Transforming ourselves
Every time we move house, a new chapter begins. New opportunities, new friends and neighbours, a new environment. Through these new experiences we learn more about ourselves - we may discover new hobbies and interests, new friendships or a new favourite haunt.
I am moving into a new home soon, and it has given me the time to re-evaluate my possessions and to decide what I am taking with me to my new place. It's interesting how we can hold onto possessions for years simply because they are there. It is only when we begin the process of packing up to move that we consider whether the possessions will belong in the new home, whether it is worth our while to pack them up and carry them with us.
In a way, each time we move, we have an opportunity to reinvent ourselves, to begin anew. We can choose what to take with us, and where it will fit into our new life.
Looking back, I think I first started out reinventing myself in my final year of university, by emulating David Bowie. That was my identity - I was Bowiegirl. I listened to all his songs, I read everything about him and watched all his films. I still recall dressing up as Ziggy Stardust/Aladdin Sane in London ten years ago, to go and see him live at the Odeon. Through dressing up, I had an identity. Through dressing up as him I met like-minded people. But through trying on his persona, I began to discover who I really am, which led to me coming to the UK eleven years ago.
Five years ago, that identity expanded to incorporate my new passion for dancing, and knitting, and led me to many new experiences, including writing this blog. I also moved into a new house and a bigger room, where I had space to discover what I needed, the space to work through my belongings and to see what I no longer needed. I shared with two other housemates, and as the years have gone on, we have each in our own ways made this house a better home. We have invested time and money into it, and built strong ties.
We have come to the end of our lease and are each going our separate ways. We are each ready for the next step that is right for us, whether that be Carolina moving in with her other half, or in my case, living on my own for the first time.
I am excited at the prospect. I see this as an opportunity to create my new space, an oasis, where everything has its purpose and place. A happy place that is welcoming and inviting, both for me and my visitors.
My friend Tanya, who had the flat before me, has given me a wonderful housewarming present. An organza bag with six smooth-cut pebbles, inscribed with the qualities needed for a happy home - "joy, hope, happiness, love, peace and wisdom". I have placed them in the flat as a welcoming presence when I move in.
I am touched that the stones have been handed to me by the previous tenant.
I can't think of a better way to greet the beginning of a new chapter.
Purlgirl
xx
