Where I’m From
By Tattum Spence

I am from a family Dallas, Texas
With meat loaf, mashed potatoes, mac-and-cheese, steak, and neck-bones
It makes my family’s nose run.

I am from my Nana’s stale jokes, stories, and puns
Prompting, reluctant but grateful
Chuckles and the sound of horns, car beeps, television, fire alarms, and radios
Whispering and whistling in the rain.

I am from Sunday baseball, ballin, and dry sunny days
Dirty grass-stained uniforms and double plays
I am from “Here we go Aunt Kawonia, here we go Aunt Kawonia, here we go” and strike em out.

I am from the sandy beaches of sunny So Cal and mountain lakes of serene Switzerland
I am from Texas snowfalls and maroon and orange football games.
I am from KIPP Truth Academy, a proud student always ready to learn.

I am from my Grandmother “Nana” and my Grandfather “Pop Paw”
Their generosity, love, respect, and memories are held in my heart.
And this year, I am from working and growing together.

All these experiences and people and places are where I am from.