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’m from two islands: the island of inebriation and the island of noble Lords.
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.
Carol says
Revealing! Our past can certainly change the future, can't it? Have a great holiday season and surround yourself with those you love.
Jerralea says
So honest and raw! I pray you have found a place where forgiveness exists.
How awesome you've found friends to replace family!
Mama Kat says
This actually gave me goosebumps. So much hurt when we dig back, but I'm glad you did it!
Margaret says
friends can be so much that often family just cannot be, thank goodness!!