Hiraeth

We often focus not on what we have, but on what is missing. I recently came across the word ‘Hiraeth,’ a term of Welsh origin with no direct English translation. It supposedly conveys feelings of nostalgia, homesickness, and longing. Although it’s not a word we commonly use in English, the emotions it represents are universal. We all enter this world in the same way and leave it just as equally, so I believe that somewhere in between, we all experience a longing and nostalgic yearning for similar things. Despite everyone leading different lives and having diverse experiences, it’s not difficult to find common ground with others. We are all a lot more alike than we might think. It’s easy to feel as though our feelings are unique, that no one else could possibly understand. I refuse to accept that as truth. A significant part of me hopes that the emotions I experience and the moments I cherish are not just relatable but shareable. I believe a great deal of happiness stems from the experiences and memories we create with loved ones—moments we can look back on and remember how we felt. After all, happiness is only real when shared, especially with those we love.