In the journey of life, many find themselves without a permanent place to call home. Whether due to circumstances beyond control or the transient nature of our paths, the experience of homelessness or frequent moves can feel overwhelming. Yet, there exists a profound truth: home is not solely defined by walls and roofs. It is a sanctuary we carry within our hearts, a sense of belonging that resides in our spirit.
No matter where you lay your head at night, remember that home is an ever-present part of you. It is the warmth in your heart, the strength in your spirit, and the love that you hold for yourself and others. Embracing this inner home can provide comfort and stability, no matter the external circumstances.
Chris Gardner, who experienced homelessness and went on to become a successful entrepreneur, said: "The world is your oyster. It's up to you to find the pearls." His journey reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to find beauty and opportunity within ourselves.
Everyone's circumstances are unique to their life journey and by sharing a snippet of mine that relates to this article is not to detract from your own or to compare our experiences, my story is one of many, and every person’s experience is valid and important.
I lived all over New Zealand as a child with my family, and even more once I moved out of home at 17. I've lived in garages, a tent in my friend's backyard, on couches, in motels, countless flats, rentals, a van and at one time a gypsy caravan in a holiday park. Whilst there were times of loneliness and discomfort, I never felt abandoned or truly alone because I've always been connected to the light within me, the beacon of hope that always shines from my heart.
In chatting to homeless people and through my own personal experiences of homelessness and many temporary accommodations on my journey, I have learned that if you allow it and you are open to it, there are people willing to help you and opportunities that will present themselves if you are open to see them and receive them.
I chose to be homeless 3 times because that was how I wanted to live for a bit, and also because I didn't feel I had any other choice at other times. Through it all there were people who wanted to help me - maybe I needed to change my behaviour temporarily to accept it though. I never slept on the streets but I did sleep in some pretty unlikely places.
It took me about 7 years of searching, amidst happy adventures and feeling unworthy - with great highs, followed by situation after situation leaving me struggling and suffering beyond my control, until one day I began to want a different life; I asked my parents for help and moved from Rotorua back home with my mum in Canterbury... Her rules were for my wellbeing and I accepted them because I had reached rock-bottom: I wasn't allowed to drink alcohol or have friends over, but she did let me smoke (a coping mechanism I'd picked while dealing with chronic stress - even PTSD was suggested). While I wallowed in self-pity with my feelings of failure, the love and patience from my mum helped to reveal my love for myself again and I started to light back up. I made different choices, I did different things... I relapsed a couple of times, but the seeds from that 'break' had been planted and there was nothing stopping the tree of me from growing tall and vibrant.
Just that one choice changed everything, and I just had to keep making that choice over and over again - to choose me - until it was my default and natural choice.
I can happily say 20 years later that I found the pearls in those experiences and can look back at my life and see the richness in everything I did, in the interactions I had and the many amazing people I met; in the jobs I had and left, in the many places I lived. The cruel times and hard times revealed my determination, inner strength and resilience - with each part of the journey being a step closer to remembering the truth of who I Am and each challenge, a catalyst for growth.
That version of me is like a past-life now, a fading memory - but my soul has kept and nourished all of the rich experiences I had and uses them daily to shape and guide my future.
If you can find peace and stillness in your circumstance, maybe under a tree or by a body of water, you may be able to see the golden nuggets hiding in the darkness that are shaping and moulding you into the person you are destined to be.
"Maybe your path is harder, because your calling is higher" - Unknown
Know that you are infinitely worthy of the grandest life and while it might look far away from where you stand today, I can assure you that anything you dream of is 100% possible. If you can, try and use these often trying and exhausting experiences to inspire your future; to take and make choices now that direct you onto that higher path.
Whatever circumstance you find yourself in, however you got there - if you are feeling lost, know your home is where your heart is - within you, and it is always with you. Here are some ways to nurture the feeling of your inner sanctuary.
10 Ways to Feel at Home, Wherever You Are
Create a Ritual
Establish a simple daily ritual, like morning meditation or journaling, to ground yourself and create a sense of stability.
Cherish Small Comforts
Carry a small, comforting object, like a favorite book, photo, or piece of jewelry, to remind you of home.
Connect with Nature
Spend time in natural surroundings, whether a park or a quiet street lined with trees. Nature offers a healing sense of belonging.
Practice Gratitude
Focus on the positives, however small. Gratitude can transform your perspective and anchor you in the present.
Seek Community
Connect with local support groups, shelters, or community centers. Building relationships can provide a sense of family and support.
Embrace Creativity
Engage in creative activities like drawing, writing, or music. These outlets can express emotions and reinforce your inner sanctuary.
Visualize Your Inner Home
Close your eyes and visualize a place where you feel safe and loved. Return to this imagery whenever you need comfort.
Mindful Breathing
Practice deep breathing to center yourself. Each breath can remind you of the life force and home within.
Focus on Flexibility
Embrace adaptability as a strength. Each change brings new opportunities to grow and learn.
Remember Your Worth
Affirm your intrinsic value daily. You are deserving of love, respect, and a future filled with hope.
Though circumstances may shift, the essence of home remains within you. You carry it in your heart, in your dreams, and in the connections you forge with others. Let this inner home be your guiding light, offering solace and strength as you navigate your path. Remember, you are never truly alone, for the spirit of home is always with you.
May these words offer comfort and inspiration, lighting the way as you journey through life - knowing change is possible and you are not defined by your circumstances.
God loves you so much. You are the most previous gem in the universe. Look for God's light and if you can't find it, look inside yourself and you will see it burning bright.
Thanks for reading.
Please see the 'Inspiration' tab in the navigation menu for more inspiration and resources on your journey home.
Amanda Sears
The Inspired Guide
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