We create this persona,
to protect and to hide the things we do not like,
our idiosyncrasies and flaws.
We create this persona
to make us more like others,
more like their image.
But instead of refining our character
we euthanize those things that make us unique.
The pressure we put on ourselves
to keep up this facade creates in us a knot.
Yet all it takes to loosen
is something to call home.
Coldplay’s “Parachute” in the background,
or the sweet aroma,
granola in the oven,
can pull you right back in.
A smile or a laugh can make you feel safe.
Safe enough to remove the bonds,
the bonds that we place upon ourselves,
restricting our movement.
Safe enough to show what we used to need to hide.
We can visit this place in our head
when the knot is pulled tighter,
to release the tension for a while.
The calm cascades over you
as you revel in the serenity,
the serenity of lying by a fire in the winter.
Home is the place that knows you.
Home can unravel your knot.
Home has a gentle hand,
cradling your insecurities.
Home is where you are free
to be no one
but yourself.