1. a house, apartment, or other shelter that is the usual residence of a person, family, or household.
2. the place in which one’s domestic affections are centered.
When I was younger, home was in the Ohio farmhouse where I grew up. As I got older, it changed from my first apartment to my first house and so on. Somewhere along the way, my definition of home changed. Instead of a dwelling, it became a state of mind.
Home is where I’m with the people I love and who love me unconditionally. Home is where I can go without makeup, take my bra off, be silly and emotional and grumpy and still be accepted for who I am. It’s where people learn to accept each other for better and worse, loving them in spite of their shortcomings, and absolutely adore them for who they are. It’s where we learn to support each other in times of sadness, rejoice in accomplishments, and celebrate the traditions of our family and faith.
To me, the dwelling is important, but home is a feeling. It’s the place in my heart that is occupied by those who are so important in my life.
What constitutes home for you?