“Home is where you go to find solace from the ever-changing chaos, to find love within the confines of a heartless world, and to be reminded that no matter how far you wander, there will always be something waiting when you return.”
Love, support, friendship. I was blessed this past weekend. I was blessed to be surrounded by family and friends. I wasn’t sure about my decision. I was feeling guilty. I thought I should be with my kids. But it all turned out for the best. Everyone ended up right where they were supposed to be. Sometimes life makes our choices for us. And they turn out okay. I want to believe that’s what happened. Because we did okay. It was tough. Sad. But being surrounded by people who love you is a gift.
I went “home” again. Back to my beginnings. The place that defined me. But also a place that made me want to be something else. Something different. Something better. I wanted to come back a “better” me. And I believe I did that. A “better me” who was grateful for roots. Foundation. A “better me” who recognized all the blessings of “home.” I’ve come home many times before. I’d see people. Share memories. And leave. But this time people were there. Not just for social engagement. But for me. They embraced me at a time I needed it most. I felt the love. The warmth. The friendship. The camaraderie of fifty plus years. Indescribable. The bond, never ending.
My parents. My sister. Life-long family friends. All gathered to share Gregger’s memory. To honor him on Sunday. Some knew him. Some did not. It made no difference. That’s what being home is all about. It felt good to be home. To sleep in my old room. To drive by my old school. Relive memories. See “old” friends. There is something to be said about coming home again. As the old saying goes, “There’s no place like home.”
And then I flew to my “new” home. Lucy and me. Not back to the home where Gregger and I lived for 38 years. Not back to the home where I raised my three kids. Not back to the home where all our memories were made. My home. New beginnings. And I knew I was home Tuesday morning. I walked into OTF for my morning workout. So excited to get the blood flowing. See friends. And welcoming me back, loud and clear, was Gregger. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Playing. I melted. But I knew. I was right where I was supposed to be. Home.
For those who don’t know the significance of “the rainbow,” check out “The Rainbow” @atruelovefairytale.com from May 8th, 2015.
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