I grew up in the city. My entire 14 years were spent in a city that never really sleeps. Our house is in the center of everything. We live next to possibly one of the busiest roads in the Philippines.
This won’t be for long though. My family and I are moving to the beach this year, and I don’t think my mind has absorbed it yet.
I’ve always been fond of the beach. The way the sun hits the sea during sunset, reflecting shimmers of gold onto the deep blue ocean always leaves me mesmerized. I love the feeling of cold water on my skin. I love the sound of waves crashing onto the beach. It leaves me at peace, grounded.
That is the exact opposite of the city.
In the middle of everything
Despite the city being completely chaotic, it has been my home for my entire life.
You step outside and you are guaranteed to hear the distant beeping noises from the vehicles on the road. You take a quick trip to the mall for errands and end up running into someone you haven’t seen since the third grade.
There’s a Starbucks and a McDonald’s everywhere. You are in the middle of everything, but I’ve grown to hate it more than love it.
“If that’s the case, then why do I feel this sense of uncertainty?” I’ve asked myself several times. I realized that the answer was right in front of me. It’s this house.
I don’t seem to remember any house I’ve lived in before this one. I watched as my parents turned this house from a place to live into a place to feel alive. The way they built character and personality into each corner makes it extremely special. There are countless memories behind these walls, and letting them go leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
Away from hustle and bustle
I know there is much, much more for me to experience out of the city. Our faces glow when we’re on the beach and being away from all this hustle and bustle leaves us at peace. I know I would choose the ocean over the city any day, yet something still feels quite off.
“What truly makes this house feel like home?” I asked myself. It’s my family. It’s my music, along with the pictures I place up on my wall. It’s the food, and it’s our dog.
When I was much younger and people would ask me, “Where in the entire world would you wish to live?” I would always reply: “Wherever my family is.”
As cliche as it sounds, I was right. Everything feels quite off, and it happens when there’s a big change in your life. My mind hasn’t quite absorbed it yet, but everything will be okay. —CONTRIBUTED INQ