The tagline for this site is “Finding Home”. This project is about trying to cultivate self-awareness in myself, to connect with others, and perhaps help others develop their own self-awareness. So, much like a pigeon can home in on its place from hundreds of miles away, I would like to get back to where I truly belong.
What is home? Is it a place or a state of mind? I think it is a little of both. I think place leads to a state of mind and a certain state of mind is where you want to be. I’ve never really felt comfortable in my own skin. Or another way to say it, never at home.
Being at home is being authentic, being inviting, and being peaceful. Home is a sanctuary. I have never felt open or authentic and therefore I have never really connected to people on a personal level. Always separate and never a part of the world.
I grew up being shy and introverted. Those traits could be attributed to the predisposition of a child. But now that I am an adult, I use that habit and I use that habit as a cloak or shield to keep me from connecting to others. So now, lack of courage and complacency keep me where I am, not some predisposition.
So, finding home is about connecting with others by exposing my authentic self. By becoming more vulnerable in being more open and authentic. I believe quality of life is improved by being authentic, not only for myself, but those I come in contact with. Doing that can remove any roadblock to personal growth.
In truth, I don’t feel like I’m being authentic now. The sentiment is true, but the voice I’m using doesn’t sound like me. That will evolve, as well as will I. That is the point of this. I hope to use this site to become more authentic, more open, and more engaged and to cultivate self-awareness. Further, I hope it will be a means for others to share their struggles with being authentic and gaining more self-awareness, to find their home within the world.