One of my favorite books to read to the kids when I was a teacher was Eric Carle’s “A House For Hermit Crab”. Hermit Crab loves to get nestled into a nice new shell of a home, but as soon as he does, he undergoes another growth spurt that forces him out. Disrupted again, he laments at having to move on to find a new one. In the end of course, he realizes that it hasn't been so bad at all - with each new venture he's gained many new friends. And just as importantly, he learns that he's happy anywhere as long as he’s got them and a comfy home that suits him.
I can relate to Hermit Crab. I sat down this morning to figure out how many times I’ve moved in my life and all told, I came up with 18. Eighteen different apartments and houses to live in throughout adolescence, college, career, and marriages. I can see every one of them in my mind’s eye, and look back fondly at each one. They, and the memories that went along with them, have served me well.For as much as moving is a pain, it's always represented new beginnings to me. I love walking into different places - trying them on to find just the right one with the just-right feel. And ironically, though a bit of a nomad, I’m also a nester. I get right in there, determined to make it cozy and comfy no matter how long I’ll get to enjoy it for. And when it’s outgrown like Hermit Crab’s, I feel no need to hold on. Just pick up and go - looking for the next just-right shell. Eventually I find it, and begin nesting anew. New ventures, new friends, new beginnings and a home. A real home.
What does home mean to you? Is it a place to hang your hat, or is it more than that?
And how many times have you moved? Have you been a nomad, or have you settled into your just-right home for the better part of your life?
I'm on my 9th city/state but in terms of 'house/home' 14 different spots since my first childhood memories. It's difficult to make new friends, or maybe difficult to let go of one place and start anew. The last move I made in the center of a failing marriage and ailing spouse.. and consequently I didn't have the energy to make friends and get really engaged.. and sometimes I feel that lack still, after being here 11 years.
ReplyDeleteI'm done with the nomad life I think, travel and exploration sure.
Have you moved houses or left the country? I love the use of Carle's book as the imagery of this post.
I'm a nomad as well. Got that from my parents; we moved every five years. That's about the limit for me too. I've spent some time wishing it weren't so, that I could put down deep roots in a community. I've spent equal time wishing I was one of those people who woke at the crack of dawn. Can't do that either.
ReplyDeleteHi Walker,
ReplyDeleteTravel and exploration are a great thing, and I know that would be nomad enough for me if I could afford it. It just so happens that there's just too high a price for living back in the States right now. Bummer.
It's also much harder typically to start anew when you're older. This community happens to be made up largely of spirited mid-lifers, and it's so small you can't help but get to know each other. Conversely, I hardly ever knew my neighbors back home in Rhode Island where I was. Go figure. I'm hoping that's how it is in our next venture of Ecuador.
To answer your question, I've lived in Guatemala and Barcelona each for 2 years. Still the vast majority was in the northeast, which is still ultimately "home" for me.
Thanks for stopping in!
Hi Jane,
ReplyDeleteGreat to see you here!
I agree - putting down roots is one thing I've never been able to do. That's the definitely the down side of being a nomad. Though my roots aren't so deep, though, their pretty strong wherever I am, whenever I am. Now that's a good thing.
Funny - unlike you, I wish I was one of those people who could get something accomplished after 7pm. Not happening.
Thanks for visiting!