Where I Am From
Simran Deokule, Grade 6, California

I am from the sweetness of my mother�s embrace
From the perseverance of my father
And the support of my sister
I am from the bouncing on my trampoline
In my backyard
And the squeaking of my swing set
Which are both gone

I am from the fragrance of the roses in my garden
And the sweet and sour taste of the tangerines on the tangerine tree
Or the pleasantness of a songbird in the early mornings
I am from the splish-splash of the water as I swim
Or the whiz of the soccer net with a crowd cheering in the background
I am from the graceful melody of my piano and clarinet
Or the jazzy tune of my saxophone

I am from the laughter of family members
And the wonderful memories of fun we have together
I am from the horror and distress of loved ones moving on
I am from the cries of pain, the strong feelings of hate
From the tears of hope and sorrow
The frown of worry
And the sigh of contentment

I am from the strong Hindu culture given to me
From the smell of candles
From the soft murmur of prayers
From the loud whoops of celebration
And from the strict rules of tradition
I am from the clean U.K.
From the lush and green but hilly meadows and pastures of New Zealand
From the beach time fun in California

I am from my good and bad memories from the past
And the excitement of the future
I am from everything a new day brings
And anything an old day reminds me off