Where I’m From
I am from collard greens,
from fried eggplant and chicken gizzards.
I am from the two towering pine trees,
a soft patch of dark, cool dirt between.
I’m from the quiet, sleepy street,
Villa Court.
In the house with the lone woman
and eight children, all vying
for space, food, and attention.
I’m from Sunday dinner
being cooked on Saturday night,
as Granny cheers on her favorite wrestler
or hums her favorite gospel tune.
I’m from “Oh Happy Day!” playing on
the reocrd player,
from holding down your ears
as the hot comb sizzles through
your kinky coils.
I am from shopping trips to KMart,
in the wood-paneled station wagon,
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cousin on top of cousin,
dodging Granny’s quick hands.
I’m from days at Aunt Lula’s farm,
dogs chasing chickens, kids chasing dogs;
my granny and her sister laughing, snapping peas.
I’m from long days picking fruit in fields,
discarded blue berries, bruised apples,
crusty cobblers and pies.
I am from big cousins who tease you,
and scare off bullies,
who take your bike,
and cheer you on as you jump off the swings.
I am from a crips one dollar bill becoming
Lemonheads, Boston Baked Beans, and
dill pickles with a peppermint.
I’m from long Sundays and revivals,
memorizing Easter speeches,
learning songs that became guides…
for love…for tribulations,
for family…for faith.
Jenita Lawal is a published author, speaker, traveler, online business owner, and mother. After 20+years of living the American Dream, she sold everything and packed her suitcases to pursue the life of her dreams. She lives abroad with her three sons and loves exploring whenever there’s an opportunity. Connect with Jenita here.
