This Old House Just Became a Home

The evolution of man seemed to always include some type of dwelling. We went from living in a cave to possibly pitching a tent on a distant planet.

Man (and woman) needs a place to call home. "Home is where the heart is" is a very familiar saying but there is more truth to these words than meets the ear.

Your home can be a simple efficiency apartment or a royal castle - and many stops in between. It is not the structure of the place - it is what you make it.

It should symbolize protection, security and comfort. The feeling should be one of love and tranquility and always the feeling of happiness.

Decorations can be elaborate and expensive or simple and home-made. A favorite chair, a well-loved and well-read book, and warm slippers - coming in with muscles tired by a full day - leaving once again refreshed and renewed.

If you live where cold and snow are a part of the winter season, then you know the thrill of approaching your home and seeing the cheery light from the windows displaying endearing patterns on the pure white snow. Your hands and feet are numb and your cheeks are as rosy as that rose you held in your hand in the summer.

You open the door, and the scent of dinner cooking in the kitchen meets you, or is it just the memory of a campfire during the warm season with toasted marshmallows, broiled bacon, spicy hot dogs, and that inevitable cup fo campfire coffee.

You rush into the door and you are once again in an atmosphere you have created that welcomes you each and every time no matter the course of the day. Your hands and feet begin to tingle as the warmth rushes through your body and your ears and cheeks glow as blood returns and circulates. There is a sense of ease - whether you kick off your shoes or peel winter wear. You are tired, but happy; cold, but at peace, and you have an appetite that can be fixed with a seven-course meal or a grilled cheese sandwich. Humans are home-loving creations and your home reflects you - there are your favorite things that can be seen, touched and held if you feel the need.

After a meal you sit down and you begin to feel drowsy - there is a whole world of difference in a natural tiredness that comes from peace and relaxation then the nervous exhaustion of a very competitive world.

If you have a fireplace, whether wood, gas, or even make-believe, it represents tranquility and an acceptance of whatever life sends your way.

Sitting near a fireplace, loved ones are more cherished, dreams are sweeter and ambitions more believable. Your mind searches the universe for plans that are possible, and hope surrounds them. Your drift off to sleep, and your body repairs and replaces parts that are worn from everyday life and well-used. Your world becomes as natural as the trees in the forestland but as royal and sophisticated as a star-filled heaven.
You are home - and life is good.
ENJOY!
©Arleen M. Kaptur 2003 January