I grew up on porches,
sitting with the matriarchs
and patriarchs of my family tree.
They taught me life’s secrets
as the wind blew through the leaves
adding a sense of mystery
to their aged wisdom.

My Nana and Papa Jim
taught me patience
as we shucked corn
and canned green beans
on their front porch.
Something so simple
done with so much care
made for meals
where the love could be savored
in each careful bite.

My Granny
taught me appreciation
for the little things,
like coffee with two creams
and the smell of menthol cigarettes
during endless conversations
had as we sat in iron chairs
me soaking in the memories
for when she isn’t there.

My Mom
taught me acceptance
and how sometimes
life is unfair
because even as she sat
on her rocking chair
devoutly saying the Serenity Prayer
she got sicker, never got better,
and when she died
I cried on the front porch
saying the same prayer
trying to accept
this horrible thing I could not change.

Myself is still learning
but they have taught me
resilience, and I know because
as I sit on my own porch now
in my cushioned papasan chair
and reflect on my past
and all the tragedies that have passed,
I acknowledge that I have survived
that I have overcomed and thrived,
and while I have much life left to go
I know I’ll be okay because
I grew up on porches
and I learned many lessons
that have brought me here today
and I have my own porch now
where I’ll continue to grow
and hope others will reap
the lessons I sow.