To lock or not to lock?

I’m more of a locker than not a locker.

I’m talking about doors.

I realize if someone really wants to get in, they are going to. After all, it’s not that hard to break a window—be it on a vehicle, home or business.

Recently I stayed someplace where locks aren’t used even though they were on all the doors. Not sure what my expression was when I was told this. It’s not a practice I adhere to in my own home.

I slept great. No worries.

Clearly, I could have locked everything when I went to bed, but I didn’t.

It was definitely more relaxing than always having to lock up even when running across the street to the neighbors. That was the scenario in my not so distant past. There I had to hide my computer as crimes were more of convenience—snatching valuables that were in sight.

I got used to temporary the no lock place in short order.

When I got home I resumed my normal rituals. The doors are locked at night, and often during the day—especially the front door.

Locks don’t always have keys. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

Sometimes in Tahoe I would sleep with only the screen door as a barrier. Wildlife was more of a concern than bad people. That airflow was needed—especially on those rare hot nights because the house didn’t have air conditioning.

When I had my Jeep I seldom locked it because I’d rather someone take whatever was inside instead of slitting the soft top. And for all the years I drove with the top down, well, the locks became pointless.

Now I lock my vehicle even though seldom is there anything of value in it.

When it comes to my bike, well, there are multiple locks on it in the garage. After all, it cost me more money than what I was able to trade the Jeep in for. And those locks go with me when I’m traveling so it’s near impossible to steal off the rack.

Locks are not a modern tool. They have been in use for thousands of years.

“Before the advent of locks and keys, inner doors in temples and palaces could be secured using a taboo, seal or magical knot, sometimes combined with door beams. In some cases, a magical incantation or frightening image (code) could be enough to prevent or inhibit unwanted visitors. Other versions of protection were secret doors, hidden passageways and labyrinths,” according to HistoricalLocks.com. “As early as 4500 years ago, there were doors that swung on their own hinges. Originally they could only be locked from the inside using beams and bars.”

I like the idea of a utopian society where locks would not be needed on anything. However, I’m not holding my breath for that day to arrive.