which requires a multifaceted approach. Instead of focusing solely on border walls, it's important to consider the underlying causes of immigration.
Understanding Immigration Motivations
Historically, the United States has always welcomed immigrants. The Mayflower settlers, for example, were seeking a new beginning in a foreign land. The current wave of immigration that sparked the discussion of border walls comes from regions that have faced political and economic instability, often due to actions taken by the U.S. itself. For instance, the Reagan administration's support for the Contras, a guerilla group fighting the Sandinista government in Nicaragua during the 1980s, inadvertently contributed to the resulting chaos and political turmoil that led to mass migrations.
In August 1996, a series in the San Jose Mercury News revealed how the support for the Contras, backed by crack cocaine, inadvertently led to the drug's spread and the destruction of local communities. This interconnectedness highlights that the issue of immigration goes beyond simple physical barriers and requires a broader social and political context to understand and address effectively.
Instead of focusing on the construction of border walls, we need to invest in comprehensive policies that address the root causes of displacement. Providing opportunities and support for sustainable development in source countries, and promoting fair and reciprocal international relations, can serve as more sustainable and humane solutions to the complex issue of immigration.
Thus, while a 10-foot-high wall around one's property may serve as a powerful symbol of control and security, the broader question of border walls demands a more nuanced and holistic approach. Understanding and addressing the underlying causes of migration, rather than relying solely on physical barriers, is critical to creating a more secure and inclusive society for all.