I’m from
years of mirrors
reflecting back at me
the worst of my fears:
that I’ll grow up
to be just like him.
I’m from
long nights at sea
a million miles away
witnessing the worst—
and best of humanity.
Open heart and open arms
I confronted misery,
and learned to bring healing
to them and me.
I’m from
broken promises
a tarnished ring
by inner darkness,
costing nearly everything.
I’m from
this road ain’t easy.
I’m from
hard knocks,
knocked down,
knocked out,
until I stopped fighting myself,
until I embraced that
the life I lived—
isn’t solely for me.
I’m from
growing up
and finding my purpose
stitched in a lifelong dream
from which I was running,
believing the lies in the mirror:
that it was never meant to be.
But here I am,
and here I stand,
humbled in the presence
of those who believed in me,
even when I didn’t believe
in myself.
I’m from
my wife who cheered
and chided me along—
never shy to tell me
whenever I was wrong.
My son and daughters
who taught me to be a dad,
and not just a father.
I’m from
brilliant, beautiful minds,
both here and elsewhere;
and from mentors
who made me better than I am.
I’m from
Dr. Kevin Cordi,
and Mrs. Bernadette Hamilton,
who in grade nine
caught me in time,
without whom
I wouldn’t be here,
without whom
I wouldn’t be here.
I’m from
finally acknowledging
my gifts
and seizing my dream,
and realizing the life I live
isn’t for me,
but for redeeming,
teaching,
and helping to build up
humans who are better
than I could ever be.
