I am from Lake Country.
Where it’s not quite farm country,
where the smell of pine combats manure,
where the weatherman lies.
These are my roots.

I am from a tight circle of trust,
where a lack of adrenaline is angering.
Where iCombat, Six Flags and Ecuador trigger memories.
Where my friends and I are thirsty for freedom,
we make our own rules.

I am from drive and desire.
Where yelling is a sign of affection.
Where they call it the beautiful game,
where they don’t see the work behind the scenes.
Competition is king.

I am from wretched smelling shoes.
Where there’s a smoky smell from the bonfire,
where four boys promise a time of laughs,
where I get to do it myself.
Family is my number one.