I am from gunshots and pistols.
I am from locking your doors even when you’re home.
I am from constant cop visits.
From physical fights daily
from yells and screams,
from crying myself to sleep.

I am from depression.
I am from anger management.
I am from loneliness.
From cuts and burns
from mental hospitals,
from not knowing what’s wrong with me.

I am from four older brothers.
I am from divorced parents.
I am from “family over everything.”
From a family that can’t stand one another
from black eyes and hospital visits,
from “tough love is key.”

I am from a harsh reality.