Dear Loved Ones,

My eyes lifted following the natural rise of the mountain that towered above me. The midday fog wove in and out of the dense forest, revealing only the giants’ tips. The relaxed tempo of our hike from the bus station was not a burden, but rather an opportunity to take in the beauty of our surroundings. As we approach the heart of Fussen Germany, we all became very aware of the masterpiece that has made such a quaint town so famous. There, perched atop its own mountain, with the woods as its landscape and the Bavarian Alps as its backdrop, stood Neuschwanstein Castle. As if this display of architecture needed anymore acclaim, the fog opened up and the sun shone directly on it, acting as a natural spotlight.

After pausing for pictures, our group continued on to buy our tickets for an interior tour of the castle. Eight Euros and a long, uphill hike later, I stood face to base with the castle itself. The courtyard was our waiting room and all that surrounded it became subject to countless foreign photographers; all attempting to capture uncontainable beauty. Moments later, as if rehearsed, the fog vanished and our tour began.

Up the spiral staircase we climbed, shuffling like a herd of cattle through a narrow chute, only to find ourselves in a large holding room. The area around me opened up and I stepped further into what was soon to be identified as the servant’s quarter; living arrangements that any college students would readily claim, for they were remarkable. Next we moved into the throne room. The mats we stood on acted as protection for the mosaic below. Thousands of vibrant pieces synchronized onto one single mural stretching from each corner of the room; flowers were perfectly shaped and lions were as if the possessed life. Through the castle we continued, each room greater than the last.

King Ludwig II, while ruler of Bavaria was known for his extravagant taste. Because of it it, he was not popular with his people who financially supported his lavish living arrangements. Neuschwanstein was the last of many “homes” that King Ludwig had built. He only lived there for six months before he suddenly “drowned” in two feet of water. Because Ludwig was 6 feet 5 inches, and a very experience swimmer, there are other, more likely theories involving his death. Sadly to say, the castle rooms were never completed, but those that were have made an impression on history.

I feel blessed to have experience such a remarkable display of creation, but I feel as though it has had a greater impact on the world than it has had on me. This castle and other wonders like it are education me, not only on culture and history, but also on what I value in my life. Traveling is enjoyable and incredible, but there is nothing that brings me more pure joy than being with those that I love. For so long I envied those that discover the world; those that can spontaneously explore on a whim. These short weeks have taught me just a bit more about what I truly cherish: you. For that, I am grateful.

Love,

Heather Dawn