Last year I didn't get homesick. Nope, not even once. I was the girl who boasted that she couldn't wait to get as far away from home as possible when she graduated. As I sit here 800 miles away I think I succeeded, but now my outlook is entirely different.
It sounds narcissistic, but initially a little part of me thought that once I moved to Chicago some part of my town would shut down. Not a huge major functioning portion, but just enough that people would feel incomplete without my presence. Imagine my surprise when NONE of that happened.
This past year has forced me to do some serious growing up. Friends have died, tragedies happen, and momentous occasions celebrated...all 800 miles away. While Facebook and telephone calls are absolutely wonderful supplements, NOTHING can replace physically being present to support those who I love.
But unlike last year I do not think that all will come to a grinding halt when I don't arrive. I've realized that despite the fact that I'm not there to attend a funeral, fundraiser or school play my town moves on. The strength and warmth of my community that I used to feel suffocated by is now the very reason I love my roots. I realize now that they have made, shaped and prepared me for 800 mile decision I made back in senior year.
Unfortunately for my parents' wallet the 800 mile commute is a little more expensive than most, but absence does make the heart fonder and the price tag a little more generous
Till the next way less gushy emotional post,
-sSe
Aww girl I definitely understand how you feel! It's hard to move away and then realize that life has gone on without you back home. It's so important that you love your roots, though! They stay with you your whole life :)
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