Reflecting on the Past

As many of us do subconsciously at the turn of a new year, I sit in reflection on the past year and past years of my life. I often find comfort in a song by Miranda Lambert called “The House That Built Me.” Often times bringing me to tears, just taking a journey back to years long gone. Longing for just a brief opportunity to see the home again.

The Home That Shaped Me

I want to take you back—back 25 years, to be more precise. Imagine a young girl in what would, in time, become her favorite home. In this home, she grew up. She played in the red dirt out back, swung on a rainbow-branded swing set in the spring, and splashed around in a blowup pool during the summer. There were occasional snow days, and she could practically walk to school if she needed to. The front yard featured a giant hill, perfect for running or rolling down. Summers were filled with fun and laughter in the pool, and rainy days were spent creating red clay masterpieces.

Her childhood was filled with country music, peeking to find Santa flying off, waiting on the tooth fairy and Easter Bunny. She spent nights watching TV with family and cooking with her dad.

This was my home. It was full of good moments of laughter and sunshine, but I often have a hard time remembering the good without the bad. The bad just sticks out. There were tears and moments of sorrow, times that weren’t so great.

A Song That Resonates

Going back to the song I mentioned at the beginning, The House That Built Me, the artist reflects back and longs to revisit the home, room by room, fondly remembering their childhood. She talks about where her childhood pet was buried and her tiny hand prints on the porch. She can see the spot where she learned to play the guitar. As I listen to this song, I see myself and my own personal longing to revisit my home. To look that little girl in the eye and let her know that she is seen, loved, and worthy. She is capable of great things. I would tell her that life does not have to be this way and that one day she can make a life the way she sees it. 

Building a Legacy for My Daughter

As a parent now, I reflect on how I look back on my past homes and want to ensure that my daughter looks fondly on her childhood home. I want to give her every opportunity possible and instill in her a fearless attitude toward trying new things and reaching her own aspirations in life.

A Foundation of Faith

A healthy, thriving home is built on a strong foundation. As a Christian, I firmly believe that foundation is Christ, establishing that God is first and foremost in our home. The beams of wood that create the structure represent discipline—not just correcting behavior but creating a well-disciplined child. It’s about teaching them how to be a productive, kind, and loving human being who will shape our future. The walls and fixtures in the home are the traditions, activities, family vacations, and holidays. These elements come together to form a thriving, loving home, a place where joy, pain, and growth intertwine to shape us into who we become.

The Heart of a Home

Each of these elements is vital to creating a thriving, loving home. The memories we carry from childhood aren’t always neat or picture-perfect. They are a blend of joy, pain, and growth—a beautiful and messy tapestry that shapes who we become. While the hard moments may stand out, it’s the mix of experiences that give a home its depth and meaning. A house may be built with a foundation, wood, and nails, but a true home is crafted within its walls. It’s in the shared laughter, the quiet tears, and the traditions that weave families together. Every moment, both the good and the challenging, contributes to building a place where love, growth, and resilience thrive.

What Makes Your Home?

As you reflect on your own life, what memories come to mind about your childhood home? What foundation are you building for yourself and your family? Share your thoughts and stories—I’d love to hear them.