What You Call Home: a Personal Identity of Home

There’s an undeniable warmth that comes with the thought of returning home for a homemade meal, especially during the holidays. However, not everyone has the privilege of a place to call home. The experience of homelessness is profoundly negative, yet it's essential to recognize that the absence of a physical dwelling does not automatically equate to homelessness. The concept of home transcends mere physical space; it encompasses emotional and psychological dimensions. Thus, while being homeless signifies a lack of security and belonging, the notion of home can exist in various forms.

The Multifaceted Nature of Home

The idea of home can be complex and varied. For some, it represents a physical location, while for others, it embodies memories and emotions tied to past experiences. In McAndrew's article, it is highlighted that home “connotates more than just a house” (2). Home is where individuals feel empowered and safe. Eric Liu, in his video "How to Understand Power," explains that power is defined as “the ability to make others do what you would have them do.” This concept is particularly relevant in familial settings, where parents exert influence over their children within the confines of their home.

Identity and Cultural Connection

Identity plays a crucial role in determining what individuals consider home. Factors such as culture and nationality often shape one’s sense of belonging. For example, an American might view America as home due to the safety and power afforded by democratic values (Liu). Cultural ties further delineate one’s sense of home; individuals identifying with Southern culture may find their home in the southern regions of the United States, where local customs and traditions resonate with their identity.

The Importance of Relationships

Human connections significantly influence the perception of home. For many, home is synonymous with family, providing a sense of comfort and acceptance. As noted in McAndrew’s article, Robert Frost eloquently states, “Home is the place that, when you have to go there, they have to take you in.” Friends also contribute to this sense of belonging, offering companionship and support that can alleviate life’s stresses. Additionally, connections with pets can enhance the feeling of home, as many individuals derive comfort from their animals.

Security: A Fundamental Aspect of Home

Security is a vital component of a true home. A place where one can retreat without fear significantly impacts overall well-being. A secure home provides not only physical shelter but also emotional safety. Essential amenities, such as a roof over one’s head and climate control, contribute to a comfortable living environment. Moreover, the presence of supportive individuals within one’s home fosters a sense of safety and empowerment.

My Personal Definition of Home

In my experience, home is not confined to a singular location. I identify with two distinct places: Henderson and Nacogdoches. Henderson is my first home, where I spent most of my formative years and where my family resides. The emotional support from my family instills a deep sense of comfort, knowing they will always welcome me back. Additionally, my long-time best friend lives there, providing an escape from academic pressures through shared hobbies like skateboarding and video games.

Nacogdoches represents my second home, where I have cultivated numerous friendships over the past three years. These relationships provide a strong sense of belonging, as I always have someone to turn to for support or companionship. My dog, Cloud, also plays a significant role in my emotional well-being, offering comfort and joy in my daily life. While I am still familiarizing myself with Nacogdoches, my connection to Stephen F. Austin State University and my roommates enhances my sense of home in this place.

The Essence of Home Beyond Physicality

It's crucial to recognize that lacking a physical house does not inherently equate to homelessness. For instance, frequent travelers or truckers may consider the road their home. They may not possess a permanent address, but they still find belonging and identity in their nomadic lifestyle. In Jon Krakauer's book "Into the Wild," the protagonist Alex embodies this philosophy, expressing his belief that “the joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences” (Krakauer 57). Such adventurers often identify with nature as their home, finding solace in the wilderness rather than in traditional structures.

The Distinction Between Homelessness and Nomadism

True homelessness is characterized by a lack of the essential qualities that define a home. Unlike nomadic travelers who choose their lifestyle, many homeless individuals face circumstances beyond their control, often driven by financial instability. They may refer to makeshift shelters, like a space under a bridge, as home, yet these locations fail to provide the security and comfort associated with a true home. Such places offer minimal protection and lack the vital connections that foster a sense of belonging.

Homelessness and Its Impact on Success

Homelessness severely impedes individuals' ability to succeed. Students experiencing homelessness face unique challenges that hinder their educational pursuits. Aesha, a subject from the article “Homeless on Campus,” illustrates the struggle of balancing responsibilities while lacking a stable home environment. Her daily commute, compounded by the need to care for her child, leaves little time for academic commitments, ultimately affecting her performance and well-being (Bader 1).

Conclusion: The Value of Home

While having a home does not guarantee a perfect life, it provides security, comfort, and connections that are vital for emotional and psychological well-being. Even in less than ideal circumstances, the presence of a home offers a refuge from the hardships of life. It is essential to cultivate awareness about the profound effects of homelessness, as the experience lacks the enriching qualities that come with a true sense of home.