Where I'm From

I am from bare feet walking in harsh winters,

tiny vikings on a big ship,

beautiful mountains that are seen throughout the country,

dances on a stage,

tattoos tying back to a culture,

muscular warriors from coconut palms.

I am from burying dead birds,

collecting bugs in a tricycle,

exploring the outdoors.

I am from prison visits,

house parties,

and experience.

I am from two different expectations:

defend yourself physically

or

defend yourself mentally

---

emotions are for the weak

or

it’s human to cry

---

do everything you are told

or

do what you think is right

I am from anger,

slide tackles, body to body,

yellow cards, red cards,

getting kicked out of games,

white socks turned brown,

sweat drenched hair,

dirty knees, bloody thighs.

I am from many stories behind the scars covering my body.