Where I’m From

I am from tennis shoes, from Kelloggs and Cheerios.

I am from the mudpit under the swing in the backyard.

I am from the poinsetta plant, the yellow rose.

I am from craftiness and Christmas day tea at half past three,

from Amy and the David and Cheryl.

I am from the fun at the lake and open doors,

from an uncle who is the smartest man in the world and W’s have slanty lines.

I’m from a tradition of love and acceptance,

from old bible songs,

from angels,

from candles that multiply with bright hope in the darkness.

I’m from Oklahoma City, fudge and pumpkin pie,

from the helpful sister with third degree burns yet no scar,

the mother who is blind in one eye.

I am from various attics and closets,

old yellowed boxes bearing pictures and jewelry and artwork,

bearing times remembered and forgotten,

bearing sorrow,

but most of all- cherished memories and love.