Where I Am From

I am from the sandy sand storms and mud brick walls, 

from north and north.

I am from the "Welcome to America" and the land of opportunity,

from two cultures and hatred. 

I am from Islam and the Qu'ran, 

from motivation and prayer, 

from mosques and calligraphy.

I am from an one-roomed apartment living with four family members,

from living paycheck to paycheck,

from lost grandparents and new arrivals.

I am from corner stores and community pools,

from porch fights and bullying at school.

I am from the suffering experienced by my father,

from debt and unpaid medical bills.

I am from seven pills daily and the pain we felt along his journey.

I am from Limited Brands and Victoria's Secret,

from carrying heavy packages and fifteen hour shifts.

I am from a white 1993 Toyota Camry that my mother drove daily,

from an Oreo and McDonald's french fries. 

I am from education and success, 

from a dull past to a bright future.

I am from moments created.

I am from creation.