LOTR

Was watching the first half of 'Return of the King' showing on TV, and was reminded of how captivated I once was of the movie trilogy, and subsequently, the written classic. I probably took an entire year to finish reading the trilogy - in between regimental duties and training sessions, I would whip out the ridiculously thick book while in-camp to get lost in the very magical middle earth. That was 3 years ago.

The story captivated me on several ends. For one, the movies provided vivid imageries from which I could dream and imagine upon while digesting the book - a convenient escape from the monotonies of regimental life. For another, I was inspired by the internal struggles of individuals so well-described by Tolkien. How Frodo has to grapple with his internal desires to keep the ring and his promises to the fellowship and himself. And how Smeagle is almost split into two identities, fighting from within.

I heard somewhere that the worst battles one can fight everyday is from within, the moment we wake up. And I believe that.