I am from potholes in the road, needles in the grass,
    a daytime curfew and gunshots in the night.
A place of sketchy streets and scary shadows.
A place of sirens sounding and silent scandals.
                          ----------
I am from a 45 minute drive, a crowded house,
    fights at school and detentions every day.
A place of sundry schools and seldom students.
A place of selfish services and secret scandals.
                          ----------
I am from being the new kid, with a new curriculum,
    new people and longer hallways.
A place of particular peers and prosperous people.
A place of perceptive parents and a politicized precinct.
                          ----------
I am from a sweaty helmet, humid afternoons,
    excessive practices and Friday night lights.
A place of palpable principles and permanent priorities.
A place of provoked postures and patient physiques.
                           ----------
I am from standing at ease, eating MRE’s,
    weekend drills and lights out.
A place of solid structure and soulful spirits.
A place of strong status and sedimental spurs.
        I am an American Soldier.