Poetry at Its Best...

“Where I’m From”

By Grace Tran

I’m from China, Vietnam,

From Dunhua, Saigon.

I’m from mountains to seas,

A brother to eight.

Where I’m from, the grass grows green,

Exotic fruits are always seen.

My home is for three,

The gym on the fifth.

A flat screen TV on the seventh,

And pool on the fourth.

I’m from one bedroom without doors,

And way, way, way more.

Vegetarians my family,

Buddhism’s the religion.

I’m from a glowing golden statue,

And monks with flowing robes.

Where I’m from, the temple replaces church,

With a box full of fortunes,

And cushions on the floor.

I’m from a chain of chefs,

With millions of dishes.

Where I’m from, pots clink;

Then sink,

Into the cool flowing water.

I’m from soybean pork with a side of eggs,

From Soy and Saki, the “sushi-raunt”

From Candyland, to Wiily Wonka,

Plus green mint grass with peanut butter cups.

My home is not that big,

And religion not that strict.

I’m from chefs in the kitchen,

And food, food, food, food.

Where I’m from,

Where I’m from.