The True Meaning of Home

2022 5th & 6th Grade Prose Winner

     Some words carry more than their actual meaning. In my opinion, we often
don’t realize that sometimes simple and short words have a much deeper connection
to life. One of those words that I think is just simply beautiful, is the word home. By
home, I don’t mean an apartment or a two-story house, I mean the more significant
term for home; someplace that makes you feel welcome, protected and comforted.
Home is something much bigger than yourself. Home is something that hugs you
tightly with affection.

     For me, home has always been Turkey, and it always will be...

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     Having lived in Turkey for most of my life, I can tell you with confidence, I
have pure Turkish in my blood. I have always loved my country, not for silly reasons
like having more shopping malls there, but I have loved it for its people, its natural
beauty and of course its culture.

     Turkey is one of many countries that has such beautiful people. As a nation,
we have always been ready to open our homes and our hearts to everyone. In
addition, being a good neighbor is a very important part of Turkish culture. On the
tenth day of the Muharrem month, I can always smell aşure (Turkish pudding with
nuts and fruits) intensely boiling in its pot. After the aşure is ready it's always
served and distributed to our close neighbors on a delicate tray. Small traditions
like these have always made me feel closer to my neighbors, and most importantly
to my family.

     As Turkish people, it is instantly noticeable that we love our country. The
people of Turkey are always ready to defend their country no matter what. This is
especially true for the Çanakkle War (otherwise known as the Gallipoli Campaign)
because many people left their families behind to fight for their country, and in most
cases gave up their life just to save their nation. This has always moved me, and I
will forever be grateful for my ancestors who voluntarily gave up their life for the
continuation of the Turkish Republic.

     I’ve also realized that if I’m ever talking about Turkish culture it is truly
impossible to finish my sentence without saying Turkish food. After a long day of
school, or a very special occasion like Ramadan, Turkish food is always comforting
no matter what day it is. I often think about what makes Turkish food seem so
different from any other cuisines I’ve tried, and I’ve decided it's the love my
grandma and my mom put into it. The moment the food touches your tongue, you
are filled with warm and cozy delight. It is fulfilling and hearty and I wouldn’t have
it any other way...

     Music is another aspect of Turkish culture that can’t be left out. The melodies
are soft and playful at the same time and the lyrics are just mesmerizing. Turkish
music has the power to bring everyone together, and have everyone from kids to
grandparents singing their heart out. Whenever I am listening to an iconic Turkish
song, I can’t help but notice I am smiling from ear to ear, and the room is filled with
absolute affection and warmth. Sezen Aksu, Nilüfer, Zeki Müren, and Barış Manço
are some examples of artists who are known by every single person in Turkey, and
no one can hold themselves from humming their songs for a week after listening to
them.

     Aside from the rich culture of Turkey, the natural beauty leaves everyone
from locals to tourists in awe. Just one look at the landscape in Cappadocia is
enough to leave you sighing in astonishment, and I could just fall asleep gazing at
the glaciers in Pamukkale (Cotton Castle). Turkey has such beautiful landscapes,
it's utterly impossible not to want to look at it for hours. I would even consider it as
a form of therapy walking in nature in Turkey.

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     I think of Turkey as one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Its
people are one of the most affectionate and welcoming, and I just can’t stop talking
about the rich and diverse culture it has. Even though I have been living in the
United States for almost 3 years, I can never forget all the cherished memories I’ve
made in my country. Turkey will always place itself as my true home in my heart.

      With this, I hope for everyone to always hold on to their cultures, and never forget
where they came from, because our culture is an extremely significant part of what
makes us who we are. Our home and culture is our personality, and that will never
change.