| This poem was created by ChatGPT AI following the template from the storytelling activity during the January 5th service. I Am From – Martin Luther King I am from the worn leather Bible, from the cold metal bars of a jail cell, and from the steady hum of a hymn sung in quiet defiance. I am from the streets of Atlanta and from the sharp scent of magnolia trees that filled the air with stories of the past. I am from the oak tree in the front yard whose branches stretched wide, teaching me that strength lies in quiet resilience and that roots run deep, even in times of struggle. I’m from hope and perseverance, from kindness and courage. I’m from the Carters and the Kings, ancestors who weathered storms with dignity. I’m from a spirit that cannot be broken and from a family who believed that love could change the world. From the words of my father, “Lift your brother up,” and from my mother’s reminder, “Keep your heart pure.” I’m from the South and from fried chicken and cornbread that filled our home with warmth and laughter. From the story of my grandmother who stood tall, even when the world tried to kneel her down. Her strength lives in my bones. From the old photograph albums on the mantle of faces that came before me, I see their courage—unwavering, unwavering. Those pictures, now dusty on the shelf, taught me about resilience and how to carry the weight of the world with grace. Do you have an “I Am From” poem to share? The Dragonfly will include it here in coming weeks. |
| Submissions for the UU Musings section are welcome. Send essays, poems or other writings to annleake001@gmail.com. These can be original works or pieces by other authors that you enjoy and want to share with our community. |