Where I'm From

I am from an oak chest full of secret treasures, 

from honey and hay.

I am from the quiet solitude of a stream,

bubbling, flirting, murmuring.

I am from the tiger lily, 

rooted but free in the breeze.

I'm from canning beans and 

walking through fields of tall grass, 

from Grandma and Gammie.

I'm from the work that's hard

and the heart that's open, 

from keep dreaming and

never give up.

I'm from a sense of peace

that reassures me I'm not alone.

I'm from Appalachia,

mashed potatoes and strawberry shortcake.

From my grandfather making moonshine, 

as his father did before him.  

I'm from my past, 

the backbone of my future.

I'm from my roots,

deep, wide, growing, strong.