I am from water

from faucets and showers,

I am from the hill country, 

warm,

I am from the sunflower.

The oak whose long gone limbs I remember

as if they were my own. 

 

I'm from service and duty

from James and Randolph

I'm from observant and anxious

and from compassionate. 

 

I'm from integrity and passion

and "aiding the weak and innocent"

I'm from honoring my heritage

I'm from Hawaii and Japan

fish and rice

From a war hero

and the greatest generation

his valor

in camaraderie and grit

I will honor my family with my duty and service to others.