A Piece of My Heart

 

I left a piece of my heart today, and though it hurt a little, I know I will be fine.

The noise of the packing and moving died down, the guests leaving me to myself in the house, I made a long and slow walk around what was my home.

The emotions of those few minutes alone brought a few tears mixed with smiles; permission to grieve followed by a smile as I walked through our house, tracing my fingers over the engraved marks of my grandson's growth on his door frame. I could hear the voices of early morning conversations and lunchtime chats between my husband and me while music streamed through the house. Then I caught the final glimpse of my favorite tree in the sunlight and cool fall breeze.

In the last two days of preparing and packing, there were many conversations between a close friend and me. A few of those chats reminded me I know this is the way and right thing for me to do. In the past, somebody might have suspected my leaving was "running" from problems, but this was different. Planning for a year, nothing to hold me in town, my adult children are each well and tending to their lives as they ought to, all provided me comfort in my decision to sell the house and start a new life.

Another part of the same conversation left me feeling grateful for this journey and making this decision. When others recognize our growth, it's a fantastic feeling to realize you have made positive changes. For someone to share with you that you haven't been relying on them for support, help in making decisions or problem solving, and how proud they are of the growth, you know you have been standing in your power.

Friendships aren't like an association or business contract to me. They are like the foundation of a well-made house. A solid foundation of truth and integrity to stand on, they are safe and hold no judgment of who you are – only that you take care of the house, it will take care of you. The friendships hold memories, love, and a connection that no matter how far you travel away, you know you will always have those growth marks and memories.

It seems as though we never leave home. We move forward to new adventures stronger from experience, wiser for the lessons, and attuned to the love of the universe. A fitting and beautiful song played as we backed out of the driveway for our new adventure spoke to my soul:

"However far away, I will always love you.
However long I stay, I will always love you.
Whatever words I say, I will always love you.
I will always love you".
- Adele

I'll see you all on the other side, but until then,
Grow with Love.