Memories

I am from acrylic paints on canvas 

from American Girl Dolls 

I am from coming home to loud music 

and the glasses clinking in the kitchen.

I am from soft green moss under my feet 

Like a cloud right before it rains.

I’m from a brown bunny stuffy and long-haired chihuahuas, 

from Christina and Barbara. 

I’m from compassion

and collecting rocks,

from you are safe, you are loved 

and you are surrounded by love

I’m from leaving carrots for the reindeer on Christmas Eve

I’m from Maine  

from ice cream and home-cooked steak

From the birthday I was told my dad was sick  

The day I watched him die.

I am from joy and sadness, anger and grief, but most of all

the memories that made me.