I am from dirty laundry,
From socks and spoons.

I am from the two story house with the heart warming feeling of family.

I am from the prim roses,
The oak trees who’s twisting branches have suffered through many years and Texas winters.

I’m from wrestling on the couch and blue eyes,
From Brian, Joseph, my mom, and my dad.

I’m from “no playing ball in the house” and “no eating in the living room”,
And from having a strong disliking of Brussels sprouts.

I’m from “no hitting people” and “don’t shove things I between the piano keys”,
And “the biggest regrets are the risks not taken”.

I’m from going to synagogue every once in a while.

I’m from Austin and America,
Lasagna and fudge.

From my dad who got a tour of the bullet holes in a gas station in New Jersey when his limo broke down.

The pictures of my broken family all over the walls.