collaborative storytelling that is equal parts critical and creative

I am from a family I left behind that loved each other in weird ways.                                   

From the Rio Grande Valley where my dad, grandpa, and I go hunting every weekend, from the scent of rabbit meat, lemon, and pepper.

 

I am from hot summers training for the long jump under the scorching sun.                                 

From celebrating with water balloons splashing, smashing colorful piñatas for candy.

                                   

I’m from humid nights, sleeping in a sweatshirt under the bright stars, from crickets that warn me it’s going to rain.

 

I’m from fallen leaves, making piles of mountains, from my baby cousin slowly dropping into them as if they were soft beds.                                                                      

From Abuelita’s crispy hot chocolate, the sight of white owls migrating for a new season.  

                       

I am from blooming flowers at the Sunday pulga con abuelo.

From fishing with my dad on the canal behind grandma’s house.

 

I’m from watching cartoons while getting tickled to death by my tía Diana, from making a secret handshake with my cousins from tío Alex’s endless walks.

 

I am from a family I left behind.