Where I’m From
(Inspired by a poem by George Ella Lyons)

I am from love and hate,
flowing tears of happiness, of sadness.
From normal and “why?”
With so many wonders of truth.
Stupid fights and needless complaints,
and everyday worries that aren’t important.
I am from thoughts gone astray and bewildered sites.
Lies, tragedy and heartache.
I am from the stars and the sky,
and special long talks that last through the night.

I am from cartwheels, round-offs, and back-hand springs.
Stubborn cheerleaders, hateful coaches,
and awful camps that waste summer.
I am from dressing rooms and Friday night shopping,
and delicious iced white chocolate mochas.
Scantrons, textbooks, boring lectures,
and sharpened #2 pencils.
I am from cell phones, computers,
and surplus technology.

I am from concerned parents and an alert big brother.
The old and new and excessive wants.
I am from “I Love You” and broken promises.
A little old gray dog that’s just as fat as can be.
Sunburns, aloe, and lengthy rides home.
I am the moment, spontaneous action, and hurtful words.
Strenuous runs, loud music, and lingering sighs of stress.
 

April
Warren East High School

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