Where I'm From

I’m from sport balls,
Spalding and Nike

I am from a house with wooden floor,
From the cocker spaniel jumping on the
Visitors legs. With the garden in the backyard,
That host birds who sing while we eat.

I’m from the colorful garden with
Veraneras, sunflowers, and lillies.

I’m from cramping in the couch, to watch and cheer
For the boxers fighting for their money and ultimately their live.
From a family of giants in a city of dwarves.
From Uncle Omar and Pocho lighting the family
Reunions with their humor.
From the Campos but living with the Espinosa.

I’m from watching la cascara and
Taking a walk at night, with my family trailing behind me.

From “that’s my son” when I excel to
“you can do better” when I’m average.

I am from the first communion, which
All members have completed.
But none go to church.

I’m from Panama, and only Panama
A place known for its canal and dictator.
A place where you eat arroz con pollo and carimanolas

From when my dad tells me about his childhood. How
He would go into the forrest with only a knive, and hunt
Animals for experiments, instead of being lost in a virtual world
Like us.

I am from a thick picture book which
Frames memories that will never be forgotten.
But filled with dust, from the accumulation of days
It was deserted.

This tree is one with strong roots in this
Fertile land. A tree that once was a sappling
But grew to be an oak. I am a small branch
Of this tree, but one day I will make
This tree grown and be stronger.