Where I’m From? Who I am?

by Yascara Arita Merlos

I am from the mallow broom,
From coffee and its smoky smell.

I am from the clear river San Juan water.
And the child’s play on the dirt.
I am from the orange tree that smells sweet back home.

I am from the school and the church,
from Arita and Merlos.

I am from the braves and the believers,
from God and Jesus.

I am from the Christmas tree and the hug on Christmas Eve.

I am from dance and folklore,
from the drum and the caracol (snail)
and with the Tikita-Tikita I move my body ta-ta-ta.

I am from heroes and Xatruch (catracho)
from Lencas and Mayas,
from tortillas and baleadas.

I am from grandmother’s tales,
and my grandfather’s courage.

I am from moments that make me shine, scream, fight and smile.

And most importantly;
I am from my father’s elected name…. Unique name!

Yascara Arita Merlos.
My identity.