room 6

Who AM I?

I am from small women with big hearts. From two mothers with strong wills and deep faith.

I am from the smell of jasmine after the rain. I am from overgrown apple and lemon trees on hot summer days playing hide-n-go-seek.

I am from, “Que Dios te bendiga!” y “Ponte una chamara!” From loud banda music at family parties and 90’s hip-hop in open red convertibles.

I am from homemade tortillas and the smoke of roasting chiles. From early morning chocolatito and late night café con leche.

From midnight monopoly games that tested family ties and loteria played with beans and pennies. I am from pajama dance parties choreographed to Thriller and sharing one pair of Barbie roller skates between two girls.

I am from black-and-white memories shared on a porch over Mexican summers. From dust and dirt on your hands and knees while running in the streets with neighborhood kids.

I am from colorful food stamps at the grocery store and breakfast dates with Grandpa. From coloring books and swinging feet in desks that were too big, sitting in the back of college lecture halls.

I am from endless fiery fights and angry tears. From deep laughter and smile lines that told stories all on their own.

From dancing cebraditas at midweek swapmeet concerts and 50-cent ice cream cones. From niňa fresa and muňequita.

I am from cousins that are brothers and a tomboy attitude. From Power Rangers, Rugrats, and novelas.

I am from Aztec dancing and political protest on the streets of downtown.

I am cultura, feminism, and Christ.