When I am in ancient lands, I wonder who walked here. What did they wear. Who lived among these mosaics. Who chose the patterns on these frescoed walls. Were there prize horses in the stables. Did exotic animals and birds roam the grounds. Who cultivated these ancient vines. Who harvested the olives and the grapes. Jewels do this to me. Especially ancient artifacts. They are portals — past, present, future. To other times. Other cultures. Other lives.