I am from

flat plains of rich fertile soil

where rice, beans, and sugar cane grow.

I am from

cypress knee laden swamps

alive with mysterious sounds.

I am from

blue roof tops, plywood covered windows,

generators and emergency food

when hurricane winds blow.

I am from

crisp fall evenings warmed with chicken and sausauge gumbo

and spring time boiling pots of crawfish, seasoned just right.

I am from

wearing shorts in December

trying to remember what snow feels like

and summer heat so sticky and humid

it's difficult to breathe at night.

I am from

candlelit masses to honor the dead

processions of children bearing flowers for Mary

and early morning rosaries prayed in French.

I am from

Mass on Sunday

and unquestionable Faith

handed down from my parents.

I am from

simply celebrating life when there is nothing else to celebrate,

and the happy sounds of fiddles and accordions.

I am from

large family gatherings, in joy and in grief.

I am from

remembering our heritage

and passing it down to our children.

I AM CAJUN.

***My original posting of this poem can be found at :
http://hubpages.com/hub/I-Am-From