The Rare Beauty of Home

It's true that when most people say "There's no place like home" there really isn't.

Home is not always about where you live, what you have, or where you come from but most importantly its about how it makes you feel.

There is this settling sensation of comfort and solitude.

I dread home when I'm there for too long but feel stranded when I'm away for too long.

I feel a sudden home sickness that brings an internal discomfort.

Home is the sound of ringing subway trains driving by as you rest your head to sleep at night.

It's the motion of the buses and trains that take multiple stops until everyone reaches their final destination.

It's the unique pigeons formed in different sizes that flock around you as you wander the streets.

Swirly gusts of wind roll through Center City as my hair flows with the rhythm of the cold breeze.

It's the big city and bright lights that glow like stars in the moonlight.

It's the large crowds filled with different faces every single day.

The tourists with cheerful smiles of joy as they snap photos and record memories through their digital cameras.

Black and white business suits, fitted skirts, fancy dresses, and secure backpacks.

The soothing smell of hot dog and hot sausage food trucks at every corner you turn.

Home is the "Papi stores" filled with succulent cheesesteak platters and dressed up hoagies that align perfectly with a bag of chips.

It's the snowfall that knocks at your door to come outside and enjoy the blissful weather.

It's the cold air that trails from your mouth when you exhale.

It's the snowman's, snow angels, and snowball fights that numb the tips of your fingers.

Home is hibernating in your thick blankets without feeling guilty of laziness but instead stillness.

It’s the glimmering rays of sunshine that beam through my bay windows to wake me up in the morning.

Home is being surrounded in the presence of your loved ones.

It’s the chill movie nights filled with popcorn, jump scares, and unexpected plot-twists.

Those anticipating moments of everyone fighting to share their life stories for hours with laughter, tears, and wide grins.

It’s the small and simple things that make up for a place of living.

Being appreciative for big stuff requires minimal effort but being thankful for the little things that go easily unnoticed is truly a place of art worth inspection.

This is what I define home.