I'm from bare feet

on dirt roads,

walking hand in hand

to ice cream shops.

I'm from scarce rain

and sing-alongs

and roller-skating on rooftops.

 

I'm from giant tents

where newly-weds sit inside

dressed like princesses and princes.

I'm from metallic birds that

fly over vibrant worlds 

constantly taking me to new places.

 

I'm from lying on grass,

fingers pointing up

at misshapen clouds

sculpted from imagination.

I'm from henna tattoos that

embroider your skin,

making your body

an artist's creation.

 

I'm from small hands

continuously turning pages of

a carefully read book.

I'm from hot roasted coffee,

tentatively sipping with

warm lips and content looks.

 

I'm from spicy air that marinates

the atmosphere as people

sell things on the street.

I'm from jet lags and

wanting to be friends

with every face

that I meet.

 

I'm from countries

I wasn't born in and cities

I've never visited.

I'm from shaking hands,

thankful smiles, as I give bread

to those who understand

it makes them privileged.

 

I'm from loud movies

and boyish video games

and music played too often.

I'm from all the places

and all the spaces

I have and 

have not been.