I am from...

I am foraged from a reminder of my childhood,
from Kiss Kiss to KK to Karissa.
A nickname that won’t fade away.

From crisp fall nights throwing a worn Nerf football across the yard with my dad,
excited with energy, laughter, and memories.
Wandering inside as the sun fell below the trees.

I am from wet, tangled hair and golden tan lines,
diving into the depths to dipping my toes in the chilly water.
Summers floated away.

From nights spent writing lab reports due Friday at 9:42 as I walked into class,
craving caffeine, chocolate, and confidence.
Wonderstruck by the complexity of a chemical reaction.

I am number four, eleven, and thirteen,
from spectator, to player, to coach.
Seven years of wins and losses marked my record.

From the sweet serenity of my bed,
thrashing from one side to another at 12 to a gentle snore at 3 to a persistent beeping at 6.
Fuzzy blankets and fluffy pillows, my escape from reality.

I am from the girl with dreams for the future,
from “Go big or go home,” to “You have the potential to do anything,” to “I believe that you can succeed.”
Kickstarting the rest of life.