Where I'm From

I am from the swaying trees

and blooming flowers in my backyard,

from Home Depot and Lowe's.

I am from the red ant hill in my living room,

the small grey painted room

with the queen sized bed I jumped on every time.

I am from the plants cramped in flower pots,

the small "good luck" bamboo plant sitting on the table.

I am from the red packets of money

my parents give me and "don't go too far from home."

From "mommy I want more toys" to "hey kids we're moving."

I am from flying above the ocean

halfway around the world.

I am from packing with flat cardboard boxes.

I am from birthday cakes once in a while.

I am from eat the whole cake and not just the frosting.

I am from eating fruit every week instead of sweets.

I am from "confess before you're gone" and "tell me when you're ready."

I am from "I'll be here for you" to "don't put yourself down."

I am from "risks are good for you cause what's the worse that can happen?"

I am from taking the cookie and get caught.

I am from praying at temples and praying on Chinese New Year.

I am from telling dad what I want for Christmas and knowing what's coming.

I am from those moments.

A tree identical to others,

but special on its own.