Today, we are featuring Inklings Book Contest 2024 author Ezra Hong! He finished 4th grade this past school year and wrote a powerful poem called “I Am From”. Our judges loved the poignant ending and the messages about identity and self-affirmation. Continue below to enjoy Ezra’s work in digital book or plain text form.
I am from my exquisite Quentin Johnston football card
that tells me anything can happen
I am from Kangaroo and Teresa
who listen and know my heart
I am from my determined family
who reminds me “you’re going to be cold”
I am from a reed
whose roots are very flexible
I am from the world of imagination
where all the things I imagine give me neverending hope
and the world of rap
where words get my adrenaline pumping
for the race of life
I am from my great-great-grandfather and grandfather
whose ancient blood runs through me
and from my grandmother’s one and only soothing ramen
which warms my soul
and my mom’s fresh vegetables
that awaken my spirit
I am from those moments when I sleep peacefully
without fears,
worries,
or pains
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