Where I'm From

I am from the joy of sunshine, the freedom of brightly colored flip flops
I am from ripened peaches, crisp autumn apples, and juicy sweet oranges
I am from and of the earth,
the clouds and trees blown by the tender breazes that pass their way
I am from the embrace of home
protected by its warmth and love, full of laughter and tears
I am from the depths of tradition, from  near insanity, and the homely life of those I love
I am from forgetfullness and brilliancy
from trust and abounding love
I am from the "Latter Day Saints" and the testimony I was born to have
I am from Europe, am English and Dutch
from the shock of embarassment, the cutting knife of hatred, and the fullest degree of love.
I am from the shelves in my home.
full of dusty books and souvenirs
items unopened, and corners still covered
where history unfolds
the place of sollace,
and where pure joy is found