Lately there has been a barrage of new faces dominating my workspace. So many bodies in motion; some only showing up long enough for me to barely remember their name, and others finishing out their year with me. I listen to the repetition of conversations at farewells: “where are you heading next?” or “what are you most excited for when you get home?” The word home play in my ears as people answer things like family and pets. More often than not “my own bed” ranks among the top 3 answers. I think about what that means. For me this is now home; a year long, with no house to go back to or bed to sleep in. Almost everyone has moved on. I am in a black hole. My time has stopped, moving slowly and yet fast enough that I’ve blinked and it’s almost time for my next adventure. I ask myself the same questions, practicing for when it’s my turn, feeling the tendrils of homesickness for a place I essentially no longer belong. As the emotion wraps over me images from days gone by catch my attention. Special moments, last minute meet ups, movie nights, lazy days, good food, good company, family, and friends. These candid snapshots of life are my home. It’s cliche to say home is where your heart is. If that is the case, my home has been scattered across countries, time zones, and decades for most of my life. It's the earth I stand on and the blood in my veins, while my friends and family comprise my soul. No matter where I stand I know I always have a home in the arms of my experiences and moments. Homesickness isn’t something to fear. It’s the warm embrace of those who miss you letting you know they’re awaiting your return. 💛
This is to all of you who are my family, my home, and the many others…
Comments