Where I’m From

I am from dance shoes,

from Capezio and Bloch.

The Marley floor under me as I land,

“Toe, ball, heel.”

From the mirrors surrounding me,

forcing me to compare myself to the others.

From late nights at the dance studio,

and adrenaline rushes on stage.

I am from the busy streets of NYC.

I am from the flowers in our garden that we forget to water,

the butterflies that are so much more than just bugs and not a bother.

I am from Christmas dinners

and baseball nights,

from Stephanie

and Luis and Nick.

I am from the family dinners each night

and the chatter that floats above the table.

From “I love you, be careful”

and “I miss you”.

I am from the cross that hangs from neck, laying on top of my collar bones.

I’m from Brooklyn with roots in Puerto Rico,

Arroz Con Pollo and the smell of fresh Sofrito.

From the puppy we rescued when I was 7,

the love brought into a house that was grieving,

and the parents that gave us the world.

I am from summers filled with laughter,

pure love and admiration.

I am from fortunate and blessed,

no doubt.

From positive affirmations,

and light of healthy relationships.