I come from long hours of sweating in the hot sun.
From marching with friends and enemies.
From cramming into a small spot of shade.
From drinking tons of water every day.

I come from walking on beaches with family and friends.
From getting sand in my eyes.
From swimming in the freezing water.
From building sand castles and watching the waves knock them down.

I come from walking my dog.
From playing catch.
From unconditional love.
From countless “sit and shake” just to earn one small dog treat.

I come from going out on the water and always having problems.
From almost sinking twice.
From having to be towed in countless times.
From getting sunburnt because we were out too long.

This is where I come from.