Moominpappa was abandoned as a baby in a paper bag on the steps of an orphanage, from which he later escaped with his new friends to go explore and experience the world. He was always searching for a home until he finally built the Moominhouse for his family – a sanctuary that was not only the home of the Moomin family but also a place for passersby to stop and rest. Moominvalley became the place where the wearied Moominpappa finally found peace.

I grew up in a small apartment block suburb on the outskirts of Helsinki, and my environment was in many ways unstable and uncertain. Fortunately I discovered the stage and performing early on, and it became my home. In its shelter, I could safely build my identity. On stage I didn’t have to hide myself, and it was possible to ask even the difficult questions. The stage is still my sanctuary, but I’ve learned to build a home outside of it too. A home within myself and in who I am. A home in connection with others. Maybe Moominpappa had to learn these same things too.

For some of us, home is among people and a house full of life. For others, it’s building a house and then stepping aside to watch others enjoy what has been created. For some, it’s baking cakes and breaking bread within that home. For others, it’s finding sanctuary in a home built by someone else. Where do you find your home?