I am from a family who lives the American Dream,

from a family who is warm, working, and whole —

to gifting me with my future.

I am from winning games to tournaments,

from conquering field hockey and lacrosse championships —

to screaming out in victory, like I broke a bone.

I am from hardships in my life,

from realizing that life carries you different directions —

to learning not everyone is your friend.

I am from good grades, cleaning the house, and doing dishes

from being told “If you work hard in life, you will get want you want” —

to feeling happy, humble, and heartwarming in the nursing home.

I am from change,

from once being fat to now being as thin of a branch on a tree —

to being excepted.

I am from quiet nights,

from having no siblings —

to revealing my consolatory, complicated, and consistent days to my mother.

I am from Hartland,

from a small-town village —

to a family who lives the American Dream.