The Feeling of Home: A Quest for Belonging

Home. A simple word, yet it holds so much depth and meaning. I was born in the street, rescued, sheltered, and adopted, so I know firsthand how many of us spend years—sometimes lifetimes—searching for a sense of belonging. 

We move from one place to another, hoping the next destination will feel like home. Yet, true fulfillment often eludes us. 

Sometimes, even the spaces meant to comfort us don’t feel quite right. 

Have you ever felt out of place, even in your own room? Sometimes, I think the problem is the smell, but it must be something else because it doesn't improve even with a pee spray!  

What about those cases when you feel strangely at home in a place that isn’t yours—maybe in someone’s arms, under a tree, or in a fleeting moment of stillness? I know a ginger tabby cat that has several homes in the neighborhood. One for sleeping and breakfast, one for after-lunch leftovers, and the other for quiet naps in the sun. And he calls home to all of them. 

Why is that?

For me, as a cat, feeling at home is about comfort, safety, and harmony. When things are too loud, cluttered, or chaotic, I can’t relax. And when I feel unsafe, I immediately search for a place to hide. If expectations don’t align with reality—if the sunny spot I nap in disappears under a pile of laundry—it feels unsettling.

But then I wondered, what if the feeling of home isn’t entirely about physical spaces? What if it’s also about what’s happening inside us?

In Buddhism, the concept of home isn’t tied to walls or rooftops. Instead, it’s about finding a refuge within ourselves—a sense of groundedness amidst the constant changes of life. Yet, the tricky part is this: there’s no permanent ground to stand on. Life is always shifting, like waves at sea.

So, how do we feel “at home” in a world that’s always moving?

Maybe the key is to accept the waves. Expect the unexpected. Embrace the idea that change is the only constant. It’s like living with children—if you expect chaos, you’ll be happier when it happens. Next time the world feels out of sorts, try saying to yourself: “We’re at sea. What did I expect?”

For me, it means I’ll try not to dive under the bed at the first sign of turbulence.

There’s still something undeniably powerful about certain places. Some homes feel warm, inviting, and full of life, while others feel cold and impersonal. What makes the difference?

From my point of view, I have a couple of ideas for making a home more appealing.

• Safe Spaces: I dream of plenty of elevated perches, scratching posts, and hiding spots where your feline friend can retreat and observe their surroundings. But, please, do it with style. 
• Cozy Corners: Soft blankets, cozy beds, and sunny windowsills offer ideal napping spots.
• Stimulating Environments: Not everything is eating and napping. I also need stimulation. So, Interactive toys and puzzle feeders can keep me entertained and physically engaged. During the holidays, there is nothing better than a great Christmas tree... hours of entertainment!
• Cleanliness: Regular cleaning of litter boxes and fresh water sources is crucial for any cat's well-being. I particularly love those small water fountains that stream water all day long.
• Minimal Stress: A calm and quiet environment can help reduce stress and anxiety in cats.

What gives your house the feeling of Home?

Think about it, and we can keep wondering together any other night.