I am from summer days with screaming children
with socks, chocs, and pats.
From laborious work, dedication, and best friends.

I am from where exceeding my peers is a given
involving myself in swimming, camp, french, school, religion, and household chores
From where a 4.0 GPA is expected...

I am from homework prioritizes over friends
and a 10 o’clock curfew.
From tracked phones and unknown consequences for arriving late.

I am from hot pool decks, cheering fans
and icey cold water.
From friendships that are forever...

I am from cheering from the sidelines
and hearing “You can’t be the best at everything.”
From living in my little brother’s shadow.

I am from performing exorcisms with sage
and from apple cider vinegar spread around the house.
From letting grandma do her thing because she’s nutty…

I am from the temple of God,
every Sunday morning and evening.
From where God is praised more than personal achievements.

I am from protecting the people I care about
and forgetting the people I don’t.
From siblings trumps friends no matter what...

But at heart, I am from hot summer days with screaming children
with socks, chocs, and pats.
From laborious work, dedication, and best friends.