Second Place

Physical experiences shape the way beings perceive the tangible terrene, and their sense of belonging arises from the memories brought along. A single place, in its essence, might be apodictic. But when shaped through an individual's perception, it is incomparably idiosyncratic. In this context, crossing into others' bubbles of reality elevates one's level of consciousness.

 

Home, stripped from every notion outside of its door when it’s shut, is what each individual finds within, carries along, and cultivates throughout their journey. Therefore, the concept of location is futile. Be that as it may, the impact of the whereabouts of individuals molds their persona irreversibly through acquired memories.

 

The shelter I currently live under is the one I call second place. As an individual in a state of foreignness for years, I have this second apartment that made me a different person and started a new chapter in my life. It is a new neighborhood, a new phase in my story.

 

I lived in an apartment for four years in a foreign country, and then I had to change my home and leave behind my first discoveries and initial stories throughout my journey. Then I relocated and realized I relocated my sense of belonging once more, this time by being more settled, experienced, resilient, and mature as I raised myself and thrived within my sense of belonging.

 

Every day I wake up seeing outside through my balcony door in every form when it is sunny or gloomy. I look at the books that I consider as the objects that provide me the feeling of growing roots inside of me more and more, day by day. Then, I look at the plants that I take care of that evoke as I take care of the roots inside me, every day with new challenges still growing and evolving. That is how I give myself a momentary pause before I get into the unknown challenges daily, and no matter what stage my emotions or concerns are at, to show off my gratitude to myself and my shelter as my second place, my sanctuary.