"Where I'm From"

I am from athletics,

from Nike and Under Armour.

I am from the sweaty knee pads and the long rides home,

from three day volleyball tournaments.

I am from the water in the swimming pool;

clear, blue, rich with chlorine.

I'm from Secret Santa's and shyness,

from Ann and Paul and Rufus.

I'm from the reserved and non-attention seekers,

from please and thank you.

I'm from the red,

brick church in the small town of Schulte, which shouts "Holy is His Name."

I am from the rib of Bob and Karla,

from grandma's homemade cinnamon rolls and chocolate pie,

from the look of my dad as an innocent 2 year old,

whose parents couldn't provide,

but wished a better life for him,

and the many lives grandpa saved by rushing into burning fires.

I am from the basement,

albums filled with photo which make me reminisce on my childhood,

I am from my childhood,

from the many memories created with friends-friends that became family.