Sometimes life’s curveballs land right between you and the people who once mattered the most. When you are young, navigating the complexities of life and friendships, your emotions can get tangled up in arguments and hurt feelings. Distance may create walls that seem impossible to climb. But the aging process has helped create a shift in some of my most difficult relationships. I believe this change is because we are beginning to view the world through a different lens, one etched with the wisdom of time and the stark reality of life’s impermanence.
A few weeks ago, for instance, a group of us had gathered for a brunch at my house that reminded me of the incredible power of time and forgiveness.
The atmosphere was electric – in the best way possible. We reminisced about old times, poked fun at each other with gentle jabs. We listened to stories, to dreams simmered and unshaped, the paths we’d taken as a result. What struck me most was the overwhelming sense of love. In spite of all the tough times, we were still here, still connected by a shared history. Everyone left that brunch feeling lighter, closer, and reminded that even the most strained relationships can be nurtured back to health, like a wilted flower receiving a much-needed shower.
A friend once shared a truth that stayed with me: in the kitchen, surrounded by the murmur of conversation, a home finds its heart.
A week after the brunch, I received a thank-you note from one of the group. It was a simple gesture, a few heartfelt lines, but one sentence struck a chord deep within me: “Your house is so warm.”
It might sound simple, but those words meant the world to me. Throughout my life, I’ve always dreamed of having a “warm house.” The warmth I’d craved wasn’t about square footage or architectural style. My desire resided in a place that radiated not just heat, but feelings of belonging, comfort and love.
And here I was, feeling as if I was living the dream. The recent brunch served as a sweet confirmation of our 23-year journey, filled with joyous celebrations and moments of shared sorrow. An important reminder of the enduring connection that fills every corner of my house.
The world around us might change, relationships might evolve, but some things remain constant: the fragility of life, the power of forgiveness, and the enduring warmth of a welcoming home. A place that reflects the camaraderie shared not just in meals to feed the stomach, but in the nourishment of “soul” food exchanged and savored.
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WTF? (Where's the faith?) 
Bante Gunaratana, who goes by the name Bante G, writes about the same Stacy, in his book ‘Loving-Kindness in Plain English’ ~ he’s at the Buddhist Temple in West Virginia (I forget its proper name) …
… btw I have sent a copy of Soul Food Kitchens to Tara Brach ~ I like Tara, having completed trained with her in Conscious Loving, I kinda know she’ll connect with you one way or another…
… btw, btw thank you for your kind words too ~ 😊
Oh, Alec, you are too kind and deserve the kind words!! 🤍
This is lovely and yes, warm, Stacy. The kitchen is indeed the heart of the home and nothing creates community like the nourishment of food and the murmur of conversation. People in our lives do come and go, for a multitude of reason, but we can always find ourselves and community in the heart of our homes.
Hi Stacy,
That brunch sounded like a feast for the body and soul!
It is so good to share food and laughs with friends – it has a special way of reminding us of the joy’s of life.
I hope there are plenty of brunch with friends in your future!
Blessings!
Stacy, I love this sunny post, which is bursting with optimism! How wonderful that you are savoring that beautiful brunch. I’m certain your group appreciated the warmth and soul food.
Last year, I had a rift with a close family member that broke my heart. Recently, I tested the waters and attended a meal that she invited me to. Despite not really talking through my feelings, I was able to allow the wisdom you spoke of to guide me. I’m grateful that the warmth in her home helped us both to move on from the hurt.
So I really appreciate what you wrote. In some ways our life journey parallels our grief journey. As we get older, we realize even more the preciousness of peace.
Your words, heart, and soul amaze me, Stacy. This is so beautiful and wise! I LOVE the accompanying paintings–perfect! “The world around us might change, and relationships might evolve, but some things remain constant: the fragility of life, the power of forgiveness, and the enduring warmth of a welcoming home. A place that reflects the camaraderie shared not just in meals to feed the stomach, but in the nourishment of “soul” food exchanged and savored.”
Your blog is a book. Your life is a beautiful story. YOU are such a WARM human–since I’ve known you, it’s been a blessing to “feed” off of your faith! THANK YOU! ❤️💕🙏
A warm home is a place to unwind, be oneself and feel relaxed. I have been in homes where I felt tense, stiff and unnatural. A welcoming home is like putting your head on your own pillow – it’s something significant.
Love this: “A welcoming home is like putting you head on your own pillow – it’s something significant.” Love it!
Love this! 😎
Your house is really warm ! Beautifully written well shared ☺️
very strong very soulful, its a house like that where a lot of lost souls never feel or see a welcome mat. you really created something that will bring out how we view our own surroundings and the place we call home, blessings peace and appreciate you