Where I'm From

I’m from sunny Southern California, And from Escondido, a city concealed between rock-studded mountains. I’m from my community of family and friends with their can-do spirit, That has shaped me into the individual I am today, And influenced my aspirations and goals for who I will become in the future. I am from a family dedicated to raising me in the Catholic faith. From teaching me values of respect. love, and faith, And that Jesus Christ dwells in each and every one of us. I’m from being blessed with the opportunity to attend a small charter school, Where every unique student is welcomed into the White Tiger family. I am from a school where students anticipate creative assemblies, A school that honors those whose commitment yields successful grades. I am from Dad’s tasty barbeque chicken and Mom’s healthy homemade meals. From “Shhhh, the garden is a quiet place!” And “No, the Golder kitchen is closed!” I’m from sitting in freshly cut grass, petting my dog Bowy, From building blanket-forts and lemonade stands with my little sister Alana, And from working outside with dirty hands and bare feet each weekend. I am from waking up early to surprise Dad with coffee, From going to Resurrection Church each Sunday, And from visiting with friends while enjoying donuts after mass. I’m from watching Jeopardy! every night, and shouting out the answers to questions. I’m from camping at William Heise Park under old oaks, From gazing at stars and roasting marshmallows until they catch on fire. I’m from family in Pennsylvania. From catching fireflies in the alfalfa field, And helping Uncle Paul mow the grassy eight acres with determination. From fishing with Uncle John and Pop Pop, And cooking oily french fries with garden-grown potatoes in Baba’s kitchen. I’m from Aunt Bert and Uncle Rusty’s sheep farm, Where driving through acres of cornfield is the best. From digging for mud caked potatoes in the rain, And eating homemade chicken noodle soup. I’m from family in Ohio. From walking to Tescora Park like my Dad once did, Playing blackjack and checkers in the morning with Grandpa, And from golfing at Sugar Creek with Grandma. I’m from driving to Amish Country, To feast on fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, and homemade root beer. I’m also from Grandpa’s hilarious jokes, repeated by Dad, And from Grandpa’s Saturday garage sale spree. In the future, I’ll be from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, And from studying engineering and business. From continuing on life’s journey, And making many decisions that will impact my life. I’m from never forgetting where I came from, And what shaped the values and characteristics that define who I am. I am from always trying my absolute best in everything I look to accomplish, And from never compromising my beliefs or aspirations. With an empathetic, responsible, and caring character, I’m from striving to help others and living in every moment like it’s my last. Anywhere I go, I’ll always remember where I’m from.