Finding Home in the Chaos
Sitting outside right now, the sun warms my skin while the crisp 68-degree air carries the subtle scent of fall. I watch the trees sway gently, leaves carpeting the ground in amber and gold, and I let the sounds of nature soothe my mind. Sometimes that’s all it takes.
Today, though, I have my music playing-a soft, violin rendition of Zelda’s Lullaby. I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors, to moments that awaken a specific mix of feelings. Certain temperatures, sounds, scenery, and smells unlock emotions in a way no drug ever could. There’s a peace, a freedom, a kind of dopamine that washes away the noise and reminds you what living really means. Purpose isn’t just the grind-it’s breathing, seeing, experiencing.
Maybe I’m writing this to capture what makes me tick, to explore the emotions I hope to weave into my books, or to encourage you to take a breath and reset. The past few years have felt chaotic. We’ve all faced medical issues, financial struggles, loss, isolation, and a society that sometimes seems more divided than ever. Few of us have gone untouched. Most of us remember a time before social media and constant screens-a wall phone, family gatherings, simple joys now tinged with nostalgia.
This is what Redline taps into. Ryze, the main character, is just old enough to realize life isn’t the same as it once was, yet young enough to still chase sparks of adrenaline and hope. For him, homesickness isn’t just a place-it’s a time, it’s the people, it’s perspective. My hope is that readers feel that drive for excitement and adventure, tempered with the comfort and reflection of home.
The book leans into nostalgia. It’s the thrill of coming home from school to catch the latest DBZ episode, the satisfaction of adrenaline, and the warmth of family-like grandma cooking soup on a rainy day while you’re tucked into your room with the N64. Emotions are the bridge here, woven through family, nature, travel, adventure, and plenty of action.
Life can be chaotic. Finding your own version of home, where peace meets excitement, isn’t always easy. But pausing to look, breathe, and reflect can make all the difference.
- J. Potts
