I read about this poetry contest at Jessie's blog.  If you would like to participate in this writing challenge, visit Joy in the Morning's blog for details.  

 WHERE I'M FROM

Rachel

I am from the dining table where family games are played, from books and the family Bible on the coffee table.

I am from the living room full of sunshine and joy with old rust orange couches that have big blue flowers on them, the room where love and peace abounds.

I am from the green grass of the lawn where men carry women on their shoulders, the tree in the same lawn where the baby birds can be found.

I am from visiting family at holidays and loving one another unconditionally, from Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, Granny Virgie and Grandma Polly.  I am from Grandfathers who served in "The War" and a FIL who retired from the Air Force. 

I am from the gentle love, quiet peace and fervent prayers of grandmothers past and stubborn tenacity of standing strong in my faith.

From God will never forsake me and I can do all things through Him who strengthens me (Phil. 4:16).

I am from the old one room country church where Granddad preached on Sunday morn.  I am the one who at 6 would say “Amen” from the front row.  I’m from the front pew, singing “Jesus Loves Me” for the congregation, singing “What an Awesome God We Serve” at Granny Virgie’s funeral service, I am from the love of God and loving God.

I'm from the city in Virginia, the hills of Kentucky & the mud of West Virginia – where family shares history, biscuits and gravy for breakfast and sweet iced tea all summer long.  I am from the Mountains of Colorado and the history of Ohio where family continues to grow.   

From the mom who stopped the car to yell at kids fighting even if I knew them.  I am from the dad who asked a homeless man what he needed and then proceeded to drive miles down the road to buy him shoes and take them back to him.  I am from the sister who taught me to love in the midst of trial.  I am from the husband who provides.  I am from the children who need prayer and love and nurturing.

I am from the walls of family homes and the photo albums lying around.  I grow from infancy to womanhood in pictures all around.  I am from the hearts of loved ones who have seen me change from spoiled brat to strong and independent.  I am from family trips and hospital visits.  I am from the sandbox with a shovel a bucket and a scar.  I am from the heart of God and family and that is the legacy I want for my kids too…