Is it acceptable to let our heritage become mere scenery?

I glanced at my wristwatch. The strap bore numerous scratches, each narrating a tale of time’s passage. This watch, now aged and worn, once dazzled me with its brilliance when I first acquired it. Yet, over the days, it became an integral part of my daily scenery, accumulating more and more marks.
 
The most prominent scratch appeared long ago during a trip to Barcelona. I have no recollection of where or how it happened. Was it while perusing the market or at a tourist attraction? The memory eludes me. I simply noticed the scratch one day. This watch, neither costly nor particularly sentimental, had no issues during my hectic days abroad, so I missed the opportunity to repair it. Thus, it became part of the scenery.
 
One day, an editor eyed my watch curiously and inquired, “What happened to that scratch?” At that moment, I realized that each scratch on the watch held memories. Mishaps while out, busy workdays, joyous times with family—all these were etched into the strap of this watch.
 
I had considered repairing it, but now I cherish these scratches. They render this watch uniquely mine. This watch, which has blended into the scenery, will continue to chronicle the story of my life. Attachment is not merely about clinging to objects; it’s about the memories and experiences embedded within them.
 
However, after the editor’s remark, I began to ponder the meaning of things becoming part of the scenery. There are likely many such items on my desk and in my home. Indeed, being surrounded by familiar objects provides comfort and a sense of security. But is that truly beneficial? Is “growing attached” merely an excuse?
 
Like an organization mired in stagnation, becoming part of the scenery means having a past but no development. If something is always there, fixed in place, we miss opportunities for improvement. To move forward, we must break the status quo. Attachment and becoming part of the scenery are not synonymous. Because we are attached, we sometimes need the courage to embrace change. This is what I profoundly feel.
 

Greetings, I am Kusei Ryosei, a novelist who delves into a diverse array of genres, spanning from the historical to the contemporary. My aim is to enchant readers with tales that breathe life into history and explore the intricate issues of modern society. I warmly invite you to reach out to me.