Who do you see?

I am from a family of 11.

I am from St. Catherine of Alexandria, a community that shaped me.

I am from my siblings who would do anything for me.

But who am I?

Am I the peppy volunteer who does too much?

Am I the person who loves to sing on Wednesday nights?

Am I the oldest and most responsible?

Who do you see?

I am from reading books by flashlight, hoping not to get caught.

I am from 18-hour road trips, cramped spaces and full bladders.

I am from new faces and new places.

But who am I?

Am I the girl who is too inexperienced to play, but too passionate to cut?

Am I the girl who hides her pain to shelter others?

Am I the girl who fades into the background?

Who do you see?

I am from my ancestors who traveled, risking everything to get to America.

I am from my grandparents, farmers from Nebraska.

I am from my uncle who died of ALS at 25.

But who am I?

Am I the person who was there for you regardless?

Am I the person who you turned to in your times of need?

Am I the person who you forgot?

Who do you see?

I am from caring for my siblings, making them feel important.

I am from taking on the responsibilities.

I am from loving without question.

Who am I?

Well, not your problem anymore.