In Kamakura we a visited a great bronze Buddha (Daibutsu in Japan) nearly 14 meters tall. The Buddha was built in 1252. He was originally constructed inside a temple but the wooden structure was washed away in a tsunami, leaving Buddha out in the elements. The size of the statue is astounding. The age of this massive artwork was unfathomable. It was one of the most beautiful human made things I think I've ever seen, but what made me cry and laugh and feel a little connected to the ancient giant figure were the gigantic pair of woven sandals waiting for him in the small building to his left. When no one is looking I imagine he slips them on to stroll the hills behind him.