Volume III / Issue 11 — 2 August 2022
My longest writing gig as a professional lasted over 10 years. I wrote a weekly newsletter, among other things, for a local business that focused on everything home-related. As a result, I learned a lot about houses, decoration, moving, organization, and decluttering. Over the years, what struck me the most, however, was how people define what “home” means.
It’s an interesting concept, because for most people a house only becomes a home when the homeowner makes it their own… and that’s what can change from person to person. For some, it’s about color palettes, decor, and furnishings. For others, it may be family heirlooms and photos, while for some people it’s about mementos from their travels and life. Whatever it is, making a house a home is about a feeling that is deeply personal, and that’s my point.
Last month, I was in a bookstore and saw a bookmark about music being a balm for the soul. I bought it to send it to a musician I know who recently had some struggles. The note I attached said something simple like: “when things are hard, remember that with music you will always find your way back home.”
Similarly, writing has become a home for me.
When I feel stressed, overextended, fearful, or anything that takes me out of standing in my boots, I have found that writing brings me home.
So, what is home for you? What activity can you engage in that takes you back to your heart—to who you are? Do you know? If you don’t know, it might be a good question to ask yourself. At IOM, we sign talented authors and artists who are at home in what they create and do. Knowing what home is for you can really make a difference in your life.
When we know what “home” is for us, we essentially have a VIP pass that allows us to skip the line and fast-track the process back to who we are at our core. It’s kind of like a magic wand, or at least it’s as close to one as I’ve ever found.
All my best,
Martina
“The ache for home lives in all of us. The safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned..“
– MAYA ANGELOU –
Recent Blogs
1 August 2022 — Children’s book author and artist Kelly Ulrich shares what makes her happy in the midst of her busy and creative life—a series of twelve things she can’t live without. #1: A Sanctuary — A safe place to sleep. To live. To have a room or … Read more
31 July 2022 — Quickles by Joanna Quargnali-Linsley
Summer is all about adventures and being outside. These Quickles can be made so quickly, and yet pack such a punch of flavor and can be an addition to just about anything.
I love… Read more
28 July 2022 — What is the New Moon? by Martina E. Faulkner
The new moon, in simplest terms, is a time for manifesting. It appears as a blank canvas in the sky, which is why … Read more
We are adding new blogs every week from many of our authors. Everything from seasonal recipes to moments of inspiration to writing tips. Check them out and discover your new favorite way to experience our talented authors’ and artists’.
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