A Sense of Purpose

Main Entry: re·luc·tant

Pronunciation: \ri-ˈlək-tənt\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Latin reluctant-, reluctans, present participle of reluctari to struggle against, from re- + luctari to struggle

Date: 1667

: feeling or showing aversion, hesitation, or unwillingness ; also : having or assuming a specified role unwillingly

I grew up in Southeastern Connecticut and was excited to leave New England when the time came. I spent ten years away - far away: Key West, southern California, northern California, Australia. I learned the ways of the left coast and swore I'd never return. Two years ago I broke that promise and now live in domestic bliss with my partner on a small lake about five minutes from the house in which I grew up. Even as ecstatically happy as I am these days, I still miss California and sometimes feel homesick for the west coast.

Main Entry: ¹Yan·kee

Pronunciation: \ˈyaŋ-kē\

Function: noun

Etymology: origin unknown

Date: 1758

1 a : a native or inhabitant of New England b : a native or inhabitant of the northern United States

Until a few months ago, I merely 'resided' in New England. I've now given up my California 'citizenship' officially with a new driver's license and voter registration. I'm setting roots in my native land, and against the odds, it feels good.