My book of poems

Where I'm from

I am from different spices and seasonings that   complement the food and turn regular dishes into something divine.
From Walmart clothes and groceries from Food Lion.
I am from a place so close to the water that you can feel the cold breeze that glides off the ocean.
Where the sea food is fresh, with water so close you can touch it, and with winters where you can see the snowflakes come down from the sky.
I am from Black-eyed Susans that grow every spring, flowers that shine brightly yellow even on the coldest of days.

I am from eating family feast on Christmas and, from thick curly brown hair.
From my grandfather who fought in the military, and my mother who works hard to support me.
I am from saying grace before you eat and making sure to say "please and thank you."
From getting in trouble for overflowing the tub and "children are to be seen and not heard"...

I'm from going to church on Sunday, singing songs that praise the lord.
I'm from a Mckelvin bloodline that comes from Ireland, with homemade fried chicken and collard greens.
From my grandmother who was raped when she was pregnant with my mother.
From my mother who got pregnant with me at 16.
I am from a home that burnt down and destroyed some of my childhood mementos.

I am from a rich history of African Americans that live a society that wasn't built for them.
I am from strong women who continue to strive.