I am from squeaking shoes and basketball gyms,

grinding on the court and waking up stiff.
Using the abilities I am blessed with.

I am from mental perseverance
“You will never be good enough,” to receiving scholarship,
Physically and mentally struggling shaped my personality.

I am from a simple upbringing,
blue collar, strong work ethic, and serving others,
“Treat others as you would want to be treated” constructed the way.

I am from personally packed lunches and parents cheering at basketball games,
   From Christmas at grandma’s to family reunion in North Carolina,
The ubiquitous love in my family

I am from Neverland,
Fearing the thought of growing up and enduring the challenges of jobs and family,
Fearing the change of my sheltered life

But also, I am from a new beginning,
Dreaming of college basketball and biochemistry
I embrace growing up.

I am from change,
Pursuing the upcoming years of college and future years,
I am not distraught, I will not look back.