Sentimental journey

I came home today to the sight of a "for sale" sign on my front lawn

Not a prank - not unexpected 

My reaction was unexpected. I had made the decision to sell my home of 23 years as part of my voyage into the unknown and following the feng shui theory of uncluttering life and moving forward

This home represented so much - freedom, independence and the home I had raised my four children.

It was more than a house, more than a home - it was a symbol of struggle, achievement and courage in the face of adversity and had come to represent all my achievements but had also become my refuge and a place to hide and revel in memories and the past.

As you age you become a little less adventurous a little less inclined to seek challenges - you like comfort and sometimes solace and quiet from a world that at times has seemed harsh. 

I love New York - it has all the icons of things that I knew growing up watching those old black and white movies every Saturday afternoon - Times Square, Rockefeller centre, Grand central station, shoe shine boys and other and sundry familiar images and stories. Perth is still a work in progress - buildings topple regularly as Perth attempts to invent and reinvent itself continually.

i seem to need the solidarity of consistency as I get older - the comfort of knowing that some things never change when all around me in Perth - my childhood home, school, places of recreation, regularly disappear. I am bothered by the idea that I am following that trend and disposing of a home that has meant so much to me and wonder if I am doing the right thing.

It has seen better days and is in need of repair and when sold will be levelled for several dwellings which makes it an investment opportunity and a chance for me to help the children who have done so much for me and for whom I hope to build a legacy. At the same time it is structurally sound and is comfortable enough for my needs - do I move on like the society I have come to mistrust or do I see it as a chance to life a fuller life that is richer and open to risk and challenges of the unknown.

I know things are not memories but this house has also bridged a massive gap for me personally.

Pre Doolette street I was younger, better looking , creative and spirited now I am significantly more tarnished by the years and not quite sure of who I am or where I am going so Doolette street has become  a safe refuge

I' m sure a lot of people wonder why buying and selling homes is such an issue when for many it is part of the rich fabric of life - evolving and improving and aspiring to bigger and better things and places.

blogging for me will give clarity - maybe not for readers but it will help my addled, confused mind see things clearer.

Comments

[Lynne Darby]

Wow Chris, I can understand your dilemma, but as you know as one door shuts another will open. I'm sure you will make the right decision for you. Good luck.
PS i haven't forgotten your birthday, maybe we can catch up for a cuppa in the near future when i can find you in!!!!!

Lynne xc