it has a lot of history of the enslaved people

natives and colonizators 

now  i am from there and from over there 

the cheesesteaks and neighbors fighting each other over parking spots 

but fighting the city in unity when the traffic guy 

comes by and steals back the personal use traffic cones to save that same spot

and I want to be from there and over there but also from somewhere else

I have explored the rivers, lakes, forests, oceans, nuna and parks 

I was not invited here, but I am hoping to do what I can to nurture, build and repair my relationship with the original nurturers of this land and do what I can to nurture the land and nurture the relationship 

I wish to seek a life that strives to equality and fairness 

I want to do what I can to ensure the game is not rigged, but bound by care, love and support 

 

I am from the rhythm of the Atlantic Ocean waves, beating against the shores of Keppoch Beach, calming my heart and mind and breath. I am from these waters that cleanse me of the noise of the world and return me to harmony with Mother Earth

 

I refuse to try and contain what is meant to flow freely

I am from being a good girl and a model student.

I am from sitting criss-cross applesauce hands in my lap and making myself small enough to be imperceptible.

I am from following expectations and defining myself by A’s, B’s, and C’s.

I refuse to conform, comply, or compete.

I am going to connect, care, and create change.

I am from fiddles. From the stomping feet and clapping hands of the ceileidh. From haunting ancient laments, to the violent orange marches of Union Jack drums and sectarian pipes. I am from a lost, heartbroken nation. From calloused hands to hardened hearts.

I refuse to abandon my heart. I refuse to keep fighting the hateful fight of my ancestors.

I am going to stand in my history, in all its darkness. I am going to find our old way, and then find another way, and keep walking on. 

I am going to rise with and not above.