That seems to be a common theme among a lot of Newfoundlanders who have ventured abroad in chase of opportunity, prosperity and happiness. However, for far too many, happiness eludes them. For those, their happiness is hinged on their eventual, inevitable return to da rock. For those, the word home is synonymous with the word Newfoundland. They can live anywhere, have prosperous careers, raise families, but home will always be Newfoundland.
The internet is full of Newfoundlanders proclaiming their love for, and desire to return to, their home. One of those, this post’s namesake, chronicles the life and observations of Nadine and her family as they manage their way through life somewhere on da mainland, yearning for the day when they can reasonably provide for themselves back on da rock. She says, “There is something about the Island that seeps into your soul, and never allows you to truly leave.” Nadine is not alone. It may not give her any comfort knowing there’s more of us out there, but there are. I was once content being away, but lately I’ve had a strong desire to be a CBFA. (Come Back From Away) Maybe someday the opportunity will present itself (fingers crossed).
Just this morning, I received an email from a colleague of mine, another Newfoundlander who has built a life and career off the rock and who truly appreciates all things Newfoundland.
So my daughter sends me these….They’re from some companies web-cam I’d guess, and they are real time this morning. Between Quidi Vidi and the Narrows, I don’t know what makes me feel more homesick this morning. You know the beauty of Newfoundland, like most things is wasted on the young. She just wanted to show me, or prove to me that it was a beautiful day in St. John’s. How do I explain that every day in Newfoundland, at home, or ‘on da rock’ is a beautiful day.
I just thought I spread the home sick virus…
If you are a Newfoundlander and you are somewhere other than home, I dare you to look at these pics and honestly say you don’t wish to be back there, if not now, at least someday… and for good.
