Where I'm From

I am from warm fireplaces, where love and grief are shared,

From the clothesline out back and the bookshelf in the corner.

I am from mobile homes, old homes, brick, and stone houses,

With the laughter of children and fragrance of the season in the air.

I am from the sweet gum with the rope swing on one side and tire swing on the other.

I'm from the rose bush,

Whose fragrant blossoms I remember.

Though gone, long ago.

I am from the Easter get together and handmade quilt,

From Great Grandma's calloused hands and Grandpa's tomato patch.

I'm from stubborn folks and hard working family,

And from a smile an a rainy day.

From, "Do unto others as you would have them do for you."

And "be serious with God and He'll be serious with you".

I'm from the birthday stomp dance.

I am from the hills of Missouri and songs of the Cherokee Indians,

Pork chops with mashed 'taters and pumpkin pie.

From my mother's broken home and ruined life,

That our merciful Saviour rescued her from.

From photo albums and keep sake boxes,

Stored in bookshelves and bedroom closets.

I am a hodge-podge of many things,

Rooted in happiness and heartache.

Family that makes you stronger, and A God, too great for words,

Whose given me these roots I cherish.

This is the poem I wrote for our assignment from poetry class this week. All my family liked it, so I thought I'd share!