The end of an era (Or too-da-loo!)

Today I am leaving home. 

The last time I did this I was 18 years old, fresh faced and barely adult. I can still remember my family waving from the driveway as my Dad and I left with a car-full of my possessions. I can still remember the incongruous mix of confidence, excitement and a bucket load of nervousness I would never have admitted to. I was leaving home and I thought I would conquer the world (starting with Brighton). 

This time around is a little different. I have packed my bags and I am taking myself to London on the train. There is no family stood on the driveway waving me off - just a quick but heartfelt hug from my (now ex)flatmate Molly, and a nice conversation with my cabbie on the way to the station. But this is a truly rich farewell, because I go with a chaotic chorus of thoughts, love and prayers ringing in my ears, and because I go irrevocably changed, taught and grown by the paint strokes of good influence. 

In the six years I have lived in Brighton my circle has grown larger, and the absolute gift that is my family has expanded to include new people. Brighton isn’t just a familiar place anymore, it is my second home - full to the brim with people and our memories: tears, laughter, frustration, learning, creativity, mourning and achievement. Those people who made space for me in their hearts as we became adults together (or in the case of some -  just got even older!)

And so today I am overwhelmed with gratitude. I am indebted to the people who have loved me and sojourned with me for varying periods these past six years. The privilege has been mine. As I get to take the next step on the journey I know that I go a deeper person. I know that I go with my family’s blessing. And ultimately I know that I go with God, my eternally faithful father. 

Today I am leaving home.

Cat

P.s. And of course I’ll be back…