Homesickness is a great teacher. It taught me, during an endless rainy fall, that I came from the arid lands, and like where I came from. I was used to dry clarity and sharpness in the air. I was used to horizons that either lifted into jagged ranges or rimmed the geometrical circle of the flat world. I was used to seeing a long way. I was used to earth colors--tan, rusty red, toned white--and the endless green of Iowa offended me. I was used to a sun that came up over mountains and went down behind other mountains. I missed the color and smell of sagebrush, and the sight of bare ground.
The experience of homesickness can provide profound insights into one's origins and preferences. In a season of persistent rain, the author reflects on their upbringing in arid landscapes, appreciating the clear, dry air and expansive horizons that characterized their home. This longing reveals a deep connection to the earth tones and geographical features of their native land, contrasting sharply with the lushness of Iowa, which feels out of place.
The memories of rugged mountains and the distinct scents of sagebrush evoke a sense of nostalgia. The author's longing for the familiar sights and smells accentuates the discomfort with Iowa's endless greenery, emphasizing the beauty and simplicity of their homeland. Through this poignant reflection, homesickness emerges not only as a feeling of absence but also as a powerful reminder of one's identity and the landscapes that shaped it.
