xeriko's attic

Looking the Second Life metaverse through the eyes of reality

Open letter to my dear neighbor

My dear neighbor,

How are you doing? I hope everything’s ok.

Back in the old days, it was a common, but stupid, practice to build a huge wall around your property to pretend you had some privacy. But since day one it’s just been an illusion that was as pointless back then as it is today. So for me it’s simply incomprehensible when this week you decided to erect that wall to isolate, I’m not sure if yourself from the rest of us, or the rest of us from you (there’s a subtle difference between both statements, I hope you can figure it out). I would understand your action if anything of what we built around your place were kind of fugly; that would justify the shunning. But I don’t think this is the case. I can tell you, I’m pretty picky, and from my point of view it is your property the one needing some remodeling; the rest of us have done quite a nice job on our plots, really. Actually, your house is quite pretty, but frankly your yard –those walls included– need some redesign work. Look around, and you’ll agree the rest of the neighborhood looks good… Well, I admit that plywood building to the north needs demolishing, and that rental service… alas, it’s been there from day one. If those are your fears then your wall is facing the wrong side.

My guess is you’re just trying to force us out by demoralizing us with that behemoth. Maybe that’s why your previous neighbors left not long ago. I’ve just been here for a month; the others may have moved in a month and a half earlier, so we’re all new. We’re not as bad as, it seems, you think we are (or you wouldn’t have rezzed that big wall just now). These plots were up for sale and we paid for the right to be in them. I’m sorry that you don’t agree with that. Actually, the plots could have been yours: If you didn’t want anybody near you, why did you waste the opportunity to acquire these parcels when they became available 2-3 months ago? Don’t answer me, just think about it.

It’s quite difficult to find a nice plot in Linden’s mainland, and thrice as hard if you’re looking for one suitable for sailors, as all of us are. So let me tell you that, right now, I prize this protected waterfront parcel as much as you value your privacy (if that’s what’s up with you). But you know what? Your wall doesn’t scare me as much as your egoism does. Besides, at least me, of the five neighbors your fiend is adversely affecting, I’m quite used to be around old city walls as big as those in RL. I think I’d just hang some ivy on my side to compliment the view and leave the rest to time.

Best wishes,

Xeriko