I am from linoleum rugs,
from Tide and strong smelling Clorox burning my nose.

I am from a four room house,
plastic curtains hanging over doorways for privacy,
swinging as people pass.

I am from Easter lilies and lilac bush
scent floating on the breeze.

I am from getting up early and working hard,
from  Fullers and Howards.

I am from story telling with relatives
and family reunions.

I am from “Never go in debt.”
“Fords are better than Chevys.”

I am from Primitive Baptist faith, shaking hands,
singing and shouting,
and dinner on the ground.

I am from Tilda Anderson Branch,
soup beans, turnip greens and corn bread.

From the coal fields of Southwest Virginia,
from a living dug out first by my father,
now by my husband.