Secret Hiding Places of Childhood: Nostalgia and Reflection

As a child, we all had our own secret spots where we could escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. These places provided solace, a sense of freedom, and a sanctuary from the outside world. Let's explore the various hiding spots that captivated my childhood experiences.

Up in the Treehouse

Up in the treehouse, overlooking the yard, was one of my favorite spots. My brother built it, but it was mostly unused. However, I spent a lot of time up there, engrossed in reading and observing the world around me. It was amazing to discover what I could see and learn when people didn't know where I was. This treehouse often overlooked by others became my personal retreat, a place where I could imagine and explore. Here, far from the busy home, I could sit and stare at the world through the leaves, losing myself in books and the peaceful solitude of nature.

On the Roof

One of my favorite places to be was up on the roof, where my mother could not reach. This was a place of calm and stillness, away from the prying eyes of my family. Here, I could sit and focus on my thoughts, away from the noise and distractions inside the house. The rooftop provided a unique perspective, allowing me to view the yard from a high vantage point. It was a place that offered me the opportunity to meditate and connect with my inner self.

The Ocean and Its Soothing Sounds

For some reason, the sound of the ocean has always calmed my soul. When I needed to escape and find peace, I would sit by the ocean, listening to the waves and the salty breeze. The rhythmic sound of the waves would lull my thoughts into a quiet state, allowing me to clear my mind. In a world where meditation can be a challenge, the ocean provided a natural form of relaxation. Perhaps it's time to make it a priority to spend more time by the ocean, where I could truly meditate and clear my mind without effort.

The Secret Room

My home was filled with many hidden nooks and crannies. A room rarely used was turned into my personal sanctuary. I would hide in there, with my drink and snack, and engage in deep thinking. While I often managed to keep this spot a secret, there were times when my family would find me. Nevertheless, it was a great hiding spot that provided me with the solitude I cherished.

The Hollow Bush

One of the most imaginative hiding spots was a large bush behind the house. It was hollow enough for me to slip inside and pretend to be somewhere else entirely. I would escape into this bush, spending hours pretending and imagining. The imagery of hiding in a real hiding spot only made it more appealing, and it became a place where I could fully immerse myself in my own little world.

Basement Hideaway

When I lived in my childhood home in Saratoga, California, from 1962 to 1971, the basement became a sanctuary for me. There was a long room, a bar, and a lounge area, and I often retreated to the downstairs as a getaway. The most striking example of this was when my parents and sister couldn't find me. I was around four or five years old and, using a similar "Egg Chair" to the one mentioned, I curled up like a kitten. The chair was turned away from the main room, and it seemed to be forgotten. It wasn't until I was eventually discovered that my family was near panic, highlighting the effectiveness of my hiding spot. This experience taught me the importance of finding a place to be alone and away from the outside world.

As we reminisce about our childhood hiding places, it's clear that these spots played a crucial role in shaping our personalities. They provided the much-needed quiet and solitude that we strived for. Whether it was a treehouse, a bush, or a secret room, each place held a special significance, offering a moment of escape in an otherwise busy life. Today, as adults, we might not have as many excuses to hide away, but I encourage you to find that one spot that can provide you with the peace and solace of your childhood hiding places.