The Importance of Small Rituals

I didn't sleep that well last night, but eventually fell into a slumber that felt renewing in the early hours of pre-dawn. I was kept awake (and has been the case for the better part of the past few months) with thoughts regarding my general purpose in life, this world, everything. I love being here in Richmond, and have made some really wonderful friendships, gained a lot of professional experience, but I still don't feel at home here. I'm constantly feeling homesick for New England (as I've written vented about here many times). When I feel like that, homesick and lonely, and aimless, I try to remember small rituals. These small rituals remind me who I am. Things like sitting in my favorite chair, positioned away from all electronics, on a weekend morning, reading escapist fiction (currently the Outlander series, much different than the TV series too, read them!) and drinking my morning coffee. Typing on my typewriter, record shopping, getting a nice haircut at a barber who gives…