Alyson Shelton & Anonymous

Where I'm From · Nov 18, 2025 · 5m

Where I’m From #14

By Alyson Shelton

Inspired by George Ella Lyon

I am from bathing suits,

From Ragu and Chanel No. 5.

I am from sandy feet.

(Gritty, crunchy on the floor and in my mouth,

Proof of daily joys.)

I am from kelp, wrapped around my ankles,

scaring friends, but never me.

I’m from a lead foot on the accelerator and

making family jokes out of fresh wounds,

the ones that still ache with shame,

From Aunt Joyce and Uncle Jim.

I’m from No Pain, No Gains and

You’ll be FINE.

I’m from No Man Will Ever Love You

And You’re Too Smart for Your Own Good.

I’m from New Age Spirituality and lapsed…