A long road to find home
A Short essay…
As I sit down to reflect and cherish this moment of buying our first home, I can't help but reflect on the long, winding path that led me here. A personal journey, that goes way back to childhood and up to now which was marked by adversity and resilience, and is a testament to the power of hope, strength and determination. (If anyone is reading, I hope this helps others who may be reading and aspire to own a house and/or those who may have faced similar challenges in some small way.)
What others see…
A bright white and charming, colonial-style home.
What others didn’t see…
The darkest moments & adversity caused by generational trauma that clouded my childhood, casting doubt on the possibility of ever finding a place to call my own. Raised in a broken home marred by domestic violence and financial struggle, it strained and tested my belief of ever having a home in the future. However, I remember vividly the times when I kindled my fiery dream and imagination of owning a beautiful home when I’m older!
These early moments also helped foster an incredible discipline and desire to learn new things to overcome the shackles of poverty. It engrained vigilance and a curiosity to ask “why”, “how does this work?”, and “how do I make it there?” in life matters.
What others see…
Sturdy pillars that frame the entrance to our home.
What others didn’t see…
The pillars the come before me - my parents. Though their partnership crumbled, I’ve learned to become at peace with this. More importantly, they each imparted invaluable lessons that laid the foundation for my journey. From my mother, I inherited a love for reading and the importance of education. From my father, I learned the value of hard work and perseverance in the face of adversity.
What others see…
A pathway of red bricks leading to the porch foundation.
What others didn’t see…
Countless ups and downs in stacking personal knowledge and goals, like you stack bricks. From shouldering the burden of college tuition to navigating the complexities of adulthood on my own, every challenge only fueled my determination to pave a better future.
One key example was learning the basics of financial literacy - an essential skill that is missed for many youth - and setting a simple budget and being ruthless in following it for this home.
What others see…
A smiling queen.
What others didn’t see…
The journey to find her, and the effort to become a great partner and keep her happy in this journey called life. (Oh, and some of her tears when we got access into the home ;) )
To those still navigating the shadows of poverty, adversity, whatever it may be, know that you are not defined by your circumstances. Your journey may be filled with obstacles, but with resilience and perseverance, you too can find your way home.
In closing, my journey from adversity to homeownership is a testament to the enduring power of strength, hope, and determination. As I step into my new home, I carry with me the lessons of the past and the promise of a better future.
