I am from...

I am from a large family of Puerto Ricans

Where the term “Gringa” is used to describe me

Where I am told i’m either too skinny, and I need to eat more,

Or I am too thick I need to eat less

I am from a place in which family trips to Disney,

Are a mere memory-

Where in the North End you can’t be outside for more than an hour maybe less,

Where my best friend lived three streets away,

Where fights were common and never failed to make you late,

Where drugs and alcohol are on every street corner

Where after school blue pop soda and cheese fries are life-

Where 5th grade drama was petty and childish,

Where 7th and 8th grade I made a change for the better

Where cheering brought me joy and gave me a purpose

I am from a place where I work my hardest to be better,

I am from a place that isn’t so hot but was and always will be my home nevertheless-