Where I'm From

Inspired by George Ella Lyon I am from notebooks, from bad poetry and little stories. I am from eighty-eight keys on each side (pearly, sable, they meant beauty.) I am from the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, wondrous tales I remember as if they were my own. I’m from walls, purple and white, from princesses and outgrown shoes. I’m from the collectors and the at-home chefs, from Good girl! and Down boy! I’m from kittens begged for and dogs with a taste for mischief and a bird that squawked all the day long. I’m from Arthur and John’s houses strong, sheltered and tucked away. From the quiet years of childhood To the new schools, The loud voices so unlike my own. Under my bed was a library of photos, A collection of time to cherish forever. I am from those smiles— Some seen and some seen not A window to family past.