I am from

For the past two years while in grad school I have worked part-time @ DinoMights. I also occasionally subbed in the Minneapolis school district. Each day subbing was an adventure. I learned a lot about how I would like my classroom to be someday.

At one of my favorite schools the 5th graders were writing "I am from" poems as part of an ancestry unit. The assignment was really powerful for many of the students. The classroom was diverse socioeconomically and culturally. Some students in the class were adopted, some were recent immigrants to the U.S. Through this unit they really began to appreciate who they are and what has shaped them.

I decided to write my own "I am from" poem.

I am from books upon books lining the shelves in the living room
From golden retrievers and long walks around the neighborhood

I am from 1002 Westview Drive, the house where the road begins to curve
I am from waking up to public radio and my Dad grinding coffee
I am from the block where neighbors became like siblings

I’m from malt-o-meal and sports
And a green vegetable at every meal
From Ken, Carol, Dan, and Dave
I’m from favorite meals on birthdays and trips up north
And from canoeing until the sun sets

I’m from “never, never, give up”
And “May the Lord bless you and keep you, may his face shine upon you, and give you peace”
I’m from a first generation high school graduate
I’m from Ireland, Germany, Poland, England, France, and I am Cherokee.
From a Dad who read with me every summer
Instilling the value of always learning
And a Mom who taught me to swim and to love deeply

I am from family that insists on living with passion and intention.
I am from my ancestors who have gone before me.
I am from stories upon stories and so many idiosyncrasies.