Here's the thing
I don’t remember the exact moment I realised that my search for ‘home’ had, in fact, ended. For sure, that transition began the moment I’d decided to leave.
In the midst of an unhappy marriage, detesting my daily life, he said ‘bloom where you’re planted’. ‘If you loved me, that should be enough’. But it wasn’t. Problem was, that issue began before we’d even met.
Is it unhappiness that drives us to seek a ‘better’ life elsewhere? I think so. I can’t remember a time when travel wasn’t my top priority. And we’re talking an unsophisticated, lower-middle class girl with zero experience of anything save feeling blue and anxious most of the time. Escape? That’s got to be the solution.
But it’s not. I’m almost tired of reading study after study that confirms that it’s community and connections that make for a long and happy life. I can wholeheartedly say that this is true. My ties with the local community underpin my wellbeing. End of.
No matter when I leave my house with my little dog in tow there’s someone to hail and say hi to. In the winter months I’m thankful for that. And, since Covid-19, even more so. In the midst of that initial lockdown shit-show I’d lean out of the window just to see my neighbour’s lights to know that they were there and OK. And now, in the summer months post Covid-panic my neighbours, whether permanent or temporary residents, are all out and about and I love connecting with them albeit briefly. Sometimes we even socialise. And for an introvert that’s a biggie and I appreciate their hospitality.
Once the evenings draw in daily contacts become a bit scarce. And that’s OK. Whether it’s once a week or once a month, we’re all invested by definition. In this small village, clinging onto the eastern edge of the Cotentin, we’re all we’ve got in the winter months. It may be the town where William the Conqueror set forth to claim Britain. But that’s a long time ago and a story for another day. And now it’s the pretty tourist village that time forgot.
Anyhow, I can wholeheartedly recommend travel to you. A Harvard scientist recently concluded that walking is good for the soul and not because of the dopamine that comes with exercise. No, it’s the lateral movement of eyes when you walk that lifts your mood. Whether that be travel or simply leaving the house when it all gets too much, I recommend.
In conclusion, when the facts change I change my mind. And having just received a card that confirms my right to stay in this wonderful country, I say I’m proud to feel French. And I’m staying put in Normandy. For now, at least.
