Where I’m From (Chris)

I am from kindness and comfort

from think twice before speaking

and actions are louder than words

I am from rainy sporting events

and dinner on the table by game’s end.

A warm meal of love meant to

replace the support that fear wouldn’t allow

I am from privilege

born of fear of lines forbeans,

a secret held from tall buildings

lying between the stalks of corn,

known only by those in need and in support

of a new generation looking to grow.

I am from the sounds of John Deere tractors

humming their way down the mighty Mississippi.

I am from Theo’s Coffee Shop. Duct tape stains my tattered cargo pants

holding together generations of emotional teens, caffeinating their path to somewhere else

while missing where they are.

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Audio Version