I graduated from Aliso Niguel High School in the year 2000. Ever since then, I have lived in other places, considering Vermont home for 4 years of college, then Arizona home for 16 years. Throughout these 20 years away, I came back to my true home, California, to visit. Often. You see, California had always been special to me, the one place I truly belonged. I credit this a lot to my parents and the way they raised me. Looking back, my parents did so much to help connect me to southern California. If you are a parent, you can do this for your kids by helping create positive memories here within your community. Get your kid involved in something that gets him or her out in nature. Help your teen find a way to volunteer within your city. Take your family to the beach or a park. These activities – and countless others – are not only beneficial to your child’s mental health, they also help create a sense of home and belonging. This is why – for 20 years away from home – I always knew where home truly was. So when the time came that I was ready to move, there was no doubt…I’d be coming home.
Coming Home
