Favorite Words

I love etymology. I listen to, read, and watch documentaries on language and the evolution of languages. I love sophisticated writing. I feel that when one can put thoughts, feelings, and ideas into well crafted prose, it’s not only entertaining but attractive.

Querencia. I first learned of this word at a wellness conference. It supposedly is a word in the Spanish culture meaning “a favorite place”. It’s akin to being in your comfort zone, where you go to recharge and draw strength from. The place where you are your most authentic self.

Terroir. The environment that vines are grown in. The terroir makes grapes the way they are and henceforth the wine. The aroma and taste reflect the environment. Terroir, however, more literally meant “a sense of place”. In other words what you surround yourself with will lead to who you are.

So there it is. Querencia and Terroir. Two metaphysical concepts that help define our happiness.