Where I’m From
I am from Huntington, West Virginia
No, It’s not near Richmond or Roanoke.
West Virginia is it’s very own state now.
This place is my home.
We are the birthplace of rivers and where old mountains feel new each spring.
I am from Appalachia. I am moonshine and mandolins.
I am from family and friends.
My roots run deep here. My ancestors moved here from Ireland and Germany two hundred and fifty years ago as farmers and Hessian mercenaries.
I am from soldiers and peacemakers.
I am from the fierce dedication of my mother and the serenity of my father.
They are from their parents and I will be of my children.
I am from the cool early morning fog rolling out of the hollows only to return at dusk.
I am from the flow of West Virginians South seeking prosperity only to return to their homes.
I am from homesickness.
I am from a neighborhood where friends are closer than family.
I am from a place where truth is held over pleasantries.
I am from music and noise, depending on where you stand.
July 14th, 2006 at 9:26 am
I really like how you portrayed your home here. It seems like you tried to get away, but you always came back because you missed your friends and family. I like how you embraced your culture and made it seem like we do more here than sit around barefoot with out any teeth.
July 14th, 2006 at 9:29 am
I often want to leave this state and live somewhere else, but in the end I love this state too. This piece reminds me that I am a proud MOUNTAINEER at heart.