Over 10 years ago, my parents gathered my family together to inform us of some big news. My parents shared with us that my dad had received a job offer for a company in Georgia. I was shocked! What?! I had never thought my family would move, especially from our home in Tooele, UT. At 10 years old, I thought my world was coming to an end because I had to move away from my friends.
It was one of the hardest things I have ever done! I was leaving behind the little of friends that I had and moving to a state I knew nothing about. The only thing I knew was that it was the state that I had to stop at before getting to Disney World.
The move to Georgia proved to be one of the best things in my life! I was introduced to many people that have come very dear to me. And I grew as an individual so much. I wouldn't be who I am today if we didn't move.
My fondest memories of this home are numberless. I began and finished middle school and high school here. I got all dressed up for stake dances with my friends. Different types of forts were created and slept in just to be taken down the next day. Early mornings spent in the basement with Hanna because of tornado warnings. Going from two to three to no roommates. One goldfish that lasted a whole 3 years (RIP Cameron). All the joyous holidays spent with family and friends. The hot August that family came into town for Nathan's wedding. And the welcoming feeling of always returning home after trips and vacations.
The best feeling was coming home from my mission! The home is a refuge from the outside world. I could take the time to recuperate without the pressures of the world. And my family was there and helping me out each day. My parents always made home a safe place where we could be open and straight forward on our feelings.
Now all my siblings are out of the house (technically speaking with Hanna on a mission) and my parents are off on a new adventure! They are moving to Ohio to serve more and provide for our family. I was sad when they shared that they were moving. I never thought they would move away from Georgia. But the Lord needs us in various places.
With a "home" of my own, I know that home is centered on Jesus Christ. These houses are physical things that provide us shelter for our physical needs. The home is where all of our needs are met. Love, support, and service should reside in a home. It is a place the Spirit can dwell and add to our growth. And even though my family won't be living under the same roof again, we live under the truth that we will be sealed forever.
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