FROM

I am from moving vans, new schools and good-byes.

I am from foreign languages becoming familiar, then back to English again.

I am from sifting sand in a wooden box, perched on a corner seat my father made,

From matching sisters’ frilly dresses, hand crafted by our mother.

I am from back yard turtles and quacking ducklings in cardboard boxes.

I’m from homemade doughnuts and puppet shows,

From laughter at reunions, and sympathy hugs.

Ice cream scoops, brownies, sprinkles and star gazing are where I’m from,

Years that shape me into me.

My constant companion follows.

I find him through opened doors, gathered people, proclaimed stories, and altars;

Mighty oaks, tiny maples, baby bunnies and blue jays;

Majestic mountains, gurgling brooks, and floating leaves over smoothed pebbles.

I’m from eyes opened to divine messages surrounding me.

I am from gratitude,

I am.

(Inspired by George Ella Lyon’s Where I’m From – why not write yours?)