  The starting point of the theory of Special Relativity$^1$ is the Lorentz
transformation, which in essence describes the lack of absolute measurements of
space and time. These effects came about when one applies the Second Relativity
Postulate to inertial observers. Here I demonstrate that there is a very
elegant way of explaining how exactly nature enforces Special Relativity, which
compels us to conclude that Einstein's great theory has already revealed
quantization of space and time. The model proposes that microscopically the
structure of space-time is analogous to a crystal which consists of lattice
points or `tickmarks' (for measurements) connected by identical `elastic
springs'. When at rest the `springs' are at their natural states. When set in
motion and used to measure objects at rest, however, the lattice effectively
vibrates in a manner described by Einstein's theory of the heat capacity of
solids, with consequent widening of the `tickmarks' because the
root-mean-square separation now increases. I associate a vibration temperature
$T$ with the speed of motion $v$ via the fundamental postulate of this theory,
viz. the relation $\frac{v^2}{c^2} = e^{-\frac{\epsilon}{kT}}$ where $\epsilon$
is a quantum of energy of the lattice harmonic oscillator. A moving observer
who measures distances with such a vibrating lattice obtains results which are
precisely those given by the Lorentz transformation. Apart from its obvious
beauty, this approach provides many new prospects in understanding space and
time. For example, a consequence of the model is that space-time, like mass,
can in principle be converted to energy.
