I am from comic books,
From Au Naturale and Shea Butter.
I am from the blue and green colors on the walls,
With flowers, pictures, and giant clocks.
I am from loud noises from the outside,
Where honking cars travel.

I’m from curly hair and hot toddy,
From Lachon and Tracie.
I’m from the quietest and the loudest,
From “Go ‘head now!” and “Happy day,”
I’m from him who shall have everlasting life.

I’m from Michael Reese Hospital and house that smells like homemade muffins,
Greens and Shark’s Chicken.
From the mama story,
The Hot story.

I am from the basement walls,
From the living room walls and the floors.
The hallway walls,
From the dining room floors.

I am from strong bones,
From powerful ancestors.
I am them.