Beautiful piece, I’ve haven’t had a long term home, my longest home however was my childhood home in Colombia which I pray my aunts and uncles don’t sell off when my grandma passes (I was there my first 7 years of life). On the other hand , although I am nostalgic for it at times, I understand that my elders have had a complicated relationship with it and more painful memories. I feel there is a lot to unpack with this theme ☺️
This is such a moving and thought provoking piece, thank you Samira! I felt such resonance and also nostalgia for my childhood home when I read it - it helped me realize that I wasn’t as alone as I had thought I was, and that the soul of my home was always there with me, as another keeper of my memories and the memories of others 💛
Thank you, Samira, for this marvellous essay. It was intensely moving for me. I was extraordinarily fortunate in being able to live in one residence from my birth until a few months ago—a period encompassing 72 years. Numerous people have wonderful memories of it; indeed, for many, it has been an unchanging island of stability in a frantically changing world. Now, due to various reasons, it must be dismantled. Yes, it most definitely had a soul. I grieve at its passing. As you rightfully ask, who will be the keeper of the memories?
Thank you Arjun! How beautiful to grow up and live is a home for 72 years! It must have been a really special place. I’m sad hearing that you had to let it go. But I’m sure that the memories will live on :)
Growing up, my childhood home was immaculate. Not a thing ever out of place and sporadic music and laughter. As a mother of two, I am now trying my best to fill the house with noise and fun and let tidiness come down a peg or two. Hopefully, those living here or visiting can truly feel at home without worrying about a bit of mess and disorder. Requires a brain rewire for a convent educated girl like me with a dad from the Air Force and a mother inclined towards OCD!
Ah the brain rewiring is something I relate with as well! It takes a LOT to not tidy up all the time. But kids and pets help in the transition and after a while I've found myself saying "It's okay. Let it be messy."
Who will remember them when they are gone? This was so painful, as we had a home for over sixty years, and some of the family looked at it as real estate and not as ‘real state’ and loved ones. I only hope our 🏡 is loved and lived for generations to come, but once I go to sleep, only sweet dreams will survive 🙏
Beautiful piece, I’ve haven’t had a long term home, my longest home however was my childhood home in Colombia which I pray my aunts and uncles don’t sell off when my grandma passes (I was there my first 7 years of life). On the other hand , although I am nostalgic for it at times, I understand that my elders have had a complicated relationship with it and more painful memories. I feel there is a lot to unpack with this theme ☺️
Thank you Helen, for enjoying the essay and for sharing your story.
This is such a stunning piece and I love what it evoked for me in my own contemplation of home 💞 thank you for sharing!
Thank you Aaliyah!
Very moving and tender tribute to homes.
Thank you Sharmila!
This is such a moving and thought provoking piece, thank you Samira! I felt such resonance and also nostalgia for my childhood home when I read it - it helped me realize that I wasn’t as alone as I had thought I was, and that the soul of my home was always there with me, as another keeper of my memories and the memories of others 💛
Thank you Suyin! My homes have always been more that just sturctures that shelter. I am so glad my essay resonated with you.
Thank you, Samira, for this marvellous essay. It was intensely moving for me. I was extraordinarily fortunate in being able to live in one residence from my birth until a few months ago—a period encompassing 72 years. Numerous people have wonderful memories of it; indeed, for many, it has been an unchanging island of stability in a frantically changing world. Now, due to various reasons, it must be dismantled. Yes, it most definitely had a soul. I grieve at its passing. As you rightfully ask, who will be the keeper of the memories?
Thank you Arjun! How beautiful to grow up and live is a home for 72 years! It must have been a really special place. I’m sad hearing that you had to let it go. But I’m sure that the memories will live on :)
Such an interesting theme!💖💙 Makes the reader look back at every home that they have lived in themselves!
Thank you Alaknanda!
Growing up, my childhood home was immaculate. Not a thing ever out of place and sporadic music and laughter. As a mother of two, I am now trying my best to fill the house with noise and fun and let tidiness come down a peg or two. Hopefully, those living here or visiting can truly feel at home without worrying about a bit of mess and disorder. Requires a brain rewire for a convent educated girl like me with a dad from the Air Force and a mother inclined towards OCD!
Ah the brain rewiring is something I relate with as well! It takes a LOT to not tidy up all the time. But kids and pets help in the transition and after a while I've found myself saying "It's okay. Let it be messy."
Who will remember them when they are gone? This was so painful, as we had a home for over sixty years, and some of the family looked at it as real estate and not as ‘real state’ and loved ones. I only hope our 🏡 is loved and lived for generations to come, but once I go to sleep, only sweet dreams will survive 🙏
Thank you Sandeep. I have the same wish (and hope) for my home :)