I Am From: A Poetic Tribute to My Roots, Resilience, and My Mother’s 50th Birthday

In honor of my mother’s 50th birthday today and the Main Street America staff retreat this past August, I’m sharing a poem I wrote during that time. It’s a reflection of where I come from, the people and places that have shaped me, and the moments that keep me grounded.

I Am From

I am from proud Puerto Rican flags and well-worn sneakers,

From Main Street America reports and Leo Burnett strategy decks,

Bold, blunt, breezy with a hint of nostalgia.

I am from the tropical flowers of San Juan, Puerto Rico,

Bright, resilient, and full of vibrant colors.

I’m from weekend strolls with my mother, Sandra, and the tenacity to fight for what I believe,

From Sandra and the memory of Laura.

I’m from smiling in the face of adversity and high-functioning under pressure,

From “Rejection equals redirection” and “You can start from zero, but never lose yourself.”

From the family stories passed down with love and pride,

I’m from Catholic prayers whispered softly at dawn, crossed with a touch of spiritual curiosity,

I’m from San Juan, Puerto Rico, with roots that stretch to Colombia,

Mallorcas con queso and café con leche on the balcony at sunset.

The neatly stacked photo albums in a closet that smells of old leather and warm memories,

Each page a testament to stories of strength, laughter, and the unbreakable ties that bind us all.

Feliz vuelta solar madre ❣️

😽

Génesis