This is an update from the original posted on June 2, 2005

Who we are is a culmination of the places we’ve been, the people we’ve known and various events of our lives. Each of us has an assortment of unique memories and influences, which play a part in who we are today. Be it as illusive as a scent or as solid as a house this hodgepodge of remembrances, stories and items are all part of where we are from. This is where I’m from. . .

I am from coffee in the morning, from sitting in the backyard reading my Bible.

I am from the small town, a little brick house, with a flag proudly waving out front.

I am from picking daisies, and rolling down hills of freshly cut grass.

I am from the heart of unconditional love, A Father’s grace and a Son’s sacrifice.

I am from the short people and the soft ones.

I am from you don’t have to eat beets or beans.

I am from twins working together to reach a light switch, cooperating, celebrating.

I am from little sisters growing up and singing big.

I am from the mountains and the flatlands, the country and the city.

I am from cousins and circuses on swing sets.

I am from cattle guards, gravel roads and chicken yards.

I am from hearing the bell ring and running home for dinner.

I am from Chinese jump rope, Pogo balls and four square.

I am from school busses, cruising main and Loaf n Jug.

I am from big letter jackets smelling of sweet cologne.

I am from high school sweethearts, class rings and wedding rings.

I am from big bellies, little babies, and soft blankets.

From dirty hands, sticky kisses and sidewalk chalk, three little blessings.

I am from Sunday school, pizza after church, and an afternoon nap.

I am from old friends, missed friends and new friends.

I am from shiny gold rocks, purple friendship bracelets and pink hats.

I am from phone calls, emails, and dropping by to say hello.

I am from never being alone, always having family, always being loved.

I am from comfort and protection, cared for and needed.

I am from a hard workingman who comes home dirty and cleans up nice.

I am from freshly brewed ice tea and burgers on the grill.

I am from living a dream, and dreaming for more.

I am from little girls with brown hair, and little boys with blond.

I am from ribbons, cub scouts, cars, bugs and tutus.

I am from hallways lined with fingerpaintings and refrigerators covered with Crayola drawings

I am from Sesame Street, Veggie Tales and missing Mr. Rogers.

I am from every day miracles, hugs from little arms and hugs from big strong ones.

I am from homemade cards and fresh picked dandelions.

I am from Faith, believing in my God, and knowing him more each day.

I am from remembering 4-19-95 and 9-11-01. Ribbons worn, flags raised and lives lost.

I am from protecting the innocent, living strong, fighting for freedom and a soldier’s sacrifice.

I am from the smell of rainy mornings, and the sound of stormy nights

I am from standing firm, defined values and no compromise of morals.

I am from cuddling up with a good book in front of a warm fire.

I am from a new box of crayons, and the first day of school.

I am from hope and not pain, faith and not fatigue, trust and not dismay.

I am from all of you. Where are you from?