“Home is Where the Heart Is”

That saying. We’ve heard it many times—home is where the heart is. But what does that really mean? What words come to mind when you think of home?  For us, words to describe home are family, safety, rest, cozy, authentic, relaxed, laid back, free to be yourself. These words are a bit different than they were before we came to Hawaii. Of course, home in Richmond is precious and wonderful...and is enriched by extended family and dear friends...but the actual idea of home was laced with stress, busyness, being pre-occupied, rarely disconnected, full schedules and constant to-do lists. Being here has taught us to slow down, to just BE. To enjoy the lack of commitments and the abundance of time with family. To notice more things, like the breezes that pass by, the different leaves of the different types of palm trees, the shapes of clouds, the tides. It's taught me to savor the sound of laughter with my children and husband. To prioritize my time better. These are things that we are determined to carry back with us to Richmond. And to me, no matter where you are, physically, emotionally or mentally, home can be found within yourself. Because God lives within us and has made His home in our hearts. That is an amazing reality that requires faith to live into fully. The joy, security and peace that I desire from home is always available to me through the Holy Spirit that lives in me. That is real contentment.

God has given us this incredible opportunity to live in Hawaii for a stent of time, yet His desire for all of us is to acknowledge Him wherever we are. What does that mean to you? I'd love to know. Leave some thoughts below.

When people find out that we are here for just 6 months, they immediately ask if we are military. There are so many military families here and I've gotten to know several moms and military wives. It's been humbling to think about their lives--full of change, different cities, schools, friends, churches, communities. They are brave, bold and inspiring. We chose this change, but they do not choose theirs. Yet, they grasp more than anyone that "home is where the heart is". They take the memories of each experience and carry it to the next. They have an appreciation for each location and they teach their children gratitude in a unique way that I have seen exemplified. One friend has a husband that will be away on a ship for 3 years. Perspective is everything.

It is challenging to be away from close friends and family as community is such an important part of life and growth. When I heard that one of my best friends had been diagnosed with cancer and I am halfway around the world, it was a hard reality to process. I want to be near her, be able to hug her, and physically care for her and her family. Yet, God has me here. And I have to trust in His timing. And entrust her to His care. I pray for the ability to care for, encourage and support her from afar with new insights that could only come from the relaxed place that I am currently in.

Emily P. Freeman wrote this prayer in her book titled Simply Tuesdays:

“We confess our fear of trying new things, hard things and scary things. We also recognize that we sometimes despise the idea of staying where we are. May we be open to discovering home right here instead of wishing for something different. May we release our tight-hold on what could be and be willing to sit on a bench in our front yard in the midst of what is. Be our courage and wisdom as we discern when to stay, when to move, and what it means to bring you with us.”

Thank you, Lord, for being with us and giving us courage to try a new thing. Continue to teach us, refine us and use us for your glory. And when we return to Richmond, help us appreciate where we are in a new way and be content with what is. Amen.

XOXO