(Writing Contest) Finish the tale#11.....A taste of home.

Sitting at the dinner table, I suddenly understood what home really meant. As I sat at the dinner table, surrounded by my friends who had become like a second family to me. The dim lighting and bustling chatter of the restaurant created a cozy atmosphere but as I looked around the table, I began to wonder.

The sound of clinking glasses and laughter transported me back to my own dinner table at home.

I remembered the countless nights my family had gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. My mother's warm smile as she served her famous homemade Banga soup and Eba, my father's infectious laughter as he teased my siblings and I. The memories came flooding back, and I felt a pang of home sickness.

As I sat with my friends, I realized that even if I was surrounded by people I loved, it wasn't the same as being at home. Home was more than just a physical place, it was a sense of belonging, of being with people who knew me inside and out. My friends might know me well but they don't know everything about my childhood, the things that happen in my family or the traditions that made our home special.

I excused myself, stepping outside for some fresh air. The cool breeze hit me and I took a deep breath while I allowed the memories wash over me. I thought about my family's dinner table, where we would spend hours talking and laughing together. I remembered the arguments and disagreements, but even those felt like a part of our bond.

As I stood there, I realized that home wasn't just a place but a sense of security and comfort that came with being surrounded by loved ones. It was a knowledge that no matter what happened, I had a place to belong and a place to call my own.

I returned to the table, my heart a little heavier but also more grateful. I was grateful for my friends who had become my temporary family. I was grateful for the memories we had created together and grateful for the realization that home was where the heart was and mine was with my loved ones waiting for my return.

As we finished our meals and said our goodbyes, I knew that I would carry the memory of home with me wherever I went. As I looked forward to returning to my own dinner table, surrounded by the people and love that made it truly special.

In that moment, I understood that home wasn't just a physical place but a sense of connection that transcended distance. It was the love and memories that we shared, the laughter and tears that bound us together. Even though I'm far away, I knew that home would always be a part of me, guiding me on the right path to follow in life.

Thank you for reading.

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