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Monday, December 22, 2025

December 22 Ethical ELA I Am From

This morning, Ethical ELA asks us to consider the I Am From poetry format. I have struggled with this format that is, for me, a powerful reminder of the change that is inevitable in family-based celebrations as well as the people who are no longer with us.   

I am from 
A trailer-home, 
One present appearing 
After Christmas Eve services
Starched dresses, 
Happy Birthday, Mom,
Your gift, with a pink bow,
Before carols in harmony.
I am also from
Calendars that become towels
Crocheted mittens, 
Knitted doll clothes,
Patent leather shoes
Slicked with petroleum jelly
Carols, in harmony, around the piano.
I married into
Vats of soupe de pesce,
Platters of cookies,
Dishes till dawn,
A plethora of people singing
All the carols while littles
Waited desperately for 
Piles of presents, 
Wrapping paper for miles,
On Christmas Eve,
I am now
Filled with memories,
Back to Christmas Eve services
Alone, but not lonely.
Holding ornaments, moments
In my heart, silently.
Watching my own children
Creating for their littles,
Their Own I Am From Memories

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