Where I'm From

Where I’m From
By Kimberly Bartley

I am from Tide,
From merthiolate and calamine lotion.
I am from the-kitchen-is-the-heart-of-the-home,
Avocado green, Jif, wall phone with a cord.
I am from Wandering Jew vines dangling, aloe vera in the window sill,
Quiet and soothing, just waiting to heal.

I am from homemade ice cream and watermelons,
From Kenneth and Lovie.
I’m from picnics at Old Mulkey and “Just one more piece,”
From “enough’s enough and too much stinks” and “pretty is as pretty does.”
I am from open Bible and gospel songs,
From family gathering and “It won’t be very Long.”

I am from Mammy and Pappy,
From peanut butter candy and Dovie burgers.
I’m from defected eyes and arthritic limbs,
From whispered prayers and a song on the lips.
I am from gas mileage and religious debates,
From “good things come to those who wait.”


I’m from the Carter Family and the Statler Brothers,
From “What’d ol’ Santy bring ya?”
I am from “I reckon so” and “pull up a chair.”
From a box of photos and memories retold,
From love, unconditional, endless, and bold.