Where I am From

I am from candles,

From the scents of apple cinnamon and frankincense. 

I am from the paint chipping off the siding, 

White, ancient, varnish from the ’80s,

But always brings the comfort of home.

I am from poinsettias and lilies,

The cactus from Arizona

Whose long, prickly thorns poked our fingers

And drew blood. 

I am from real Christmas trees and music,

From Faith and Louis

And Lyle.

I am from the tattletales

And the eavesdroppers,

From I love yous! And be grateful. 

I am from be still and know that I am God, 

With the sign of the cross 

And praying in tongues. 

I am from Jaci and Jim’s family tree, 

From garden-grown cucumbers and fresh chopped herbs.

I am from movie buttered popcorn and diet Pepsi,

From Shrek, The Sandlot, and A Christmas Story. 

Sitting inside my ice chest

Lies memories far greater than gold, 

From important documents to elementary art creations. 

I am from those memories

When my family brought me into their lives, 

And taught me all I should know.