We Are From
Seventh Grade
We are from the grains of sand that make the beaches,
from reading on the shore as loud waves reach up
to tickle our feet.
We are from the quiet magic of a library book
and the lead-smudge on our hands after mornings of drawing.
We are from friends and fun,
from school and work.
We are from hours spent coding, learning, getting better,
from determination and perseverance.
We are from 4th Street Courts
and family specials,
from great-grandmother’s plants,
passed down and carefully cared for.
We are from the scent of honey and chalk,
from the grip of the steel bar,
the sound of the pommel horse,
and the burn in our shoulders that says we worked hard.
From “one more set,” our coaches always say,
and the weightless thrill of the dismount
before we stick the landing.
We are from a one-square-mile city.
We are from the soft song of the flute,
from the urge to play faster and better,
from the music that surrounds us when we get it just right.
We are from love that continues to grow.
We are from the tree in Columbus Park,
whose branches we climbed every day of our childhood.
We are from a place where teachers share knowledge,
where ideas are spoken,
and voices are heard.