I AM FROM ... a Spring 2011 Poem

I Am From …




I am from California sunshine,

warm ground under my bare feet,

the love of Yosemite National Park,

refreshing smell of pine trees and deep

respect for the American Indians who

lived here first.



I am from the ashes of alcoholism, abuse,

Codependency and constant relocation;

such that there is not a town to call my home,

or say that I am from.



I am from “low-church” fundamentalists

and songs like: “Just As I Am” and “Love Lifted Me”.

And I am from many questions that arose from such songs.

From pondering those questions deeply I am from paths

that answered. Now, I am from a faith that sheds labels,

embraces ecumenism and one God with many names –

there for all of us.



I am from hope, resilience and courage – my own and

from my Mother, who struggled to make a way for us;

alone without my Father.



I am from seeds of faith that span generations and

am honored to be named Delena (Beth)

-- named after Mary Magdalene.



I am from hearts who have endured life by expressing

creatively through music, art and teaching. And I am

from a long yearning of expressing my own gifts more fully.



I am not from old, new or much money; but I am from

Enough…



Most recently, I am from Alaska: 19 years of life in the last frontier.

From that time came the love of fireweed, northern lights,

the smell of fresh snow, halibut and moose on the dinner table,

and deep appreciation for dear people who became surrogate family.

Like the glaciers tenaciously carved that land, so did Alaska shape

and form me, profoundly.



I am from kindred soul sisters, Benedictines and

Spiritual Directors who are passionate for silence, contemplation,

earth stewardship and social justice.



And, I am from the mantra of John Lennon’s “Imagine”

and keep praying:

“the world will live as one…”

Delena Beth Knight

March 20, 2011