I’m from November 3rd, 1997 at 11:57 pm

bewildered and screaming for comfort.
I’m from the house in the woods named after a tree
frolicing and jumping into leaves.
I’m from the lingering car rides to Wisconsin
and from watching marathons of Dragon Tales.

I’ll always be from evenings at the dance studio
watching the girls on their tippy toes.
I’ll always be from jumping on the yellow school bus
McKenna clinging tight to my leg.
I’ll always be from laughing till’ my stomach hurts
and from family comes first.

I’m from insecurities and responsibilities
frustration and relaxation.
I’m from moments empty of pleasure
       and times of celebration.
I’m from “Whatever you are, be a good one.”

I’ll always be from the pit in my stomach
walking into my own grandma’s funeral.
I’ll always be from the smell of her perfume
and from “Gracie Girl” as she called me.
I’ll always be from the “We live, we love, we let go”

I’m from the lingering car rides to Wisconsin
and from watching marathons of Dragon Tales.
I’m from the house in the woods named after a tree
frolicing and jumping into leaves.
I’m from November 3rd, 1997 at 11:57 pm
bewildered and screaming for comfort.