I am from diversity.

An African-American father.

A Caucasian mother.
One living a life of false power
The other looking for better opportunities. . .

I am from unconditional love.

From cuddling and hugs and saying “I love you” on the phone.
Not feeling alone. . .

I am from music playing no matter where I go.

From headphones or speakers

To the center of my soul.
Halsey, Hozier, Black Veil Brides and Asking Alexandria. . .

I am from January 19, 1999.

5 months early

1 pound, 10 ounces.
No idea if I would make it, but my mother begged the doctors to keep me alive. . .

I am from callused fingers and broken guitar strings.

“No, that's too tight!”

Snap
“I told you so.” . . .

I am from helping my friends through their hard times.

From letting them cry on my shoulder, and watching them walk out of my life.
I am from people springing back into my life soon. . .

I am from North Lake School

From a graduating class where we knew each other's names

To Arrowhead High School
Where I feel anonymous, like a minnow in a sea of barracuda. . .

I am from scars and stretch marks.

From never feeling beautiful
Finding myself and accepting who I am. . .

I am from a winding road through the trees, covered in black ice, and speckled with drops of sunlight

From taking each curve slowly so I don't crash . .
And from opening my eyes and discovering that the world around me is laced with beauty and serenity.