'home' for a holiday

esperance / kepa kurl isn't merely a picturesque scene with impeccably manicured lawns; it's a landscape where the untamed beauty of native flora and fauna intertwines with the stubborn resilience of weeds and the whispering echoes of dieback. our sense of 'place' is more than just the sandy shores or the playful antics of lucky bay's kangaroos. rather, it's grounded in the earth beneath our feet, in the salty air that embraces us as we reluctantly depart its coastal embrace. my newfound sense of peace has washed over me quite naturally. like many others, this simplicity and the epitome of well-being have encouraged me to strike a balance and stick around.

life in esperance is marked by joy and adversity, each essential for the other's full appreciation. this delicate balance fosters a newfound sixth sense, a deeper understanding of what 'home' truly means. for me, it pays homage to my inner child. i am giving her a place to play and face challenges intuitively. despite hearing the perpetual grumblings about the weather wherever i go, an undeniable allure to esperance’s map of colour draws people from every corner of the globe. and amidst this humble crowd, i may stand out like a solitary figure, yet every familiar face that greets me on the streets feels like kin.

admittedly, my relationship with esperance has been one of comings and goings, marked by a series of returns that hint at a lingering sense of displacement and rehabilitation. but this year, i've resolved to confront this feeling head-on, to unearth a deeper sense of belonging within these familiar streets instead of the monotonous concrete jungle where i was born and raised. resolutions, i've come to understand, are not for the faint of heart; they're a testament to our commitment to growth, devoid of arrogance or pretence.

mastering the sense of 'place' transcends mere geographical coordinates and obligations; it's an inner journey of self-discovery that knows no bounds. yet, we often find ourselves trapped within our comfort zones against societal pressures, clinging to familiarity like a lifeline. but true growth lies in embracing discomfort in an open space, the flaws found no matter where we nestle down, and in boldly venturing beyond our self-imposed confine.

in my quest for inner peace, i have embraced the simplicity of things—this easy accessibility of creativity here. for instance, i've discovered a sanctuary amidst the country bustle to write this article—a quiet corner in a coincidental café called downtown. i find solace amidst the rhythmic hum of conversation and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. it's a space where distractions fade into the background, allowing me to focus my thoughts and practice.

to summarise, living the dream isn't passive; it requires diligent effort and unwavering determination. while resolutions may serve as guideposts along the journey, true growth stems from our willingness to confront discomfort and embrace change to heal, even if it means moving back to the place we swore we would avoid. so let us cast aside the pacifiers that hinder our progress and instead embrace the challenges ahead with courage and conviction, knowing that with each step, wherever we are, we come closer to discovering the true essence of 'home' in ourselves.