Home Is Where the Heart Is
Here’s the story of a journey. A week in Poland: Sopot, Gdańsk, and Kashubia. Today, I’ll share days one and two. Next week, the rest… Enjoy the read!
Prologue
A week-long stay in Poland. The purpose? A visit to the orthopedist and dentist, as well as a chance to rest in familiar surroundings: the forest, the bay, streets full of charm, classic period townhouses, delicious food, and the people — a society undergoing significant social changes.
There will also be time to visit my parents, offering them emotional and logical support before their trip to the United States. They’re traveling to see my sister, Magda, who has lived on the American continent for over 20 years. This will be their first visit.
What are my feelings about this journey back to my homeland? Above all, I’m hoping for good weather. Unfortunately, the forecast predicts cold temperatures influenced by the Baltic Sea’s climate. Will I feel it enough to make me uneasy? I hope not. I believe that fate will be kind, blessing me with warmth and sunlight, and nourishing my body with vitamins that bring relief and rest. That’s what I need — regeneration. I need to recharge to face the challenges awaiting me upon my return: important, practical goals that ensure security and stability.
Day One
Sopot. Home. The place where I grew up and took my first steps in life. A place where I gained experience and developed skills. Here, I built friendships, worked, played sports, explored culture, embraced fashion, endured pain and worry, laughed, got hurt, discovered good taste, strengthened my faith, listened to birds, found inspiration, cherished freedom, and meditated.
It was here that I went through everything that shaped who I am — from adolescence and early adulthood to making the decision to emigrate. It’s been nearly nine years now.
And now I’m back on familiar ground, on vacation. A chance to remember, to reflect, and to see it all from a new perspective. This time, with the insight I’ve gained while living abroad. To reassess my identity, understand my mistakes, but also to appreciate the strengths I’ve always carried within me, waiting to be refined through new experiences and decisions.
Over a year ago, when I was diagnosed with ADHD, I experienced a revelation. Suddenly, I understood what had significantly influenced how I felt, how others perceived me, and how I perceived the world. The stigma, undervaluation, and the inability to identify the root of my problems. Decisions, words, thoughts, and plans — they all often felt like they were spiraling out of control.
Unpredictable situations disrupted my peace. Substances and escapism became tools to silence the pain of rejection and the struggle with self-acceptance. But I realized it was time to change the strategy, seek support, and find clarity. How many people are like me, lost within themselves simply because they don’t know what’s happening to them? The chaos of unchecked emotions only deepens their struggles.
A Meeting with Myself
After a coffee — always a double espresso — I feel my mind calming down. Creativity begins to surface, waiting patiently to be unleashed.
Spring enhances this process: the chirping of birds, the scent of the sea, the iodine-rich air, tulips, orchids, pansies, green leaves, and tree branches. The landscape of Sopot comes alive: the architecture, the promenade leading to the pier, the buzz of tourists. Everything reminds me that while we change, some things remain constant.
Day Two — A Story from Sopot and Gdańsk
The same spot as yesterday: a cup of coffee, espresso, and a view of the Friends of Sopot Square.
The day started earlier this time. A quick visit to the clinic and a rapid X-ray of my knee in preparation for a late-afternoon orthopedic consultation. I approach the information desk, inquire about the procedure, and pay 50 zł. Receipt in hand, I’m directed upstairs. “Look for the window,” I’m told.
An elderly lady asks me about the reason for the scan. “My knee’s crunching; I’m getting older, things are falling apart,” I reply half-jokingly. “Oh my, you’re straightforward!” she laughs.
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She explains the process: “Leave your belongings, lie down flat on your back, relax, and turn your leg to the side — basically, move your butt a little. Done in no time!”
Officially, a referral is required, but unofficially, “the clinic needs to make money.” The scan is over in minutes. Today, I’ll receive the CD with the images, and tomorrow morning, the doctor’s report will be ready. The entire visit takes less than 30 minutes — a quick and smooth start to the day.
Before the Scan: A Moment for Mindfulness
Before heading to the clinic, I take a walk to the beach and sit on a bench for meditation. First, I regulate my breathing. Using the Wim Hof method, which I’ve been practicing for over a year, I complete 30 rhythmic breaths — in and out — followed by holding my breath for at least 60 seconds. I repeat this for three rounds.
During the breath-holding, I focus on sensations in my body, the changing temperature, and any external tensions. It’s an incredibly soothing experience. Thoughts flow, emotions come and go, but I remain present, accepting my state and observing my body. It’s a practice of being here and now.
After meditating, I open the Hallow app to read the Gospel. The coastal atmosphere — the sun, the sea, the sky — feels like an invitation to connect with God. Today’s Scripture calls for repentance, perseverance, and presence. “Don’t let the negative forces of the world pull you down; surrender your struggles in prayer to Jesus.”
Following this reflection, I listen to brief homilies: one-minute wisdom from Dominican brother Wojciech and a six-minute sermon from brother Tomasz. I close this sacred time with “Our Father” and “Glory Be,” feeling grateful for the constant strength my faith provides.
Afternoon in Gdańsk
It’s time to head to Gdańsk for some sightseeing — I haven’t been here in a while.
First stop: the restored Old Town. Cobbled streets, towering townhouses, charming cafes and restaurants, Gothic and Renaissance architecture—I snapped a few photos and recorded short videos to share the magic of this place on social media.
Walking along the Motława River, I reflect on how much this area has transformed. Just 20 years ago, it was full of dangerous ruins, remnants of World War II. Now, luxury yachts and modern buildings inspired by historic granaries dominate the view, alongside hotels and offices.
Reaching the drawbridge, I pause for a moment of rest, sitting on a wooden deck chair. I watch tourist boats, admire the riverside attractions, and take in the sights of this former hub of maritime trade.
Next, I wander through the remnants of the old Gdańsk Shipyard — a mix of industrial decay and modern art installations. What was once a bustling hub of ship production now carries echoes of its past. Half of the shipyard has been repurposed into residential apartments, serving as a mix of permanent homes and short-term rentals for tourists.
Ending the Day in Wrzeszcz
The final stop is Wrzeszcz, a lively district of Gdańsk known for its shops, offices, cozy cafes, and proximity to the Gdańsk University of Technology.
I decide to stroll down Wajdeloty Street, searching for a pub to wind down. I order a beer and mention to the bartender that I’m in a bit of a gloomy mood. “How bad is it?” he asks with a smile.
It’s a good question. Should I be brutally honest or keep it light and mysterious? I settle somewhere in between. He serves me a fresh, golden beer, and I sink into a vintage armchair reminiscent of communist-era Poland.
The first sip brings a shift in perspective. For a moment, I feel relief. Sure, it’s temporary. One might argue it’s artificial or fleeting. But isn’t life also about small joys? I’m not hurting anyone; I’m just enjoying my vacation.
