Searching for home

Late this afternoon I took a walk through nearby neighborhoods. Each house is unique. I discovered one home that looked at least 100 years old. It was two stories, all painted white, and extremely simple but elegant. Two rocking chairs sat side-by-side on the porch, overlooking a large yard and gravel drive. I gravitated toward that side of the street, wanting to walk up to the door and go inside. It just looked like how I picture "home"--peaceful, restful, safe, and a place where you can grow and be yourself...

I guess home can look like many different things in different seasons of life and in different circumstances. Last night I had friends over to my home, which is a little townhouse on the east side of town I share with a viola player. We ate chocolate, told stories, played games, and laughed until we were crying. This morning I went to my church home, where countless friends asked about my well-being, and I was able to relay to them about the incredible power and love of God. For lunch I went to a co-worker's home, which she shares with two single older ladies. Their yard is filled with wildflowers and vegetable plants, while the inside is nearly overflowing with Gandhi quotes and compost bins. That was her home, and it meant a lot that she invited me there.

And then there are just people I'm around, who make anywhere feel like home. When I see my family, hang out with good friends, or chat with internationals, I remember that home probably isn't a physical place. Yes, I someday hope to have a little house instead of a dorm room or apartment, and I get tired of changing addresses every year, but I know home can be anywhere.

I was also reminded that we have a home with God, so I don't ever need to house-hunt for a place of rest and hope for my soul:

"The stronghold of God is not only a place to visit God but to dwell with Him. For those who dwell with God, His presence is not merely our refuge; it is a permanent address." Francis Frangipane

On a separate note, here's an interesting little picture to leave you with:

The fun diagram from my police report, which I saw for the first time this past week. I am supposedly the 2-D lifeless, genderless body. I think this would look nice in a scrapbook. :)