When Home Becomes a New Community

I left for a year and a half on a journey of experiences, of challenges, of meeting new people, of venturing to new places, of opening up to new thoughts, of breaking down walls, of building strong foundations, of vulnerability, of strength, of relationship. And my journey continues at home for a bit.

You see when I left, I left a place that was familiar and now have returned to a place that is different and new. I haven't and can't come back to a place that was, but have come to a place that is. Those here may not see the changes that have occurred over the years, the changes around them, or even the changes in themselves, but there is a difference.

And so I find myself facing this new community who too, is learning to embrace who I am. Like any other place, home too holds such joy and such challenges. To see the growth that has taken place in the heart of my family and friends is breathtaking. And yet, to know that time once again is needed to get acquainted with each other is challenging. And so I choose to use this time to invest in them, to invest in all those around me.

I remain in contact with my previous communities and embrace my new community. With each coffee time, dinner, get together, concert, ball game, lake party, bonfire, road trip, and just evenings together...we grow closer, we encourage and challenge one another, and our relationships grow deeper.

I'm home.