I like the way Crystal Pier in Pacific beach stretches beyond the sand out over the battering waves far enough for sailboats to pass close. The white cottages with blue roofs seem as comfortable and unafraid as the seagulls perched on the pier's railings. The strength of the place comes from what’s underneath. Standing among the pillars close to the edge of the surf is a spiritual experience, like standing inside Todaiji in Nara, Japan. I am awestricken by the power implied in both structures.