I am from here and there.
I am from the corner of Milford Ave and Schoolhouse Rd
Across from the Miller’s, up from the Iwanaka’s, behind the Winterbottom’s and next to the Chang’s
I am from warm chocolate chip cookies made by Don, burnt fudge made by Marg and sour keys from the corner store.
I am from basketball soccer, rugby and every other sport under the sun
From reading under my covers until late, back yard swimming pools
I am from wool, spinning wheels and weaving
From the long grass, the forest, feeding the Como lake ducks and jumping off the swings
I am from the darkness before the light
From things unsaid, ancestors gone, and a dry house in more ways than one
I am from change, hope and resilience
I am from love and kindness
I am from safety, welcoming open arms
I am from stirring the pot and ruffling feathers, not the squeaky wheel
This is where I am from and now…
I am the eye of the storm
I am connection and belonging
I am community
I am a safe space and heart
I am encouragement and nourishment
I am an ally and advocate
I am a voice