Joining the SheLoves sychroblog today, with a poem to celebrate heritage.

I AM FROM

I am from warm comforters and no heat.
I am from hiding from the noise and dreaming of new lands.

I am from small rooms and smoke from a dirty chimney.
I am from a swampy backyard and a great big evergreen,
sturdy enough to climb and high enough to hide in.

I am from barefoot summers and somber winters.
From the beach and the woods.

I am from crowded Thanksgivings and restless Sabbaths.
I am from tired traditions—outgrown, but not forgotten.
From spicy Great Grandma J and grumpy Grandma Baldwin.

I’m from the Feast of Tabernacles and the Days of Unleavened Bread,
And from rebellious and forbidden Christmases.

I’m from loud,
And sad,
And disappointed.

I’m from bold,
And wild,
And overcoming.

I am from soap in the mouth and a big fat belt.
I’m from seen and not heard,
And from protective sisters and sturdy brothers.

I’m from Enumclaw and England.
From lefse and green olives.
From floating down the Yamhill river,
And apple-picking in Autumn.

I’m from going places with my imagination,
And waking up at home.

I am from creating something new.
I am from finding peace.
I am from sharing a home with sisters,
And discovering strength.

I am from exploring the world,
And wandering back to the dripping Pacific.

I am from forgiveness,
And a fresh start.