WHERE I'M FROM

I am from wooden pool cues, from Brunswick and Noritake.

I am from the "land of a thousand islands", humid, beautiful, and eye opening.

I am from the buko tree and sampaguita.

I am from pancit on birthdays and brown eyes, from Helen and Oscar and Mercado.

I am from short temper and repetitiveness.

From bridges not burned and promises kept.

I am from Roman Catholicism, the Vatican City, the forgiveness of sins, and the Holy Spirit.

I am from Honolulu and Jose Rizal, balut and dinuguan.

From my mother's father who was strict and fair, my father who is stubborn and proud.

I am from the Philippines and Japan, key chains and shot glasses, photo albums, hard working, relaxed, and stronger on the outside than I really am.