Where I’m From

Where I’m From…

I’m from snowstorms and resentful shoveling,

From C is for Cynthia; J is for Jonathan

And, “How do you pronounce your last name?”

I’m from Gong Hay Faat Choi and Lai See Foong.

When our annual vegetarian dinner takes place.

I’m from Thanksgiving traditions.

With warm sweet potato and toasted marshmallows on top.

With homemade mushroom gravy and left over turkey jook.

I’m from rice buckets and early morning ramen

From the man who’s “not the tooth fairy.”

I’m from bullying and teasing and isolation.

Because you’re fat, ugly, and have no friends

Because hahahateschristy@aim(dot)com says so

Because you can’t sing so just shut up

Because you’re stupid for getting into The Brooklyn Latin School

Because no one actually likes you

I’m from feeling worthless and alone

Because eventually I believed them

Because I am fat, ugly, and have no friends

I’m proudly from The Brooklyn Latin School

From “Odi et amo.”

From Legati and Saltare

Because its there that I gained confidence

And its there where I finally felt loved

I’m from 5 meters recitals and mediocre shows.

Where pianos, clarinets, and violins played Mississippi Rosin Bow

I’m from Ogunquit on Labor Day and late night talks.

Where skim boarding and lobster eating get their yearly attention

I’m from those cushioned blue chairs or jungle gyms; stacked high full of our adventures

From Go Go Power Rangers and Sailor Moon.

From Pokémon battles, and Yu-Gi-Oh trading cards

Beanie baby reenactments and Lego destruction

I’m from stubbornness and hard heads

Because I have to pick my own outfit

I’m from stern discipline and time outs

Where broken glass doors and scarred hands ensue.

I’m from a beautiful mother who will never let me forget it.

I’m from Ignite the Fire and Bethel Chinese AOG.

Where I have my walk with God

I’m from Uncle Hank and his wooden piano figurine left with my name engraved

From that last cheesecake that never got delivered

From my first funeral

I’m from my lovely Taz and our non-sensible laughter

Because she’s the only reason that I got through middle school

I’m from those warm arms that hold me tight.

And from his beautiful heart, whom I love