NO PLACE LIKE HOME

When parents arrive to pick up children at day care, it is not uncommon for a child to burst into tears. To the untrained eye, a small unassuming child suddenly morphs into a frightful whirling dervish, sporting Dennis the Menace tendencies and other traits which appear to require some serious parental intervention.  But a hug will usually do it.  Because this sorry display is probably a reflection of the child’s eternally grateful relief.  He's been trying to be good for these strangers ALL DAY.  He's been sitting precariously on a little volcano of fear, uncertainty, and pent-up emotion. The eruption is pretty much inevitable upon seeing a person with whom this little peanut can gratefully and finally be himself. That is not to say he didn't have a fabulous day with his caretakers. It is more a matter of acknowledging the truth in Dorothy’s post-Oz declaration. There is no place like home!

Like it or not, our families get the very worst of us. We walk around the house looking a fright. Hair standing on end and sweatpants from our college days stretched beyond recognition. Some of us are too grouchy for conversation until after the second cup of caffeine. Others, who have been productive and engaging members of society all day, arrive home and beeline for the recliner to recharge before any helpful interaction with family members can occur. Yet with a foundation of love and acceptance, there is something wonderful about a safe landing pad. And that’s the beauty of family. They know you. And they love you anyway.

My husband and I were enjoying a nice dinner together last night. Our firstborn is in his twenties and living out of state. Our youngest was off with her youth group to a music festival. Unwinding from his day, my husband indulged in a sigh of contentment. He looked over at me and said, “I’m glad you’re the person I married.” Well I thought this was about the sweetest thing I’d heard all day. Fishing for more romance, I unwisely asked, “Why is that?” His answer was honest and remarkable. “I just find most other people SO annoying.” I do love my blessedly straightforward man. 

And how awesome is that? God has given us our own little circle of people to love AND ANNOY! Whether it is your parent, your brother, your spouse or your child, remember to be thankful for the amazing gift that is your family. There is certainly no place like home.