Home

I think we can all agree that COVID-19 has “blessed us” with an opportunity to spend more time with our close ones – our families. At first, all I wanted to do was be left alone in my room. My entire schedule and daily regimen shifted after leaving school for the semester. I failed to commit to the standards I held myself to at school. I failed. But, I also re-evaluated why I hold such high standards for myself. I think it is because my parents inspire me each and every day to be the best version of me possible. I don’t know who I would be without guidance from my parents.

During a global pandemic, when I felt most alone, I found myself again. I found myself by acknowledging and accepting the support my family has held for me. Take this blog, for example. I kept pushing off the release! I completely contradicted the purpose of this blog – to live in the present. Yet, I found myself pushing it off until “tomorrow.”

So, the title of this post – Home. I have spent a lot of time at home this summer. Almost ALL of my time has been spent at home and with family. No regrets at all. I know for a fact that one of my biggest fans is my Father. He’s my Dad, my mentor, my best friend, my go-to guru. The list goes on.

Last semester I wrote a poem about what Home was to me. I have attached the poem below.

Home

Rising fumes from the charcoal grill covers the figure.

My senses absorb the apple-wood crackling pellets

And the smell of fresh pork, roasting in garlic and thyme, excites me.

Placing the Japanese Whiskey on the table,

I finally see him through the fragrant smoke.

Hands covered in dry rub – he reaches for a hug.

The most embracing bear hug.

My attention shifts from the food to not

Letting go.

Jazz music reverberates off of the stone wall.

The sounds and smells enclose the patio.

Dad takes a sip from his drink, then licks his mustache.

A signature move of his.

His alluring grin then reveals itself.

The sunrays shimmer through the tree branches

And form vibrant designs of shadows 

On his black t-shirt.

The wind shifts directions and the tender smells 

Tumble around the yard.

His flowing curls wave in the breeze

Dancing to the tunes of trumpets and trombones.

I look into his soft blue eyes and remember

That I am home.

* * * * *

Thank you for reading. Thank you for trusting. Thank you for caring.

Nicholas