I am from sun-damaged skin
Freckles and straw hats
From tractors and dirt
And fresh tomatoes


I am from Ridges of chosen family
From barefoot and dancing
Trough the tall grass

I am from small streams
Trees and overgrown lawns
From concrete and brick
And the pretty cityscapes of Jersey

I am from rainbows and cheers
From black and plaid
Parades of people and glitter
That takes forever to wash off

I am from darkness
And false words
From tomboys and girlie-girls

I am from music
Loud, fast, and angry
I am from brush strokes
And pencil sketches
From iron-on patches
And D.I.Y videos

I am from candles, incense
And crystals charging under the full moon

I am from black cats
And “fight back”
From “stand up”
And “never back down”

I am from marches and protests
From outcasts and artists
I am from speaking your mind
And taking no crap.