Where I'm From

A Poem to Celebrate my Birthday

Have you ever heard of the “Where I’m From” poem template by George Ella Lyon? She is a writer and a teacher and developed this template to help students tap into their creativity. I’ve recommended this exercise to word lovers and to those that have been unsure how to start telling their own story.

You should give it a try if you haven’t. Mine is below and as I read it again it occurs to me that I’ve written on this blog about many of these things, so I included links in case you’re looking for more context.

Where I’m From

I am from soft music in my earbuds, 

from cracked-spine library books and warm sidewalks.

I am from sand between my toes.

(White and smooth, sticking to my wet feet)

I am from the saguaros,

the cacti that reach for the sky 

while staying firmly rooted.

I am from oil-popped popcorn, carrot cake and God bread,

from reading glasses and heated blankets.

I am from split-entry in the suburbs and squeaky screen doors at the lake.

I am from saying “yes” in a canoe

(listening to the water dance of a loon convention amidst the crackling of a campfire.)

I am from railroad whistles and disappearing coins.

I am from friendly smiles and welcoming waves

I am from “i love you” and “goodbye”

and I was strong as I could be.

I am from soulful loon calls, crunchy leaves and crisp air.

From “why” and “how come” and calm and curious.

Even now,

I am from the ash of eruptions past, 

sifting for the nuggets of the future,

perhaps smooth, maybe prickly

and I’m not afraid of getting older.

Where are you from?