Dear Home,
It’s not you…it’s me. I miss you. I miss the familiarity, the smell, the painted walls, and the people. I especially miss the last 18 years. Starting over is scary, and it’s even scarier in a new city. “It’s normal to feel this way, just give it time,” is what everyone I talk to says. But Home, you get it. You know that I know that it will get better with time, but waiting is the worst. The feeling of uncertainty is miserable. I know right now it hurts, but we just need to give each other some distance. This isn’t a good-bye, it is simply a see you later! After a long 18 years together we both need to see other people.
I am out here growing! I am living my life the way I want! I am finding new adventures! I know you are proud of me! You still have my little brothers to take care of for a few more years, and I put all my faith in the fact that you will raise them just like you raised me. Take care of my dog, he loves you unconditionally… just like I do! For now, I am exploring who I am and how I fit into this crazy world. I am on the road to self-discovery!
Right now, I need to let go. I need to realize that it is okay to miss you. It is okay to miss the memories, okay to miss my family, and even okay to miss high school. Even though I swore to myself that I wouldn’t, I found out it is okay to miss you too, Home. It’s surprising how many other people feel this way about their home. I really miss the smell of mom’s cooking as I walk through the front door. Gone are the days of throwing my backpack down and heading straight to the fridge.
This isn’t permanent; it’s just for a little while. We both need new experiences without each other. This is simply a see you soon… a see you in November! I can’t wait to see you and tell you all about what’s new in my life! I know our relationship status is complicated right now, but I also know we still care about each other and always will. Who knows, maybe we will love the change?
Never forget that home is where the heart is, and my heart is right there beside you, Home.
Love, A super homesick (but getting through it) freshman