I am from warm blankets wrapped around my body, shielding me from the bitter winter. 

From nourishing Burt’s Bees lip balms and Target plastic jewelry. 

I am from a cozy but busy apartment, with aromas of sandalwood and cinnamon infusing the air.

I am from fragrant roses in glass vases, vibrant in color with curled petals, with thorny stalks that always prick my fingers.

I’m from always taking our shoes off before entering households and humbling generosity.

From Praghya to Satish. 

I’m from the pure ideology of being kind to everyone and having uproarious family movie nights every week. 

From “Be grateful” to “What you sow is what you reap”.

I’m from glowing incense sticks and consistent worship,

From reflecting on what we’ve done, and further acting on our hopes and dreams.

I’m from Albany New York, India, and Malaysia,

Flavorful Chicken biryani with pickled onions and a dollop of yogurt. 

From my Great-grandfather fleeing his home country and building a thriving food business on unknown soil.

The great determination of my Aunts and Mother, defying their family’s antiquity and being the first generation of female college graduates.

Boxes of contrasting, worn-out photo albums in the top racks of the office closet,

My background makes up who I am, 

and I wouldn’t be here without it.