The Roots of Us

I have always believed that home and family are an essential part of a human being, deeply linked to our emotions and the way we perceive life. I also believe that there is that one part in each of us, no matter what the relationship between someone and their home is, that always looks back to where we came from, to the land that raised us. For this semester’s project, I want to circle back to my roots and what truly matters to me. During the past year, I found myself treasuring the culture that brought me up, which I have been taking for granted. Now that I have been far away from home for years, what calms my mind is the idea that I always have a place to come back to and something to lean on.

Then I began to wonder if I am the only one that has this feeling. Maybe, but most likely not. To confirm this, I talked to many people, some of them are my friends, and others are acquaintances, to learn about their idea of home, and if they have the same thoughts as mine. The differences are clear, but I found one thing in common. Reminiscence.

I am telling you the stories of six different people. You don’t need to know who they are; you don’t need to know about them. The only thing you should know is how it feels to leave all of your worries on the doorstep when you enter your home longing for dinner; how it feels to wake up with a vase of daisies by your window that your grandma prepared earlier; how it feels to count every day until the time you meet again; how it feels, standing there silently, watching time goes by.

As you view my work, I hope you find that piece in you that holds a scent of home.