Where I'm From {poem}

I am from places that matter to no one and from names that mean nothing.

I am from a home with warm kitchens and lonely dinner tables.

I am from floors you can eat off of. And mouths spewing filth.

I am from streets once flanked with Elms and a backyard where my mother planted marigolds and grew tomatoes.

I am from hands that heal and words that hurt.

I am from "If only you lived up to your potential" and "never good enough."

I am from saints and sinners; the faithful and fearless. Where confessions are not forgotten, because forgiveness does not exist.

I am from arroz con gandules, arroz con pollo and arroz con habichuelas rosadas y salchichas - poor man's meals to keep a family full.

I am from a language I cannot speak but whose words I understand.

I am from reflections I can't stand to see and images I may never stand up to.

I am from rough hands, tough love, good food and sharp tongues.

I am from:

"I did not raise you to be a ____."

"You are just like your ____."

and "¡Qué jodienda coño!"

I am from capias and Woolworth family photos. I am from both parents but my father was hardly around.

I am from a small family with too many relatives.

I am from friends who've replaced family.

I am from names I should have never been called.

I am from poverty and prosperity. I am from places to be ashamed and from people I am proud of.

I am from contradictions and cliches.

I am from everything I was never meant to be.

1. Complete the “Where I’m From” poem. (template here)

2. Share a favorite holiday inspired recipe!

3. Create a list of must-have gifts you’ve got your eye on this Christmas.

4. Best or worst gift you ever received.

5. Describe how you would celebrate the holidays if it was totally up to you and money was not a factor.

6. Write a blog post inspired by the word: icy