A Nice House Does Not Make A Home

“Home must be a place that shelters your life.” Patti Callahan Henry wrote that in her great novel, The Favorite Daughter. In the context of the novel, the comment suggests that home should be a place where we can retreat to from the stresses of daily life and find comfort and solace. In a broader sense, the phrase also implies that a home should be conducive to personal growth and self-discovery, allowing individuals to explore their passions and pursue their goals without fear of judgement or critique. Home should be a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for us, security and protection from the outside world. It should also be that place where we can flourish as a unique individual.

After thinking about Patti’s comment, I then heard another related comment in an episode of the television series, Lethal Weapon. Trish Murtaugh (Keesha Sharp) told Martin Riggs (Clayne Crawford) that “Home isn’t a shell you crawl into. It is the people who surround you and leave the door open, even when you are not at your best.” The point Trish was making to Riggs was that home is not just a physical space or dwelling, but rather home is a collection of the people who make up our support network and create a sense of belonging. Home is the place we are welcomed and accepted, even when we are not at our best or going through difficult patches. Sometimes home is that place where we can be ourselves and where we feel comfortable being vulnerable with others is an extension of home.

We all need friends and loved ones who are always there to support us and who leave the door open for us, both physically and emotionally. Trish’s comment reminded us of the importance of human connection and the role it plays in creating a true sense of home. Remember, it’s the people who are important here. As my dad used to say, “A nice house does not make a home.” That’s pretty wise and very true!

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