My Passport to Pain: From Immigrant to Addict

I am from a former British Colony (Hong Kong),

known for being Chinese,

home of exotic gifts and luxuries.

 

I am from the Rainier Valley,

of respect and black power,

rice and fried chicken,

r & b and basketball,

crime and fear,

family and tears.

 

I am from an immigrant family,

oldest son of three,

wondering what’s to happen to me,

as I live life in America,

unsure of myself,

hiding my feelings from all to see.

 

I am from the Seattle Public Schools,

teachers and staff caring,

inspiring and exhorting,

hoping we can succeed.

 

I am from an Asian community,

of Chinese friends, family, and Christian ministries, 

Giving me a sense of spirituality.

 

 

I am from journalism,

where words matter,

impact society for worse or better.

 

I am from pain,

of culture and shame,

learning silence and fear,

the only means to cope and endure.

 

I am from cities both small and large,

West coast to Mid-West,

Toledo to Los Angeles,

International and provincial,

backwards and progressive.

 

I am from therapy,

both client and clinician,

of thoughts and feelings,

generational trauma, loss and addiction.

 

I am from God,

A new life he breathed,

purpose, direction,

healing, connection,

safe in loneliness and absence,

exalting his presence.

This poem is about: 
Me
My family
My community

Comments

Additional Resources

Get AI Feedback on your poem

Interested in feedback on your poem? Try our AI Feedback tool.
 

 

If You Need Support

If you ever need help or support, we trust CrisisTextline.org for people dealing with depression. Text HOME to 741741