Frame of Tranquility

An edifice of true grandeur built with a higher purpose

The growth of the U.A.E. has been monumental, and there seems to be a certain charm that works on everyone who lands here that makes them comfortable and feel at home. Expats tend to live here seemingly unmindful that they are merely like birds of passage. No one appears to be complaining except about the paradox of choice in the pursuit of appreciation of the good things in life, and the resultant overspending which seems to be the affliction that infects just about anybody here.

Even when surrounded by the commercial glitz and the perennial “sale” board etched often permanently on most display windows, one cannot help noticing that this country’s highlights are the remarkable structures and landmarks with its relentless resolve to do anything and everything in a manner that makes a great impression.

We, therefore, live in the midst of the tallest building in the world, the tallest residential building, the tallest hotel, the most luxurious hotel, the biggest mall, the fastest roller coaster, and whatnot. We have coin-shaped buildings, palm-shaped islands, and island clusters shaped like the world as would be seen from outer space.

All these are clear indications of a vibrant economy and competitive spirit. Yet, realistically, they have limitations in sustaining their positions. While basking in glory for a few years, there is somewhere else in the world, a taller or a bigger or fancier structure coming up. Before you know it, the supreme position is grabbed by the newcomer. And all the attention seems to shift to the new wonder. In this “winner takes it all” world, this pursuit continues unabated.

Yet, what truly has the ability to stand out forever are the irreplaceable structures of mankind that are built with a higher purpose and not just for the size, fancy, or commercial glamour.

It is only once in a proverbial blue moon, that an edifice of true grandeur arises that perpetually exudes an exquisite charm that has the worth and relevance to impress and attract generations to come. We have some such remarkable structures in different parts of the world. The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is one such.

The purpose of monuments is often to impress or awe, and that’s exactly what happens when you visit this majestically architectured imposing grandiose structure with snow-white walls and exquisitely crafted pillars, and opulent interiors. Even the most myopic would find it hard to miss the aura and feel of the environment elevating one’s visit into a worthy experience.

We can draw parallels with people and organisations in the same way. In this world’s mundane populace, we only have some occasional personalities and establishments that stand out.

Those olden times when a hero was forever, and life was full of simplicity and without pretensions are considered by most to be destined to be history. Those times when great personalities were the result of the emotional accumulation of many pain-staking efforts seem to have replaced the instant image that comes from skin-deep charm and poise.

In the modern world, everyone’s mind and memory seem to be reviewing and refreshing itself constantly. Only a person or organization that exists to build a value legacy and not just a financial one stands the chance of escaping the general public’s apparently reckless phenomenon of rapidly fading recall and recognition.