My home-Where we spent many hours chatting and relaxing
Despite the inevitable changes of life, the essence of home remains deeply rooted within us as one of the constants in life. Home is the familiar scents of the breeze, the sound of laughter echoing through the streets, and the warmth of loved ones. Home is not static, it evolves and adapts alongside us, shaped by our experiences and memories. Living away from my hometown ( Fuvahmulah) for over two decades undoubtedly brings about a myriad of emotions.
One of the fondest childhood memories I have is playing in the yards of my home, surrounded by lemon and mango trees .The lemon tree in particular hold a special place in my heart, sparking a fondness that has endured through the years. It’s fascinating how these early experiences can leave such a lasting impression, influencing so many endeavors later in life.
A beautiful Lemon Tree
The other significant memory I had is sweeping the yard full of coral stones with “Inleyshifathi” traditional sweeping tool, holds a special place when it comes to childhood memories. The rhythmic motion of the “inleyshi fathi” brushing against the ground, crafted from the sturdy yet flexible coconut leaf, creates a symphony of sounds that echo the essence of nostalgia.
There’s a certain beauty in the simplicity of this age-old practice,the careful peeling of the coconut leaf to create the “inleyshi,” followed by the skillful bundling of the sturdy sticks into the “fathi.” Every step in the process is steeped in tradition. As you sweep the dry leaves from the yards using the “inleyshi fathi,” memories come flooding back.The finely swept yards offers a satisfying crunch of coral stones beneath your feet, and the occasional rustle of leaves from the mango trees above. These simple yet profound moments are a testament to the connection between nature and home, grounding us in the beauty of our surroundings.
My daughter and niece helping Mom to collect the dead leaves while she sweeps our yard
It’s remarkable how certain sounds and voices have the power to evoke the feeling of home, isn’t it? The gentle inquiries of my mom’s friends and relatives, like “mariyan dhatha,” and their genuine curiosity about the happenings within the household, create a sense of warmth and belonging.The affectionate words of “kanlo koba mamma or bappa,” trasnlated as “darling, where is mom or dad” ehoces with love and familiarity and it resonate deeply, serving as a comforting reminder of the bonds that tie the families and communities together.
In these moments, the sense of home transcends physical spaces and becomes intertwined with the relationships we cherish. It’s the laughter shared with loved ones, the conversations filled with genuine care and concern, and the comforting presence of familiar voices that truly define the essence of home.
The anticipation of Friday lunch brings with it a sense of excitement and occasional tension, as we ponder over what to cook to make the occasion extra special. Yet, amidst the chaos in the kitchen, there’s a feeling of home as your mother and father lend a helping hand, each contributing their share to the meal preparation.
In my family mostly the responsibility of friday cooking falls primarily on my sisters, while I offer support and assistance where needed. As a middle sister, I find comfort in playing a supporting role, knowing that my elder sisters take charge of such occasions with confidence and grace.It’s these moments of collaboration and shared responsibility that truly embody the spirit of home. Whether it’s chopping vegetables, setting the table, or simply offering words of encouragement, each member of the family plays a vital role in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes Friday lunch feel like a cherished tradition.
A Biriyani made by my sisters
I’ve always believed that home is not just a place. it’s a feeling. It’s these kinds of emotions that truly create a sense of home. What makes a home memorable are the relationships we build and the memories we share. It’s the love and care we give one another, even when things get stressful often because we’re not fully aware of our own emotions. But at the end of the day, it’s always the love and care that matter most.
