Where I’m From
1. I am from stars,
2. From carbon, hydrogen, and helium mixed with magic
3. I am from eyes squeezed tight
4. And please, please, please let my wish come true.
5. I am from tulle and satin,
6. Dance recitals and princess gowns,
7. A child who never quite grew up…
8. Dreams I thought I’d outgrow eventually.
9. I’m from piano keys and Election Days
10. From Sinatra and Glinda the Good Witch.
11. I’m from s’mores
12. And lightning bugs
13. And fireworks after the baseball game.
14. I’m from flashlights and books under bed sheets,
15. First Days of School photographs,
16. And “You Were Right, Mom” ’s.
17. I’m from baptisms by that muddy riverbank
18. From hands that speak
19. Thumb, pointer, pinky… I love you, too.
20. From Nana’s hands covered in flour
21. To Grandmama’s thick accent at the Thanksgiving table
22. They say I take too many pictures
23. And maybe they’re right but if I’ve learned anything
24. It’s that this life is about people.
25. I’m from stories, decisions, dreams,
26. Paths chosen and followed and diverted along the way.
27. I am from a long line of people, roots and limbs and
trunk
28. This tree always growing, changing
29. And if you look, up and to the left just a little
30. That small little bud? That one’s me.
