I can tell you this – in my 20 years of life, I can think of a few people off the top of my head (besides my parents and brother, of course) that with just their presence they have made me feel "at home" more than anyone I have ever encountered in my entire life.
You may be wondering what I mean when I say "feel at home," so let's start here.
Most of us have been raised by our parents, grandparents or guardian most of our life. We formed a deep connection with them. People who were complete strangers but were there for us every step and every moment of our lives growing up.
They have surrounded you with nothing but constant love, support and protection. When you are with them, you feel this sense of security and safety – like nothing could ever go wrong.
Do you remember the time when your parents had to drop you off for the first time at daycare? You didn't know anyone there and you were just used to the comfort or idea of them leaving you.
If you don't remember this time, then think of a time when your parents left you in the care of someone else, whether it be relatives or friends.
You felt scared, lonely, confused, uncomfortable and curious as to why they were leaving you and if they would ever come back.
You were so used to being with them almost every portion of your day that doing anything differently felt completely out of the ordinary.
It simply just wasn’t the feeling of being " at home."
So, now you know that the feeling of being "at home" isn't talking about your house or wherever you may live...
I'm talking about the people that make you feel safe, protected, loved and feel like you matter. Like your presence in the world is the reason why they get up each and every day.
Now that you get what I mean, think of those people who are either currently in your life or maybe even out of your life that gave you the feeling that you were "at home."
It could be your best friend, a distant friend, a significant other, an ex or even a mentor. Whoever your person may be that makes you feel at home – they are the closest thing to the people who raised us and gave us that feeling.
These are the people who cared and support all of your crazy dreams and goals no matter how many times they may change.
These are the people you spent nights staying up late and talking to about every possible thing you can think of: religion, aspirations, life plans, heartbreak, pain, happiness or even something as simple as your favorite food.
These are the people who know every single detail of your life. They know what makes you tick. They know how to get a rise out of you, but best of all, they know how to make you smile and laugh.
And they refuse to let you feel sad, angry or frustrated at all costs.
These are the people who you sing at the top of your lungs with in the car. Or you simply just listen to the music and stare at what’s ahead of you in silence and peace.
Their silence is the most comforting thing you've ever experience. There's no urge to say a word. It's not the awkward silences where you feel like you have to say something in order to release the uncomfortable feeling. No, it's quite different. Rather than the silence being uncomfortable, it's comforting. There's nothing quite like it.
These are the people who always have your back no matter the circumstances. They would go to war for you, and you would undoubtedly do the same for them.
These are the people who not only make you feel safe, but they never take you for granted.
They never abandon you when you need them the most.
They always have been appreciative of what you do or currently do for them.
Most importantly, they wouldn't trade you for anyone else.
You’ve been there for each other through the pain and the sadness.
The memories you create with these people are the hardest to forget no matter hard you try, especially when people leave because that's all you've known.
But no matter what, they will always be your person because they made you feel the way no one else was capable of making you feel.
They made you feel wanted. They loved you for who you were no matter how imperfect and complicated. They want the very best for you. They support you with all the support they can bare. They made you feel like nobody could ever hurt you or do any harm.
You inspired them to be the best they could ever be.
Think of it this way: even if this person is or isn't a part of your life anymore, how lucky are you to have found someone that makes you feel like you matter, that you are safe, loved and supported and being in their presence makes you feel at home?
Now go thank them, appreciate them and create the feeling of being "at home" for them, too – before it's too late.
