2025/Brandi -

I'm from ancient temples,

from cherry blossoms and dandelions.

I’m from the beaches under crashing waves

It smelled like fresh cut grass.

I’m from the beautiful shores,

the archipelago

whose busy markets I remember

as if they were my own.

I'm from the adobo and the pancit

from the Cubs Lover and the Karaoke Queen.

I’m from the person who drops everything

and the not so quiet person.

“From volume down!” and “Go to your room!”

I'm from volleyball

with net

And ten goals I can make myself.

I'm from soccer and gymnastics,

Piano and softball

From the HCS lost to the move

to the friends used to keep me happy

Under my bed was a purple box spilling mementos,

A collection of gifts,

To drift beneath my dreams.

I am from those moments -

Before summer break changed to winter.

I am a flower attached to the family tree.

- Inspired by George Ella Lyon