By Mutalib Jibril
It’s in the cozy living room at home where we share stories, laughter, and the enticing aroma of my mom’s cooking that fills the air. The familiar faces of family members provide unwavering support.
When I’m away at school, I yearn for the delectable dishes my mom prepares. Her cooking isn’t just food; it’s a taste of love and familiarity. The aromatic spices, family recipes, and the tradition of shared meals symbolize the profound significance of home. The anticipation of savoring those cherished meals upon my return amplifies the excitement of going home.
In the school environment, I’ve become accustomed to eating concoctions, drinking groceries, and making soups with limited resources. It’s easy to see why home holds so much meaning to me.
As the semester draws to a close, and the prospect of going home becomes imminent, there’s a unique blend of emotions. The fatigue of academic pressures makes the prospect of returning home even more inviting. The journey back is a passage from one world to another, from academic rigidity to the freedom of being oneself.
Upon arriving home, the joy is palpable. The hearty hugs, the delicious meals, and the unhurried conversations bring a sense of completeness. The familiar surroundings, the cozy bed, and all the little things that constitute ‘home’ collectively create an atmosphere of serenity and contentment.
In the words of the author: “There’s no place like home.”
“Home is my haven of comfort.”
“Home is where I find serenity.”
“Home is where I can truly relax.”
“Home is my retreat from the world.”
“Home is where I’m enveloped in warmth.”
“Home is my cherished sanctuary.”
“Home is where I’m loved unconditionally.”
“Home is my personal paradise.”
“Home is where my heart finds peace.”
Another thing is I often tease my friends from Sokoto, telling them they have it good. We who are not Sokoto “pikins” like this – if you take a breath, it’s coming out of your pocket money; if you sneeze, that’s also from your pocket money. Essentially, every little thing you do is funded by what you’ve been given as pocket money.I can relate to the immense joy of being at home, where I can relish life to the fullest, even without a dime in my pocket.
On a final note, as I continue my journey through school, I’m fully aware that the demands will increase, and my chances to go home will become limited. So, it’s essential to relish these experiences while they are still accessible.