I am from the empty theater,
From stage lights to the sound.
I am from the battlefield
Brutal, untamed, but is where pride can be found.
I am from the oak trees,
One's wood rough against the rest.

I am from the ricefields, and ones of short height
From a Nguyen to a Tran.
I'm from the perfectionists to the smartest
From "Watch your mouth there," to "Keep your voice down."
I'm from the Buddhist churches,
Incense burning away into mist.

I'm from Houston and Bển Lức
With sweet rice, and tasty dumplings snacks
From my grandma's battle with my zodiac's namesake,
To the pain my mother had suffered with her expected loss.

Piled underneath now unused but memorable clothes,
Locked safely away in a closet,
Lies jewelry of small value.
I am these priceless jewels,
Once twinkled but now has dimmed with time,
Holding on to memories I wish I hadn't forgotten.

~ ꪖᦓ꠸ꪖ ᥇ꪶꪮᦓᦓꪮꪑᦓ