When I have visitors, they often remark that my home feels friendly. There is definitely a difference between a house and a home and I can testify that over the years, we have invited many people into our house and all felt welcomed. Some stayed for a meal; others stayed overnight and some lived here for a time. They were our friends and relatives who needed a safe place to live and they called it home. Others had their troubles and some just needed a little break to get back onto their feet. Our children were raised under this roof and this home still remains a safe haven of love for anyone that needs to rest their heads or come for a visit.
I have been in many different homes and many of them were decorated by the residents living there. One of my sisters incorporates a rustic theme with a moose head over the dining table at her lake house while my other sister is more contemporary with her designs, paintings and sculptures. I am somewhere in between modern and comfort. We all have different tastes.
When we moved my father into his senior home, we wanted him to feel comfortable and so we allowed him to choose various items that would make him feel “at home.” He loved horses, nature and old barns and so we arranged a variety of his favorite photos into frames to adorn his wall. He also had his comfy recliner and a photo of my mom by his bedside.
I also know that this earth is our home. At this time of year, we see nature bursting into jubilant color as she announces her departure from summer. We see the green hues of the earth turn to a rusty red and flaming orange as the grass is covered with so many leaves. The kaleidoscope of vibrancy splashes the leaves and tells fall that this is summer’s last hurrah before she lies bare and ready to be clothed in snow. Another season of a different kind of beauty. God’s decorating.
So, what are some things to do in our homes so that we can feel comfortable and enjoy the living space we spend our time in? Here are a few tips:
- Organize your living space so you can move about with few obstructions. Less clutter.
- Display photos, pictures and objects of beauty throughout your home. Memories make one smile.
- Be sure to have furniture and aids to help you navigate your home as you age, such as a railing or support bars in the washroom or living space.
- Keep your home neat and tidy. If one needs help with housekeeping, ask for assistance.
- Be involved in the decorating if you are moving to a new place.
- Adapt the home to meet your needs. For example, installing a stair seat or changing the flooring can help with mobility issues
Whether you are living in your home independently, moving to a new facility or home, be sure to have cherished items as well. Keeping your living space cheerful, comfortable and safe are important. You will be spending a lot of time in your home so make it a safe dwelling for you and welcoming for those who come to visit.
It is also comforting to know that Christ is the cornerstone of the Church and that we, as people, are being built as the Spirit’s dwelling place. What is your safe haven?
Ephesians 2: 19 – 22
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
After all, they say home is where the heart is.
Lorrie Morales writes a weekly column for www.lccmediafoundation.
