I Am From...

In my sermon where I introduced our theme for the year I read this poem I wrote below.  You can google "I am from poem by George Ella Lyon" and see her original poem.  I attended a conference in Chicago and was challenged to write one for myself.  I believe it helps to tell our story in different medium.  Here is how it was described to me on how to write this poem.  Take a piece of paper and fold into quadrants.  In one quadrant write down all the things you remember about your childhood home (physical things).  In another quadrant write things you remember hearing or certain phrases or significant words and phrases.  In another quadrant write names of people, different qualities about them, and those that were important to you..  In another quadrant write down holiday memories, traditions, foods, decor.  Hope you enjoy my poem below and write your own.

I Am From
Michael Matthew Mercer
(Inspired by George Ella Lyon I Am From Poem)
 
I am from a clean house with a Big TV and an alligator skin on the wall
I am from all white furniture, brown paneling walls
I am from a big living room with a small kitchen and my own bedroom
 
I am from big laughter and loud talking and hushed nights
I am from tough rules and countless chores
I am from careful planning and lasting routines
I am from “GAH, LEE!” and “STOP THAT WHISTLING!”
I am from hugs and handshakes, encouraging words and pats on the back
I am from great expectations and roomy grace
 
I am from TV dinners and hamburger helper
I am from steak and potatoes, KFC chicken, A&A barbecue, and El Zarape Tex Mex
I am from banana pudding, Watergate salad, and homemade fudge
I am from mom burning the grilled cheese, Wyatt shutting off the smoke alarm, and Walde shaking his head
 
I am from big Christmas trees with memorable ornaments
I am from traveling to Memaw’s for Thanksgiving
I am from Grandma Schiurring’s Easter extravaganzas
I am from outside play and inside study
I am from westerns on TV and quiet conversations after 8pm
I am from work on Saturday
I am from church on Sunday, Sunday evening, and Wednesday night
 
I am from photo books, memories shared, and family legends
That I continue to pass down to my own.