For a long time this state has felt as it is depicted in geography books- a wild, arid desert. The heat has never been to much, nor the dry climate. But for whatever reason, it never felt like home. My mind and body wanted escape and adventure, and Arizona never provided those necessities for my growing self.
After traveling several 5-8 hour flights to and from Philadelphia, I've reached an understanding with the Grand Canyon State and the concept of a home. I'd relish trips home and enjoy the impossibly smooth pavement and fresh construction of Gilbert and Phoenix, but I'd also miss the seasons and wonders of Pennsylvania. The drastic contrasts of Snowmageddon during Philadelphia's 2009-2010 winter and Gilbert's volcano-like atmosphere are incredible. Yet, I love and cherish them both. Despite the cold, I have incredibly fond memories of running around in a city shut down by snow. Despite the heat, I still enjoy walking outside and feeling alive through the power of the sun.
Home is a place where someone feels welcome. Where it isn't a hazard or inconvenience to stay, where good memories reign over the bad. I have many homes. Tucson. Chandler. Gilbert. Philadelphia. And I hope to have many more in the future.
Law, one of my good friends from City Year, made a trip via Greyhound to debut in Phoenix last week. It was nice to see the Fresh Prince again and catch up on older times and present lives. And Law, I watched One-Clap again- "take the ball deep take the top off the defense". Hope LA is treating you well.
School's up again and I'm back at the UA looking ahead at the new semester and year. The year is going to progress very quickly, so I have to make certain to soak up as much as I can out of my time here.
More to come from TWO-12, it's been a while. Best wishes and hope everyone has a great day.
-Sam
