I am from the skinny brown apartment squished in between the loud music and the smell of spicy food every morning. 

I’m from the building where a man’s best friend isn’t allowed.

I’m from the crowded quiet street on Valencia, neighbor to the mission, where the only place coming noise from is my friendly next-door neighbors. 

I’m from the apartment room that is filled with memories and prayers every morning when the sun comes up, and every night when the bright moon shows.

I’m from flopping on my bed when the exhausting week finally ends.  

I’m from the shared room of an older brother, but a ruler from the upper bunk.

I’m from waking up early on weekday mornings but staying up until 10 on weekends.  

I’m from the family that takes game night very seriously, but the walks in the park very irregular.

I’m from a family that watches a theatrical brother, in which I am following his footsteps behind. 

I’m from a hard-working family who hopes to see their far away from homeland again, where everything started.

I’m from a dream of changing the world with understanding and kindness that has been inherited by my folks.

I’m from accomplishment that would be a success every time I put my mind into it.

I’m from the sweet smell of tamales on holiday mornings, ready to start the day.

I’m from cooking fresh food 3-4 days a week, with steam that keeps us all awake.

I’m from ordering the 3 topping pizza on Saturday nights right after church. 

I’m from burning toast to ashes but having crisp waffles on Sunday mornings. 

I’m from fighting with my brother and laughing about it 5 minutes later. 

I am from sliding to my Christmas tree, carefree to see what’s underneath. 

I’m from building forts in the middle of my living room, ready to run from my mom. 

I’m from uncles and aunties, cousins, and friends visiting over for the feeling of the endless holidays.

I’m from going to church on Saturday nights, occasionally Friday’s but, doing a prayer here once and then.

I’m from singing songs in the car trying to keep my dad awake for the long and tiring ride ahead.  

I’m from a family of 4 but also loved from the rest of my relatives. 

This is where I’m from.