In March 2021, President Jimmy Carter wrote a letter to the publisher of “Bitter Southerner” regarding his thoughts on home. He wrote: “Home is a complicated idea. Is it the physical bricks and mortar in which you live, or is it a feeling? Is it the people you see each day who contribute to the feeling of belonging that comes with ‘home’? Can you feel at home anywhere?”

His words inspired me to ask what “home” means to some people I’ve been seeing a lot of lately—my fellow pickleball players.

Ted Pils lives in Lake Barrington. He describes Home this way: “Home is a place where you feel most comfortable, safe, and familiar.” He keeps us on our toes with his arsenal of strategic shots and as organizer of regular group social gatherings at the Wild Onion Brewery.

Without a pause, Lyn Canger of Barrington describes Home this way: “My dog. Who else is eagerly waiting for me at the door each day? Wagging their tail? Always thinking I’m amazing? It’s unconditional love.” Lynn was once a slammer on the court, but is now a deliberate player with a fun sense of humor.

Barb Monticello lives in Inverness and shares what Home means to her: “My husband drew his last breath in our home. His lingering presence always brings me peace and comfort.” She says she feels his presence only while at home, nowhere else. On the court, she’s a steady, watchful player.

Jini Ruback of Hoffman Estates says: “Home is where you feel safe and comfortable amongst the people you love. Where you are surrounded by memories and things that are important to you.” Jini is a laidback player who wins a lot. I’m not sure what her secret is.

Frank Bernero of Inverness is quick and agile on the court. For him, “Home is a place where I feel like I belong. Where I’m supported and challenged. Home can be anywhere.” Even on a pickleball court, and in his case, a hockey rink, too.

I share many of these sentiments with my fellow pickleball players, including about the dog. For me, Home is also rooted in our community and our country, especially felt after long trips abroad. It’s incredible how expansive the idea of Home can be when viewed from both a macro and micro perspective.

For all the romantics, here’s how Jimmy Carter described Home in his letter, reflecting on his wife Rosalynn: “Holding her hand, reading our Bible together each night, falling asleep next to her, that is my home.”