Joel Luks Living THE NEXT CHAPTER
Joel Luks Living THE NEXT CHAPTER


Did you ever dream of writing the great “you” novel? I did. In the meantime, blogging allows me to talk too much in a variety of different directions.
Yesterday, I received some news that would constitute as a whole new chapter, perhaps a new volume, new season and episode: a new beginning. Not bad news, just news. In certain respects good news.

The last home in which I lived with my parents and sister was sold. My parents purchased this incredible home when I had already left for undergrad. I remember feeling quite anxious as I no longer had “my room.” I was not ready to be left out and forced out of the nest per se. I remember my father sweetly saying on a phone conversation that no matter where they moved, I would always have a room.

So I no longer have a “home” back “home” that holds memories of years past, and the transition is quite bittersweet. Of course, our concept of what feels like home changes with time. Whether our dorm room through undergrad starts feeling more ourselves than our previous bedroom, my first apartment, and now having the privilege of already owning my first home. Yes, we all know that special people make the feeling of “home” but I am unable to separate the physical surroundings, especially when they were so beautiful.

-My sisters engagement party and seeing my dad getting extremely intoxicated with joy amidst other beverages.
-The bris of my first nephew and my parents first grandchild
-Receiving a phone call from Rice University offering me a spot in their Master’s degree
-Painting the exterior back porch a cheerful countryside yellow with mom

-My mother’s 60th surprise birthday party
-Sleepless nights watching chick flicks in the media room
-Meaningful conversations with mom in the living room and with dad in the study
-Watching my sister reinvent her room, over and over again
-Spending the last few days of our cat Vincent before he passed
-Cooking and fighting over cooking
-Coming home and scouting for changes, new decorative pieces, improvements and wall colors
It makes one wonder about the next owner’s. Will they have similar memories? Will they take care of the home that holds so many special memories? It is strange to think I will no longer be able to knock on the door, come in, and continue where I left off.
If those walls could talk....
Mom and Dad: a tender moment after the bris of Evan Mateo Clarfield, one of the many special occasions that took place at 8 Wilket Road.
The Next Chapter
Saturday, November 28, 2009