II
It is one thing to move into your own space, apartment, or house. It is quite another to make that space a home. What is the distinction?
I am on a journey to make my apartment a home. In my previous blogpost, I wrote about home being more than just a physical space. I reflected on the way in which home (as a place where one lives permanently) includes one’s mental latitude and, more fundamentally, the presence of God. Here, though, I address my experience with the material details of homemaking.
A home requires several practical components; lighting, heating, seating, refrigeration, etc. One seldom contemplates these practical demands when fantasizing about moving out and living on their own. This is the unalluring facet of not just homemaking, but growing up – adulting, as they say.
For the first time, I am actually contending with the price of a stove, fridge, microwave, sofa, and other articles of furniture. And boy is there plenty with which to contend! Even electricity, water, and refuse are primary considerations for maintaining a home. I don’t believe anything could have prepared me for the fiscal task of transforming my space into my home – my sanctuary.
This has been a proper test of my character. I have had to employ a range of competencies to navigate this journey – such as planning, focus, self-control, awareness, and flexibility. I am learning that homemaking and life-management are concomitant. Both require aptitude in managing time, managing money, communicating with others, maintaining one’s environment, healthcare and self-care, stress management, building personal relationships, and setting healthy boundaries.
Sometimes I feel overwhelmed and frustrated by the undertaking, other times I feel ineffective and helpless. At all times I am grateful. Thank God that my help cometh from the Lord. Thank God that my life was never mine to manage nor my home mine to make.
– Lele M
Lele Muthali 