My Poem

I originally wrote this poem in the fall of 2011, in my undergraduate Learning Communities class. During the summer of 2012, I edited this poem for my graduate Learning Communities class. It is supposed to describe who I am and where I come from. Poetry is not something that comes easily to me, but I think this poem gives a realistic glimpse into my life and childhood. I hope you enjoy it! 

July 2012

Where I am From

I am from a place where white is the color less frequently seen.

I am the descendant of the Preston name. From Michael, who is from Jud.

I am from Mormons who founded cities.

My roots grow from fields of mint and bales of hay. From juniper as far as one can see.

This is where I am from.

We scrub the floors on our hands and knees and fight over who must vacuum the hardwood.

I am from lunchtime in the secret spot, sailboat races and sunburns.

Where I come from there are games of Scrabble and charades, and a cat with a crooked tail.

I am from “fend for yourself” nights.

I grew from tights and leotards, bobby pins and buns.

I am from ballet shoes and softball cleats. Dance recitals and All-Star games.

From horseback rides through drive-thru windows and racing lawnmowers at dusk

From mudding, guns, and long summer nights riding shotgun in trucks.

I am from tubas, trombones, and bass guitars.

I am from a house where the horrific noise of a newly learned instrument is the favorite sound of my band teacher father.

I’ll always remember, “Have I ever told you how much I love you?” I can never hear that enough.

I am from “No matter where you go, there you are.”