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The Timeless Allure of the Fire Pit

One of the most delightful features of our backyard is the fire pit. Yesterday, a group of friends gathered around it, sipping wine and tonics, sharing stories, and basking in the glow of the flames. On other days, it’s John, Fred, Bob, and Kadizzle who sit there, enjoying the same simple pleasure. What is it about a fire that captivates us so deeply?

Perhaps the answer lies in our ancient genes. For millennia, fire has symbolized comfort and survival. It’s hard not to wonder: what would it feel like to sit in a circle without the fire? The flickering flames seem to dance in tune with something primal within us. Imagine the thousands of years when fire was not just a source of warmth but a lifeline. Inviting a cold, weary traveler to sit by a fire was more than hospitality; it was an act of humanity. Man and fire are inseparably linked, and that connection has transformed the course of history.

Fire’s impact goes beyond warmth and light. Without fire, there’d be no metal tools, no cooked food, no modern civilization. And here’s an amazing fact: fire may even be the reason our brains are so powerful. Human brains consume a tremendous amount of calories, delivered through the blood. But where does the blood get those calories? The answer is fire. Cooking food unlocks more calories, making it easier for humans to fuel larger, more complex brains. Fire didn’t just change our diets; it changed the very structure of our evolution.

Of course, having a bigger brain doesn’t mean we always use it wisely. After all, we elected Trump. But even as we stumble, the fire remains. It is a symbol of community, and of our enduring connection to the natural world. So next time you’re sitting around a fire, take a moment to appreciate the dancing flames and the countless ways fire has shaped who we are.